As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies arranged, WeCovr specialises in helping UK consumers navigate the private medical insurance market. This guide reviews London's top private GP services, explaining how you can get faster, more convenient access to a doctor when you need it most.
WeCovr reviews top GP services in London for private patients
Navigating healthcare in a bustling city like London can be a challenge. While the NHS is a cornerstone of our society, accessing a GP appointment quickly isn't always straightforward. Recent data highlights that millions of patients across England wait more than two weeks for a GP appointment, a delay that can cause significant worry and prolong discomfort.
This is where private GP services come in. They offer a solution for those seeking faster access, longer consultations, and greater flexibility. Whether you choose a pay-as-you-go clinic or a comprehensive private medical insurance policy, going private can put you back in control of your health.
In this definitive guide, we will explore the best private GP options available in London, explain how they work, and show you how private health cover can be an affordable gateway to these premium services.
Why Consider a Private GP in London?
The demand for GP services in London is immense. According to the latest NHS Digital figures, while a significant portion of appointments happen on the same day they are booked, a substantial number of patients still face lengthy waits. For many Londoners juggling demanding careers, family life, and a fast-paced lifestyle, waiting weeks for a 10-minute slot is simply not practical.
Key Advantages of Using a Private GP:
- Speed and Convenience: The primary draw is speed. Most private clinics offer same-day or next-day appointments, allowing you to see a doctor almost immediately. Many are also open during evenings and weekends to fit around your work schedule.
- Longer Appointments: Standard NHS GP appointments are typically scheduled for 10 minutes. Private GPs usually offer longer slots, from 15-30 minutes as standard. This allows for a more thorough discussion of your health concerns, a less-rushed examination, and more time to ask questions.
- Choice and Consistency: With a private service, you often have the choice of which doctor you see. This allows you to build a relationship with a GP who understands your medical history, providing valuable continuity of care.
- Seamless Referrals: If you need to see a specialist, a private GP can provide an instant referral. This can dramatically shorten the time it takes to get a diagnosis and start treatment, bypassing long NHS waiting lists for specialist consultations.
- Enhanced Services: Private clinics often provide a wider range of services on-site, including blood tests, health screenings, sexual health checks, travel vaccinations, and corporate wellness services.
A Real-Life Example
Imagine you're a project manager in Canary Wharf who develops a persistent, nagging cough and fatigue a week before a major project deadline. An NHS appointment isn't available for 10 days. The uncertainty is stressful. With a private GP service, you could book a video consultation that same afternoon or an in-person appointment for the next morning near your office, get a diagnosis, a prescription, and peace of mind without disrupting your work.
How Can You Access Private GP Services?
There are two main pathways to accessing a private GP in London. Understanding them is key to deciding which route is best for your circumstances and budget.
1. Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG)
This is the most straightforward option. You find a private clinic, book an appointment, and pay for the service directly, just like you would for a private dentist or optician.
- Pros: No ongoing commitment, complete flexibility, and transparent pricing for one-off consultations.
- Cons: Costs can add up quickly if you need multiple appointments, follow-ups, or diagnostic tests. It does not cover the cost of specialist treatment.
PAYG is ideal for urgent, one-off issues or for those who want a second opinion without committing to a full insurance policy.
2. Through Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
This is an increasingly popular and often more cost-effective route for ongoing access. Most modern private medical insurance UK policies now include access to a digital or virtual GP service as a standard benefit, often available 24/7.
- Pros: Often provides unlimited virtual consultations for a fixed monthly premium. It's the gateway to private specialist treatment, diagnostics, and hospital care. It offers excellent value and peace of mind.
- Cons: Requires a monthly premium. The policy is designed for new, acute conditions, not pre-existing or chronic ones.
A PMI policy is perfect for individuals and families who want comprehensive health protection, including fast GP access and cover for subsequent specialist care. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare policies from leading providers to find one that includes robust GP services at no extra cost to you.
It is vital to understand the limitations of private medical insurance in the UK. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.
- Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain requiring a replacement, hernias, and cataracts.
- Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure. PMI does not cover the treatment of chronic conditions.
- Pre-existing Condition: Any ailment or symptom you have experienced or sought advice for in the years leading up to your policy start date (typically the last 5 years). These are also excluded from cover.
A private GP can still advise on chronic or pre-existing conditions, but the cost of any specialist treatment or ongoing management for these would not be covered by a new PMI policy.
Top Private GP Services in London: A Detailed Review
London offers a wide array of private GP clinics, from small independent practices to large networks affiliated with major private hospitals. Here, we review some of the best options available.
1. HCA UK (Part of HCA Healthcare)
HCA is one of the largest private healthcare providers in the UK, with a vast network of GP clinics, specialist centres, and world-class hospitals across London.
- Overview: HCA GPs are integrated into the wider HCA hospital network, offering arguably the most seamless referral pathway in London. If your GP recommends a scan or a specialist, you can often be seen within the same building or at a nearby facility within days.
- Locations: Multiple prime locations including Canary Wharf, The Shard, London Bridge, Golders Green, and Chelsea. This makes them highly accessible for professionals and residents across the city.
- Services:
- GP consultations (15, 30, and 45-minute options)
- Advanced health screenings
- On-site diagnostics (blood tests, ECGs)
- Corporate health and wellness programmes
- Specialist services like paediatrics and gynaecology
- Pricing: A standard 15-minute appointment typically starts from around £80-£100. Health screenings are more comprehensive and range from a few hundred to over a thousand pounds.
- Best For: Those seeking a fully integrated healthcare journey, from initial GP consultation to specialist treatment, all within one high-quality network.
2. The London General Practice
This prestigious practice, located in the Harley Street medical district, is known for its 24/7 availability and highly personalised service.
- Overview: The London General Practice (LGP) operates more like a traditional family doctor, but with the responsiveness and resources of a top-tier private service. They offer home and hotel visits, making them a favourite among high-profile individuals and families.
- Locations: Based on Harley Street, with services provided across London through visits.
- Services:
- 24/7 GP availability via phone and in-person visits
- Comprehensive health and wellness assessments
- Preventative medicine and lifestyle management
- Paediatric care
- Corporate and occupational health
- Pricing: This is a premium service. Annual membership fees apply for their 24/7 retained service, with consultation fees charged on top. One-off appointments are also available at a premium price point.
- Best For: Individuals and families seeking the highest level of personalised, round-the-clock care and discretion.
3. DocTap
DocTap has disrupted the London market by offering a transparent, affordable, and highly accessible pay-as-you-go service.
- Overview: DocTap's model is built on simplicity and value. They offer a fixed, low price for a 15-minute consultation with no hidden fees. They have a network of clinics across London, often located within existing pharmacies.
- Locations: Over 20 locations across all London zones, including Victoria, Waterloo, London Bridge, and Paddington.
- Services:
- 15-minute in-person GP appointments
- Same-day appointments are their speciality
- Prescriptions, sick notes, and specialist referrals
- Blood tests and sexual health screenings
- Pricing: Exceptionally competitive, with a 15-minute consultation costing around £49 (prices subject to change). This is one of the most affordable PAYG options in the city.
- Best For: Quick, affordable, no-frills consultations for common ailments. Ideal for students, young professionals, and anyone needing a fast, low-cost appointment.
4. Digital GP Services (via PMI Providers)
Most leading private medical insurance providers now offer a digital GP service as a core part of their plans. These app-based services are revolutionising how people access primary care.
- Overview: Services like Bupa's Babylon, Aviva's Square Health, and the Vitality GP app provide 24/7 access to a GP via your smartphone. You can book a video consultation in minutes, get a prescription sent to a local pharmacy, and receive an open referral for specialist treatment.
- Locations: N/A (Virtual). Accessible from anywhere in the UK or even abroad (check policy terms).
- Services:
- Unlimited 24/7 video or phone consultations
- Prescription services
- Open referrals to specialists
- Mental health support
- Pricing: Included as a standard benefit within a monthly PMI premium, which can start from as little as £40-£50 per month depending on your age, location, and level of cover.
- Best For: Everyone seeking the ultimate convenience and a cost-effective way to get both GP access and comprehensive cover for specialist care. It's the modern approach to health management.
Comparison of London Private GP Services
| Feature | HCA UK | The London General Practice | DocTap | Digital GP (via PMI) |
|---|
| Model | Integrated Network | Premium Concierge | Affordable PAYG | PMI Benefit |
| Typical Cost | From £80-£100 per appointment | Premium (Membership + fees) | From £49 per appointment | Included in monthly premium |
| Appointment Speed | Same-day / Next-day | 24/7 on-demand | Same-day | Within hours (often minutes) |
| Consultation Type | In-person, Video | In-person, Home Visits | In-person | Video, Phone |
| Key Benefit | Seamless specialist referrals | Ultimate personalisation | Unbeatable price | 24/7 convenience & value |
| Best For | Comprehensive care journey | High-net-worth individuals | Quick, one-off issues | Ongoing health management |
Digital vs. Face-to-Face: Which is Right for You?
The rise of digital health has created a choice between virtual and traditional in-person appointments. Each has its place, and the best option depends on your specific needs.
Digital (Virtual) GP Consultations
These are conducted via video call or phone, typically through a dedicated app on your smartphone.
Pros:
- Unmatched Convenience: See a doctor from your home, office, or even while travelling.
- Incredible Speed: Appointments are often available within a couple of hours, 24/7.
- Cost-Effective: Often included in a PMI policy, offering unlimited consultations for a fixed premium.
- Efficiency: Perfect for straightforward issues, repeat prescriptions, and getting specialist referrals.
Cons:
- Limitations on Examination: The doctor cannot perform a physical examination (e.g., listen to your chest, feel for lumps, check your ears).
- Not for Emergencies: Unsuitable for urgent medical situations that require a physical presence.
- Impersonal Feel: Some people prefer the personal connection of a face-to-face meeting.
Face-to-Face GP Consultations
This is the traditional model of visiting a doctor in their clinic.
Pros:
- Thorough Examinations: Allows for a full physical check-up, which is essential for many conditions.
- Personal Connection: Helps in building a long-term, trusting relationship with your GP.
- On-site Procedures: Minor procedures, swabs, or immediate blood tests can be done on the spot.
Cons:
- Less Convenient: Requires travel and taking time out of your day.
- Higher Cost: PAYG in-person appointments are more expensive than the effective cost of a virtual one via PMI.
- Limited Hours: Most clinics operate during standard business hours, although some offer evening/weekend slots.
Quick Comparison: Digital vs. In-Person
| Aspect | Digital GP | Face-to-Face GP |
|---|
| Speed | ⚡️⚡️⚡️ (Minutes to hours) | ⚡️⚡️ (Same or next day) |
| Convenience | ✅✅✅ | ✅ |
| Cost (PAYG) | N/A (usually part of PMI) | £££ |
| Physical Exam | ❌ | ✅✅✅ |
| Best for... | Advice, prescriptions, referrals | Complex symptoms, physical checks |
Many best PMI provider policies now offer the best of both worlds. You can use the digital GP for initial advice and, if necessary, your policy will cover a face-to-face consultation with a specialist.
Beyond the Consultation: A Focus on Wellness and Prevention
One of the significant advantages of the private sector is its growing focus on preventative health. A private GP acts not just as a problem-solver but as a long-term health partner.
They can help you create a proactive health plan through:
- Comprehensive Health Screenings: These go far beyond a standard check-up, analysing everything from cardiovascular health and cancer risk to vitamin deficiencies and hormone levels.
- Lifestyle Coaching: Private GPs have more time to discuss the pillars of good health: diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management.
- Personalised Wellness Plans: Based on your screening results and lifestyle, they can provide tailored advice to help you optimise your health and prevent future illness.
Wellness Tips for a Hectic London Life
Living in London can take its toll. Here are some simple, actionable tips to stay healthy:
-
Optimise Your Diet:
- Meal Prep: Prepare healthy lunches on Sunday to avoid relying on expensive, less-healthy takeaway options during the work week. Think quinoa salads, chicken and vegetable skewers, or hearty soups.
- Track Your Nutrition: Understanding your calorie and nutrient intake is the first step to a better diet. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie tracking app, to make this easy.
-
Prioritise Your Sleep:
- Combat City Noise: Invest in good quality earplugs or a white noise machine to drown out traffic and other city sounds.
- Digital Detox: Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed. The blue light can disrupt your body's production of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Read a book or listen to a calming podcast instead.
-
Integrate Activity into Your Day:
- Active Commute: If possible, walk, run, or cycle part of your commute. Even getting off the Tube one stop early can make a difference.
- Use London's Green Spaces: London is blessed with beautiful parks. Use your lunch break for a brisk walk in Hyde Park, Regent's Park, or a smaller local green space. Weekend park runs are a great free, social way to stay fit.
When you purchase a private medical or life insurance policy through WeCovr, we also offer exclusive discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your health and finances in a holistic way.
How to Choose the Right Private GP Service for You
With so many options, how do you decide? Use this checklist to guide your decision.
- Assess Your Needs: Are you looking for a one-off appointment for an urgent issue, or do you want ongoing access and comprehensive health cover?
- One-off issue -> Consider a PAYG service like DocTap.
- Ongoing peace of mind -> Explore a private medical insurance policy.
- Consider Your Budget: Can you afford to pay per appointment, or would a fixed monthly premium be more manageable? Remember that PMI covers specialist costs, which PAYG does not.
- Location, Location, Location: If choosing an in-person clinic, is it conveniently located near your home or work? Or would the "anywhere" access of a digital GP be more suitable?
- Digital vs. Physical Preference: Are you comfortable with video consultations, or do you strongly prefer seeing a doctor in person?
- Family Requirements: If you need cover for your children, look for practices with paediatric specialists or PMI policies that offer family cover.
The best way to find a private health cover plan that fits your needs and budget is to speak with an independent broker. WeCovr's experts can compare the market for you, explain the differences between policies, and provide a tailored recommendation—all at no cost to you.
Is a private GP in London worth it?
For many people, yes. A private GP is worth it if you value speed, convenience, and longer appointment times. It allows you to be seen on the same or next day, often outside of standard working hours. This can reduce health-related anxiety and provide quick access to prescriptions or specialist referrals, making it a highly valuable service for those with busy London lifestyles.
Can a private GP refer me to an NHS specialist?
Yes, a private GP can write a referral letter for you to see an NHS specialist. However, you will still join the NHS waiting list for that service. The main advantage of a private GP referral, when used with private medical insurance, is that it gives you immediate access to a private specialist, bypassing the NHS queue entirely.
Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. PMI is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. A pre-existing condition is any health issue for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before taking out the policy. Always declare your medical history fully and honestly to an insurer.
How much does a private GP appointment in London cost?
The cost varies significantly. Affordable pay-as-you-go clinics like DocTap can charge around £49 for a 15-minute appointment. More premium clinics in areas like Harley Street or those connected to major private hospitals may charge £100-£250 or more. Alternatively, access to a 24/7 digital GP service is often included as a standard benefit within a private medical insurance policy, which can offer better overall value.
Take the Next Step Towards Faster Healthcare
Don't let waiting lists dictate your health and wellbeing. Whether you need a quick one-off consultation or the comprehensive protection of a private medical insurance policy, there is a solution for you.
At WeCovr, we make it simple. Our expert advisors provide independent, FCA-regulated advice to help you compare the UK's leading insurers and find the perfect cover for your needs and budget.
Get Your Free, No-Obligation Quote Today and Take Control of Your Health