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
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.
Same-day availability. No phone queues. No waiting weeks.
The Online GP. The solution when NHS appointments aren't available.