The demand for private GP services continues to rise across the UK, driven by patients seeking timely appointments, continuity of care, and greater choice. For GPs considering the move into private practice, establishing a clinic can be both rewarding and complex. Success requires more than clinical expertise—it involves navigating regulation, compliance, governance, and operational planning.
Market opportunity
- The private GP sector in the UK is valued at around £1.6 billion, with virtual (text, phone, video) services accounting for over £300 million of that
- Estimates suggest there are around 2,000–3,000 GPs practicing privately in the UK. That equates to roughly 3–4% of the entire GP workforce and includes both part-time locums and those combining NHS and private work
- More broadly, independent clinics and private GP services in England form part of a £4.9 billion segment within the overall £12.4 billion UK private healthcare market
- Younger adults appear more likely to use private GP services. For example, among those who had used private healthcare, 45% of 18–24-year-olds had accessed a private GP, compared with just 6% of those aged 65 or over.
Key Considerations for Private GPs
1. Regulatory RequirementsAll independent GP clinics must register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) before opening. This includes preparing the right documentation, ensuring premises meet regulatory standards, and demonstrating robust systems for safety and governance.
2. Premises and Facilities
Your location must be accessible, safe, and appropriate for the services you plan to offer. Fire safety, infection prevention and control, and information governance requirements all need to be met from day one. If operating from a remote location, you must evidence an office space where any documentation can be securely stored. This can be your home address as long a requirements are met such as any appropriate
insurance or landlord/mortgage permission.
3. Policies and Procedures
A full suite of policies—covering safeguarding, recruitment, consent, prescribing, data protection, and more—must be in place, implemented, and regularly reviewed.
4. Governance and Risk Management
Regulation 17 (Good Governance) and Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment) are among the most common areas of CQC breaches. Strong clinical governance frameworks and continuous audit cycles are essential to avoid compliance failures.
5. Business Planning
From pricing models to staffing, marketing, and patient engagement strategies, your private GP clinic must operate with clear business goals alongside compliance obligations.
How BAXCQC Can Support You
At BAXCQC, we specialise in supporting healthcare providers through every stage of their CQC journey. Whether you’re just beginning to plan your private clinic or are preparing for registration, our expert consultants can provide:
- CQC Registration Support – step-by-step guidance on completing your application and preparing for interview.
- Policy Packages – tailored, CQC-ready policies to meet your service needs.
- Governance Frameworks – robust systems for monitoring, auditing, and continuous improvement.
- Training and Workshops – bespoke sessions to equip you and your team with compliance confidence.
- Ongoing Compliance Support – regular audits, action planning, and advisory services to keep your clinic inspection-ready.
through your journey.
Ready to set up your private GP clinic with confidence? Contact us today to discuss your plans and take advantage of our limited-time discount.