Private GP Consultation in the UK: Costs, Benefits & How to Book
A private GP consultation gives you access to a doctor without NHS waiting times — often the same day or next day. Whether you need a second opinion, a faster diagnosis, or a specialist referral more quickly, private GPs offer flexibility that the NHS system cannot always provide. This guide explains costs, what to expect, and when it makes sense.
- Initial consultation cost: £70 – £200 (in-person)
- Online consultation: £25 – £75 per session
- Waiting time: Same day to 48 hours typically
- Referral needed: No — self-refer directly
- Prescriptions: Available but charged separately
- Covered by insurance: Often yes, subject to policy terms
What Does a Private GP Do?
A private GP provides the same core services as an NHS GP — diagnosing illnesses, managing long-term conditions, prescribing medications, and referring to specialists — but operates outside the NHS system. You pay per appointment rather than through taxation. The key advantages are speed, longer appointment times (typically 20–30 minutes vs the NHS average of 10), and more flexibility in booking.
Private GP vs NHS GP: Key Differences
| Feature | NHS GP | Private GP |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | £70–£200 per visit |
| Waiting time | Days to weeks | Same day to 48 hours |
| Appointment length | ~10 minutes | 20–45 minutes |
| Out-of-hours access | Via 111 or walk-in | Often available evenings/weekends |
| Specialist referrals | NHS pathways | NHS or private specialists |
| Continuity of care | With registered practice | Choose your GP |
How Much Does a Private GP Cost in the UK?
Private GP fees vary depending on the location (London is generally higher), the clinic, and the type of appointment. As a rough guide:
- In-person initial consultation: £80 – £200
- In-person follow-up: £50 – £120
- Online/telephone consultation: £25 – £75
- Home visit: £250 – £500+
- Prescription (private): £15 – £30 per item, plus medication cost
Online Private GPs: A Growing Option
Video and telephone consultations have become an established part of private GP care in the UK. Online consultations are typically faster to access and less expensive than in-person appointments, and are suitable for most non-emergency health concerns. They can result in referrals, sick notes, and prescriptions in the same way as face-to-face appointments. The GMC and CQC regulate online GP services in the same way as physical clinics.
When Does Seeing a Private GP Make Sense?
A private GP is worth considering when you need a faster appointment than your NHS GP can offer, when you need a second opinion, when you want a longer appointment to discuss complex issues in detail, when you need an urgent referral to a specialist, or when you are travelling or temporarily in a different area. For ongoing or complex chronic conditions, maintaining NHS registration alongside private appointments is advisable to ensure joined-up care.
How to Find a Private GP
Private GP clinics can be found through private hospital networks, independent clinics, and online platforms. Always check that your doctor is registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) — you can verify this for free on the GMC website. Also check that the clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which regulates all healthcare providers in England.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be registered with an NHS GP to see a private GP?
No. You can see a private GP without being registered with an NHS practice. However, keeping your NHS GP registration is strongly advisable for continuity of care, referrals within the NHS system, and access to your full medical history. You can use both concurrently.
Can a private GP refer me to an NHS specialist?
Yes. A private GP can write a referral letter for NHS secondary care just as an NHS GP can. Under the NHS Constitution, you have the right to a referral to a consultant-led team when it is clinically appropriate, regardless of whether the referral comes from an NHS or private GP.
Are private GP prescriptions valid at NHS pharmacies?
Yes. Private GP prescriptions (written on a private FP10 form) are valid at any registered UK pharmacy. You will pay the private prescription charge set by the pharmacy rather than the NHS prescription charge (currently £9.90 per item in England). Costs vary, so it is worth phoning ahead to compare.