Finding the Right GP for You: NHS or Private?

Choosing between an NHS GP and a Private GP is an important decision that can significantly shape your healthcare experience. Whether you’re seeking convenience, faster access, or long-term care, it’s essential to understand the key differences — from cost and accessibility to quality of care.

In this guide, we’ll break it down clearly, helping you make an informed choice based on your personal health needs. We’ll also show why more and more patients are choosing Niva Medical Clinic in London for reliable, compassionate, and timely private healthcare.

What is an NHS GP?

An NHS GP (General Practitioner) is your first point of contact for medical concerns in the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system. NHS GPs provide free, comprehensive services — including diagnoses, treatments, and referrals — tailored to local community health needs.

Key Benefits:

• Free for all UK residents
• Access to a wide network of NHS services and specialists
• Very useful for managing chronic and long-term conditions
• Integrated care across hospitals, mental health, and social services

Challenges:

• Long waiting times (appointments may take days to weeks)
• Short consultations (often just 10 minutes)
• High demand can stretch services thin

What is a Private GP?

A Private GP operates outside of the NHS and provides healthcare services for a fee. This model offers flexibility, speed, and personalised care — ideal for patients who value convenience and proactive healthcare.

Unique Advantages:

• Same-day or next-day appointments
• Longer consultation times (typically 20–60 minutes)
• Evening and weekend availability
• Access to a wider range of health screenings and private specialists

Potential Drawbacks:

• Appointment fees typically range from £60–£110, plus additional costs for tests
• May not have instant access to your NHS medical records
• Episodic care may not be suitable for all long-term conditions

NHS GP vs Private GP: Side-by-Side Comparison

Factor	NHS GP	Private GP
Cost	Free	£60–£110 per appointment + tests
Waiting Times	Days to weeks	Same-day or next-day availability
Consultation Time	~10 minutes	20–60 minutes
Continuity of Care	Strong for chronic care	Varies — but can be consistent at clinics like Niva
Prescription Costs	Lower or free for some groups	Usually higher, with possible handling fees
Accessibility	Based on where you live	Flexible – choose any clinic that suits you
Specialist Referrals	Through NHS pathway (may be slower)	Faster access to private specialists

Why Patients Are Choosing Niva Medical Clinic

At Niva Medical Clinic, we bridge the gap between speed, quality, and personal attention. Our patients come from Stanmore, Harrow, Edgware, Wembley, Bushey, Watford, Hatch End, and Northwood to experience a better way of accessing healthcare.

Here’s what you can expect with us:

• Same-day private GP appointments in London
• Consultations up to 60 minutes to address all your concerns
• Comfortable, modern clinic with a calm atmosphere
• Preventative care, lifestyle guidance, and holistic support
• Transparent pricing – no hidden fees

Whether you’re managing ongoing health issues or just need a quick check-up, we’re here to provide high-quality, compassionate care when you need it most.

Bringing Back the Traditional Family Doctor Model

At Niva Medical Clinic, we’re committed to more than just one-off appointments — we’re rebuilding the trusted doctor-patient relationship that used to be at the heart of good healthcare.

We believe (and there is strong scientific evidence for this) that seeing the same doctor over time leads to better outcomes, a deeper understanding of your health history, and a more proactive approach to your well-being. This continuity allows us to pick up on subtle changes, prevent issues before they escalate, and offer truly personalised advice that fits your lifestyle and family context.

Here’s how we’re doing it:

• You see the same GP, allowing us to build a genuine relationship with you and your family
• We focus on prevention, not just treatment – supporting long-term health through regular check-ups, screenings, and lifestyle guidance
• Your care is tailored over time, as we get to know your unique needs, preferences, and medical background
• We’re here for your whole family, from children to older adults – all under one roof

We’re not just offering private GP services — we’re reviving the personal, trusted family doctor experience, where you feel known, heard, and supported at every stage of life.

Should You Use Both NHS and Private GP Services?

Absolutely. Many people find that combining both NHS and private GP services gives them the best of both worlds — convenience and continuity, speed and stability.

At Niva Medical Clinic, we’re here to complement your NHS GP, not replace them. This collaborative approach ensures you receive well-rounded, timely care without compromising long-term management of chronic conditions.

Here’s how you can benefit from using both:

• Use a Private GP like Niva for rapid access, thorough check-ups, diagnostic tests, or second opinions when you need answers fast.
• Continue with your NHS GP for routine prescriptions or hospital-based services — or choose to manage everything privately with us.

Did you know? At Niva, we also offer chronic disease management — including for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and more — with the same GP, ensuring excellent continuity and a tailored long-term care plan that fits your lifestyle.

We support transparent communication and collaboration between healthcare providers, so your care remains coordinated and cohesive — no matter which route you choose.

If you’re unsure how to navigate both systems, we’re happy to guide you through your options and help you make the best decisions for your health.

Book Your Appointment Today

Take control of your health. With Niva Medical Clinic, you don’t have to wait for weeks to be seen or feel rushed during your consultation. Our team is ready to support you with a personalised approach to your wellbeing.

Book online now or call us to speak to our friendly team.