The Cost of Private GP Appointments: What to Expect and Is It Worth It?

For many professionals juggling demanding careers and family responsibilities, accessing timely healthcare can feel like an impossible task. NHS waiting times are frustratingly long, and when you or a loved one needs to see a doctor quickly, private GP services offer a practical alternative.

But how much does it actually cost to see a private GP? Is it affordable, or is it only an option for the wealthy? And are there hidden fees that could push the price up unexpectedly?

This guide breaks down the real cost of private GP services, including regional price variations, potential hidden charges, and whether private healthcare is truly worth the investment.

The cost of a private GP appointment varies depending on factors such as location, consultation type, and additional services. Here’s an approximate idea of what you can expect across different parts of the UK (prices may vary from clinic to clinic):

London naturally commands the highest prices due to demand and clinic overheads. A standard in-person consultation typically costs:

• £100 – £250 for a 20-30 minute appointment

• £150 – £300 for extended consultations (40+ minutes)

• £50 – £150 for virtual GP consultations

Diagnostic tests, and prescriptions often come at an additional cost.

Private GP services in cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds tend to be more affordable:

• £80 – £180 for standard in-person appointments

• £40 – £120 for virtual or phone consultations

Prices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Cardiff are similar to those in the Midlands, though some areas have fewer private healthcare providers, meaning higher demand can push prices up.

Private GP availability is more limited in rural locations, but where services exist, costs are often comparable to smaller cities:

• £90 – £180 for an in-person visit

• £50 – £100 for virtual consultations

If you require tests or referrals, you should budget for additional expenses:

• Blood tests: £50 – £300 (depending on the complexity)

• Scans (X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound): £100 – £1000+

• Vaccinations: £30 – £150 per dose

Tip: Some clinics offer membership plans that include unlimited consultations for a fixed monthly fee, which can be cost-effective if you anticipate frequent visits.

While private GP services offer speed and convenience, it’s important to be aware of potential hidden fees that could increase your overall spend.

• Follow-up consultations – Most clinics charge separately for follow-ups.

• Prescription charges – While your GP may issue a private prescription, you’ll need to pay the full cost of the medication at the pharmacy. These costs can be significant depending on the pharmacy and drug.

• Out-of-hours fees – Weekend and evening appointments may come at a premium, especially for home visits.

• Check for transparent pricing –Most clinics list their prices online. If pricing isn’t clear, call and ask before booking.

• Consider virtual appointments – Some issues can be dealt with via a phone or video consultation which is often more affordable. But be mindful that many symptoms do require a examination face to face.

• Look into private healthcare plans – If you need frequent GP visits, membership schemes can reduce per-visit costs significantly.

When weighing up whether private GP appointments are worth the investment, it’s important to consider both the financial cost and the value of convenience, peace of mind, and faster access to care.

• You need an urgent appointment – If your NHS surgery has a three-week waiting list, a private consultation ensures you’re seen quickly.
• You have a busy schedule – Evening and weekend availability means you don’t have to take time off work or rearrange childcare.
• You want longer, more personal consultations – NHS GPs are often under pressure to keep appointments to 10 minutes, whereas private GPs offer 20–40 minute slots for a more in-depth discussion.
• You need a prescription or referral quickly – Private GPs can provide same-day prescriptions and arrange specialist referrals without delay.

• You have a chronic condition requiring ongoing care – The NHS provides free specialist referrals, follow-ups, and long-term management of conditions like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease.
• You don’t require urgent medical attention – If your issue is minor and you can wait for an NHS appointment, private care may be unnecessary.
• You’re concerned about additional costs – If you need diagnostic tests, prescriptions, or specialist referrals, the NHS covers these, whereas private care means out-of-pocket expenses.

For those who value speed, flexibility, and convenience, private GP services are often worth the cost—especially when balancing a demanding work schedule and family responsibilities.

While private GP services come at a cost, they offer an invaluable service for those who can’t afford to wait for NHS availability. Whether you’re managing a stressful career, juggling family life, or simply want the reassurance of fast, high-quality medical care, the investment can be well worth it.

However, it’s essential to understand the pricing structure, be aware of potential hidden costs, and choose a provider that offers transparent, fair pricing.

If you’re considering booking a private GP appointment, take the time to research your local options, compare costs, and decide whether the benefits justify the expense for your personal circumstances.