In the UK, many of the healthcare services offered by the NHS are accessible to all registered residents free of cost. Despite this, thousands of people use a thriving private healthcare industry, which is provided nationwide by private GPs, every year. It is estimated that there are more than 500 private healthcare centres in the UK, all of which offer Private Medical Care to patients.
Now, What exactly is a Private GP? And what are the benefits of hiring one?
What is a Private GP?
Private GPs or Private General Practitioners is the term used for doctors registered with the General Medical Council or GMC but who do not work with the NHS. They are mainly appointed by private healthcare institutes or paid for by the patients themselves.
The distinctive combination of knowledge, practice, and expertise differentiates general practitioners from specialists whose knowledge is limited to a specific field. The GPs are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating multiple acute and chronic health issues.
What are the Benefits of a Private GP?
Private general practitioners can aid you with many standard and severe medical conditions. There are several benefits to hiring a private general practitioner.
Health Check and Preventive Medicines
One of a private GP’s prominent roles is performing routine health checks. You may benefit from seeing your GP to check for conditions such as:
- High or low blood pressure
- Factors leading to heart disease
- Liability of diabetes
- Cancer
- Anxiety or Depression
- STDs or STIs
- Cholesterol levels
GPs can contribute to the early discovery of health problems and provide you with immunisation or preventive medicines. And, if needed, refer you to a specialist.
If you have a history of any chronic illnesses in the family, are at risk of a disease, or have symptoms, getting checked by your GP can benefit you greatly.
Hassle-free Availability of Specialist Referrals
Private general practitioners usually have a broad network of specialists and consultants. This affiliation allows them to provide quick referrals as necessary, guaranteeing that patients receive specialised care as soon as possible.
Private GPs coordinate the complete healthcare experience, reducing the need for extended wait times or repeated referrals.
Immediate Response to Injury or Illness
Another vital role of a private GP is to provide treatment for injuries and illnesses on short notice. You can immediately visit your GP when sick or injured. They provide treatment for short-term problems such as:
- Headaches
- Minor injuries
- Infections
- Dehydration
- Fever
- Asthma attacks
- Minor fractures
- Flu and cold
- Muscle strains
- Rashes
- UTIs
In case of severe problems or mental health issues, your GP can also direct you to a specialist.
Shorter Waiting Lists and Longer Appointments
In today’s fast-paced world, waiting for long weeks for a medical appointment and then getting only 10-20 mins to discuss your problem is inconvenient. With a private GP, this gets reversed. You book appointments in a short period, and meetings are much longer. Your private practitioner would also be familiar with your health record, saving you time by not having to explain your background.
Personalised and Continuous Care:
Private GPs prioritise personalised and continuous care by developing treatment plans that are suited to each patient’s specific needs. This includes constant follow-up and monitoring to ensure that health risks are addressed regularly. This method promotes a better doctor-patient relationship by encouraging trust, communication, and overall well-being.
Conclusion:
Choosing a private GP has a number of advantages, including quicker access to specialised treatment and a more comprehensive healthcare experience, as well as personalised, continuous care. The added flexibility and convenience contribute to higher patient satisfaction and an overall pleasant healthcare experience.
Finding a great practitioner with whom you can build a long-term relationship is the most reasonable way to manage your health.
Beacon Medical Services provides you with the best Private GPs in Manchester. Our practitioners are highly experienced and work in advanced facilities to provide you with personalised, attentive, and effective services.
Contact us to book an appointment with one of our Private GPs.
