Can't Get GP Appointment? Here's What to Do

If you can't get an NHS GP appointment, your options are: private online GP (same-day, from £49), NHS 111, Pharmacy First for minor conditions, or urgent treatment centres. For emergencies, go to A&E.

Why GP Appointments Are So Hard to Get

The numbers tell the story:

  • 40+ million GP consultations per month in England

  • Fewer GPs per patient than ever

  • Average wait for routine appointment: 2-4 weeks

  • Many practices fully booked by 8:05am

It's not your imagination. Getting an NHS GP appointment is genuinely difficult in 2026.

Your Options When NHS Isn't Available

Option 1: Private Online GP (Recommended for Most)

What: Video consultation with GMC-registered GP When: Same-day, often within hours Cost: From £49 Best For: Non-emergency issues needing medical attention today

Book Same-Day Private GP

You Get:

  • Proper GP consultation (30 minutes)

  • Prescriptions sent to pharmacy

  • Sick notes for work

  • Referral letters if needed

Option 2: NHS 111

What: NHS advice line When: 24/7 Cost: Free Best For: Advice on where to go, may book same-day NHS appointment

Call 111 or use 111.nhs.uk

Option 3: Pharmacy First

What: Pharmacist treatment for minor conditions When: During pharmacy hours Cost: Free Best For: Seven specific conditions

Pharmacists can now treat:

  • UTI (women 16-64)

  • Sore throat

  • Sinusitis

  • Earache

  • Infected insect bites

  • Impetigo

  • Shingles

Just walk into any pharmacy.

Option 4: Urgent Treatment Centre

What: NHS walk-in for minor injuries/illnesses When: Usually 8am-8pm Cost: Free Best For: Minor injuries, when you need examination

No appointment needed. Find your nearest on NHS website.

Option 5: A&E (Emergencies Only)

For Genuine Emergencies:

  • Chest pain

  • Stroke symptoms

  • Severe breathing difficulty

  • Heavy bleeding

  • Serious injury

Not for: Things that could wait, even if uncomfortable.

When Private GP Is the Right Choice

Choose Private GP If:

  • You need to be seen today but it's not A&E-worthy

  • You need a prescription and can't wait

  • You need a sick note urgently

  • You need a referral letter quickly

  • You prefer a longer, unhurried consultation

  • You can't get through to your NHS practice

The Online GP Offers:

  • Same-day video consultations

  • GMC-registered doctors

  • All letters and prescriptions included

  • From £49

Book Now

Frustrated with trying to get an appointment? See a GP today.

Book Private GP Consultation

Same-day availability. No phone queues. No waiting weeks.

The Online GP. The solution when NHS appointments aren't available.

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