Question: Why should I need to call a GP-line family doctor?

Answer: Often just for advice and friendly reassurance, perhaps because you're worrying about an initial diagnosis and would value a second opinion.

Maybe you're concerned about the health of your partner, son or daughter, or suffering side-effects from prescribed medication. Although worried, you may feel the matter is too trivial to trouble your doctor- or may even feel too embarrassed to talk to them!

Perhaps you might need to broach the subject of your fears in coping with stress or bereavement, or simply need medical travel advice.

Question: Why can't my own GP answer such needs?

Answer: Although many people don't like to bother their doctor it's a lot more healthy for your mind and body to air your concerns straight away.

However small the matter, you ideally need advice or reassurance quickly and contacting your doctor is not always an easy matter. Telephone lines can be constantly engaged and appointments can rarely be made for the same day.

Taking time off work is also a consideration and contacting a doctor at midnight is not an easy matter either. Whatever the time, or wherever you are, GP-line provides the perfect solution to such needs.

Question: Does that mean GP-line can actually give me prompt medical advice at 2am on Christmas Day- or Tuesday lunchtime when I'm touring in Thailand?

Answer: Yes, as long as you have access to a landline or a mobile telephone. From your initial call one of our family doctors will promptly return your call to provide advice, 24 hours a day- 365 days of the year, anywhere in the world!

Question: Are there any restrictions or limits on the number or length of calls I can make?

Answer: No, you can make calls as often as you need. Your brief initial call to our GP-line Operator will be charged to your phone account at the relevant international rate if you are abroad, but will only be at local rates if calling within the UK. Naturally, our doctor's consultancy call to you will then be at our expense.

Question: Will I find it difficult to talk about very personal matters over the 'phone and is the conversation strictly confidential?

Answer: All our doctors are practicing GPs with special training in telephone consultation techniques. They have a sympathetic approach and clear communication skills. Every call is treated within the strictest ethical practice of Doctor/Patient confidentiality.

Question: Surely a diagnosis cannot be provided over the telephone?

Answer: Doctors, unlike nurses, can provide a diagnosis over the telephone as well as recommending an appropriate course of action and/or medication.

Question: How does GP-line manage to answer and return calls so quickly?

Answer: We have a 24-hour call station of medically-trained Operators with continual access to a pool of some 200 fully-qualified UK family doctors, each ready to provide advice to GP-line Members around the clock.

Question: Can GP-line assist in the case of an accident or emergency?

Answer: Remember, GP-line is not designed as an alternative to normal Emergency Services. You will need to use common sense and discretion before calling, but our doctors will provide clear and appropriate advice about an injury or sudden illness should you decide to call.

Question: What if I'm made to feel my worries were trivial or unfounded, or that I should have consulted my own doctor?

Answer: This will not happen. None of our doctors are judgemental and will always answer your questions without you feeling under pressure. They understand that sometimes it's easier to talk over the 'phone, rather than spending time trying to arrange an appointment which may conflict with family life or work schedules.

Question: How confident can I be in a GP-line doctor's qualifications?

Answer: All GP-line doctors are highly-regarded UK practitioners, fully qualified experts who command respect and confidence in their colleagues and patients alike.

Each doctor is independently indemnified and registered with the UK General Medical Council and has then been assessed and approved by our GP-line Company Medical Director to ensure only the highest standard of customer service.

In the event of a complaint an ethical Reporting Procedure is also in place through our Harley Street Head Office.