Free GP Clinic Urges Fellow Doctors to Follow Its Lead

A GP surgery in Jersey is challenging the norm by offering free appointments and urging other practices to follow suit.

Windsor Medical Practice has added 1,000 additional appointment slots and removed patient fees, saying the move is aimed at easing financial pressure and improving access to healthcare.

Dr Jane Holloran, a GP at the surgery, said the decision was made in response to the growing cost-of-living crisis, emphasising that the government subsidy of £50.28 per appointment is sufficient to sustain the model.

“We want to promote this approach across Jersey,” said Dr Holloran. “Everyone should be able to see a GP without the added stress of worrying whether they can afford it.”

The practice has no plans to request further government funding and says it doesn’t expect any. Dr Holloran noted that an increase in government support in 2024 has made it more feasible to offer services at no cost, including quarterly health checks for patients.

She also hinted at the possibility of expanding by acquiring other surgeries in the future, depending on how much demand grows for free appointments.

Acknowledging current economic uncertainty, Dr Holloran added: “We're living in a time of financial instability, and the cost of living is likely to keep rising—especially with global developments like Trump’s tariff policies. Our patients shouldn’t have to choose between heating, eating, or getting medical care.”