Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
Referrals from your GP or another specialist are helpful, but they are not mandatory. You can contact us and book directly to schedule a consultation. Please note if you are claiming through your health insurance, they may require you to have a GP referral prior to authorising your consultation and treatment.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring any relevant medical records, imaging (x-rays, MRI scans should ideally be transferred to the hospital system in advance of your appointment, or be available to view through an online portal), a list of current medications, and your insurance information. It is usually also helpful to prepare a list of questions or concerns you would like to discuss.
Do you accept private insurance?
Yes, absolutely. Mr Abram is recognised and approved by all major healthcare insurance providers. If you do not have an insurance policy, Mr Abram also offers patients the ability to self fund private care. Patients can also see Mr Abram in his private practice via the NHS Choose & Book scheme – please ask your GP about how to access this.
What conditions do you specialise in treating?
Mr Abram is a specialist knee surgeon practicing exclusively in knee surgery. He specialises in a wide range of conditions including sports knee surgery, ligament reconstruction, meniscal repair, transplant and reconstruction, osteotomy, patellofemoral pain and instability, and patient-specific joint replacement (partial and unicompartmental knee replacement, patellofemoral joint replacement, total knee replacement). Mr Abram has expertise in both surgical and non-surgical treatments and works closely with a team of specialist physiotherapists.
What are the non-surgical treatment options?
Mr Abram and his team offer a full range of non-surgical options, including specialist physiotherapy with tailored rehabilitation programmes and carefully selected injections. Non-operative treatment is always considered first, and because his practice is fully dedicated to knee problems, he can recommend the most appropriate option without being limited to surgery.
How long is the recovery after knee surgery?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure and other factors, but most patients can expect around 6 weeks for the initial recovery and a further 4–9 months of specialist rehabilitation and physiotherapy to full recovery.
When should I book a follow-up appointment rather than a new consultation?
If you have seen Mr Simon Abram within the last 12 months and you are booking for the same condition, please select a "follow-up appointment". If it has been more than 12 months since your last appointment or if you are seeking advice for a different condition, please select a "new consultation".
Does going private mean I cannot go back to the NHS?
Paying for private treatment does not remove your entitlement to NHS care. NHS guidance stresses that there should be a clear distinction between any care you receive through the NHS and any treatment you fund privately. Having an issue treated privately doesn't prevent you from returning to the NHS for future care.
