When Should You See a Private GP? What to Expect from Private Primary Care

Seeing a private GP is becoming increasingly common in the UK, yet many people are unsure what it actually involves, how it differs from NHS care, and whether it would genuinely benefit them. In this guide I explain what private primary care looks like in practice, what you can expect from a consultation, and the situations where it can add the most value.

What is a private GP?

A private GP is a fully qualified, GMC-registered doctor who provides the same range of primary care services as an NHS GP, but outside the NHS system. Private GPs hold the same qualifications and are bound by the same professional standards set by the GMC. The practices they work from are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The key differences are in access, time and continuity.

How private care differs from the NHS

The NHS provides excellent care, but increasing demand means that access can be challenging. Common frustrations include long waits for appointments, short consultation times (typically 10 minutes) and difficulty seeing the same doctor consistently. Private primary care addresses these pressure points:

• Timely access: appointments are usually available within days, often on the same day
• Longer consultations: typically 30 minutes or more, giving time to explore your concerns thoroughly
• Continuity: you see the same GP each time, building a relationship and a deeper understanding of your health
• Direct communication: many private GPs offer follow-up by email or phone between appointments
• Faster referrals and diagnostics: direct access to specialists, scans and blood tests without lengthy NHS waiting lists

None of this means the NHS is inadequate. Many of my patients use both systems, seeing me privately for specific concerns while remaining registered with their NHS GP for routine care, vaccinations and prescriptions.

When private care adds the most value

Not everyone needs a private GP, but there are situations where private primary care can make a meaningful difference:

• You have a complex or ongoing health concern that needs more time than a 10-minute appointment allows
• You want a thorough health assessment or preventive check-up
• You are experiencing symptoms that have not been fully investigated or explained
• You need a referral to a specialist and want to be seen quickly
• You value seeing the same doctor consistently and building a relationship over time
• You are managing a chronic condition and want a structured, personalised care plan
• You are an international patient or visitor who needs medical care in the UK

What happens during a private GP consultation

A first consultation typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. I will take a detailed history, including your current concerns, past medical and surgical history, family history, medications, lifestyle and mental wellbeing. Where clinically indicated, I will carry out a physical examination. The aim is to understand your health as a whole, not just the presenting symptom.

If investigations are needed, I can arrange blood tests, imaging and specialist referrals directly. You will receive your results with a clear explanation and a plan, rather than being told "everything is normal" without context.

Follow-up appointments are usually 15 to 30 minutes, depending on complexity. I also offer online consultations for patients where a face-to-face visit is not necessary or practical.

Private GP care and specialist areas

Some private GPs, including me, have additional specialist interests alongside general practice. In my case, I combine general private GP care with a focus on women's health, menopause and weight and metabolic health. This means that for conditions that cross the line between general medicine and a specialist area, you can receive joined-up care from a single clinician rather than navigating between multiple providers.

What to look for in a private GP

• GMC registration and GP Register status: you can verify any doctor on the GMC register and confirm they are on the GP Register
• Relevant qualifications: MRCGP (membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners) is the standard postgraduate qualification, though some experienced GPs may hold equivalent or additional credentials. Look for training relevant to your needs
• CQC-registered practice: the healthcare provider or service should be registered and inspected by the Care Quality Commission
• Transparency on fees: a good practice will publish its fees clearly and explain what is included
• A doctor who listens: the quality of the consultation matters as much as the qualifications

Understanding fees

Private GP consultations are paid for directly by the patient or through private medical insurance. Fees vary by practitioner, location and the scope of the consultation. Some services, such as blood tests and referral letters, may carry additional charges. You can view my full fee schedule for a clear breakdown of current fees.

If you have private medical insurance, check your policy details, as some insurers cover GP consultations and others do not. I am happy to provide the documentation needed for insurance claims.

Can I keep my NHS GP as well?

Absolutely. Seeing a private GP does not affect your NHS registration. Many patients use both: their NHS GP for routine prescriptions, vaccinations and long-term monitoring, and a private GP for specific concerns, second opinions or conditions that need more time. With your consent, I can share relevant information with your NHS GP to ensure your care is coordinated.

“The best care is the care that fits you. Whether that is NHS, private, or a combination of both, the goal is the same: your health, understood thoroughly and managed well.”

Dr Itunu Johnson

Clinical content flagged for Dr Itunu Johnson's review before publication.

If you are considering seeing a private GP and want to know whether it is the right step for you, you can book a consultation or explore my private GP services.