Rising Demand for Private GPs Highlights Shifts in Patient Preferences

If you’ve ever been frustrated by long waiting times for an NHS GP appointment, or you are simply so worried about a health concern that you want to access a GP as quickly as possible, you may have considered going private. But a common question holds many people back: Do you need private medical insurance to see a private GP?

The answer is simple — no, you don’t.

In fact, more people than ever in the UK are now booking private GP appointments without insurance. For example, you could access a Private GP London practice, if you live in or near the capital for just £74. With flexible, pay-as-you-go options and same-day availability, a private GP can offer fast access to healthcare when you need it most.

Here’s how it works — and why it might be worth considering.

You Don’t Need Insurance to See a Private GP

Unlike private hospitals that often bill your insurer directly, most private GP clinics in the UK operate on a self-pay model. That means:

• You don’t need private health insurance
• There are no contracts or subscriptions
• You simply pay per appointment, just like any other service

This makes private GP services more accessible to people who want faster, more personalised care, even if they’ve never had private insurance before.

For example, at The GP Surgery in London, patients can book appointments directly online without any pre-approval or membership. Fees are transparent, and appointments are often available the same or next day.

What Does a Private GP Appointment Include?

A private GP can offer longer, more in-depth consultations compared to the NHS. Standard appointment features often include:

• 10 to 30 minute consultations (vs. 10 minute fixed time slot on the NHS)
• Same-day or next-day appointments
• Time to fully discuss your concerns
• On-site or same-day blood tests
• Private prescriptions or referrals as needed

Many clinics also offer remote appointments via video or phone, which can be ideal if you’re travelling, working from home, or short on time.

What About Specialist Referrals?

If you need to see a specialist (like a dermatologist or cardiologist), a private GP can refer you — even without insurance.

You can either:

• Use that referral to access NHS services, or
• Choose to be seen privately and pay the consultant directly (with fees typically explained up front)

In addition, you can book services like a Private Blood Test or a Private Ultrasound directly via the Private GP service.

This flexibility allows you to take control of your care without being locked into a full private healthcare plan.

When Might You Consider a Private GP?

You don’t have to abandon your NHS GP to use a private one. In fact, many people use both.

Here are some common reasons people turn to private GP services:

• You can’t get an NHS appointment soon enough
• You want a second opinion
• You need a specific test or letter quickly (e.g. for travel or work)
• You want more time to talk through symptoms
• You travel regularly or work in multiple locations

For people living or working in the capital, booking with a Private GP in London can be a particularly convenient option; often just a short walk or Tube ride away.

There are private GP practices available throughout the UK. Check online for your closest provider. But, always double check that your chosen provider is overseen by the CQC (Care Quality Commission).  You can access the latest inspection for your chosen health provider on the CQC website.

How Much Does It Cost?

Private GP appointments usually cost £75–£125, depending on the length and location. Additional tests (like bloods or ECGs) are priced separately, but are clearly listed in advance. Blood tests for example, start at around £39.

Think of it like booking a one-off session with a physio, therapist or dentist, with no requirement for ongoing commitment.

Quick Answers

You don’t need private health insurance to book a private GP. If you need answers quickly, want a more personalised consultation, or simply don’t want to wait weeks to be seen, a private GP may be a smart and surprisingly affordable option.

And with highly regarded clinics offering transparent, pay-as-you-go access, you can take control of your health without jumping through hoops.