If you have never visited a private GP before, it is natural to wonder how the experience differs from an NHS appointment. The most important difference is time: where NHS consultations average 9.2 minutes, a private GP appointment typically lasts 30–45 minutes — giving us the opportunity to explore your concerns thoroughly, perform examinations, and arrange investigations in a single visit.[1][3]
Before Your Appointment: What to Prepare
Preparation checklist
- A list of your current symptoms — when they started, what makes them better or worse
- Current medications (including supplements and over-the-counter remedies)
- Any previous test results or hospital letters you have access to
- Your medical history and family history of significant conditions
- Questions you want to ask — write them down so nothing is forgotten
- Photo ID (for first visits) and insurance details if applicable
During the Consultation
Your appointment begins with a detailed history. I will ask about your presenting concern, past medical history, medications, lifestyle factors, and family history. This is followed by a focused physical examination relevant to your symptoms. Unlike a rushed NHS appointment, there is time to explain findings, discuss differentials, and answer every question.[4]
If investigations are needed — blood tests, ECG, ultrasound — many can be arranged immediately at our clinic. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, and I will contact you personally to discuss them and agree a management plan.
The Appointment Timeline
| Stage | Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival & registration | 5 min | Complete brief registration, provide ID and insurance details |
| History taking | 10–15 min | Detailed discussion of symptoms, medical history, medications |
| Examination | 5–10 min | Focused physical examination relevant to your concerns |
| Discussion & plan | 10–15 min | Explanation of findings, differential diagnoses, management plan |
| Investigations (if needed) | 5–15 min | Blood tests, ECG, or referral arranged on the same day |
| Follow-up | — | Results reviewed within 24–48 hours; follow-up call or appointment |
After Your Appointment
Continuity of care is one of the strongest predictors of patient outcomes — research shows it is associated with reduced mortality, fewer hospital admissions, and greater patient satisfaction.[2][5] At Victoria Medical, you see the same doctor at every visit. After your first appointment, I provide a written summary of findings and the agreed plan. If specialist referral is needed, I arrange this directly — often within days rather than weeks.
From Our Practice
"The most common feedback I receive from new patients is surprise at how much we cover in a single appointment. Many arrive having prepared a list of three or four concerns they assumed would need separate visits. In private practice, we have the time to address everything properly — and that thoroughness often prevents problems from being missed."
— Dr George Xynopoulos, Consultant Physician
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a private GP?
No. You can book directly without any referral. Private GP services are open-access — simply call or book online.
Can I keep my NHS GP as well?
Absolutely. Most of our patients remain registered with their NHS GP. Private and NHS care can work in parallel — we communicate with your NHS practice if you wish.
How much does a first appointment cost?
A standard 30-minute consultation is £180. Extended appointments (45 minutes) are available for complex or multiple concerns. View our full pricing page for details.
Will my records be shared with my NHS GP?
Only with your explicit consent. If you would like us to write to your NHS GP with a summary, we are happy to do so. Otherwise, your records remain confidential to our practice.
What if I need tests or a specialist?
Many investigations (blood tests, ECG, ultrasound) are available on-site the same day. If specialist referral is needed, I arrange this directly with consultants — often seen within days.
Can I claim on my health insurance?
Most major insurers (Bupa, AXA, Vitality, Aviva) cover private GP consultations. We provide the documentation needed for your claim. Please check your policy excess and coverage before attending.
Related Guides
What Does a Private GP Do?
A complete guide to private GP services
Private GP vs NHS GP
Key differences explained
How Much Does a Private GP Cost?
London pricing guide
Private GP Services
Book your appointment
References
- [1] Gopfert A, Deeny SR, Fisher R, Stafford M. Primary care consultation length by deprivation and multimorbidity in England. Br J Gen Pract. 2021;71(704):e185–e192. View source
- [2] Pereira Gray DJ, Sidaway-Lee K, White E, Thorne A, Evans PH. Continuity of care with doctors — a matter of life and death? BMJ Open. 2018;8(6):e021161. View source
- [3] Bradley SH, et al. Great expectations? GPs' estimations of time required to deliver quality consultations. BMJ Open. 2024;14(2):e079578. View source
- [4] Elmore N, Burt J, Abel G, et al. Investigating the relationship between consultation length and patient experience. Br J Gen Pract. 2016;66(653):e896–e903. View source
- [5] Baker R, et al. Associations between primary care continuity and patient mortality. Br J Gen Pract. 2020;70(698):e569–e580. View source
- [6] Hutchinson J, et al. Quality of privately-funded general practices in England. BJGP Open. 2026. View source
