How and Where Can I Get a Private Health Check?

You can arrange a private health check in several ways, including large hospital groups such as Bupa, Nuffield, or Circle, through regional clinics, or by ordering at-home testing kits. NHS health checks are also available for eligible adults aged 40 – 74. For those wanting a more personal approach, concierge GP services provide health checks as part of a membership, with continuity of care and flexibility to be seen at home, at work, or in the clinic. 

When life moves quickly, it’s easy to let your own health slip down the list of priorities. Whether you are running a business, travelling frequently, managing large estates, or balancing public and private commitments, the demands may look different, but the challenge is the same: time is limited, and privacy matters. A private health check (also known as a health MOT) offers a simple way to regain control, providing reassurance that your wellbeing is being properly cared for.

So how and where can you arrange one? With options ranging from large national providers to highly personalised private GP services, the process need not feel daunting. A private health check can be shaped around your lifestyle, offering discretion, comfort, and peace of mind.

For those living in the Cotswolds, practices such as Concierge Medical offer an alternative to the corporate model, providing tailored private health checks within the context of an ongoing relationship with a trusted GP. With the right support, a health assessment becomes more than a one-off appointment and more like a natural starting point for a long-term focus on prevention, continuity, and lasting wellbeing.

Where Can You Get a Private Health Check?

Large Hospital and Corporate Providers

For many people, a straightforward way to arrange a private health check is through one of the large providers, such as Bupa, Nuffield, or Circle. These organisations have a national presence, a clear structure of packages, and the reassurance of a well-known brand.

Appointments are typically held in dedicated clinics or hospitals, with set time slots and standardised packages. Results are usually available the same day or within a short timeframe, often followed by a written report. This works well for those who want a quick, one-off check-up and are comfortable with a more corporate style of service.

Large city hospitals and private health groups usually offer the broadest range of facilities. These centres are well equipped, with access to advanced diagnostics and specialist teams on site. The scale of these hospitals means you can usually book quickly and access a wide menu of tests.

The downside is that appointments may involve travelling through busy city centres, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. For those seeking discretion, the visibility of attending a major hospital may also feel less appealing. The process can feel impersonal as you may not see the same doctor again, and follow-up support tends to be limited to generic recommendations rather than ongoing continuity of care.

How Much is a Private Health Check?

Private health check costs vary depending on the provider and the comprehensiveness of test options selected. You need to be careful when comparing prices between providers, as often, they will not be offering like-for-like packages. 

When choosing your health check, it may be helpful to consider which areas of your health are a priority for you, and search with these in mind. For an extra fee, some health check appointments can be tailored with a particular focus, such as heart health if heart disease runs in your family, for example.

Prices vary widely depending on the provider and the depth of the assessment. Basic packages with large organisations such as Bupa start from around £269 [3], while the most comprehensive packages with Bupa, Nuffield, or Circle cost between £970 and £1,119 [1-3].

Pros and Cons of Large Provider Private Health Assessments

The main advantages of these large providers are availability, structure, and speed. You know exactly what is included, you can often book quickly, and you receive results promptly. For those seeking a one-off snapshot of their health, this can be a practical choice.

On the other hand, the experience can feel transactional for people who like person-centred care. Packages are standardised, follow-up is limited, and there is little sense of continuity with the same doctor over time. For busy professionals who value discretion and a relationship with a trusted GP, this may not provide the level of personalisation or ongoing care they expect.

At-Home and Online Testing

In recent years, at-home and online health checks have become increasingly popular. These services allow you to order test kits online, complete them in your own time, and then send samples back to a laboratory for analysis. They typically focus on specific markers such as cholesterol, thyroid function, vitamin levels, or hormone balance. The results are usually delivered via an online portal or discussed briefly with a health adviser over the phone or by video call.

Bupa, for example, now offers Be.Healthy at Home, which allows you to complete a series of health checks at home before discussing your results with a qualified health adviser in a 45-minute video consultation [3]. This can be an attractive option for those who want privacy, discretion, and the ability to avoid travelling to a clinic.

The clear benefit of at-home testing is convenience. It fits easily into busy schedules, avoids waiting rooms, and allows people to take control of certain aspects of their health monitoring without disruption to their day.

However, these services also come with limitations. They are not designed to replace a full doctor-led health assessment, nor do they provide the reassurance of a physical examination or a long-term care plan. The feedback may be limited to generic lifestyle advice, and any abnormalities usually require a follow-up with your GP or a referral for further testing.

For individuals who want a quick check of a few key health markers, at-home testing can be useful. But for those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of their health, it is best seen as a supplement rather than a replacement for a full assessment.

NHS Health Checks

For some people, the first option to consider is the NHS Health Check. This is a free service offered to adults in England aged between 40 and 74 who do not already have a pre-existing condition such as heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease. The aim is to spot early signs of cardiovascular problems and related risks, and to provide advice on how to lower them [4].

An NHS Health Check usually involves a short appointment at your local GP surgery or community clinic. The nurse or healthcare assistant will review your medical history and lifestyle, measure height, weight, and blood pressure, and take a blood test to check cholesterol and, if necessary, blood sugar. You will then be advised on reducing your risks and, if anything of concern is identified, you may be referred for further testing or follow-up with your GP.

The strength of the NHS Health Check is its accessibility and preventive focus. However, the scope is narrower than most private assessments, and availability may vary depending on local demand. For people who want a deeper review of their overall health or a more flexible, discreet service, a private health check may still be preferable.

Regional Clinics

Regional private hospitals and independent clinics are another option. These often offer similar health assessment packages to those found in cities, sometimes at lower cost, and may be easier to reach for those outside metropolitan areas. They can provide a good balance between availability and accessibility.

That said, the service can still feel clinic-based and transactional, with less flexibility for individuals who prefer care on their own terms. Appointments are usually tied to fixed locations and schedules.

Local GP Services

Some independent GP practices offer private health checks as part of their services. These are often more personal than the large corporate providers and may suit individuals who want to remain within their community. However, capacity can be limited, and not all GP practices are able to offer advanced screening options.

Concierge GP Private Health Assessments

Private concierge GPs offer a different kind of medical service compared with traditional practices or large hospital groups. Instead of booking one-off appointments, members pay a monthly subscription for year-round access to a named doctor. This includes health checks as part of a much broader package of care, home or workplace visits, 24/7 advice, and personalised care focused on prevention and continuity.

Members benefit from:

• A lead, named private GP who knows your history intimately
  
• Home visits and examinations at a time and place that suits you
  
• No travel costs or time lost to clinic visits – particularly important for self-employed individuals who cannot afford to lose working hours
  
• Flexible and unrushed appointments, with the ability to discuss concerns in detail
  
• 24/7 telephone advice line, 365 days a year
  
• Independent second opinions and access to a respected referral network
  
• Support with medical documents for licences, insurance, visas, or travel
  
• Care tailored for every stage of life, from families and professionals to those managing long-term conditions.

How much is a private concierge GP health check?

At Concierge Medical, for example, membership fees (as of September 2025) are:

• Individual membership:
  
  • Age 18 – 49: £100 per month
    
  • Age 50 – 74: £120 per month
    
  • Age 75 and over: £140 per month
    
• Couple membership:
  
  • Age 18 – 49: £150 per month
    
  • Age 50 – 74: £180 per month
    
  • Age 75 and over: £210 per month
    

There is no joining fee and no hidden extras.

At first glance, a monthly subscription may look more expensive than a single one-off health check. When you consider that the most comprehensive packages with Bupa, Nuffield, or Circle cost between £970 and £1,119 [1-3], the outstanding value of a concierge GP service becomes clear. 

The value lies not just in the depth of the annual health check (which includes advanced diagnostics, biomarker analysis, cardiovascular, metabolic and hormonal screening, cancer checks, and optional genetic testing) but also in the continuity of care. 

For a similar annual outlay to one comprehensive private health check, Concierge Medical also provides year-round access to a personal GP who will visit you at your convenience, as well as the development of an ongoing preventive health plan that evolves with you.

For those who value privacy, flexibility, and a trusted long-term relationship with their doctor, many find the subscription model represents better value and a more meaningful investment in health.

Summary of Options

There is no single “right” way to arrange a private health check. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and how much continuity you want from your care.

• Large hospital and corporate providers such as Bupa, Nuffield, and Circle are widely available, with clear package structures and fast access. They suit people who want a one-off check-up, though they can feel impersonal and lack ongoing support.
  
• At-home and online testing is convenient and discreet, with services like Bupa’s Be.Healthy at Home offering the ability to complete basic checks without visiting a clinic [3]. These are useful for quick insights but limited in scope, and they often require follow-up with a GP.
  
• NHS Health Checks are free for those aged 40 to 74 without existing conditions, offering a valuable preventive service. They are, however, narrower in focus and may not meet the needs of those looking for more comprehensive screening or greater flexibility.
  
• Concierge GP services provide the most personalised option. For a monthly subscription, members receive annual health checks as part of an ongoing relationship with a named GP, with home visits, 24/7 advice, and continuity of care. This model is more of a long-term investment than a one-off test and is especially valued by those who prioritise discretion, time efficiency, and preventive care.
  

Ultimately, a private health check can be as simple or as comprehensive as you wish. For some, a single appointment at a hospital clinic is enough to provide reassurance. For others, particularly those with demanding schedules or who want continuity with a trusted doctor, concierge medicine offers a level of care that goes far beyond a single assessment.

Concierge Medical’s Coverage

At Concierge Medical, we provide expert care across a wide service area, including Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, the Cotswolds, South Cotswolds, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, and Oxfordshire. 

Whether you prefer to be seen at home or at your workplace, we adapt to your needs. From urgent same-day appointments to in-depth health checks and ongoing preventive support, our team is committed to delivering high-quality care wherever you are within our region.

How to Prepare for a Private Health Assessment

Getting ready for a private health assessment is straightforward, but a little preparation can help you get the most from the experience.

• What to wear: Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, as you may need to change for certain tests such as ECGs or movement assessments. Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, or strenuous exercise just before your appointment, as these can affect results.
  
• What to bring: Bring a list of any medications you take, along with details of your medical history, previous test results, or relevant family history. If you have private medical insurance, keep your policy information handy in case follow-up referrals are required.
  
• Questions to ask: Think about any specific health concerns or symptoms you would like to discuss. This is your opportunity to ask about lifestyle, prevention, or family risk factors.
  

What to Expect During a Private Health Assessment

Private health assessments are designed to be thorough but not intimidating. The length of the appointment varies depending on the provider and the package chosen, but most last between one and three hours. At concierge practices, appointments may be longer and more flexible, ensuring there is plenty of time for discussion.

At most corporate providers, you will see a doctor and sometimes a physiotherapist or health adviser. At a concierge GP practice, you are likely to spend the appointment with your own doctor, who already knows you and can tailor the conversation to your needs.

• Initial consultation: Your medical history and lifestyle will be reviewed in detail, along with any current concerns.
  
• Measurements and checks: Typical assessments include height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, and body fat percentage.
  
• Blood and urine tests: These cover key markers such as cholesterol, glucose, liver and kidney function, thyroid levels, and other biochemistry profiles. Some assessments may include hormone or genetic testing.
  
• Cardiovascular tests: ECGs (resting or exercise) and lung function tests are often included, particularly in comprehensive packages.
  
• Cancer and age-related checks: Depending on your age and risk factors, you may be offered bowel cancer screening, prostate or cervical screening, and breast examinations or mammography.
  
• Functional assessments: Some providers include movement or resilience testing to measure overall physical wellbeing.
  

At the end of the assessment, results may be discussed immediately, with a written report sent shortly afterwards. With larger providers, this is usually within one to two weeks. With a concierge GP, results are explained directly by your doctor, often the same day, and a tailored health plan is agreed together.

The overall goal is not only to understand your current state of health but also to identify risks early, provide reassurance, and develop a plan for living well in the years ahead.

What Happens After a Private Health Check?

A private health check should never be seen as a one-off box-ticking exercise. The real value lies in what happens next—whether that means reassurance, preventive advice, or careful guidance if something needs further attention.

If You Receive a Clean Bill of Health

A positive result brings immediate peace of mind, but it is also an opportunity to be proactive. Rather than simply telling you that you are healthy, a concierge GP will provide tailored advice to help you stay that way. At Concierge Medical, for example, members receive personalised recommendations, access to a 24/7 advice line, and regular reviews whenever they are needed. This means your health is monitored over time, not just captured in a single snapshot.

If Something Is Identified

If an issue is flagged, continuity becomes vital. With corporate providers, you may be left with a standardised report and instructions to follow up elsewhere. By contrast, a concierge service ensures you are not left to navigate the system on your own. At Concierge Medical, members have direct access to their GP by phone or email, so results can be discussed in detail the moment they are available. Our dedicated referrals team then coordinates the next steps, liaising with a trusted network of consultants and experts to arrange private referrals. This ensures your care remains seamless, coordinated, and always under the guidance of a GP who already knows you well.

Why Continuity Matters

Continuity of care is more than a reassuring idea; it has been shown to improve health outcomes in measurable ways. Patients who see the same GP over time have lower mortality rates and fewer hospital admissions compared with those who do not [5]. When combined with the flexibility and preventive focus of concierge medicine, this continuity provides the strongest possible foundation for living well in the long term.

The Bigger Picture

Whether your health check results are reassuring or identify something requiring closer attention, the follow-up is what transforms the experience. With concierge care, you have a named GP at your side, a direct line for urgent advice, and a proactive plan for staying ahead of future problems. It is this combination of medical expertise, personal familiarity, and seamless coordination that turns a routine assessment into an ongoing safeguard for your health.

Conclusion

A private health check can mean many different things depending on where you go and what you want to achieve. For some, a straightforward appointment with a large provider in a city hospital offers the reassurance they need. Others may prefer the accessibility of an NHS health check, or the speed and simplicity of an at-home testing kit. Each option has its place.

Where the concierge model stands apart is in turning a health check into more than a single event. It becomes part of an ongoing relationship, centred on prevention, continuity, and care tailored to your life. With direct access to your GP, home or workplace visits, and seamless coordination of referrals, the experience is designed around convenience, discretion, and long-term peace of mind.

For those based in the Cotswolds and surrounding areas, Concierge Medical provides this style of care across Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and the South Cotswolds. If you are considering concierge GP services in these regions, call us on 0808 506 4103 or email info@conciergemedical.co.uk. Our friendly team would be delighted to discuss how we can support your health and wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for a private health check?

Most people are eligible to book a private health check with corporate providers or independent clinics. The NHS Health Check, by contrast, is only available to those aged 40–74 without pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease [4]. Concierge GP services typically have no restrictions on age or existing medical conditions, making them suitable for individuals and families across all stages of life.

How do I book an appointment?

Large providers usually allow you to book online or by phone. NHS health checks are arranged through your local GP surgery if you meet the criteria. Concierge Medical members simply contact their named GP directly, with appointments scheduled at times and locations that suit them.

What does a private health check include?

The content varies by provider. Corporate providers usually offer a set menu ranging from basic checks (blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI) to comprehensive packages including cancer screening, cardiovascular testing, and lifestyle assessment. NHS checks focus mainly on cardiovascular risks and diabetes. Concierge Medical takes a broader approach, with annual assessments including detailed biomarker analysis, cardiovascular, metabolic and hormonal screening, age-appropriate cancer checks, and optional genetic testing.

Can I have a check-up at home or do I need to go to a clinic?

Most hospital-based providers require you to attend their clinics. Some offer virtual or at-home testing kits, but these are limited in scope. Concierge GP services provide the flexibility of being seen at home, at work, or in the practice itself, offering privacy, discretion, and convenience.

Do I need private medical insurance?

Insurance is not required for a private health check. You can self-fund with corporate providers or pay through membership with a concierge practice. If further investigations or specialist treatment are needed, insurance can often help with costs. At Concierge Medical, the referrals team liaises with insurers and private specialists to coordinate care seamlessly.

What if something abnormal is found?

With corporate providers, you will usually receive a written report and be advised to follow up with your GP or a specialist. The NHS will arrange referrals through your GP if needed. Concierge GP services handle this differently: your doctor will explain the results directly, provide a clear action plan, and arrange referrals to trusted consultants, remaining involved at every step.

Can my results be shared with specialists if needed?

Yes. With all providers, results can be shared with specialists or your GP on request. Concierge Medical goes further by managing this process for you. Our dedicated referrals team liaises with a network of respected consultants to ensure your healthcare journey is coordinated and efficient, saving you the stress of organising it yourself.

References

1. https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/health-assessments/ [accessed 5 September 2025]. 
2. https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/private-health-check-assessments?tabId=essential-health-assessment [accessed 5 September 2025]. 
3. https://www.bupa.co.uk/health/health-assessments [accessed 5 September 2025]. 
4. NHS England. NHS Health Check. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/checks-tests-and-scans/nhs-health-check/ [accessed 5 September 2025].
5. Pereira Gray, D.J., Sidaway-Lee, K., White, E., Thorne, A., & Evans, P.H. (2018). Continuity of care with doctors – a matter of life and death? BMJ Open, 8(6): e021161. Available at: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/8/6/e021161 

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products and methods mentioned are not a substitute for professional medical advice from a trained healthcare specialist. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Use of the information and products discussed is at your own risk.