What to Do If You Cannot Get a GP Appointment in London

Struggling to get a GP appointment is one of the most common frustrations for patients in London. If you have tried calling your surgery at 8:00 AM only to find all slots are gone, it is important to know that you have other options for receiving NHS care.

The Short Answer

If you cannot get a GP appointment, you should first ask reception for a referral to a local GP Hub (which offers evening and weekend slots). If that fails, you can consult a local pharmacist for minor illnesses, call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or switch to a GP practice with better access, like GP Pathfinder Clinics.

Your Alternative Options

1. Ask for a GP Hub Appointment: Most London practices are part of a Primary Care Network (PCN) that operates “hubs.” These hubs provide extra appointments outside normal hours. Ask your receptionist specifically if they can book you into a hub.
2. Use Pharmacy First: For many minor conditions—such as earaches, sore throats, sinusitis, impetigo, shingles, infected insect bites, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women—pharmacists can now provide advice and prescribe antibiotics directly without you needing to see a GP.
3. Submit an Online Form: If your issue isn’t urgent for today, use your practice’s online consultation form (via their website or the NHS App). This bypasses the phone queue, and a clinician will triage your request, often resolving it via a telephone or video call.
4. Call NHS 111: If you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk. They can direct you to the best local service and can even book you an appointment at an Urgent Treatment Centre or an out-of-hours GP.

When to Change Your GP

If you consistently cannot get an appointment and the service at your current practice is poor, you have the right to change doctors. You are not stuck with a failing surgery.

You can register with a GP outside your immediate area if they offer better access or digital services. The process is entirely free and takes only a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I go to A&E if I can’t see my GP?

No. Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments are for life-threatening emergencies only (such as severe bleeding, chest pain, or loss of consciousness). Going to A&E for a GP-level issue will result in very long waits and takes resources away from those who are critically ill. Call 111 instead.

How can I get a sick note if I can’t get an appointment?

You do not need a face-to-face appointment for a sick note. You can request an NHS GP sick note online by submitting an administrative request through your practice’s website.

How GP Pathfinder Clinics Can Help

We believe you shouldn’t have to fight to see a doctor. GP Pathfinder Clinics has implemented a comprehensive Access Plan to ensure our patients get the care they need. We offer same-day telephone triage, extensive online video consultations, and access to evening and weekend GP hubs across North West London.

You may also find these pages helpful:

• How to Register with an NHS GP Online in London
• What Is an Online GP Consultation and How Does It Work?