GP Consultation Types: Textual, Telephone, Video and Face to Face
GP consultations can take different forms depending on your symptoms, risk factors, and what is needed to assess you safely. This page explains the main types of GP consultations, when each is appropriate, and how GPs decide which format is safest and most effective.
Understanding consultation types can help you choose the right appointment and know what to expect.
These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.
What are the main GP consultation types?
In primary care, consultations usually fall into four main categories:
- Textual consultations
- Telephone consultations
- Video consultations
- Face to face GP appointments
Each has advantages and limitations. A GP will always prioritise patient safety over convenience when recommending the most appropriate format.
Textual GP consultations
Textual GP consultations are often used as a first step. They allow patients to describe symptoms, concerns, and questions in their own time.
Textual consultations are commonly used to:
- Outline symptoms and timelines
- Review medical history and medications
- Request advice, follow up or fit notes
- Help GP’s triage a certain health concern
They are not suitable for urgent symptoms or situations where further history or examination is required.
Telephone GP consultations
Telephone consultations allow direct discussion with a GP and are suitable for many common concerns.
Telephone appointments may be appropriate for:
- Acute illnesses such as infections where examination is not always required
- Medication reviews
- Mental health discussions
- Follow up of test results
- Advice and safety netting
A GP may recommend escalation to video or face to face assessment if concerns arise during the call.
Video GP consultations
Video consultations allow visual assessment alongside conversation. This can be helpful for:
- Skin concerns
- Mobility and movement issues
- Breathing pattern observation
- Mental health assessment
- Follow up discussions where visual cues are useful
Video consultations still have limitations and cannot replace physical examination where this is clinically needed.
Face to face GP appointments
Face to face GP appointments allow physical examination and are essential in some situations.
A face to face appointment is often recommended when:
- Examination is required to assess severity
- Symptoms suggest a potentially serious condition
- There are red flag features
- Remote assessment is not safe or sufficient
- Procedures or investigations are needed
Your GP will advise if face to face assessment is the safest next step.
How GPs decide which consultation type is appropriate
GPs do not choose consultation types randomly. Decisions are based on:
- Your symptoms and how long they have been present
- Severity and progression
- Medical history and risk factors
- Need for examination or observations
- Safety considerations
In some cases, care starts remotely and progresses to face to face assessment if required.
Can my consultation type change?
Yes. It is common for consultations to change format.
Examples include:
- An online or telephone consultation leading to a face to face appointment
- A video consultation clarifying that remote management is appropriate
- Follow up appointments being completed remotely after initial assessment
This flexibility allows care to be both safe and efficient.
Private GP consultation types at AccessGP
AccessGP provides remote private GP consultations, delivered safely by experienced UK GPs.
AccessGP offers:
- Telephone consultations
- Video consultations
All consultations are conducted remotely.
What if a face to face assessment is needed?
In some situations, a GP may determine that a face to face examination is required to assess your symptoms safely. In these cases:
- The GP will explain why remote assessment is not appropriate
- You will be advised on the most suitable next step, such as attending your NHS GP, an urgent treatment centre, or emergency care if needed
- Clear safety netting will be provided
This approach ensures patient safety while remaining transparent about the limits of remote care.
When to seek GP review
You may wish to speak to a GP if:
- You are unsure which consultation type is appropriate
- Your symptoms are new, persistent, or worsening
- You need advice, reassurance, or a treatment plan
- You have test results that need explanation
- You are concerned about whether examination is required
Related articles
- Urgent care, emergency care, and when to seek help
- GP referrals explained: routine referrals and private referrals
- What to expect after a hospital referral or outpatient appointment
Further Reading and Hub Links
Visit our Understanding Your Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If you are unsure which type of consultation is suitable for your symptoms, a GP can help assess your concerns and advise on the safest next step. In an emergency, always call 999 or seek urgent help from your closest Emergency Department.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 31 January 2026