How do Private GPs work? Debunking the myths about Private GPs
Why Private GPs are so often misunderstood
Private GP services are increasingly part of the UK healthcare landscape, yet many people remain unsure about how they actually work. For some, the idea of seeing a Private GP raises practical questions. For others, it brings assumptions shaped by misinformation or outdated perceptions of private healthcare.
Does using a Private GP mean leaving the NHS? Are Private GPs only for certain people? Is it something you have to commit to long term, or only accessible if you have insurance?
These questions are common, particularly in a healthcare system where NHS general practice has long been the default. As a result, a number of persistent Private GP myths continue to shape how people view Private GP care.
This article explores the most common misconceptions about Private GPs and explains how Private GP services actually work in practice. Using examples from The Walcote Practice in Winchester, it aims to help you make an informed decision about whether Private GP care could play a role in supporting your health.
Myth 1: Using a Private GP means I lose my NHS doctor
One of the strengths of Private GP care in the UK is that it works alongside the NHS, not instead of it.
Seeing a Private GP does not affect your NHS healthcare registration in any way. You remain fully registered with your NHS GP practice and can continue to access NHS services as usual. A Private GP simply provides an additional option when you want quicker access, longer appointments or a more flexible approach to care.
Many patients move between NHS and Private GP services depending on their needs at the time. For example, you might see a Private GP for a detailed women’s health consultation, a skin concern or a prompt assessment of new symptoms, while continuing to rely on NHS care for routine or ongoing management. This flexibility allows patients to make choices that suit their circumstances without having to commit to one route exclusively.
Myth 2: Private GPs and NHS GPs do not link up
Private GP care can offer the best of both worlds when it comes to access and continuity.
Should you desire, and only with your consent, information from a Private GP consultation can be shared with your NHS GP. This may include consultation summaries, test results or treatment plans, helping to keep your records complete and your care coordinated.
Private GPs are accustomed to working within the wider healthcare system and understand the importance of joined-up care. At The Walcote Practice, this collaborative approach means Private GP services can enhance NHS care by providing time, clarity and faster decision-making, while ensuring relevant information is shared appropriately.
Myth 3: Private GPs are just like NHS GPs
Private GPs are fully qualified doctors, many with extensive experience in NHS general practice and hospital settings. The difference for patients is not the standard of healthcare provided, but the structure of care and the range of medical services that can be accessed more directly within the Private GP setting.
Private GP appointments are typically longer, allowing time to explore symptoms in more depth, discuss concerns fully and consider preventative approaches. This can be particularly valuable for complex or evolving issues such as menopause symptoms, management of long-term conditions or unexplained changes in health.
Alongside standard GP services, Private GPs are often able to offer access to services that may be harder to obtain without a more complex referral process. This can include extended health screening, early cancer detection blood tests, joint injections, minor skin procedures, travel health advice and vaccinations, as well as faster access to diagnostics and specialist referrals where appropriate.
The clinical standards remain the same, but the additional time, continuity and ease of access allow for a more personalised and considered experience of healthcare.
Myth 4: A Private GP is always expensive
Private GP care is often more flexible and accessible than people expect.
Many patients choose to use Private GP services on a one-off basis, such as for a health check, travel advice and vaccinations before a holiday, or reassurance about a new concern. Others prefer Healthplans that spread costs more predictably across the year.
When compared with the value of being seen promptly, having time to talk, and gaining faster access to investigations or referrals, Private GP care can represent a worthwhile and surprisingly economical investment in your health and peace of mind.
Myth 5: You can only visit a Private GP if you have medical insurance
Private GP care is not dependent on medical insurance.
Most Private GP services are self-funded, meaning you pay directly for the consultation or healthcare service you choose. This avoids insurance approvals and allows straightforward access to care when you need it.
Clear pricing structures are an important part of this model. Consultation fees and any additional services that you may require are explained in advance, giving you control over how much you spend and allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare, whatever your reason for attending.
Myth 6: A Private GP is only for a certain kind of person
Private GP care is used by people at every stage of life, from newborns and young families through to adults and older patients, and by individuals as well as households.
Some people choose a Private GP because they are time-poor and value being able to book an appointment quickly, often within days rather than weeks. Others appreciate continuity of care, seeing the same doctor over time and having the space to discuss their health properly. Families may value prompt access for childhood illnesses, vaccinations or newborn checks, while many adults use Private GP care to take a more proactive approach to their health through screening, lifestyle advice or early intervention.
What unites these patients is not background or circumstance, but the ability to afford one-off or ongoing Private care and a preference for choice, access and personalised support when it matters most.
Myth 7: Prescriptions will be really expensive with a Private GP
Private GPs are able to issue private prescriptions – these are valid at any pharmacy. Whilst the cost of the medication will vary, it is often less than the prevailing NHS prescription charge.
Private GP appointments also allow time for structured medication reviews, which can be particularly helpful for patients managing long-term conditions or multiple medications, supporting safe and effective ongoing treatment.
Should you wish, many Private GPs are able to monitor your repeat prescriptions and more expensive medications by a shared care agreement with your NHS GP.
Myth 8: If I use a Private GP, I am committed to going down the private route
Private GP care is designed to offer choice, not obligation.
Many patients attend for a specific reason, such as faster access to an appointment, proactive health screening, menopause support or travel health advice. Others return occasionally when they feel that private care is appropriate.
Where relevant, if you would prefer to be seen by an NHS, rather than a private, specialist following a Private GP consultation, please let the Private GP know. With your permission, the Private GP is able to make the details of your private consultations and your private medical test results available to your NHS GP, who can then decide if they wish to refer you to an appropriate NHS specialist. Having the initial tests organised through a Private GP practice will still save you a lot of time in reaching specialist care.
There is no requirement to continue privately, and patients remain free to move between NHS and private services as their needs change.
Myth 9: I cannot just have a one-off appointment
One-off appointments are a common way that people use Private GP services.
Some patients want a same-day or next-day appointment, rather than waiting for weeks to be seen. Others value having the time to fully discuss symptoms or concerns without feeling rushed. This can help clarify whether reassurance, investigation or referral is needed.
At The Walcote Practice, appointments are usually available within two working days, often same-day, allowing concerns to be addressed promptly and thoughtfully.
Myth 10: I cannot get a home visit from a Private GP
While most consultations take place at the surgery, home visits remain an option in certain circumstances.
Home visits may be appropriate for older patients, those with mobility difficulties, or individuals who are unwell and unable to attend the practice. Availability depends on clinical need and location, with this flexibility reflecting a broader commitment to personalised care.
Myth 11: There are lots of hidden costs with a Private GP
Transparency is central to Private GP healthcare.
Consultation fees and any additional costs linked to investigations, procedures or treatments are explained in advance. This includes services such as blood tests, imaging, health screening, vaccinations, minor skin procedures, medical reports etc.
This clarity allows patients to plan their care confidently and remain in control of their healthcare spending.
Myth 12: Private GPs do not adhere to the same standards as the NHS
Private GPs and practices are regulated in the same way as NHS GPs and Practices.
Individual Private GPs are registered with, appraised and validated by the General Medical Council and they work to the same professional, ethical and clinical standards. As with NHS GP practices, Private GP practices must be registered with and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Patient safety, confidentiality and evidence-based practice remain fundamental.
What Private GP healthcare offers is a different structure, with faster access, more time and continuity, and a stronger focus on prevention.
Myth 13: Using a Private GP is disloyal to the NHS
Private GP services can help to significantly reduce pressure on NHS general practice by providing additional access points for patients who choose them.
Many NHS GP practices actively refer patients to Private GP practices for services no longer offered within NHS GP settings, and many Private GPs also work within the NHS.
Any concerns about loyalty can therefore be allayed as the two systems in fact support one another synergistically, meaning that patients can use both systems in a way that best suits their individual healthcare needs.
Myth 14: You have to be very local to use a Private GP
While convenience matters, many patients are prepared to travel to access a practice they trust. Patients often prioritise continuity, quality of care and experience over distance alone.
Where clinically appropriate, some follow-up consultations or discussions regarding test results may also be undertaken remotely.
Myth 15: Private GPs only offer the same services as the NHS
Private GPs most often provide the full range of standard GP services, alongside additional options that support proactive health management.
These may include extended health screening, early cancer detection blood tests, menopause support, joint injections, minor skin surgery, travel health advice and vaccinations, preventative lifestyle discussions and more.
Faster access to investigations and referrals allows patients to address concerns earlier and take a more active role in managing their health.
How The Walcote Practice supports informed patient choice
The Walcote Practice was established to offer patients rapid access to personalised Private GP appointments, combined with excellent customer service, while maintaining traditional high standards of healthcare. With surgeries in central Winchester and in Chilcomb Park, the Practice supports adults, children and families through both acute and preventative care.
Patients can book same-day or short-notice appointments, benefit from longer consultation times, and access a wide range of services including health screening, menopause care, vaccinations, minor procedures and chronic disease management. Importantly, care is delivered with continuity, openness and a focus on individual needs.
Many Private GP myths stem from uncertainty rather than fact. Private GP services are not about replacing the NHS or committing to long-term private care. They are about choice, access and personalised support.
Understanding how Private GPs work allows you to decide if and when private care may be right for you.
If you would like to discuss whether Private GP services could support your health or your family’s wellbeing, The Walcote Practice welcomes enquiries. Contact us to talk through your needs and/or to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you on 01962 828715. You can also submit email enquiries to info@thewalcotepractice.co.uk .
