What is a private GP consultation? A clear guide for Newmarket patients

Introduction

Private GP consultations are often thought of as the same as an NHS visit—but with more time, flexibility and continuity of care. At Mayfield Clinic we routinely offer 30-minute appointments so your GP has space to listen, investigate and make a practical plan. If you live in Newmarket and prefer faster access or to see the same named doctor, our Cambridge practice provides private GP care designed with you in mind. Travel time is typically around 20–30 minutes by car from Newmarket to Cambridge, and many local patients find the extra appointment time makes the trip well worth it.

How a private GP consultation works

A private GP consultation at Mayfield Clinic follows the same clinical principles as an NHS appointment: assessment, examination, investigation and management. The main differences are the experience and structure around the consultation:

• Longer standard appointments (usually 30 minutes) so you can discuss multiple issues in one visit.
• Same-day availability for many problems, helping you get help quickly when you need it.
• Ability to book with the same GP regularly for continuity of care.
• Clear options: private prescriptions, private investigations, or referral back into NHS care where appropriate.

At Mayfield Clinic we can arrange blood tests and imaging, offer private prescriptions, and make fast specialist referrals when required. For more on how we handle prescriptions and referrals, see our pages on private prescriptions and referrals.

What to expect in your consultation

Expect a structured but conversational appointment. Your GP will:

1. Take a focused history and discuss your concerns in plain language.
2. Carry out an appropriate examination and explain findings as they go.
3. Offer investigations (for example, blood tests or imaging) and explain why they are needed.
4. Give clear options for treatment—this could be a private prescription, a same-day investigation, a specialist referral, or a plan that returns you to NHS care if that is preferred.

If you are a regular patient, we keep a private patient record so your doctor already knows your medical history and any ongoing issues. Find out more about how to access our services here: Accessing Mayfield Clinic's services.

Key benefits of a private GP consultation

• Time and depth: Extended appointments let you cover multiple problems thoroughly.
• Speed: Same-day appointments are often available, which matters if a problem is acute.
• Continuity: Book with the same named doctor for ongoing care and fewer repeat explanations.
• Choice: You can opt for private prescriptions or a referral back to the NHS, whichever suits your needs.
• Convenience for Newmarket patients: Although our clinic is based in Cambridge, our Newmarket patients benefit from rapid appointments and the option to become Members for priority booking.

"Patients tell us the difference is not just speed — it’s the space to be heard and a clear plan that follows."

Is a private GP consultation worth it?

That depends on what you need. If you value prompt access, longer consultations and seeing the same doctor regularly, a private GP consultation can be a valuable investment in your health. For people in Newmarket who balance busy schedules or need faster assessment, the Mayfield Clinic model is specifically arranged to reduce delay and improve continuity of care.

For membership options that offer predictable costs and a set number of appointments each year, explore our Membership pages: Is Mayfield Clinic membership right for you? and why we believe a subscription is best.

Practical steps for Newmarket patients

1) Book online via the Book now button — this is the fastest way to secure an appointment. Members can book directly by phone or WhatsApp for priority slots.

2) If you’d like to meet the team first, see our clinicians here: Our team.

3) If you need to visit our clinic, note that Newmarket patients are seen at our Cambridge location: Mayfield Clinic Cambridge. For local information about our presence near you, see our Newmarket page: Mayfield Clinic — Newmarket.

Questions you may have

Will the GP prescribe privately? Yes — where appropriate — and we’ll always explain options and costs. For details see how we prescribe privately. If you prefer to continue within the NHS, your GP can arrange that too.

How are investigations arranged? We can offer same-day or rapid blood tests and arrange imaging quickly through private pathways. If you need a specialist, our referral process is straightforward and tailored — see referrals.

An unexpected Newmarket detail

Many of our Newmarket patients work around the town’s racing calendar. We frequently see people book short-notice appointments either before or after early-morning fixtures. The flexibility of private booking and longer consultations helps match that rhythm.

Next steps

If you'd like a quicker, more personalised GP experience near Newmarket, book online via the Book now button. If you think becoming a Member suits your needs, check our Core Subscription for regular appointments and priority access.

For our approach to private general practice, you can read about our philosophy here: Our private GP philosophy and why patients choose us: Why Mayfield Clinic.