The Use of Private GPs is becoming the norm
People are choosing to use private and online GPs in increasing numbers as NHS pressures mean millions are waiting more than a month to see their local GP.
The Issue
Recent statistics show that around 15 million GP appointments took place more than 28 days after being booked for the year 2023. Private and online GP services are now booming with the increase in consultations down to a heightened consciousness of health and wellbeing since Covid and a shift in attitudes towards paying to be seen on demand and get quicker results.
The dreaded 8am rush
The dreaded 8am rush for appointments has exacerbated the situation and booking an appointment is like ‘going into a battle’. To highlight this some recent anecdotal evidence:
In a recent hearing, a Lancashire woman told NHS bosses that she sometimes avoided trying to book a GP appointment because dealing with reception staff can be so “confrontational” and said that she often felt that she had been subjected to an interrogation simply for seeking medical help. The patient said that the receptionist was rude and whilst fully understanding that they have to ask questions she said that the receptionist didn’t even let her finish her sentences before cutting her off and asking another question. The patient confirmed that it felt like an interrogation rather than someone trying to get the best information from her to help. It made her feel as though she was being stupid and wasting her time. At the conclusion of the call, the receptionist confirmed that a same-day appointment was not available as the patient didn’t trigger as an emergency. The receptionist didn’t even offer any advice on the next steps. This experience reflects the problems that many people are experiencing every day in trying to book GP appointments with their local surgery.
Potential Costs of Private or Online GP Appointments
The use of online GP services is therefore here to stay and is becoming a major support to the NHS GP structure. Patients are prepared to pay increasing amounts of money to access private appointments with GPs. Prices can be as high as £300 but generally online GP consultations with limited appointment time range from £50 - £100 depending on the length of appointment allocated.
1Stop4aGP Solution:
1Stop4aGP offers an attractive alternative to other providers in the marketplace. We offer an annual service to businesses and their employees (including their immediate families) with unlimited access to online GP services 24/7 and no restriction on the length of appointment. We also offer the service to individuals who are members of an association, club, or wider partnership.
Our pricing structure is extremely competitive and offers this vital service at a fraction of the costs from other providers. Contact us today to find out more.
We at 1Stop4aGP offer a virtual GP service with:
No limit to the number of times the service can be used within the year
No limit in the length of consultation
All members of the household are included at no extra cost
