When it comes to accessing healthcare in the UK, we face the choice between using the NHS or opting for a private GP. While the NHS provides free medical services, increasing demand has led to long waiting times. On the other hand, private GP services can provide fast access and personalised care at a cost. But which one is right for you? This article compares NHS and private GPs to help you decide.

What is a Private GP?

A private GP is a fully qualified general practitioner who operates outside the NHS, offering private healthcare services. Patients pay directly for appointments, tests and treatments. These services often include same-day consultations, longer appointment times and faster referrals to specialists.

What is an NHS GP?

An NHS GP is a doctor who provides medical care through the publicly funded National Health Service (NHS). NHS GPs are usually the first point of contact for people seeking medical advice or treatment for a health concern.

Differences Between NHS and Private GPs

NHS GP services are free for UK residents, but waiting times vary depending on location. Appointments are typically 10 minutes long and while you can request a specific GP, there’s no guarantee of seeing the same doctor each time due to availability. 

In contrast, private GP services are paid, with costs depending on the treatment. However, they offer same-day or next-day appointments, with longer consultation times, which are usually 15 to 30 minutes or more. Private patients also benefit from greater continuity of care, as they are more likely to see the same GP at each visit.

Private vs NHS

NHS Challenges

The NHS has faced ongoing challenges in meeting the referral-to-treatment (RTT) target, which ensures that patients referred for non-urgent treatment are seen within 18 weeks. Since September 2015, the NHS has struggled to hit this target, resulting in longer waiting times for many patients. New simulation modelling by the Institute for Fiscal Studies on the elective waiting list suggests that it’s unlikely the NHS will meet the 92% target by 2029.

Is There a Shift Towards Private GP Services?

There has been a noticeable shift towards seeing a private GP, particularly among younger people. The number of individuals seeking private GP appointments is approaching four million, with 45% of 18 to 24-year-olds opting for private GPs due to frustrations with NHS delays.

This expansion of private services aligns with broader healthcare trends. For instance, LaingBuisson reports that private GP consultations now account for 13% of all GP consultations compared to 3% two decades ago.

When to Choose an NHS GP

NHS GPs are the first line of defence in our healthcare system, with healthcare professionals working tirelessly to provide free care to all. Choosing your NHS GP is the ideal start if you have any health or medical concerns, especially when:

  • You prefer free healthcare with no out-of-pocket costs.
  • You need access to NHS hospital specialists for ongoing care.
  • You have complex conditions requiring multidisciplinary teams.
  • You are in an emergency situation where NHS A&E services are required.

When to Consider a Private GP

Private GPs are a suitable option for issues that may not be considered urgent or high priority by the NHS. For example, weight loss management programmes on the NHS are free but have strict criteria and often rely on digital tools. Access to programmes, especially Tier 3, involves long waiting times and can sometimes exceed over 20 months.

Private GP services excel in providing quick diagnosis through comprehensive health screenings, sexual health evaluations, allergy testing, blood tests and cancer screenings. Availability for these services is flexible and results are swift.

You might consider a private GP if:

  • You need an appointment urgently and cannot wait for an NHS slot.
  • You prefer longer consultations with more time to discuss concerns.
  • You require fast-track access to specialists, such as cardiologists or dermatologists.
  • You need confidential services for sexual health, mental health or occupational health.
  • You want comprehensive health screenings and private blood tests with rapid results.
  • You frequently travel and need flexible healthcare options, such as private travel vaccinations.

Post-Pandemic Effects on GPs

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted healthcare services in the UK. Many NHS GP surgeries faced overwhelming demand as staff shortages and waiting lists shot up. The pandemic put immense pressure on GP surgeries within the NHS and it’s still in the process of recovering. During the early stages of the pandemic, face-to-face appointments dropped dramatically to just 50%, as the healthcare system focused on managing COVID-19 cases. Even as we move into 2025, face-to-face GP appointments have only risen to 60%.

How Age, Health and Employment Affect Your Choice of GP

  • Older adults: Those with chronic conditions may rely on the NHS for ongoing specialist care but might use private GPs for urgent concerns.
  • Working professionals: Busy schedules make private GPs appealing due to flexible appointment times.
  • Frequent travellers: People who travel often benefit from private GP services that provide travel vaccinations and rapid test results.

Why Choose The Oakley Medical Practice?

If you’re interested in seeing a private GP, we provide personalised care at The Oakley Medical Practice. Don’t let long waiting times delay your health. Explore the services we offer and book an appointment with us today.

Want to learn more about the advantages of private healthcare? Read our article on the top 5 benefits of seeing a private GP.