5 Reasons to see a Private GP

 1. More Time

Increasingly the sub-10 minute appointment is becoming the norm in the field of general practice. That 10 minutes is not all for you though - it is to get into the room, get settled, explain your symptoms, be examined, have a plan made, and have your consultation written up. So the reality is that it is only a precious few moments with your doctor.

This is far from ideal for both you and the doctor you are seeing, as often, you can be rushed and barely get to scratch the surface of the issue at hand (let alone if there is more than one issue).

As a private GP, we give all my patients at least 30 minute appointments. This may sound a lot, but in reality it goes quickly, and often for new patients or those with a few issues, my 60 minute appointments are ideal. All this extra time allows us to really get to the crux of things, understand what is going on, and plan accordingly.

2. Easier and Faster Access

We’re all getting busier and busier, so getting an appointment when you want one is vital. I offer appointments throughout the day, every Monday to Friday, from 9am to 6pm.

Patients enjoy the ability to book anytime of the day or night with my online booking service, which shows live, up to date and accurate availability for both of my clinic locations. You can book in less than 60 seconds.

Gone are the days of waiting on hold on the telephone to try and book an appointment.

It’s not just access to booking appointments, but email communication too - we are readily available throughout the day and responsive to most forms of communication, so if you need to speak with me, you will.

3. See the same doctor - true continuity of care

Nothing can replace a doctor who knows you as a person and knows your full medical history. Seeing a private doctor often gives one the opportunity to experience this, as you will see the same person over and over again.

The cultivation and growth of this relationship is one of the most fruitful aspects of this job, and cannot be overstated. Every person is different, and the guidelines doctors have just don’t apply equally to people. Having the benefit of unparalleled continuity of care from that doctor you know allows you to really get the most relevant, sensible and tailored medical advice.

This to us is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a private GP, and it is something we know that our patients value too.

4. Faster investigations, tests and referrals

Getting seen quickly is the first step of this process. Any necessary blood tests, scans or other investigations can be organised within minutes. The majority of tests can be done on the same day, with results often also back within a few hours.

Fast diagnostic tests can often help us clinch that diagnosis we are trying to reach. However, sometimes you need the input of a specialist consultant. We are in the privileged position that we have a network of top consultants whom we know personally. As such, referrals to specialists can also be done at very short notice, and you can often see us, have your tests done, and see the specialist all within 24-48 hours.

5. A better and more patient-focused experience

Taken individually, all of the above have the potential to make a good experience. But when all put in practice together, they can make for a truly great experience, one where you feel listened to, cared for, and empowered to look after your health. The points above are all important reasons that seeing a private GP may be preferable, but I find the real key is to blend all of these together with personality, empathy and respect.