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NHS alternative private GP care near Shefford — fast, personal appointments

Private GP

08/09/2025 by Dr Amanda Northridge

NHS alternative private GP care for Shefford patients

Almost one in three people struggle to get a timely GP appointment; if you live in Shefford and need faster access or more time with a clinician, Mayfield Clinic offers a practical private GP alternative.

We provide the same comprehensive medical care as your NHS GP but with immediate availability, longer consultations and continuity with a named doctor. You do not need to leave your NHS practice to use our service — we work alongside your existing care and can share outcomes with your NHS team if you wish.

Quick access for Shefford residents

When NHS waiting times are long, our private GP appointments give you an alternative to waiting weeks. Patients from Shefford can usually secure an appointment within days, and urgent needs are prioritised. We run consultations that allow sufficient time to explore symptoms, review history and agree clear next steps.

Continuity and a named doctor

Regular access to the same named GP reduces repeat explanations and improves outcomes. At Mayfield Clinic you can book follow-ups with the same clinician so care is continuous. That consistency is especially useful for chronic conditions, complex medication reviews or when you want second-opinion continuity alongside NHS care.

“Longer appointments mean problems get solved, not just patched up.”

Where you’ll be seen — local to Shefford

Although we attract patients searching for private GP care in Shefford, our consultations are delivered from our nearby Hitchin practice. The Hitchin clinic is convenient for Shefford residents and offers the full range of GP services you’d expect. More details about that location are here: Mayfield Clinic Hitchin. For local information and to see our Shefford outreach details visit Mayfield Clinic Shefford.

How we work with your NHS care

Using a private GP instead of waiting on NHS appointments does not require you to deregister from your NHS GP. We can provide letters, advice and records to your NHS team on request. If investigations or secondary care referrals are needed, we’ll coordinate with NHS services or arrange private investigations if you prefer.

What to expect at your appointment

Appointments are longer than standard NHS slots so we can take a full history, examine thoroughly and set out clear options. If tests are required we’ll explain what’s needed and how quickly they can be arranged. If a face-to-face visit at our Hitchin clinic is required, we’ll confirm directions and parking details when you book.

Who benefits most from private GP care?

People in Shefford choose a private GP alternative when they want faster access, dedicated time with a clinician, or continuity with a named doctor. It’s also the right option for second opinions, urgent but non-emergency concerns, and when you want a quick route to diagnostics.

How to book

All appointments should be booked online via the Book now button on our site. Members may also book directly by phone or via WhatsApp for rapid scheduling. To get started, visit our Shefford page and hit Book now: Book now for Shefford patients.

Practical tips before you arrive

Bring a list of current medications, any recent test results and a short timeline of your symptoms. If you’re coming from Shefford to Hitchin, allow extra time for parking and check your referral or correspondence preferences so we can send summaries to your NHS GP if you want.

Need urgent advice?

If your concern is urgent but not an emergency, tell us when you book so we can prioritise. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 999 or go to A&E.

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30 minutes | £220

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Shefford

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Frequently asked questions

Can I use a private GP without leaving my NHS GP in Shefford?

Yes. You can use Mayfield Clinic as a private GP alternative without leaving your NHS GP in Shefford. We work alongside your NHS team, provide consultation notes on request and can coordinate investigations or referrals. Appointments for Shefford patients are delivered from our Hitchin clinic; book online via the Shefford page.

How quickly can I see a private GP as an alternative to NHS care in Shefford?

Private GP appointments are typically available much sooner than routine NHS waits. For Shefford patients we aim for next-day or same-week bookings where possible, longer consultation times and quicker access to tests or referrals. Use the Book now button on our Shefford page or members can book by phone/WhatsApp for even faster scheduling.

Will a private GP appointment affect my NHS care and records in Shefford?

Yes. Your private consultation at Mayfield Clinic does not prevent you from receiving NHS care. We can share letters and results with your NHS GP in Shefford. If you prefer private investigations or referrals that can be arranged from our Hitchin practice; we’ll explain options and costs during your appointment.

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