What is a Private GP Consultation? Saffron Walden Guide

Introduction

Most NHS GP appointments last around 10 minutes. At Mayfield Clinic we give you more time. Short sentences. Clear outcomes. If you live in Saffron Walden and want quick, reliable access to a named doctor, this article explains exactly what a private GP consultation is, how it works, and why many patients from Saffron Walden choose to travel the short distance to our Cambridge practice for prompt, personalised care.

What is a private GP consultation?

A private GP consultation is much like a standard GP appointment, but with a different structure and some additional benefits. You can discuss any health concern with one of our private doctors. We provide clinical assessment, advice, reassurance, blood tests or investigations, private prescriptions where appropriate, and referrals to specialists — or if you prefer, a route back into NHS care. For details on our approach, see our private GP philosophy.

How private GP consultations work at Mayfield Clinic (for Saffron Walden patients)

Appointments are booked online via the Book now button — full details on how to access our services are on our Accessing Mayfield Clinic’s services page. Many patients from Saffron Walden travel the short journey to our Cambridge practice for appointments; you can see location details here: Saffron Walden and Cambridge.

Key features of our consultations:

• Standard appointments are 30 minutes — plenty of time to explore symptoms and a care plan. You can also book longer if needed.
• Same-day availability for many concerns, reducing delays for Saffron Walden commuters and local residents.
• Continuity with the same named GP where possible, so your care is consistent over time.
• Direct access to investigations and blood tests, private prescriptions, or referrals to NHS or private specialists. See our pages on private prescriptions and referrals.

Benefits of choosing a private GP consultation

Patients from Saffron Walden often tell us they value time, clarity and continuity. A private GP consultation at Mayfield Clinic gives you:

• Extended appointment time to discuss multiple issues without feeling rushed (ideal if you have complex or chronic problems).
• Faster access — same-day appointments are commonly available which helps if you work in Cambridge or need urgent reassurance.
• Consistent care from the same GP, improving diagnosis and follow-up plans.
• More flexible options for private prescriptions or onward specialist referral, depending on your preference.

“Many patients from Saffron Walden choose Mayfield Clinic because they can see the same GP quickly, and receive a tailored plan rather than a rushed prescription.”

What to expect in a consultation

Arrive prepared. Bring a list of symptoms, medication, and any previous results. Your GP will:

• Take a focused history and perform a clinical examination as needed.
• Order blood tests or imaging where clinically indicated, often arranged quickly through our practice.
• Discuss treatment options — including private prescriptions or NHS referral routes.
• Agree a follow-up plan with clear next steps and how to contact us.

For routine administrative queries and how prescriptions are managed, see our prescriptions page. To meet our clinicians, visit Our Team.

Private GP consultation vs NHS: practical differences

Both routes provide safe, evidence-based care. The main practical differences you will notice are appointment length, speed of access and continuity. Many Saffron Walden patients prefer the Mayfield model because they get uninterrupted time with the doctor and the option to maintain the same named GP for follow-up visits. If you need an NHS referral, our GPs can facilitate that; if you prefer a private specialist, we can arrange private referrals.

Is a private GP consultation worth it for Saffron Walden residents?

If you value same-day appointments, a longer consultation and seeing the same doctor each time, a private GP consultation is often worth it. Many people living in Saffron Walden commute to Cambridge or have limited time during the working day; our extended consultations and prompt access reduce time off work and speed up diagnosis. Remember: while you may discover our services searching from Saffron Walden, consultations will be delivered from our Cambridge practice — see Cambridge location details.

Membership and regular care

Patients who plan to use private GP services regularly are encouraged to consider our Membership scheme. The Core Subscription gives a set number of annual appointments for a monthly fee, priority booking and a direct Members' phone or WhatsApp line. Learn whether membership is right for you on our Membership page and why we believe a subscription is best here.

How to book

All appointments should be booked online via the Book now button (see how to access our services). Members can book directly over the phone or via WhatsApp for faster access. If you're in Saffron Walden and want a premium GP consultation with continuity, book an appointment and we’ll see you at our Cambridge practice.

Local note

Saffron Walden’s historic market and short commute to Cambridge mean many locals combine town life with work in the city. Our practice understands this rhythm. We aim to make healthcare predictable, so you can get back to your day with clear next steps.

If you’d like to speak to a clinician before booking, check our team profiles and availability on the Our Team page and then use the Book now button to reserve your appointment.