Doctor, You're So Busy!

The Reality Behind 10-Minute GP Appointments in the NHS and Beyond

Lately, in several of my roles across the healthcare system, I’ve been approached by patients who say, “Doctor, you’re so busy.”

At first, I brushed it off. But after hearing it from the third or fourth patient in a week, I realised it’s something worth reflecting on — because they’re right.

The Invisible Pressure on GPs

Most patients don’t get to see how hard GPs and NHS doctors work behind the scenes. Yes, hospital doctors deal with complex medical cases, but in general practice, the sheer volume of patients is staggering.

The 10-minute consultation is a defining feature of general practice in the UK. Within that short window, GPs are expected to listen, diagnose, assess, treat — and document everything. In urgent care settings, patients might be waiting up to four hours, and see each patient walk in and out like clockwork every 10 minutes. It seems fast — because it is.

But what most don’t see is the time spent in between patients processing prescriptions, reviewing blood test results, and responding to letters or hospital referrals. A single hospital letter can take 10 minutes to action properly — and there’s no appointment slot allocated for that.

Is 10 Minutes Enough?

It’s a fair question, and one I often ask myself.

In truth, 10 minutes rarely feels like enough time to fully explore all the factors affecting someone’s health — especially when symptoms overlap, or mental and physical health are interwoven. The system relies on short appointments for efficiency, but it doesn’t always serve the complexity of real lives.

That’s why I tell patients: don’t give up. Book regular reviews, one issue at a time. Slowly, over a few weeks or months, we’ll work through everything. It’s not ideal — but it’s what we have.

The Private Care Difference

One thing I’ve come to appreciate in my private GP work is time. With fewer time constraints, I can offer longer appointments and a more thorough, holistic review. Patients often say how different the experience feels — more relaxed, more personal, more human.

Of course, I wish this level of access could be available to everyone. But until the system evolves, private care offers a valuable option for those who want a little more space and time in their healthcare.

Hospitals and Specialists — A Team Effort

Hospital colleagues deal with more complexity, specialist treatments, and investigations. I’m grateful for them — their input is essential for cases that go beyond what can be managed in primary care.

The NHS is a team effort, and even with all its flaws and pressures, it’s a remarkable system. GPs, nurses, consultants, and admin staff continue to work through a messy system to give patients the best care possible.

Final Thoughts

Next time you think, “Doctor, you’re so busy,” you’re probably right. But behind that 10-minute window is a doctor who’s trying to give you their best — even in a stretched system.

If you're someone who wants more time and space to explore your health concerns, private GP consultations might be worth considering.

💬 Have you ever felt rushed in a GP consultation? What do you wish was different?

📞 If you’d like a longer consultation with a private GP — by phone, video or in-person — you can learn more about my services here