Lothian

A private GP is a licensed medical practitioner who operates independently, outside of the NHS, and provides a range of medical services to patients on a fee-for-service basis. Private GPs offer an alternative to NHS GPs, offering patients greater flexibility, convenience, and access to a wider range of medical services.Unlike NHS GPs who are salaried employees of the NHS, private GPs are self-employed, and patients must pay for each consultation or service they receive. Private GPs can also provide medical care that may not be available within the NHS, including access to specialist tests, treatments, and medications.

One of the most significant advantages of choosing a private GP is shorter waiting times. Unlike NHS GP services, which can have long waiting times for appointments and specialist services, private GPs typically offer same-day or next-day appointments, with little to no wait times. This can be especially beneficial for patients who require urgent medical attention or who have busy schedules and cannot afford to wait for appointments.

The cost of seeing a private GP can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the practice, the length of the appointment, and the experience and qualifications of the GP. On average, a private GP consultation can cost between £50 to £150 per appointment.

The short answer is yes, it is possible for a patient to see their NHS GP and a private GP at the same time. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are a few things to consider when doing so.Firstly, patients should inform both their NHS GP and their private GP about their medical care arrangements. This is to ensure that both doctors are aware of the medical treatments and prescriptions that the patient is receiving, and to avoid any potential conflicts or duplication of treatment.