Private GP service launches amid rising demand for appointments

As demand for GP appointments continues to rise across Devon and Somerset, a new private medical service is offering same-week access and longer consultations.

Peninsula Private Medical operates from the purpose-built Waterloo Court Health and Wellbeing Hub near Uffculme, bringing together experienced clinicians and a range of health and wellbeing professionals under one roof.

The clinic provides core GP services similar to those available through the NHS, including help with forms, certificates and medicals, as well as planned care such as health checks, while offering extended appointment times, ease of access and clear follow-up. Patients remain registered with their NHS GP, with Peninsula designed to complement existing NHS care and guide patients back into NHS pathways where appropriate.

Lead clinician Dr Charlie Brough is an experienced GP with specialist interests in menopause, women’s health and skin cancer. She said: “We prioritise giving patients the time they need to be heard and to practise truly patient-centred care. Our focus is on helping people understand their options and agree a clear plan for what happens next.”

Menopause support is one area that particularly benefits from this approach; longer appointments, continuity and clear information enable myth-busting, education and discussion of evidence-based treatment options for women who often feel unheard.

Alongside women’s health services, Peninsula offers full-body mole checks as part of a wider focus on skin health, as well as a dedicated skin surgery and minor procedures service led by GP Dr Billy Willcock, who has extensive hospital dermatology experience, including many years working within the Dermatology Department at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. The service focuses on benign skin lesion treatment and procedures for common lumps and bumps that can be difficult for patients to access through NHS routes.

Peninsula was founded by Tina Teague, James Davies and Tim Davies, all of whom have backgrounds in NHS management and operations. Tina said: “Demand for GP appointments continues to rise and many people feel rushed. Our aim is to offer an ethical private option that provides time and continuity while remaining closely aligned with NHS principles.”

Appointments are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, with extended consultation times and written summaries provided after each visit.

Being based within the Waterloo Court Health and Wellbeing Hub also enables a more holistic approach, with patients able to be signposted to other professionals on site, including physiotherapists, counsellors and nutrition specialists where appropriate.

Peninsula Private Medical is currently welcoming new patients from across Devon, Somerset and surrounding areas.