FAQs

  • The average cost of a private GP appointment in the UK ranges from £50 to £150. The cost varies depending on the length and type of appointment - video appointments are often cheaper as physical examinations cannot occur. 

  • Paying for a private GP has many benefits including: 

    • Faster access

    • Personalised care

    • Longer appointments

    • Booking flexibility

    Private GPS often have short wait times and can offer a variety of appointment times to best suit you. Longer appointment times also give you the opportunity to develop a relationship with your GP, allowing them to understand you better and improve the care they are able to give.

  • No. Many GPs who work in the NHS do not offer private appointments which can be frustrating if you want the same doctor to monitor your care. When booking with a private GP, it is very likely that you will see the same doctor each time you have an appointment, which for many people provides reassurance.


  • Private healthcare insurance can be excellent for covering the cost of medical treatments and procedures and excellent for accessing private services which often have shorter wait times. 

    Having insurance means that if you do require treatment for a major illness, the costs will be covered by your insurance company which can give you great peace of mind. 

  • Private GP appointments can be expensive, especially if you have an ongoing health condition that requires consistent monitoring. 

    Due to the monetary aspect of private healthcare, it is possible that clinicians may offer tests that you may not necessarily need. Although well intentioned and often a prophylactic measure, additional tests can rack up a lot of costs. 

    Additionally, specialist care can be fragmented in the private sector - with multiple different providers being involved in your care instead of just one stream through the NHS. Although you will very often receive care quicker, you may find it confusing to keep up with appointments and results from different providers.


  • No. Private providers are not allowed to issue NHS prescriptions and you will also have to pay a dispensing fee. If you want to access medication through the NHS then you will have to have your diagnosis confirmed by an NHS doctor and get the prescription through them.

  • This can vary based on the type of surgery and the healthcare providers. On average, you can expect a wait time of 4-6 weeks for a routine surgery in the private sector vs up to 18 weeks for routine surgery on the NHS. 

    Wait times can also vary by location so it’s important to check with your local healthcare providers for the most accurate information. 

  • Not all healthcare plans cover everything (many do not include cover for chronic illnesses and certain elective procedures) and some insurance plans and providers can be costly.


    Under insurance may leave you with additional costs for out-of-cover expenses and services. Many policies use a lot of legal and medical jargon which can make them difficult to understand and leave you at risk of paying for the wrong cover.  

    It’s important to research what level of cover is right for you and your lifestyle and to be aware of what private healthcare providers are available in your area.

Have a question that isn’t answered here? Email it to us at hello@completeclinicalcare.co.uk