International patients

At Proton International London, we welcome international patients for private proton beam therapy at our treatment centre in central London.

We are here to support you throughout your treatment journey

If you or a loved one has received a cancer diagnosis and you are exploring treatment options, you may be considering proton beam therapy (PBT). For many, that involves travelling abroad for treatment.

At Proton International London, we regularly welcome patients from all over the world, including:

Australia
South Africa
Kuwait
Qatar
Saudi Arabia

Travelling to London for treatment is a big step, and you may be wondering what it will involve for you and your family. Our patient care team is here to support you throughout the entire process, including liaising with your medical team at home, care planning, funding and travel arrangements.

Read on to find out how this works, and please contact us if you have any questions.

What is proton beam therapy, and how does it work?

Proton beam therapy (PBT) is an advanced form of radiotherapy used to treat certain types of cancer.

Traditional radiation treatment uses X-rays to treat cancer cells. However, proton beam therapy works by directing a controlled beam of protons to the tumour. They release their energy at a specific point within the body, protecting the surrounding healthy tissue. This is especially helpful in treating cancer close to sensitive areas such as the brain or spine.

The benefits include:

Highly effective – Like all other forms of radiotherapy, proton beam therapy destroys cancer cells to stop them from spreading.
Lower risk of side effects – PBT is more precise than traditional radiation therapy, offering greater protection to healthy tissues and organs. This can result in fewer short and long-term side effects.
Greater tumour control – Thanks to the precision, it is possible to deliver a higher radiation dose to some tumours.
Less harmful to children’s bodies – Proton beam therapy is particularly effective for treating children and young people with cancer, as it helps protect developing, healthy cells.
Painless and non-invasive treatment – Treatment is administered externally via a specialist proton beam machine, and is painless.

Find out more about how proton beam therapy works

How we support international patients

We understand that going abroad for cancer treatment is a significant and deeply personal decision. If you decide to travel to London from South Africa, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, or Australia, we are here to assist and guide you at every stage. Alongside high-quality clinical care led by our esteemed team of oncologists, you can expect dedicated support from our caring patient team.

We can provide a 5-star concierge service designed to make your stay in London as smooth, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. That includes assistance with travel documents, accommodation, interpreter services, and paying for treatment.

Travel and visa support

We are happy to assist with international travel arrangements, such as applying for a visa, booking flights, and arranging airport transfers. Once you arrive, we can also help you travel around London with ease.

Interpreter services

Your well-being and comfort are very important to us, and we want you to feel confident in your treatment. We can arrange a professional interpreter if needed, so you can communicate clearly with your medical team. We can also arrange for your medical records to be translated.

Premium accommodation

We can help you find the perfect place to stay in London for you and your family. Depending on your needs and preferences, we can book a wide range of accommodation from our trusted partners, including boutique hotels, serviced apartments and family-style residences.

Everyday practical support

Your dedicated team can also help with practical things like ordering groceries, recommending places to eat and directing you to local services.

Paying for your treatment

You can expect a clear explanation of costs and payment options in advance. Whether you are paying for treatment privately, through a government sponsor, or using insurance, our team will liaise directly with your provider.

Get in touch

You can start a live chat with our care team, call us or send us a detailed enquiry using our enquiry form. Our team is available to help and answer any questions you may have.

Your cancer treatment in London

At Proton International London, your treatment is carefully designed around you. Treatment takes place at our private centre within the University College Hospital, in our calm, well-equipped treatment rooms.

Our aim is to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident throughout your time with us.

Personalised treatment plan

Following your initial consultation, our team of oncologists, physicists and radiographers will design a personalised treatment plan. This will be communicated to you carefully before treatment begins, with a chance for you to ask questions.

You may be required to undergo imaging, such as MRI and CT scans, to help the team plan your dose and target your treatment as accurately as possible, while protecting your healthy tissue.

Appointment planning

Your dedicated team will manage your treatment schedule, arrange your appointments, and make sure you are fully informed. If you require other types of healthcare while in the UK, such as specialist consultations, prescriptions, or emergency care, we can assist with this, too.

Continuity of care when you return home

Your care does not end when your treatment finishes. We work closely with your doctors at home to ensure a smooth transition and continued support. You will receive a clear summary of your treatment and follow-up recommendations, and we will remain available to provide guidance or liaise with your local medical team if needed.

The referral process for international patients

To start a referral for proton beam radiotherapy in London, please follow these steps.

Paying for care – We will guide you through the financial side of your care, whether you are paying privately, using insurance, or receiving government support
Speak with your current medical team – Start by discussing proton beam therapy with your doctor at home. PBT is not suitable or necessary for every case, and they can help you understand if it’s right for you. You are also welcome to contact us for further information or for a second opinion.
Start the referral process – You or your doctor can submit a referral using our online enquiry form. This includes securely sharing your medical records, such as scans and reports.
Assessment and eligibility – Your case will be reviewed by our consultant team. They will review your diagnosis, tumour location, stage, previous treatment, and overall health to decide whether proton treatment is appropriate.
Treatment recommendation and next steps – If proton beam therapy is suitable, we will explain your proposed treatment plan clearly. This includes how long treatment may take and what to expect.

Conditions treated at Proton International London

At Proton International London, we treat both children and adults with cancer in sensitive parts of the body where precision is important.

We actively support research into PBT for other cancers, and hope to extend this list in the future.

Laura Geer service lead manager

Why choose Proton International London?

Choosing where to have treatment abroad is an important decision. Our role is to support you with clear information and experienced care.

Consultant-led care

Your treatment is planned and led by our team of esteemed consultant oncologists.

Part of a leading global network

Part of Proton International, a globally recognised provider of proton beam therapy.

Advanced technology

Highly advanced proton therapy technology within the world-class setting of a leading London hospital.

Dedicated support

A multidisciplinary clinical team, alongside a dedicated patient care team to support you throughout.

Talk to us about proton beam therapy

If you would like to begin the process, please use our enquiry form to start a referral online. You will be asked to upload relevant medical documents and include details of your insurance provider. We accept referrals directly from patients, parents and guardians, as well as from doctors, healthcare professionals, embassies, and government representatives.

If you still have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us using our Live Chat, calling 020 4629 3598 or sending us a message using the enquiry form.

To find out more about proton beam therapy, please explore our site and visit our news section for more insights.

Frequently asked questions – proton beam therapy for international patients

Do I need to travel to London for my first consultation?

There is no need to travel to London for your initial consultation. We can contact you and your medical team by video call. If you decide to proceed, your appointments will be at our treatment centre in central London.

How long will I need to stay in London?

Most patients stay in London for around five to seven weeks, which includes pre-treatment consultations, imaging and treatment itself. This may vary depending on your plan.

Will my doctors at home be involved?

We will work closely with your medical team to ensure they are fully informed of your progress and treatment plan. We share key clinical information and remain in contact during your time in London and after you return home.

Can family members travel with me?

Family members can travel with you and are welcome to attend your consultation appointments. However, they cannot enter the treatment room for safety reasons. We have a waiting area where they can be comfortable while you have treatment, which usually lasts no longer than 30-60 minutes.

Get in touch

You can start a live chat with our care team, call us or send us a detailed enquiry using our enquiry form. Our team is available to help and answer any questions you may have.