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Private GP appointments AVAILABLE TODAY – click here for further information.
Published on
9/10/2025
The LivingCare Group
Does calling your GP surgery at 8 am and listening to hold music only to hear “no appointments for two weeks” sound familiar? Private GP appointments are on the rise, and if you’re thinking of booking one, you’re not alone. Some researchers estimate that 13% of GP consultations are private, up from 3% two decades ago.
For referrals and to secure tests and investigations, your GP is your first port of call. However, due to increasing demands and complexity, NHS GPs are under pressure. This makes appointment times shorter and can cause delays.
Whether you have a Private GP appointment booked or are just researching, we share what to expect during a Private GP appointment at LivingCare.
When you book a Private GP appointment, you can choose how long you need to take. If you have one or two concerns, 20-30 minutes should be enough. For multiple conditions or concerns, you may need an hour.
When you book online or on the phone, we aim to get back to you within an hour to secure your appointment, and sometimes we can even offer same-day appointments at our clinics in Leeds and Sheffield.
A Private GP appointment is much like an appointment with your local GP. You’ll discuss your symptoms and concerns with them.
The main difference between a Private GP appointment and an NHS appointment is the consultation time. Typically, an NHS appointment lasts around 10 minutes; a private appointment can last 20-30 minutes to one hour, depending on your needs.
The extended time gives you more time to discuss your health concerns in detail and to hear about the treatments and further tests without feeling rushed.
Your private GP will ask about your medical history, perform examinations, and discuss further treatments and referrals.
We understand that discussing health concerns and test results can be worrying. That’s why you can book GP appointments with the same Private GP. This allows you to build a connection with your doctor as they get to know you and your medical history.
With the extended Private GP appointment time, there is a chance to ask questions. To make the most of your appointment, it’s a good idea to think about the questions you have and problems you’d like to discuss. You could write them down or bring someone to the appointment with you.
The GP can refer you for further investigations such as MRI, CT, and endoscopy. This means you can skip the waiting list and get seen quickly by experienced consultants.
While a Private GP can refer you for further investigations and treatments, a Private GP is here for more than referrals.
You can book a private GP appointment for:
Waiting for GP appointments can delay your onward referrals and care. Being seen quickly is essential when you are anxious about something or need a referral. Current NHS GP waiting times are 10 days, which could leave you worrying for longer. At LivingCare, we offer same-day and book-ahead appointments, understanding that you want to spend more time receiving care and less time waiting.
Aside from quick access to appointments, you’ll also receive continuity of care. Your GP will be with you from the first appointment right through to discussing your diagnosis and treatment.
When you need a referral, a Private GP can provide the referrals most medical insurance firms need, making it easier to access treatments and scans through your insurance – and quicker, too.
Our GPs are highly experienced and can refer you to our state-of-the-art testing facilities and expert and senior consultants.
At LivingCare, our experienced GPs are ready to give you personalised medical care with the time and attention you need from our clinics in Leeds and Sheffield.
