Preparing for a private GP appointment: how to use the time well

Write a short timeline of your main problem: when it started, how it has changed, what makes it better or worse and how it affects your life. Note associated symptoms, previous treatments tried and their effect. Prioritise your top two or three concerns, so the most important are covered. If you have several issues, tell the receptionist when booking, so enough time is allocated. Photographs of rashes or other visible changes can help.

• A list of all medicines, doses and supplements, including over-the-counter products.

• Recent test results, letters and scan reports, with images if available.

• Information about your family history of significant illnesses.

• Details of allergies and previous reactions to medicines.

• Your NHS GP details and consent to share information.

• Your insurance details if relevant, and the policy requirements.

• What do you think is going on, and what else could it be?

• What tests do you suggest, why, and what will they change?

• What are the options for treatment, including doing nothing for now?

• What are the risks, side effects and costs of each?

• When should I expect improvement, and what should I do if I do not?

• Will you write to my NHS GP, and what do you recommend I do about prescriptions?

Ask for an estimate of costs for the consultation, tests and any referral. Check whether tests will be done in house or at an external lab, since fees differ. Ask whether follow-up is charged. If a specialist referral is suggested, ask what the consultation and likely investigations cost, and whether your insurer needs to authorise them. It is reasonable to ask for time to decide.

Start with your main concern, be honest about symptoms and habits and mention anything you are worried about, even if it feels embarrassing. Ask the doctor to explain terms you do not understand. Take notes or ask for a written summary. If you are asked to consent to tests or procedures, make sure you understand the reason.

Review what was agreed and put dates in your diary for tests and follow-up. Collect results and ask who will interpret them. Share relevant information with your NHS GP. If you start a new medicine, note the name and dose and any side effects. If symptoms worsen or new ones appear, seek help promptly, and do not rely on routine follow-up for urgent concerns. For emergencies, call 999 or use NHS 111 for advice.

At a first appointment, expect the doctor to ask about your general health history as well as the problem you came with. Bring information about previous operations, long-term conditions, vaccinations and screening, and the name of your NHS GP practice. Ask how your records will be stored and who can see them. If you are unsure whether the practice is right for you, treat the first visit as an opportunity to judge whether the doctor listens, explains clearly and respects your preferences.