What Is a Private GP Consultation? A Dorking Patient’s Guide

Introduction

For many people in Dorking, seeing a doctor quickly and having time to discuss everything matters more than ever. At Mayfield Clinic we offer private GP consultations that are thorough, timely and continuity-focused. Appointments are typically 30 minutes, giving you the space to explain symptoms, review tests and agree a clear plan — all without feeling rushed.

What is a private GP consultation?

A private GP consultation is similar to a standard NHS GP appointment in what it covers, but with differences in access, appointment length and continuity. During a private consultation you can raise any health concern, receive clinical advice, have relevant blood tests or investigations organised, be prescribed private medication or be referred on to a specialist. If you prefer, our GPs can also refer you back into the NHS.

How private GP consultations work at Mayfield Clinic (for patients in Dorking)

Although we welcome patients from Dorking, our clinics are delivered from our Reigate practice. If you find us in Dorking, you will be seen in Reigate — typically around a 20 minute drive — and we make this clear when you book. Visit our Dorking page to learn more about local access: Mayfield Clinic — Dorking, and see the Reigate location here: Reigate practice.

At Mayfield Clinic the typical private GP consultation process is:

• Book online via the Book now button (Members may book by phone or WhatsApp).
• Complete a brief medical history form ahead of your appointment.
• Attend a 30-minute consultation with one of our GPs — you can book longer if needed.
• If necessary, we arrange blood tests, imaging or a referral to a specialist.
• We issue private prescriptions where appropriate, or refer you back to the NHS on request.

"Extended appointment time and seeing the same named GP are the two features our patients in Dorking tell us they value most."

Appointments and continuity

One of the core benefits of private GP consultations at Mayfield Clinic is continuity. You can book with the same GP for follow-ups, which helps build a medical record and a relationship that speeds diagnosis and improves outcomes. Same-day appointments are often available for patients travelling from Dorking, and Members are prioritised for urgent slots.

Investigations, prescriptions and referrals

Our GPs can arrange blood tests and investigations, provide private prescriptions or, when appropriate, refer you into specialist care. For details on our referral process see: Referrals, and for how we prescribe privately see: Prescriptions.

Benefits of a private GP consultation — why Dorking patients choose Mayfield Clinic

• Longer appointments: Standard 30-minute consultations mean your concerns get the attention they deserve.
• Fast access: Same-day availability helps when symptoms change quickly.
• Continuity: Book the same GP for follow-ups. Building a relationship reduces repeat explanations and improves care quality.
• Flexibility: Private prescriptions, targeted tests or specialist referrals — you decide the pathway.
• Membership perks: Regular users can join our Core Subscription for a set number of annual appointments, priority booking and a direct Members line. Read more about Membership here: Is Mayfield Clinic membership right for you?

How private GP care compares with NHS care

Private and NHS GP consultations cover the same clinical scope, but differ principally in access and time. A private consultation usually offers a longer appointment and faster access; the NHS offers free care at the point of use and integrated NHS pathways. At Mayfield Clinic we can refer back to NHS services where that is the best option for you. Read about our approach to private GP care in more detail on our philosophy page: Our private GP philosophy.

What to expect at your first private GP consultation

Prepare to get the most from your appointment:

• Bring a list of current medications (including doses).
• Note the symptoms you want to discuss and any relevant dates.
• Bring previous test results or correspondence if available.
• Plan travel to our Reigate practice — allow a little extra time for parking.

If you need tests, we’ll explain options and often arrange them promptly. If a specialist opinion is required, we’ll discuss referral paths and expected timelines.

Cost and practicalities

Costs for private GP consultations can vary by appointment length and complexity. Fees and booking details are available when you choose your appointment online. For information on accessing our services and how to book, see: How to access our GP services. Members have additional booking routes and priority access — details here: Our Membership model.

Meet our clinicians

Our team includes experienced GPs who consult across a broad range of conditions. If you want to see who you might meet at your consultation, visit our team page: Meet the team.

Book your private GP consultation from Dorking

Patients based in Dorking can book online via the Book now button. If you are a Member, you can book directly by phone or WhatsApp and will be prioritised for same-day appointments. When you book we’ll confirm the Reigate practice location and provide travel details.

If you’re unsure whether a private GP consultation is right for you, our article on why patients choose Mayfield Clinic may help: Why Mayfield Clinic.

Book online today and choose an appointment length that suits your needs. For many people in Dorking, this model of private GP care provides faster access, consistent continuity and clearer outcomes.