A Step-By-Step Guide to What Happens Before, During and After a Doctorcall Private GP Home Visit
If you have never had a GP at your kitchen table, it can feel a little strange at first. Letting someone into your home, especially when you are not at your best, takes trust. We understand that.
From the moment we arrive, we focus on the small things that help you feel at ease.
We greet you by name, say hello to your children and pets if you have them, check where you would like to sit, and move at a pace that feels right for you.
On darker winter evenings, when you may already be tired from the day, we keep things calm, clear and steady.
This guide takes you through a Doctorcall home visit step by step. You will see what we ask before we come, what happens during the consultation, how decisions are made together, and what support you have afterwards.
You will also see how our visiting GPs work closely with our 24-hour clinical team, so help remains available even after the doctor has left.
By the end, you will know what to expect from a Doctorcall private GP home visit, and why many people find care at home simpler and more reassuring than visiting a clinic.
When a Home Visit Helps
A GP home visit can be helpful for many short-notice medical concerns, particularly during colder months when winter illnesses are common and travelling while unwell feels harder.
Common reasons patients book a Doctorcall home visit
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Chest infection
- Runny nose
- Cold
- Headache
- Prescription
- UTI
- Flu
- Ear infection
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Rashes
If a hands-on assessment is not required, we may suggest starting with a phone or video consultation. This allows you to receive medical advice quickly and safely, with the option to move to a home visit if needed.
Before You Book
If you are unsure whether your symptoms need a home visit, our 24/7 team can advise. In some cases, it may be more appropriate to begin with a phone or video consultation.
What we ask for
- Patient name and age
- Contact details
- Your address and access details
- A brief description of symptoms
Telephone interpreters are available in more than 240 languages if needed.
Who will visit
Doctorcall works with experienced GPs who provide home visits day and night, including weekends and holidays. All doctors are fully qualified and experienced in urgent and primary care.
Arrival and Settling In
For London visits, you receive live ETA updates so you know when your doctor is on the way.
On arrival, your GP introduces themselves, checks how you would like to be addressed, and asks where you feel most comfortable. A living room or kitchen table often works well, but any quiet, well-lit space is suitable.
Before starting the examination, we agree your priorities together. What is worrying you most and what you would like help with today.
Helpful things to have nearby
- A short note of symptoms and timings
- Any temperature or oxygen readings
- Your regular medications
- Recent letters or test results
The Assessment
Listening first
Your GP begins by listening carefully. Understanding how symptoms started, how they have changed, and how they are affecting you is key to making safe decisions.
Focused examination
The examination is guided by what you have told us and may include checks of temperature, throat, ears, chest, abdomen, skin, joints, blood pressure, pulse and oxygen levels.
Clear explanations
Throughout the visit, your doctor explains what they are checking and why. Findings are summarised in clear language, followed by sensible options for next steps.
Agreeing a plan
Decisions are made together. Your GP explains what to do next, what to watch for, and when to get further help if things change.
Medication, Prescriptions and Practicalities
One of the benefits of a home visit is being able to move from assessment to treatment quickly. Our doctors often carry commonly requested medication, so in many cases you can start treatment straight away when it is clinically appropriate.
If the best option is something that cannot be supplied during the visit, your GP can issue an electronic prescription. If helpful, our team can assist with checking local pharmacy stock, so you can avoid unnecessary journeys.
Prescriptions are provided at no extra charge. Any drugs or tests provided during the consultation are charged for, and costs are explained clearly.
Letters and forms
Work and travel letters can be provided when clinically appropriate. School notes and insurance forms can also be prepared when needed. If you have a longer form, it helps to send it in advance so the visit stays focused and you avoid being charged for extra time.
Phone or Video Consultations
We prioritise home visits, but phone and video consultations are available when a remote appointment is suitable. These are queued in the usual way and can often be offered sooner because doctors may complete them between visits.
Video consultation
You receive an SMS with the video link and the time to join. At the scheduled time, the system connects the doctor and patient automatically.
Telephone consultation
We call the patient and then connect the doctor to the call. Telephone consultations typically last around 20 minutes.
Tests, Referrals and Next Steps
If blood tests, swabs, imaging or specialist referrals are recommended, your GP explains the options, timelines and costs. Arrangements are made promptly, and results are shared clearly.
After the Visit
Before leaving, your GP provides a clear summary of what was discussed, including the working diagnosis, treatment advice, tests or referrals arranged, and what to do if symptoms change.
If you need further support, follow-up options can include another visit, a referral, or a remote consultation.
How Home Visits Work for Different People
Families
Being seen at home can be easier for children, especially after disrupted sleep or during school holidays. Familiar surroundings help children relax, and parents receive clear guidance on what to watch for and when to call again.
Older adults
Visits take account of mobility, stairs, carers and daily routines. Medication reviews are handled carefully, and small adjustments can make a meaningful difference to comfort and safety.
Busy professionals and travellers
Consultations are focused and efficient. Letters or documentation can be arranged promptly, and follow-up by phone or video helps avoid unnecessary travel.
Membership and Ongoing Support
Doctorcall Concierge membership provides ongoing access to private GPs for people who want consistent support and peace of mind.
Members can speak to a GP by phone or video at any time, wherever they are, and arrange home visits when a face-to-face assessment is needed. Each year, membership includes a comprehensive at-home health check.
Family options are available with reduced rates.
Conclusion
A Doctorcall home visit is designed to feel calm, practical and respectful. Your doctor comes to you, listens carefully, examines you in familiar surroundings, and agrees a clear plan before leaving. Prescriptions, letters, tests and referrals can be arranged without unnecessary delay, and further support is available if needed.
You can book a one-off visit or speak to our team about membership. Our 24/7 team is ready to help you choose the right option and arrange care when you need it.
Book a Doctorcall home visit
Ready to book? Request a private GP home visit with Doctorcall, day or night.