The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) is facing a significant crisis as general practitioners (GPs) engage in unprecedented industrial action over pay disputes and underfunding.
With nearly half of England’s GP surgeries participating in collective action, the question arises: will private practice become the norm for healthcare delivery in the UK?
Background to the Disputes
General practitioners (GPs) in the UK have been engaged in ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions. In March 2024, a referendum revealed that 99.2% of 19 000 participating GP and GP registrar members rejected the proposed 2024/25 General Medical Services (GMS) contract changes, leading to a dispute with NHS England.
Following the referendum, an indicative ballot was held in July 2024, with 98.3% of participating GP contractors and partners voting in favour of collective action. This action began on August 1, 2024, involving measures such as limiting daily patient contacts and introducing waiting lists.
The collective action has led to a reduction in available appointments, with some practices limiting consultations and introducing waiting lists. This has resulted in increased pressure on emergency services and hospitals, as patients seek alternative care options.
The Department of Health and Social Care has expressed disappointment over the strike plans and urged the British Medical Association (BMA) to reconsider ahead of the official pay award announcement. The government has also pledged a 6% budget rise for general practice, though concerns about the adequacy of this increase persist.
As of May 2025, negotiations between the BMA and NHS England continue, with discussions focusing on addressing the financial challenges faced by GP practices and ensuring sustainable funding for general practice services.
The ongoing GP strikes and pay disputes underscore the challenges facing general practice in the UK.
The Rise of Private GP Practices
Amidst the turmoil within the NHS, private GP services are experiencing a surge in demand. Patients are increasingly turning to private consultations, with some paying around £45-£105 per visit, to avoid the long waiting times associated with NHS services .
This shift towards private healthcare is raising concerns about the potential emergence of a two-tier system, where access to quality care depends on one’s ability to pay.
According to The Guardian, the growing reliance on private GP services may exacerbate health inequalities, as those unable to afford private care may face diminished access to healthcare services.
The BMA warns that without significant investment in general practice, the NHS could follow the path of NHS dentistry, leading to widespread surgery closures and reduced patient care
General Practice in the UK
The ongoing strikes and pay disputes signal a critical juncture for the future of general practice in the UK. While private GP services are becoming more prevalent, the core issue remains: sustainable funding and fair compensation for GPs.
Unless substantial reforms are implemented, the NHS risks losing its foundational principle of providing equitable healthcare to all.
While private practice offers an alternative, it is not a sustainable solution to the systemic issues plaguing the NHS. Addressing the root causes of underfunding and ensuring fair compensation for healthcare professionals are imperative steps towards restoring the integrity and accessibility of the NHS.