Can't get an NHS GP appointment in Hertfordshire? Your options

Can I see a private GP instead?

Yes. You can book a private GP directly, with no referral, and it doesn't affect your NHS registration.

At SABA Health Clinic, just off the A120 near Bishop's Stortford, you'll see a GMC-registered GP face to face for 30 minutes. Appointments are usually the same or next working day, Monday to Friday, and cost £135. Call reception on 01279 874388 to check today's availability. There's free parking outside. If you have private medical insurance or a health plan through work, check whether your policy covers private GP appointments.

Thirty minutes gives you time to explain properly, be examined and leave with a plan. If you need tests, a referral or a fit note, the SABA GP can arrange it if it's clinically appropriate. With your consent, we send a summary to your NHS GP, so your records stay joined up.

Tip: If you've been putting off seeing someone, note down when it started and what makes it better or worse. It helps us get to the answer quicker.

What are my free NHS options?

These NHS options are free.

Would you rather be seen in person soon? At SABA, a private GP appointment in Bishop's Stortford is £135 for 30 minutes, usually the same or next working day. Call reception on 01279 874388 to check today's availability.

Which option should I choose?

Choose based on how soon you want to be seen and what the problem is.

• You want to see a GP soon, face to face: book a private GP appointment. At SABA, that's 30 minutes for £135, usually the same or next working day (call 01279 874388 to check).
• Your problem can wait a few days and you'd prefer the NHS: send your NHS GP surgery an online request.
• A sore throat, sinusitis or, for women aged 16 to 64, a urine infection: a pharmacist may be able to treat you free.
• You feel unwell now and can't wait for an appointment: use NHS 111.

When should I get urgent help?

Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency, such as a suspected stroke, heart attack or serious accident. That's the advice on the NHS website. Don't drive yourself to A&E; ask someone to take you, or call an ambulance.

The nearest A&E is at Princess Alexandra Hospital, Hamstel Road, Harlow. It's open 24 hours for people aged 16 and over. For a child, call 999 or 111.

How SABA can help

We're a doctor-founded clinic at Chapel House, Thremhall Park, Start Hill. You'll get 30 unhurried minutes with a GMC-registered GP, usually the same or next working day, with free parking and no referral. We're CQC registered and rated 5.0 on Google.