FAQs
Welcome to Our In-House Services (Frequently asked questions)
You must still call 999 if you have an emergency or life-threatening condition or situation.
Urgent Treatment Centre Services
Q1: What can you treat?
Urgent treatment centres (UTCs) provide medical help when it’s not a life-threatening emergency. They can diagnose and deal with many of the common problems people go to A&E for. We can glue wounds, prescribe antibiotics, conduct examinations and even suture. Please note that at present we do not conduct x-rays on site.
The type of issues that we can deal with:
- ECG (electrocardiogram)
- Blood Tests
- Sprains and strains
- Injuries, cuts and bruises
- Stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea
- Skin infections and rashes
- Bites and stings
- Foreign bodies
- Coughs and chest infections
- Ear, nose and throat infections
- Emergency contraception
- Stomach problems
- Urinary infections
- Eye infections
Q2: What should I bring when visiting the UTC?
If you are not registered with us, please bring:
- A form of photo identification (ID), as you will need this to be seen in any appointment.
- A list of any medications you are currently taking
- Any relevant medical history or referral letters (if applicable)
Q3: How long will I have to wait to be seen?
We aim to see patients as quickly as possible. However, waiting times may vary depending on the severity of your condition and the number of patients requiring treatment. The best way is to book in with us prior to attending, however, waits are 95% likely to be less than 30 minutes.
Q4: Can children be treated at the UTC?
Yes, we provide urgent care for children. However, if a child is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe dehydration, or loss of consciousness, please call 999 or visit A&E immediately.
Q5: How much does treatment at the UTC cost?
This is a fee based service which pricing can be found on our pricing list, this is then plus any additional expenses such as blood tests.
Q6: What if my condition worsens after visiting the UTC?
If your condition worsens and it is within our working ours, please return to us. If we are not open, please visit A&E and then get back in touch with us to provide feedback.
Health Screenings
Q1: What types of health screening packages do you offer?
We offer three packages of healthcare screenings, each containing a level of options suited towards your needs. These tests cover everything from height and weight, to blood tests and physical parameter checks such as blood pressure.
Q2: What tests are included in the health screening packages?
Depending on the package, tests may include:
- Blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose checks
- Full blood count and liver/kidney function tests
- Heart health screening (ECG, stress tests)
- Cancer marker tests
- Diabetes screening
- Urine and stool analysis
Q3: How often should I undergo health screening?
It depends on your age, medical history, and risk factors. Generally:
- Adults (18-39 years) – Every 2-3 years
- Adults (40-60 years) – Every 1-2 years
- Seniors (60+ years) – Annually or as advised by a doctor
Q4. How do I choose the right health screening package for me?
Our medical team can help you choose a suitable package based on your age, medical history, lifestyle, and specific health concerns.
Q5. How long does a health screening take?
Most screenings take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the tests included in the package.
Q7. Do I need to fast before my health screening?
Some tests, such as cholesterol and glucose tests, require fasting for 8-12 hours. We will provide you with specific instructions when you book your appointment.
Q8: When will I receive my results?
Results are usually available within 24 hours and is a maximum of three working days. Our doctors will review the results with you and provide recommendations if necessary.
Q9: What happens if my results indicate a health issue?
If your results show any abnormalities, our medical team will guide you on the next steps, including further tests, specialist referrals, or lifestyle recommendations.
Private Prescriptions FAQ:
We also offer private prescriptions during consultations, often at a lower cost than NHS charges, making our healthcare option both convenient, fast and affordable.
We stock some medications on site and can provide them to you at a lesser charge than the NHS.
Q1: Do you offer repeat prescriptions instead of one offs?
We offer a repeat prescription service — in some instances we might recommend regular treatment. This will be reviewed at least every 3 months to ensure that this is an effective course of action or if an alternative is more suitable. You will need to book an appointment for this.
Q2. What is a private prescription?
A private prescription is a prescription issued by a doctor for medication that is not covered by the NHS. The cost of the medication is paid by the patient rather than being subsidized by the NHS.
Q3. How do I obtain a private prescription?
You will need to book a consultation with one of our doctors. If the doctor determines that medication is necessary, they will issue a private prescription.
Q4. How much does a private prescription cost?
The cost of a private prescription is added onto the cost of your consultation (£4.99) our members get this for free. The medication then needs to be purchased by you at the pharmacy which varies depending on the type and brand of the medicine prescribed. Pharmacies set their own prices for private prescriptions.
Q5. Can I take my private prescription to any pharmacy?
Yes, you can take your private prescription to any pharmacy of your choice. It is advisable to check prices at different pharmacies as they may vary.
Q6. Can I request a repeat private prescription?
Yes, repeat prescriptions may be issued at the discretion of the doctor. You may need to attend a follow-up consultation depending on the medication and your medical condition.
Q7. Are private prescriptions covered by insurance?
Some private health insurance plans may cover the cost of private prescriptions. Please check with your insurance provider for details.
Q8. Can I get a private prescription for controlled medications?
Certain controlled medications may be prescribed privately, but stricter regulations apply. A consultation with a doctor is required to determine eligibility.
Q9: How much do you charge for the prescription?
A nominal fee of £4.99 is charged per item for this and you will still have to pay for the actual medication at the pharmacy.
Minor Surgeries FAQ:
Coming soon
STI / STD Testing FAQ:
Q1. What is STI/STD testing?
STI/STD testing involves medical tests to check for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). These tests help detect infections early so they can be treated effectively.
Q2. What STIs/STDs do you test for?
We offer testing for a wide range of infections, including:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
- Syphilis
- HIV
- Hepatitis B & C
- Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
- Trichomoniasis
- Mycoplasma & Ureaplasma
Q3. Who should get tested for STIs/STDs?
You should consider testing if you:
- Have had unprotected sex
- Have a new or multiple sexual partners
- Experience symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain, sores, or itching
- Are starting a new relationship and want peace of mind
- Are pregnant or planning to conceive
- Have been advised by a partner or healthcare professional
Q4. What types of STI/STD tests are available?
Depending on the infection being tested for, tests may include:
- Urine sample
- Blood test
- Swab test (genital, throat, or rectal)
- Physical examination
Q5. How soon after exposure should I get tested?
Different STIs have different incubation periods. As a general guide:
- Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea – 1-2 weeks
- Syphilis – 3-6 weeks
- HIV – 2-4 weeks (with repeat testing at 3 months)
- Hepatitis B & C – 6 weeks to 6 months If you have concerns, our doctors can advise you on the best time to test.
Q6. How long does it take to receive my results?
Results are usually available within 24 hours but can take up to three working days. We will inform you as soon as they are ready and provide guidance on any necessary next steps.
Q7. Is STI/STD testing confidential?
Yes, all our STI/STD testing services are completely confidential. Your results will only be shared with you unless you request otherwise.
Q8. Do I need an appointment for STI/STD testing?
We recommend booking an appointment to ensure a smooth and private experience. However, we may also accommodate walk-ins depending on availability.
Q9. How much does STI/STD testing cost?
Costs vary depending on the tests required. Please contact us for details on pricing and package options.
Q10. Can I get treatment if I test positive?
Yes, our medical team can provide treatment, prescriptions, and further guidance if you test positive for an STI/STD. Some infections require antibiotics, while others may need ongoing management.
Q11. Is STI/STD testing covered by insurance?
Some private health insurance plans may cover STI/STD testing. Please check with your provider for details.
Q12. How do I book an STI/STD test?
You can book an appointment by calling us or emailing info@gpservices.co.uk
Drug Testing Services FAQ:
Q1. What is urine drug testing?
Urine drug testing is a medical test that detects the presence of drugs or their metabolites in a urine sample. It is commonly used for employment screening, legal requirements, medical assessments, and personal health monitoring.
Q2. What substances can be detected in a urine drug test?
Our urine drug tests can screen for various substances, including:
- Cannabis (THC)
- Cocaine
- Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine)
- Amphetamines (including methamphetamine)
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- PCP (Phencyclidine)
- Synthetic drugs (upon request)
- How is the test performed?
- You will be provided with a sterile container to collect a urine sample.
- The sample is then tested using rapid screening or sent to a laboratory for further analysis.
- Results are provided within [insert timeframe]
depending on the type of test.
- Do I need an appointment for urine drug testing?Appointments are recommended but not always necessary. Walk-ins may be accommodated based on availability.
Q5. How long do drugs stay detectable in urine?
Detection times vary depending on the substance, frequency of use, and individual metabolism:
- Cannabis: 1-30 days (depending on frequency of use)
- Cocaine: 2-4 days
- Opiates: 1-4 days
- Amphetamines: 2-5 days
- Benzodiazepines: 3-7 days (longer for chronic use)
- MDMA: 2-4 days
Q6. How accurate are the results?
Our tests are highly accurate. Initial screening results are available quickly, and confirmatory testing (if required) is conducted in a certified laboratory.
Q7. Can medications affect my test results?
Yes, certain prescription and overthe-counter medications may cause false positives. It is important to inform us of any medications you are taking before the test.
Q8. Is the test supervised?
Depending on the reason for testing (e.g., workplace requirements), sample collection may be supervised to ensure compliance with testing protocols. A consent form is required to be signed for this.
Q9. Can I refuse a urine drug test?
Urine drug testing is voluntary unless required by an employer, legal authority, or other official body. Refusal may have consequences depending on the circumstances.
Q10. How much does urine drug testing cost?
The cost depends on the type of test and number of substances screened. Please contact us for specific pricing information.
Q11. Is urine drug testing confidential?
Yes, all test results are handled with strict confidentiality and will only be shared with the individual or authorized requesting party.
Q12. How do I book a urine drug test?
You can book an appointment by calling or emailing info@gpservices.co.uk
General FAQ?
Q1. I’m visiting the UK from overseas – can I still use your services?
Yes. We regularly have appointments with visitors to the UK from overseas. Also, you don’t need an NHS number.
Please note that we only operate within the UK itself and don’t offer our services outside the country.
Q2. Are there illnesses you won’t treat or medications which you won’t prescribe?
Your safety and wellbeing is the main concern and as a result some drugs may not be prescribed unless under the care of a GP or a specialist and to be arranged only after Gp consultation.
Q3. Can you issue repeat prescriptions?
Yes, however this is limited, this is done on a case-by-case basis up to three months. It may be more depending on the condition. Please consult with the Doctor that you speak to in our service.
Q4. Can I go to any pharmacy?
Yes — you can collect your from prescription any pharmacy in the UK.
Q5. How will I receive my prescription?
You will receive a written prescription with ID via a text message. You can then collect the medication from a pharmacy of your choice in the UK.
Your local pharmacy will need this ID and your date of birth. You simply inform them that you have a signatureRx private electronic prescription. They can get all the information they need at www.signaturerx.co.uk (they will likely already have this link).
Q6. Do I need to bring anything with me to the pharmacy?
Just your date of birth to allow them to access the prescription but on rare occasions they may ask you for another form of ID such as driving licence.
Q7. Are NHS pre-payment or exemption certificates valid when collecting medication?
No. NHS Pre-payment and exemption certificates are only valid for prescriptions written by NHS GPs and staff. Private prescriptions need to be paid for at the pharmacy by the patient.
Q8. Can you write sick notes?
Yes, but there is a charge for this.
Q9. Are you able to make referrals?
Yes, however, this is complicated as some NHS hospitals don’t accept private referrals. We can carry out an assessment and if it’s felt that a referral is needed then a recommendation can be made to your GP who will then take the appropriate steps. We also have a list of local hospitals who do and will accept private referrals so we can refer to these.
Q10. Do you share information I provide with my GP?
It is recommended that you do share the information so your doctor has a full record of the treatments you receive but you are not obliged to do this. There is a consent box at registration and if you agree to share this information, notes made in your private consultation will be available to your GP.
Your health details will only be shared with your consent or when required by law.
Q11: How much does your services cost?
Please refer to our fees table.
Q12: What age range do you cover?
We see patients of all ages.
Q13: Is this a contract?
No – this is a 30-day rolling subscription, similar to Netflix and Disney+, you can cancel anytime. There is a minimum 30-day contract and 30-day notice period. Therefore, you will always pay at least 2x payments. The service does not start until your first payment is taken, which prevents people registering when there is an issue, not paying and then cancelling straight after.
Q14. Do you offer other payment options?
Payment can be made by Direct Debit, cash, payment link, bank transfer or card.
Q15: Do you work with long term health conditions?
We do not manage or get involved in the management of long-term conditions and are an acute service. This does not prevent you from using the service, we just do not manage or intervene in existing conditions and this is best left to your NHS GP.