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What to Expect from Your First Private GP Appointment | SDHC
Private GP appointments are becoming increasingly popular and are an excellent choice for those who want a convenient and high-quality GP consultation at short notice.
For those accustomed to their regular NHS GP practice, going private may seem somewhat complicated. However, the process is much easier than you may think. If you are considering booking a Private GP consultation with us for the first time, we will explain how to book your first appointment and what to expect during your visit with us.
What to expect at your first appointment
A private GP appointment follows much the same process as a regular NHS appointment, the most notable difference being a longer appointment time. A typical NHS appointment is likely to last around 10 minutes, whereas a private consultation lasts around 30 minutes and if you have a number of healthcare needs, it might take up to an hour.
This gives you the opportunity to discuss your health concerns in more detail and provides our doctors with a clearer picture into your health concerns. One of the main reasons to choose a private GP appointment is the ability to see a doctor at very short notice with appointments that can usually be made for the next day or at a time that is most convenient to you.
Private GP appointments at SDHC
Our private GP service is conveniently located at Hampden Park Health Centre, Eastbourne. Once you arrive for your appointment, simply sign in at our friendly reception and head to the waiting room. You will then be greeted by one of our expert GP’s and invited into a consultation room to begin your appointment.
In the consultation room you will be able to have an in-depth discussion about your symptoms, health concerns and ask any questions you may have regarding your health or treatment options.
To prepare for your appointment, it is always good to think about what it is you want to get out of the consultation and what questions you would like to have answered by your doctor. A private GP appointment also offers you more flexibility, as you can increase the length of your appointment at the time of booking if you feel that you need more time to discuss your health concerns. We would suggest that you book a 30 minute appointment to discuss one to two healthcare concerns, and an hour if you have multiple health conditions.
For more information you can read our private healthcare service FAQs.
What type of treatment will you receive?
A private GP can diagnose and treat any conditions that you would see your regular GP for. At SDHC, there are many different reasons you can book a GP appointment with us, including:
- Minor ailments and illness
- Private prescriptions
- Support with long terms health conditions
- Health checks and preventive care
- Mental health consultations
- Sleep problems
- Taxi Medicals
- Mental Capacity Assessments
Depending on the reason for your visit and how complex your health concern is will determine what treatment that will be offered. Our doctors can prescribe medication, order tests or refer you to a specialist for further treatment as needed.
For minor ailments you will most likely be prescribed treatment on the day, whereas more complex health matters may require further tests and a follow up consultation.
However, at SDHC we understand the added expense of private healthcare and will only recommend a follow up appointment if genuinely necessary. We are also able to share all our medical information with your usual GP practice if you wish to continue treatment through the NHS.
You can find out more about what we treat on our private health care page.
If you are considering booking an appointment regarding your mental health then read our blog on how a GP can help with mental health to find out more about what to expect.
How to book a private GP appointment with us
Now you know what to expect, here is how you can book an appointment with us.
Our private GP appointments can be easily booked either online or by giving us a call on 01323 402790. You will be able to book an appointment with one of our highly experienced Eastbourne-based GP’s at a time that is most convenient to you.
Appointments are available throughout the week, including the option for appointments in the evening or on Saturday, making it easy to fit around your schedule, particularly if you have work commitments during the week. You will also have the option to choose which doctor you would like to see for your appointment.
Currently we are not affiliated with any medical insurance providers and therefore our private health care appointments are either paid in advance at the time of booking your appointment via the online portal, or if you have made a telephone booking, on site following your consultation, making it a quick and easy process.
Why choose a private GP appointment with us?
At SDHC we take a person-centered approach to healthcare to always ensure the highest quality of care and treatment.
We are a social enterprise, which means all of our profits are reinvested back into our services that are free at the point of use, ensuring that everyone has access to exceptional community healthcare when they need it.
If you would like to book a private GP appointment with us, having read the above information, simply book your appointment online or call us on 01323 402790.
Published: Jul 31, 2024