More and more people are obtaining private doctor appointments. One reason is the reduced availability of NHS doctor appointments, but also because more and more people are aware of the benefits of opting for a private doctor appointment.
You may have considered a private GP consultation for yourself or your family but had questions you found difficult to answer online. We hope this guide helps answer your questions and opens the door to a world of convenience and improved care.
The first question you may be wondering about is whether you can use private doctor services. And the answer is yes, you can! There are no special criteria for the use of private doctor appointments, and you can use them in conjunction with your NHS practice.
It is, in fact, very common for patients to use private doctors to fill the gaps in their care when they are unable to see their NHS GP and need a second opinion or a more convenient appointment.
Seeing a private gp does not impact your registration with your NHS doctor or reduce your access to future NHS services.
Some private clinics require membership or an initial joining fee. Others, like ours, allow you to pay as you go and use us as and when you need.
So, what should you expect during a private GP consultation? You should have the following expectations of your appointment and care:
- You should be able to choose the doctor of your choice. When you go private, choice becomes one of the most important aspects of your care, not only picking who you want to see but also choosing your care and treatment options.
- You should expect to be able to book an appointment at several convenient locations. In our case, we offer three convenient London locations that our patients can use at leisure.
- You should expect to have your call answered quickly. We know one of the greatest challenges accessing NHS GP services is long waiting times on the phone to speak to someone to arrange an appointment. We aim to answer your call within three minutes and your emails within 30 minutes.
- You should expect fast test results. Most of our results are available on the same day, helping your doctor understand what might be wrong quickly and efficiently and helping you get better as soon as possible.
- You should expect fast referrals for specialist appointments, from orthopaedics to gynaecology to dermatology, regardless of the specialism you require. Private appointments are available within 24 hours.
- You should also expect fast referrals for imaging, whether ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, or X-ray, and fast reports from the radiologist.
- You should expect excellent follow-up and after-care. That means a Doctor who ensures that after you leave the clinic, they communicate with you quickly about your results and next steps and ensure that your patient journey is fully taken care of.
- Lastly, you should expect the warmest welcome at the clinic. Our team is trained extensively to provide a great welcome and all of the information you need and support for your onward care, including arranging appointments for you and staying in touch with you about any future health needs.
There are many benefits to opting for a private doctor’s appointment. Going private opens up a world of convenience, choice, and exceptional customer care, which you deserve.
To make an appointment, please call us today or book online.
