What Is a Private GP Consultation? A Royston Guide to Mayfield Clinic

Introduction

Most NHS GP appointments last under ten minutes; that leaves little room for complex problems or follow-up. If you live in Royston and want more time, continuity and faster access to a named clinician, a private GP consultation at Mayfield Clinic offers a different experience. Our consultations are typically 30 minutes, giving you space to explain concerns, explore causes and agree clear next steps — whether that means tests, treatment, or onward referral.

What is a private GP consultation?

A private GP consultation is much like a standard GP appointment in purpose, but different in structure and service. You can speak to one of our private doctors about any health concern. We provide clinical assessment, advice, reassurance, investigations such as blood tests, private prescriptions where appropriate, and referrals to specialists when needed. If you prefer, our GPs can direct you back into NHS services.

How private GP consultations work at Mayfield Clinic

At Mayfield Clinic we aim to combine clinical rigour with accessibility. Key features of how our consultations work:

• Appointments are generally 30 minutes by default — longer if you need them.
• Same-day availability for many concerns, especially for patients in Royston seeking prompt care.
• Option to book with the same named GP on a regular basis to build continuity and trust.
• Access to investigations (blood tests, imaging referrals) and private prescriptions if clinically appropriate.

To learn more about how to access our services, see our How to access our GP services page.

Benefits of a private GP consultation — practical advantages for Royston patients

Choosing a private GP consultation with Mayfield Clinic delivers several practical benefits:

• Extended time. A default 30-minute consultation means we can take a full history, examine properly, and plan tests or follow-up without rushing.
• Fast access. We prioritise quick appointments — helpful if you live in Royston and need same-day advice before travelling to Cambridge for treatment.
• Continuity of care. Seeing the same named doctor helps manage chronic conditions, medications and complex issues more effectively.
• Clear next steps. We arrange blood tests, imaging or specialist referrals and provide written advice and prescriptions when needed.

Read more about why patients choose Mayfield Clinic on our Why Mayfield Clinic page, and our private GP philosophy.

Private GP consultation vs NHS: what’s the difference?

The clinical standard remains the same — the main differences are around access, time and flexibility. NHS consultations are invaluable and widely accessible; private consultations at Mayfield Clinic offer:

• Longer appointment times (fewer interruptions).
• More immediate booking options, often same-day.
• Greater ability to request private investigations or direct referrals when clinically justified.

If you later wish to return to NHS care, our GPs can facilitate that pathway. For details on how we make referrals and prescribe privately, see Referrals and Prescriptions.

What to expect from your consultation

Expect a structured, patient-centred appointment. Typical steps include:

1. A focused medical history and review of current medications.
2. Clinical examination where needed.
3. Immediate tests if required (e.g. bloods arranged) or clear instructions for next steps.
4. Documentation and safety-netting: written summary, medication plan, or referral letters.

We keep a private medical record for our patients and encourage follow-up where necessary. To meet our clinicians, visit our Our Team page.

“We build time into every consultation so patients from Royston can leave with a clear plan — not a list of unanswered questions.”

Where you’ll be seen — Royston patients and Cambridge appointments

If you live in Royston you’ll find our service designed around local convenience. Although we attract patients across Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire, consultations for Royston residents are delivered from our Cambridge practice. The Cambridge clinic is an easy drive from Royston — usually around 20–30 minutes — and is fully equipped to provide tests, examinations and specialist referrals. Book details and directions are on our Cambridge location page. For local information about our services near Royston see Mayfield Clinic Royston.

Membership and regular care

Many Royston patients choose to become Members for predictable access. Our Core Subscription provides a set number of annual appointments for a monthly fee, priority booking and a Members’ phone/WhatsApp line for direct booking. If you want to find out whether Membership suits you, visit Is Mayfield Clinic Membership right for you? and Why we believe a subscription is best.

Practical tips for your first private GP consultation

• Bring a list of symptoms and any medications (including over-the-counter).
• Have copies of recent test results if you have them.
• Allow extra travel time from Royston to Cambridge, especially during peak hours.
• If you are a Member, use the Members’ phone or WhatsApp line to secure a preferred time or GP.

Book your appointment

All appointments should be booked online via the Book now button on our site. Members may book directly by phone or WhatsApp. If you need fast access from Royston, choose same-day availability or request to see the same named GP for ongoing care.

For more details on pricing and the cost of private GP consultations, contact us through the Book now flow or review our service pages. We welcome Royston patients seeking a thorough, personalised and timely GP experience at Mayfield Clinic in Cambridge.