Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

posted 23rd June 2025

Posted 2 days ago

By Darren Lewis

Knowledge Hub
Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

With NHS GP wait times stretched and demand growing, UK consumers are increasingly seeking private digital GP services. These allow fast, convenient access to qualified doctors via phone or video—ideal for urgent advice, repeat prescriptions, or specialist referrals. This guide explores what top insurers offer today, helping you find the best match for your needs.

What You'll Find in This Guide

  • 24/7 digital GP access: Which providers offer round‑the‑clock service?
  • Appointment options: Standards for video and phone availability.
  • Key services: Prescriptions, referrals, mental-health support.
  • Extra perks: Additional support like second opinions or lifestyle advice.

Understanding Digital GP Services with Health Insurance

Digital GP services are now a standard feature in many UK private health insurance policies, offering a more accessible and flexible way to see a doctor without the usual NHS delays. These services typically include virtual appointments via video or phone, the ability to receive prescriptions electronically, get referrals to specialists, and sometimes even access mental health or lifestyle support.

Most are delivered through dedicated mobile apps or web portals and are often available 24/7, making them ideal for busy schedules or health issues that arise outside traditional GP hours. While the core benefits are similar, the quality, speed, and range of services can vary significantly depending on your insurer.

Let’s take a look at how some of the leading health insurers — including AXA Health, Aviva, Bupa, The Exeter, WPA, and Vitality — stack up when it comes to digital GP services.

Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

Aviva DIgital GP

  • Service: Aviva Digital GP (powered by Square Health/Teladoc)
  • Availability: 24/7 video & text consultations; same-day appointments often within 30 minutes
  • Offerings: NHS-qualified GPs, private prescriptions, open referrals, menopause support
Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

AXA Health Digital GP Services

  • Service: Doctor at Hand (via Doctor Care Anywhere)
  • Availability: GPs 24/7; Advanced Clinical Practitioners 8 am–10 pm, 365 days a year
  • Offerings: Video/phone GP consultations, prescriptions, referrals, medical records shared with NHS GP

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Bupa Digital GP Services

  • Service: Bupa Digital GP / Blua (via My Bupa app)
  • Availability: Video/audio GP and nurse support 24/7, weekends, bank holidays
  • Offerings: Symptom checker, private prescriptions, referrals.
Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

The Exeter Digital GP

  • Service: HealthWise app
  • Availability: Unlimited remote GP consultations via phone or video
  • Offerings: GP appointments, repeat prescriptions with no admin fees, second opinions, lifestyle, nutrition & mental-health support (6 sessions each/year)
Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

WPA Remote GP Services

  • Service: WPA Remote GP Services
  • Availability: 24/7 helpline with video/telephone consultation
  • Offerings: Private prescriptions, onward referrals, health information, app booking and messaging features
Comparing Health Insurance: Private Digital GP Services

Vitality GP Service

  • Service: Vitality GP (powered by Livi)
  • Availability: Video consultations within 48 hours; 24/7 advice line
  • Offerings: Unlimited video appointments, prescriptions, self-referrals (physio, CBT), instant claims approval; symptom checker, diagnostics and skin analysis

Private GP Services at a Glance

Private Digital GP Services Comparison table

Key Takeaway

All major health insurers offer 24/7 Private GP access via phone or video.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're seeking 24/7 medical advice, on-the-go prescriptions, or referrals without NHS delays, private GP access can be a real game-changer for your health and wellbeing.

However, it's important to recognise that digital GP services aren't a full replacement for in-person care. Some conditions may still require face-to-face assessment or access to diagnostic facilities not covered by your digital appointment. Additionally, the quality of service can vary depending on the insurer’s technology, network, and appointment availability.

That said, when used alongside the NHS, private digital GP access offers a convenient complement to your overall healthcare—especially if you value speed, flexibility, and control over how and when you receive care.

How We Can Help?
Choosing the best health insurance can feel overwhelming—but that’s where we come in. At Compare My Health Insurance, we make it easy to understand your options and find a policy that fits your needs, especially if quick, convenient online GP appointments are a priority.

We help you:

✅ Compare leading insurers offering 24/7 virtual GP services
✅ Tailor your search based on features that you're actually interested in
✅ Get free, expert guidance from FCA-regulated brokers

We’re proud to be rated excellent by our users—and with the help of our trusted partners, we're committed to helping you find the right cover without the stress.

Sources: Aviva Health, AXA Health, Bupa, The Exeter, WPA, Vitality

Please note that any information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Accurate as of 6/25.

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