"Should I see my NHS GP or book a private GP?" is a fair question, and the honest answer is that both have a place. This guide sets out what each route is good for, the free NHS options worth using first for minor problems, and the situations where people in London choose a private GP. It is written for busy adults who want to pick the right route quickly and without guesswork.
Short answer
NHS When to call 999 says to use 999 for life-threatening emergencies; NHS 111 can help when you need medical help now or are unsure where to go. NHS How pharmacies can help describes Pharmacy First for specified conditions and age ranges. For a private appointment, check the available slot, consultation length and costs. Faster tests or referrals are not guaranteed.
The free NHS routes to know about
Your NHS GP surgery. Everyone in England can register with a GP surgery for free, and you can usually register online (NHS, "Register with a GP surgery").
NHS 111. NHS 111 can direct you to the best place to get help if you cannot contact your GP, or when your GP is closed. Depending on your needs it may point you to A&E, an urgent treatment centre, an out-of-hours GP, a nurse callback or a pharmacist (NHS, "When to use NHS 111").
Pharmacy First. Most pharmacies can offer prescription medicine without a GP appointment for seven conditions: impetigo, infected insect bites, earache, sore throat, sinusitis, uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64, and shingles, each with an age range set by the NHS (NHS, "How pharmacies can help").
999 and A&E. For a medical emergency, call 999.
When people choose a private GP
Before booking, ask about available slots, consultation length, suitability for phone or video, and charges for tests, prescriptions, referrals and follow-up. Do not assume that a longer appointment or a faster referral is included.
Which route for which problem?
NHS When to call 999 reserves 999 for life-threatening emergencies, including heart attacks and strokes. NHS When to use 111 describes help for medical needs now when you are unsure what to do or cannot contact your GP. NHS Pharmacy First can help with the listed conditions within its age ranges. For a non-emergency consultation, compare NHS and private appointment options without assuming same-week availability.
Red flags: do not wait for an appointment
NHS When to call 999: use 999 for life-threatening emergencies such as heart attacks and strokes. If you are unsure whether 999 is needed, NHS 111 can check symptoms and advise: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-call-999/
Do not wait for a booked GP slot in a life-threatening emergency.
Checklist before any GP appointment
Write down your top three concerns, most important first.
Note when symptoms began and what changes them.
List medicines, supplements and allergies.
Bring recent test results.
Say what you want from the appointment: reassurance, tests, treatment or a referral.
Book a private GP with The Online GP
Our fixed rate card: a 15 minute phone consultation is £59, a video consultation is £150, and an in-person consultation is £220. Tell us what you want to sort out and we will plan it with you.
Call 020 3951 3429 to book.
Message us on WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447961280835
This article is general information and not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your health, speak to a doctor.
Written by The Wellness Team and medically reviewed by The Wellness Clinical Team.
Sources
NHS Register with a GP surgery: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/ NHS When to use 111: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/ NHS How pharmacies can help: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/how-pharmacies-can-help/ NHS When to call 999: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-call-999/ NHS What to ask your doctor (appointment checklist): https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/what-to-ask-your-doctor/