A national survey was undertaken by the British Hyperlipidaemia Association to obtain data on the current clinical practice for the investigation and management of patients with hyperlipidaemia. An additional objective of the survey was to establish a United Kingdom register of lipid clinics. The results show a considerable variation in the availability of lipid clinics, and medical practitioners involved in these clinics came from a variety of specialty backgrounds. Some clinics had clearly defined policies with regard to acceptance of referrals. However, deficiencies in clinical services were identified including the lack of dietetic and laboratory support.