HELP CENTRE
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our clinic, your consultation, and how our weight management service works.
CATEGORIES
About the Clinic
Who runs Harley Weight Loss Clinic?
Our clinical lead is Dr Saima Ajaz, a GMC-registered hepatologist with a PhD from King’s College London. The clinic is part of the Harley Street Specialist Hospital group, a CQC-regulated healthcare provider, and is supported by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, dietitians, and pharmacists.
Where are you based?
Our consulting rooms are at 18 to 22 Queen Anne Street, London W1G 8HU, in the heart of the Harley Street medical district. Most of our consultations are completed online, with in-person visits available where clinically helpful.
Are you a regulated healthcare provider?
Yes. All of our clinicians are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). Medication is dispensed by Harley Street Specialist Hospital Pharmacy (GPhC Reg 1110426), under Superintendent Pharmacist Chung Szeto (GPhC Reg 2214483).
Eligibility & Suitability
Who is suitable for medical weight management?
Our service is for adults aged 18 and over, living in the UK, who would benefit from clinically supported weight management. UK clinical guidelines support treatment for people with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above with a related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.
Who is not suitable for treatment?
Treatment is not suitable for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, those with a personal or family history of certain thyroid cancers, those with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disease, those with an active eating disorder, or anyone with a BMI below 27. Your prescriber will review your full medical history before any treatment is approved.
I'm not sure if I qualify. What should I do?
Our online assessment is free and takes around 3 minutes. Our clinical team will review your information and let you know clearly whether the service is suitable for you. There is no payment required at this stage.
Can I use the service if I live outside the UK?
No. Our service is currently only available to residents of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Consultations & Care
How does the consultation work?
You begin with a free online assessment. A GMC-registered UK clinician then reviews your information personally. Where appropriate, your clinician may invite you to a video or in-person consultation before agreeing a care plan with you.
How quickly will I hear back after my assessment?
We aim to review every assessment within one working day. You will receive an email when your case has been reviewed, with clear next steps.
Will I be looked after by the same clinician each time?
Yes, wherever possible. Continuity of care matters. Your named clinician will oversee your reviews and adjustments, supported by our wider clinical team.
Can I message my clinician between appointments?
Yes. Through your secure patient account you can message your clinician and care team directly. Our team typically responds within one working day.
Will my GP be informed?
With your consent, we share a summary letter with your GP so your medical record stays accurate. This is standard private practice and we strongly encourage it.
Treatment & Outcomes
Will I definitely be prescribed medication?
No. Many patients benefit from lifestyle, nutritional, and diagnostic support without medication. If, and only if, your clinician decides that medication is clinically appropriate for you, the options will be discussed at that point.
What outcomes can I expect?
Outcomes vary considerably from person to person and depend on your medical history, your starting point, and how closely you follow the agreed care plan. Your clinician will set realistic, evidence-based expectations during your consultation.
What is included in your weight management programme?
The programme includes your initial consultation, follow-up reviews, ongoing clinician support, and direct access to our care team. Optional add-ons include advanced bloodwork and body composition diagnostics.
What if I want to stop or pause my plan?
You can pause or stop your care plan at any time. We do not lock you into a contract. We always recommend you discuss any changes with your clinician first so they can support you safely.
Safety
Is treatment safe?
All medications we dispense are MHRA-licensed and prescribed only after a clinician has personally reviewed your case. Your clinician will discuss potential risks, side effects, and alternatives with you before any treatment is agreed, in line with UK informed consent standards.
What side effects should I be aware of?
Side effects depend on the specific treatment your clinician may agree with you, and they will be explained to you in plain English before you start. You will also receive the official patient information leaflet with any medication. Please contact us straight away if you experience anything that concerns you.
Who do I contact in an urgent medical situation?
If you have a medical emergency, please call 999 or attend your nearest A&E. For urgent but non-emergency clinical concerns, contact our care team via your patient account, or call us during office hours on +44 (0)20 4513 2244.
Fees & Payment
How much does the service cost?
Programme fees and any associated medication costs are confirmed in writing by your clinician after your consultation. Costs depend on your individual clinical assessment and the care plan agreed with you.
Do I pay for the initial assessment?
No. The initial online assessment is free, with no obligation to proceed.
Do you offer this on the NHS?
No. We are a private clinic. Our service offers personalised, continuous clinical support, but it is not free at the point of use.
Can I claim through private health insurance?
Coverage for medical weight management varies by insurer. Please contact your insurance provider directly to confirm what is covered. We can provide invoices and clinical letters on request.
Delivery & Privacy
How is treatment delivered?
Where your clinician issues a treatment, it is dispensed by our regulated UK pharmacy and delivered to your chosen UK address in plain, secure packaging. Tracking is provided.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. We are GDPR-compliant and follow UK Caldicott Principles for patient confidentiality. Your information is only shared with people directly involved in your care, and only with your consent. Our full Privacy Policy is available on the website.
How is my data stored?
Your medical records are stored securely on encrypted, UK-hosted clinical systems and retained in line with GMC and NHS guidelines.
Still have questions?
Our care team is happy to help. Get in touch directly, or take the free assessment to speak with a clinician.