We get asked all of the time, “Is it OK that I have an NHS GP?” It absolutely is!
It’s a common misconception that having an NHS GP restricts access to private healthcare and vice versa. We don’t know where this myth emerged from! It is true that some NHS GPs can react badly to patients who also use private GPs, but that’s an individual issue, not one related to access or any particular rules. (If we’re being honest, it’s usually an ego issue.)
Most of our patients use us alongside their NHS practice, and this works great for most people because it keeps them connected to their NHS GP while ensuring they have access to the benefits of private care.
At City Walk In Clinic, we regularly see patients who remain fully registered with their NHS GP while choosing private care for speed, convenience, or reassurance.
Can You Use Both an NHS GP & a Private GP?
Yes, you can use both an NHS GP and a private GP. In the UK, you are free to access private healthcare whenever you choose, whether for a one-off consultation or ongoing care. You do not need to deregister from your NHS GP, and seeing a private GP does not affect your NHS registration in any way.
You should remain registered with your NHS GP, as this ensures continued access to NHS hospital care, specialist referrals, long-term condition management, and emergency services.
Many patients choose to see a private GP for greater convenience, including same-day appointments, flexible access with evening and early morning availability, and faster access to tests and results.
In addition, private GPs offer:
- Longer appointments
- Fast-tracked specialist referrals (privately)
- Fast diagnostics, such as blood tests, within 12 hours
- Fast radiology, such as ultrasounds and MRI
Do You Need a Referral?
You do not need a referral to see a private GP. Appointments can be booked directly, without contacting your NHS GP or obtaining a referral letter.
Your NHS GP will not be informed automatically, as private and NHS systems operate separately unless you request information to be shared. In some cases, particularly for ongoing conditions or prescriptions, sharing information is recommended. It is important that both your private and NHS doctors are aware of any medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions or complications.
Any recommendations regarding information sharing will be discussed with you during your consultation with a private GP.
Can You Switch Between Private & NHS Care?
Yes. Many patients move between private and NHS care depending on their needs, balancing speed, cost, and convenience. You can use private GP services as often or as rarely as you need to. Some private GPs offer memberships and tie you into subscriptions we are a simple pay-as-you-go service, so just use us as you need us.
Many UK patients use both NHS and private services to gain flexibility and control over their healthcare.
When Should You Consider a Private GP?
You will benefit from a private GP if you need a same-day appointment, more time to discuss symptoms, faster testing, or a second opinion. There are multiple benefits to private GP services, and here are a few scenarios where you’d benefit:
- If you cannot obtain an NHS GP appointment within a reasonable timeframe.
- You want an in-person appointment, and your NHS GP is only offering virtual for your condition.
- You need your prescription emailed to a local pharmacy after your virtual appointment for convenient collection.
- You’ve struggled to have your symptoms taken sufficiently seriously by an NHS GP.
- You struggle to see the same NHS GP twice because of the use of locum GPs by your practice, preventing continuity of care.
- Your symptoms are complicated, and you need 30 minutes with a GP instead of ten.
At City Walk In Clinic, we provide clear pricing, same-day appointments, and convenient access in Central London. Book online or call us today.
