How fast can you actually see a GP in London, and does private care make a real difference?
How quickly you can see a GP in the city depends on whether you use NHS or private services. Both offer access to doctors registered with the General Medical Council and inspected by the Care Quality Commission. The main differences lie in booking systems, appointment availability, and service flexibility. This article compares NHS and private GP access, GP appointment wait times, and the patient experience for each.
Here's What We Have Covered In This Article
What is the real difference between NHS and private GPs?
NHS GP services are funded by the government and free to use. Private GP services are paid for by the patient or through health insurance. Both provide general medical care and follow the same clinical guidelines set out by NHS England and the Care Quality Commission.
The NHS operates through local GP surgeries managed by integrated care boards. These are your primary care providers, handling everything from prescriptions to referrals. Private GPs may work independently or be part of national private practices like Bupa, Spire Healthcare or Livi. NHS practices often have long waiting lists and limited flexibility. Private clinics typically serve fewer patients, which allows them to offer same day access, longer appointment times and more flexible scheduling.
Need a Same Day Doctor Appointment?
Our private GPs offer same day appointments, including referral letters and fit notes.
How long do you wait for a GP appointment on the NHS?
NHS wait times can vary based on your location and the GP surgery’s capacity. Many people call their local GP first thing and find all the appointments are already gone. Others end up on a callback list and wait to be contacted by a nurse or GP later in the day.
Patient data from 2024 shows that more than half of NHS patients waited over a week for a non urgent appointment. Booking through the NHS App or by calling 111 can help in urgent cases, but many still face long delays. These delays often happen because of reduced appointment availability, high demand and staff shortages.
When that happens, some people turn to walk in clinics or visit their pharmacy instead.
Sources for patient wait time data include NHS England and the national GP Patient Survey 2024.
Can you get same day appointments with a private GP?
Yes. One of the biggest advantages of private GP services is how quickly you can be seen. Providers such as Future Care Medical, Bupa, Livi and Doctify all offer same day or next day bookings.
Patients can choose how to be seen, whether that is face to face, over video or even with a home visit. Online consultations are especially popular for those needing flexible healthcare access from home or work. Appointments are available in the evenings and on weekends. Because private clinics have smaller patient lists, they can usually offer more appointment flexibility.
This quick access is useful when you need a prescription, travel note or just reassurance. Private GPs can also refer patients to NHS specialists through official channels like the NHS e-Referral system.
If you are looking to speak to a GP quickly, many providers allow you to book a private GP consultation online within minutes.
Is the quality of care different between NHS and private GPs?
The medical care is similar in both settings. Every GP, whether NHS or private, is held to national standards and registered with the General Medical Council. But how the appointment feels and how much time you get can be very different.
Most NHS appointments last ten minutes. Private GP consultations can run for twenty to thirty minutes. That extra time gives you the chance to raise multiple concerns, ask more questions and get a clearer explanation.
You are also more likely to see the same doctor again at a private practice. NHS surgeries often rotate staff or assign appointments based on who is available. If you value a calm, unhurried appointment with consistent follow up, private care can offer that.
An AI photo of a private GP appointment taking place in a London clinic
Is it worth paying for faster GP access?
Many patients find it is. If you are short on time or cannot wait a week to speak to someone, private GP services offer a faster route. They are often chosen for peace of mind, second opinions or quick access to tests.
Prices vary depending on the provider. At Future Care Medical, you can expect:
- GP Consultation: 15 min – £105 / 30 min – £160 / 60 min – £240
- GP Video Call: £95
- ANP Consultation (15 min): £85
These fees usually include prescriptions. You can also request repeat prescriptions (£30) or a referral letter (£50). If you have private medical insurance, some of these costs may be covered.
Prices correct at time of writing and may vary by provider or location.
You do not have to choose one or the other. Many people stay with their NHS GP and book private GP appointments when needed. It is a flexible approach that gives you more control over your healthcare access.
Can you use NHS and private GP services at the same time?
Yes, and many people do. You stay registered with your NHS GP even if you use private services. The two systems can work together.
If a private GP believes you need a specialist referral, they can write a letter and refer you through the NHS e-Referral system. You can also get prescriptions, blood tests and follow up appointments as needed.
Some patients see private GPs for speed, and then continue longer term care with their NHS doctor. This mix of services gives you fast access without giving up the long term support of NHS care.
NHS vs Private GP at a Glance
Common Misunderstandings About Private GP Care
- Myth: Private GPs are not properly regulated
Fact: All private GPs are registered with the General Medical Council and follow the same rules as NHS doctors. - Myth: You lose your NHS GP if you see a private one
Fact: You can use both. Your NHS registration remains active. - Myth: Private GPs cannot refer into the NHS
Fact: They can. Referrals from private GPs are accepted through the NHS e-Referral system. - Myth: Private healthcare is only for the wealthy
Fact: Many people book occasional private GP appointments for urgent needs, similar in cost to a standard service or a meal out.
FAQs
Q: Do private GPs give prescriptions?
Yes. Prescriptions are included in most private appointments and can be used at any UK pharmacy.
Q: Can a private GP refer me to the NHS?
Yes. If needed, private GPs can refer you for tests or specialist care through official NHS channels.
Q: Are private GPs allowed to issue sick notes?
Yes. Private GPs can write fit notes or medical certificates for employers.
Q: Can I get blood tests at a private GP clinic?
Yes. Clinics like Future Care Medical provide on site blood tests and fast lab results.
Q: Do private GPs offer weekend appointments?
Yes. Evening and weekend appointments are common in most private practices.
Ready to Book a Private GP Appointment?
Don’t wait days for care. Arrange your consultation with a trusted private GP today.
