This article aims to provide factual information about the differences between NHS and private GP services in England to help patients make informed decisions. It is not intended as clinical advice.
Introduction
Both NHS GP services and private GP clinics serve important roles in the healthcare landscape. The National Health Service provides free, universal primary care that is fundamental to public health in England. Private GP services offer an additional option with different characteristics — longer appointments, same-day availability, and choice of clinician — that some patients find useful in specific circumstances.
Understanding the practical differences between the two settings can help patients make an informed choice about when each type of service may be appropriate for their needs.
Appointment Length
One of the most frequently cited differences between NHS and private GP appointments is the time allocated per patient.
NHS GP appointments are typically 10–15 minutes in duration. This reflects the very high demand placed on NHS general practice and the need to see a large number of patients within a limited session. NHS GPs are highly trained clinicians and are skilled at prioritising concerns within this time, but patients sometimes find it difficult to address multiple issues in a single appointment.
Private GP appointments at clinics such as Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic are typically 20–30 minutes. The longer slot allows more time to take a detailed history, explore symptoms comprehensively, review results, and discuss a management plan without feeling rushed. Both formats are appropriate for different situations: a brief renewal of a well-understood prescription may require only a short appointment, whilst a complex or multi-system presentation may benefit from a longer consultation.
Waiting Times
NHS GP waiting times vary considerably between practices and by geography. Some NHS practices offer same-day urgent appointments; routine appointments may have a wait of several days to a few weeks, depending on the practice and the level of demand at the time.
Private GP clinics typically offer same-day or next-day appointments for most presentations, as they operate with fewer patients registered per clinician. This can be useful when a patient has a time-sensitive concern or finds it difficult to take time off work at short notice for a routine appointment.
It is worth noting that waiting times are not the only factor in choosing between services, and many patients find NHS waiting times entirely acceptable for their circumstances.
Cost
NHS GP consultations are free at the point of use — a significant advantage and a cornerstone of the NHS model. Patients registered with an NHS GP pay nothing for their consultation, and NHS prescriptions carry only a standard prescription charge (or are free for those who qualify for exemption).
Private GP consultations carry a fee, which is typically in the range of £50–£150 for a standard consultation, though fees vary by clinic and clinician. At Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic, face-to-face consultations are £100 and video consultations are £80 for a 30-minute appointment. Some private medical insurance policies cover private GP consultations, though this varies by policy.
Cost is an important consideration. Private GP services are not a replacement for NHS primary care and are not accessible to everyone on financial grounds. For many patients, the NHS remains the most appropriate and practical option.
Continuity of Care
Continuity of care — seeing the same clinician over time — can be beneficial for patients with long-term or complex health needs, as it allows the clinician to develop a detailed understanding of the patient’s history and circumstances.
Both NHS and private settings can offer continuity of care, though the experience varies. Some NHS practices support named GP allocation; others operate a more flexible model. Private clinics with a small team, such as Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic, may be able to offer consistent access to a specific clinician at each visit.
What Private GP Can Add
For certain patients and circumstances, private GP services can complement NHS primary care in the following ways:
- Longer appointments — more time to discuss complex, chronic, or multiple issues
- Choice of clinician — ability to select a specific GP or specialist
- Same-day or next-day availability — for time-sensitive or urgent-but-non-emergency presentations
- Multilingual consultations — patients who prefer to consult in a language other than English may find this easier to access in a private setting
- Flexible scheduling — evening or weekend appointments at some clinics
- Expedited access to investigations — private blood tests and imaging can sometimes be arranged more quickly than NHS pathways for non-urgent conditions
When NHS Is the Right Choice
Private GP services are not appropriate — and should not be used as a substitute — for a range of clinical scenarios in which the NHS is better placed to help:
- Medical emergencies — always call 999 or attend A&E for urgent or life-threatening presentations
- Ongoing chronic disease management — conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma are best managed within the NHS, which has the infrastructure for long-term monitoring and prescribing
- Specialist referrals within NHS pathways — many NHS specialist services require a GP referral from within the NHS system
- Mental health crisis support — acute mental health crises are managed through NHS crisis services and A&E
- Cost — for patients who cannot afford private fees, NHS care is always available free of charge
Conclusion
The choice between NHS and private GP services is a personal one, shaped by individual circumstances including clinical urgency, cost, time availability, and personal preference. There is no single right answer, and many patients use both NHS and private services at different times and for different purposes.
If you are unsure which setting is most appropriate for your situation, speaking to a clinician — in either setting — is a reasonable starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a private GP appointment cost in London?
Private GP consultations in London typically range from £50 to £150 depending on the clinic and appointment length. At Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic, a face-to-face GP consultation is £100 for a full 30-minute appointment, and a video consultation is £80.
Can I see a private GP without a referral?
Yes. Private GP clinics do not require a referral. You can book directly online or by phone. At Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic, you can book same-day appointments with no referral needed.
Is a private GP appointment longer than an NHS appointment?
Generally yes. NHS GP appointments are typically 10-15 minutes. Private GP appointments are usually 20-30 minutes. At Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic, every GP consultation is a full 30 minutes, allowing time for a thorough discussion, examination, and management plan.
Can a private GP refer me to an NHS specialist?
Yes. A private GP can write referral letters to both NHS and private specialists. If you prefer to continue your care within the NHS, your private GP can refer you into the NHS pathway. Your private GP can also share notes with your NHS GP with your consent.
Can I use both an NHS GP and a private GP?
Yes. Many patients remain registered with their NHS GP while also seeing a private GP for specific concerns, quicker access, or longer appointments. The two are not mutually exclusive. Your private GP can communicate with your NHS practice if needed.
Do private GPs prescribe medication?
Yes. Private GPs are fully qualified and GMC-registered doctors who can prescribe medication. You can take a private prescription to any pharmacy. Some medications may be cheaper on an NHS prescription — your private GP can advise you on the most cost-effective option.
Can I get a same-day appointment with a private GP in London?
Many private GP clinics in London offer same-day or next-day appointments. At Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic, same-day appointments are available subject to availability. You can WhatsApp us to check availability or book online.
Can a private GP issue a sick note?
Yes. A private GP can issue a fit note (sick note) for your employer. This is legally valid and accepted by all UK employers in the same way as one issued by an NHS GP.
About Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic
Aristo Gynaecology & GP Clinic is a private clinic at 1–5 Portpool Lane, London EC1N 7UU, a short walk from Chancery Lane tube station. The clinic offers private GP consultations with Dr Georgios Schoinas (MRCGP, GMC 7632510) and gynaecology consultations with Dr Anastasia Mermigka (Consultant Gynaecologist, GMC 7640566). Consultations are available in English, Greek, Italian, and Bulgarian.
Face-to-face GP consultations are available from £100 (30 minutes); video consultations from £80.
