The TV doctor is known for his appearances on Lorraine and Good Morning Britain

ITV star Dr Hilary Jones has opened up about traveling 180 miles to receive hospital treatment in a candid admission.

The 72-year-old TV doctor is a fan favourite on the station, often appearing on Good Morning Britain and Lorraine to provide health tips.

Outside of helping viewers with any issues or questions they may have, Dr Hilarly has been open in recent years about his own health.

Having previously discussed his need to undergo a hip replacement, Dr Hilary has now shined a light on why he’s undergone a long journey for treatment.

Dr Hilary is seeking to make the public aware that they can make use of a system as a means of avoiding being in a huge waiting list.

Through NHS Patient Choice, you can find private facilities, hospitals and other providers you may have access to.

With access granted without being charged for it, the private hospitals can be accessed and provide the same services as the normal ones offered by the NHS.

Speaking to the Express, he said: “It was 180 miles from my home to Birmingham, but as it’s a new hospital and it’s a private hospital that treats NHS patients, they could get me in very quickly just with a referral from my GP.

“I’d do it again in a heartbeat for faster, quality care and highly recommend it. Patient Choice gives people real power – they just need to know it’s there. The NHS App is going to be developed further to make this easier, and you can speak to your GP about your choices.

“You can choose to be referred to a private hospital at the outset, or you can switch hospitals like I did if you’re facing delays locally. It’s free for the patient and costs the NHS no more than if that same patient had their op at an NHS hospital.

He added: “For people like me, who are lucky enough to be mobile despite needing an operation, it makes complete sense to find a hospital that can do your operation sooner so you can get on the road to recovery sooner.

“People don’t want to be on a waiting list. They want to get on with their lives. Every single person that looked after me was amazing and couldn’t have done any more. I am delighted with the result so far.”

The Practice Plus Group spokesperson previously opened up about undergoing hip replacement surgery through the system.

“Living with pain and not being able to do the things you love is exhausting and debilitating. Fast access to surgery, if this is what you need, will help you re-gain your mobility, your fitness and quality of life.

“It’s no surprise therefore that going private has become more and more common since the pandemic and is no longer considered just for the rich. But many people are unaware they can also go to a private hospital as an NHS patient, free of charge, and often sooner than waiting for NHS hospitals,” he said.

Dr Hilary continued: “Under the NHS constitution you have a legal right to choose which hospital to have your NHS treatment in, and this often includes private hospitals. If your GP, physio or other healthcare professional says they’re going to refer you to a consultant at a hospital in Birmingham, ask for a list of options so you can compare waiting lists and locations.

“You also have a right to switch from one hospital waiting list to another if you’ve been waiting for more than 18 weeks for surgery and can travel out of your area. My advice is always to discuss your options with your GP to help you get back to your best as soon as possible.”