When should you see a private GP?

The growing gap in GP access

In 2025, the average wait for a routine GP appointment in England was over two weeks. For many patients, that means sitting with worry, managing symptoms alone, or turning to A&E for problems that would be better handled by a doctor who knows their history. The system is under enormous pressure, and the people it serves are feeling it.

Private GP care is not a rejection of the NHS. For most people, it is a practical response to a real and growing gap. You are not jumping a queue — you are choosing a different kind of service entirely: one built around time, continuity, and access. AtWell offers same-day GP appointments with 30-minute consultations, available to anyone without referral.

Signs it might be time to consider a private GP

There is no single trigger. But these are the situations we hear about most from new patients at AtWell:

• You cannot get a timely appointment. If you are waiting two or three weeks to be seen, conditions can worsen, anxiety builds, and treatment is delayed.
• Your appointments feel rushed. The average NHS GP appointment is 10 minutes. Complex health concerns — hormonal changes, mental health, chronic pain — simply cannot be explored in that time.
• You see a different doctor every time. Without continuity, you repeat your story. Patterns go unnoticed. Care becomes reactive rather than proactive.
• You need a referral quickly. A private GP can typically arrange specialist referrals within 48 hours, compared with the NHS average of 18+ weeks.
• You want a second opinion. Sometimes you need fresh eyes on a persistent problem, without navigating bureaucratic processes.

What to expect from a private GP consultation

Our GP consultation lasts 30 minutes. That is three times the NHS average. In practice, it means your doctor has time to listen properly, examine thoroughly, explain clearly, and build a plan together — not just write a prescription and move on.

You do not need a referral. You do not need to register or transfer from your NHS practice. You simply book and come in. Most patients keep their NHS GP alongside their private care.

What happens during the appointment

1. A thorough review of your symptoms, history, and concerns
2. A physical examination where appropriate
3. Clear explanation of findings and options
4. Same-day prescriptions, blood tests, or referrals if needed
5. A follow-up plan -- including a complimentary call within 48 hours if required

How much does a private GP cost?

Our 30-minute GP consultations cost from £110. Extended consultations (45 minutes) start from £140. We are transparent about pricing -- you will always know the cost before you book, with no hidden fees.

We are recognised by Aviva, AXA Health, Bupa, Vitality, and WPA for physiotherapy services. All other services are self-pay with clear, upfront pricing.

Is private GP care right for you?

Private healthcare is not about luxury. It is about access, time, and continuity. If you have ever left a GP appointment feeling unheard, or waited weeks with a growing concern, a private GP offers a different experience entirely.

We believe that thoughtful, unhurried medicine should not be a privilege. It should be the standard. And for a growing number of people across the Midlands, it is becoming exactly that.

For patients across Balsall Common, Solihull, Knowle, Dorridge, and the wider West Midlands, AtWell offers same-day private GP appointments with 30-minute consultations.

"After years of long waits, I was seen the same day at AtWell. The doctor spent 30 minutes with me and genuinely listened. For the first time in years, my health feels in good hands."

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