Going to the doctor is meant to help you feel better, but for a lot of people, it can feel stressful. You sit in the waiting room for ages, only to be called in and rushed through in less than 10 minutes. Sometimes you barely get a chance to explain what’s wrong before the appointment is already wrapping up.
That rushed feeling is one of the main reasons more people are choosing to see private GPs. It’s not about getting special treatment. It’s about being heard, getting proper answers, and not feeling like just another number on a list.
The Problem with Short Appointments
In the UK, a standard NHS GP appointment usually lasts around 10 minutes. That’s not a lot of time—especially if you have more than one concern or need things explained clearly. Doctors working under pressure often have to focus on the most urgent issue and may not be able to go deeper into everything else that’s bothering you.
For someone who’s anxious about their health, this can make things worse. You leave feeling like you forgot to mention something important, or you don’t really understand what the doctor told you. That’s not the doctor’s fault—they’re doing their best—but the system doesn’t give them much room to slow down.
How Private GPs Are Different
Private GPs don’t work the same way. Because they’re not tied to the same busy schedule, they usually offer longer appointment times. Some visits can be 20, 30, or even 45 minutes. That extra time makes a huge difference.
You get to talk about all your concerns without feeling rushed. There’s time for proper explanations, and for the doctor to actually listen. They can also do more checks or follow-up questions on the spot, rather than asking you to come back another day.
Many people in London who want that kind of attention turn to practices like Sloane Street Surgery, where the focus is on patient comfort and personal care. Having time to be heard makes people feel more relaxed, and more confident about their health decisions.
Better Communication = Better Care
When there’s more time, conversations become more natural. You don’t feel like you’re in a race against the clock. That’s important, especially for things that aren’t always easy to talk about—like mental health, long-term pain, or anything that feels a bit awkward.
Doctors who aren’t rushing can ask better questions and give clearer advice. They’re also more likely to spot issues early, which means treatment can start sooner. That doesn’t just help with peace of mind—it can actually lead to better results.
More Control Over Your Health
Private GP services often give people more flexibility too. Instead of waiting weeks for an appointment, you can usually book one for the next day—or even the same day. If something feels wrong, you don’t have to wait and wonder. You can just get it checked.
You also get more control over when and how you’re seen. Need an evening slot? Prefer a phone or video call? Many private clinics offer those options. That way, healthcare fits into your life, not the other way around.
And when tests or referrals are needed, private GPs often help speed that up as well. You don’t get stuck waiting for months to see a specialist or get results back.
It’s Not Just for Big Problems
Some people think you should only see a private GP if something serious is going on. That’s not true. A lot of people go just to check in on things early—like a small pain that won’t go away, or feeling tired all the time without knowing why.
Because you’re not limited to short appointments, private GPs can spend time looking at your full health picture. That means they might catch something you wouldn’t have noticed until much later.
For families, this kind of care is also helpful. Parents can ask questions about their child’s development, behaviour, or general health without feeling rushed or judged.
It Feels More Personal
One of the biggest things people notice with private GPs is how much more personal the experience feels. You’re not being moved through the system. You’re being looked after by someone who’s focused on you.
Some private patients even see the same GP every time, which helps build trust. The doctor remembers your history, understands your health goals, and can give advice that fits you—not just general answers.
That kind of relationship makes it easier to ask questions, follow through on care plans, and feel safe knowing someone’s actually paying attention.
Things to Think About
Private GPs do cost money, so they’re not the right choice for everyone. But for those who can afford to use them—either full-time or just when needed—the benefits can be worth it.
Some people use private care for certain things and stick with NHS for others. Others use it only during busy times or when they want a faster opinion. It’s all about finding what works best for your needs and budget.
What Really Matters
In the end, healthcare should never feel rushed. Everyone deserves to be listened to, understood, and treated with care. That’s what makes private GPs stand out for so many people. They give you the space to talk, ask questions, and actually feel like you’re being looked after.
Feeling better starts with feeling heard. And sometimes, just having that extra bit of time with a doctor can make all the difference.
