Private GP Verses NHS GP

What’s the Difference?

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Both NHS GPs and private GPs provide primary medical care, diagnose common conditions, prescribe medication, and refer to specialists when needed. However, there are important differences in access, appointment structure, cost, and continuity of care.

Understanding these differences can help you decide which option best suits your individual needs.

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Appointment Availability and Waiting Times

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NHS GP:

NHS GP services are free at the point of use for UK residents. However, appointment availability can vary depending on demand and location. Patients may need to wait several weeks for a routine appointment, and urgent appointments are prioritised based on clinical need.

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Private GAPGP GP services:

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Our private GP services typically offer same day or next day appointments. Consultations are booked directly with the clinic, often with greater flexibility in appointment times.

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Consultation Length

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NHS GP:

Standard NHS GP appointments are typically around 10 minutes. This can be sufficient for straightforward issues but may feel limited for patients with multiple concerns.

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Private GP:

Our private GP appointments are 15–30 minutes or longer. This allows more time for detailed discussion, preventative care planning, and complex medical concerns.

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Cost

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NHS GP:

Consultations are funded through taxation and are free at the point of access.

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Private GP:

We charge a £59 consultation fee. Costs vary depending on location and appointment length. Additional fees then apply for blood tests, investigations, referral letters or any further healthcare pathway.

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Access to Tests and Investigations

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NHS GP:

NHS GPs can request blood tests, imaging, and specialist referrals within the NHS system. Waiting times for non urgent investigations may vary.

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Private GP:

We arrange private blood tests, imaging, and specialist referrals, with much shorter waiting times. However, these services are chargeable. We can also refer patients back into the NHS system where appropriate.

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Continuity of Care

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NHS GP:

Patients are registered with an NHS practice and may see different doctors depending on availability. Larger practices may offer less continuity with a single clinician.

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Private GP:

We have greater continuity with the same doctor/s.

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Prescriptions

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NHS GP:

Prescriptions are issued on standard NHS prescription forms, with a fixed prescription charge in England (unless exempt).

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Private GP:

We issue private prescriptions at a charge of £12. Medication costs are paid in full by the patient at the pharmacy and may be higher than NHS prescription charges. We offer a service where the patient can choose to have their medication delivered at home, or they can collect from a pharmacy of their choice, using a huge database.

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Scope of Care

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Both NHS and private GPs:

• Diagnose and manage acute and chronic conditions

• Provide preventative healthcare

• Offer health screening and lifestyle advice

• Refer to specialists when required

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We also offer:

• Extended health checks

• Advanced screening packages

• Travel health services

• Occupational health reports

• Prompt & comprehensive blood panels

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Is a Private GP Better Than an NHS GP?

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Neither service is inherently “better” they serve different needs.

An NHS GP is essential for ongoing, comprehensive care within the public healthcare system and provides excellent medical care without direct cost to the patient.

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A private GP may be beneficial for:

• Faster access to appointments

• Longer consultation times

• Detailed health assessments

• Discretion and convenience

• Patients seeking additional preventative screening

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Many patients choose to use both services alongside one another.

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Can You Use Both?

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Yes. Patients can remain registered with their NHS GP while also seeing our private GPs when needed. Communication between services can be arranged with patient consent to ensure safe and coordinated care.

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