Private Prescription Services: Getting Your Medication Fast in London

Running out of medication shouldn't mean waiting weeks for NHS appointments or navigating prescription renewal bureaucracy. Private prescription services offer rapid access to the medications you need, with electronic prescriptions sent directly to your pharmacy within hours of your consultation.

What Are Private Prescription Services?

Private prescriptions are issued by qualified GPs outside the NHS system. While you pay for both the consultation and the full cost of medication, you gain immediate access without NHS waiting times or restrictions.

At The Online GP, our private prescription service provides same-day consultations with electronic prescriptions sent directly to your chosen pharmacy. No waiting. No delays. Just prompt access to the medications you need.

When Do You Need Private Prescriptions?

Prescription Renewals

Running low on regular medications? Private consultations ensure you never run out, with prescriptions renewed quickly after a brief medication review with your GP.

Urgent Medication Needs

When you need antibiotics for an infection or medication for acute symptoms, private prescriptions eliminate NHS waiting times that could let your condition worsen.

Travel Requirements

Traveling abroad and need prescription medications? Private GPs can issue prescriptions for travel-related medications, anti-malarials, or regular medication supplies.

Medications Not Available on NHS

Certain medications face NHS prescribing restrictions. Private prescriptions provide access to treatments your GP deems appropriate but which NHS guidelines limit.

Second Opinions

If you disagree with NHS prescribing decisions, private consultations offer independent medical opinions and alternative treatment options.

How Do Private Prescriptions Work?

The process is straightforward:

1. Book Your Consultation

WhatsApp us or book online for a same-day consultation (video £150 or telephone £49).

2. Speak With Your GP

Discuss your medical needs, symptoms, and medication requirements with a qualified general practitioner.

3. Receive Your Prescription

If appropriate, your GP issues an electronic prescription sent directly to your chosen pharmacy.

4. Collect Your Medication

Pick up your medication from any pharmacy, typically within hours of your consultation.

How Much Do Private Prescriptions Cost?

Consultation Fees:

• Telephone consultation: £49

• Video consultation: £150

Medication Costs:

You pay the full private prescription charge, which varies by medication. Common medications range from £10-£50, though some specialized treatments cost more.

For context:

• Antibiotics: £10-£20

• Blood pressure medication (monthly supply): £15-£30

• Contraceptive pills: £15-£25

• Acid reflux medication: £10-£25

While more expensive than NHS prescription charges (£9.90), private prescriptions deliver immediate access when time matters.

What Medications Can Private GPs Prescribe?

Private GPs can prescribe most medications, including:

• Antibiotics and antiviral medications

• Blood pressure and cholesterol medications

• Diabetes medications

• Asthma inhalers and respiratory medications

• Mental health medications (antidepressants, anxiety treatments)

• Contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy

• Skin condition treatments

• Pain relief medications

• Acid reflux and digestive medications

Controlled substances and certain high-risk medications require additional safeguards, and your GP will discuss appropriate alternatives if needed.

Private vs NHS Prescriptions

NHS Prescriptions:

• Subsidized medication costs (£9.90 per item)

• Requires NHS GP appointment (often 2-3 week wait)

• Some medications restricted by NHS guidelines

• Free for certain groups (under 16, over 60, etc.)

Private Prescriptions:

• Full medication cost

• Same-day availability

• Wider medication access

• No eligibility restrictions

• Electronic delivery to any pharmacy

Can You Use Private Prescriptions at Any Pharmacy?

Yes. Private prescriptions are valid at all UK pharmacies. Simply collect your medication from your chosen pharmacy, present identification, and pay for the medication.

Many Londoners use online pharmacies with home delivery, making the process even more convenient. Your GP can send prescriptions to services like Pharmacy2U, Echo, or local pharmacy apps.

Do Private Prescriptions Affect Your NHS Care?

No. Using private prescription services doesn't impact your NHS registration or future NHS care. Many patients use both systems strategically:

• NHS for routine chronic condition management

• Private for urgent needs or when NHS waiting times are unacceptable

Your private GP can share relevant medical information with your NHS doctor (with your consent) to ensure continuity of care.

Repeat Prescriptions Through Private GPs

If you need ongoing medication, private GPs can provide repeat prescriptions. After an initial consultation, subsequent prescription renewals often require shorter consultations to review your medication response and adjust treatment if needed.

This is particularly valuable for:

• Chronic conditions requiring regular medication

• Contraception and hormone treatments

• Mental health medications requiring monitoring

• Medications you struggle to access via NHS

Are Private Prescriptions Safe?

Private GPs follow the same medical standards and prescribing guidelines as NHS doctors. Every prescription is issued by GMC-registered general practitioners with full professional indemnity insurance.

Your GP will:

• Review your medical history thoroughly

• Assess medication appropriateness

• Check for drug interactions and contraindications

• Provide clear usage instructions

• Arrange follow-up if needed

Your safety is paramount, and private GPs maintain the same duty of care as NHS clinicians.

What If You Can't Afford Private Prescriptions?

If cost is a barrier, discuss this openly with your GP. They can:

• Prescribe generic versions (often significantly cheaper)

• Suggest alternative medications

• Provide shorter-term prescriptions while you arrange NHS care

• Advise on NHS urgent care options if appropriate

Private GPs understand that cost matters and will work with you to find appropriate solutions.

How Quickly Can You Get Private Prescriptions?

Same-day consultations are typically available, with prescriptions issued immediately after your appointment. Many pharmacies can prepare your medication within 1-2 hours, meaning you can have medication in hand the same day you book.

For urgent needs:

• Morning consultations allow afternoon pharmacy collection

• Electronic prescriptions eliminate postal delays

• Many pharmacies offer same-day home delivery in London

Who Uses Private Prescription Services?

Our patients include:

• Busy professionals who can't wait weeks for NHS appointments

• Travelers needing medications before departure

• Patients requiring medications with NHS restrictions

• Anyone experiencing acute symptoms requiring immediate treatment

• Londoners prioritizing convenience and rapid access

Ready to Access Private Prescriptions?

Don't let medication delays worsen your health or disrupt your plans. Private prescription services provide qualified medical assessment and immediate prescriptions when you need them most.

WhatsApp us today to book your consultation. Same-day appointments available, with prescriptions issued within hours.