In recent years, a growing number of Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the UK have begun exploring career paths outside the National Health Service (NHS). According to NHS Digital’s Allied Health Professions Workforce Statistics 2024, over 7% of registered AHPs are now working beyond NHS settings, including in private practice and voluntary organisations.
This shift reflects a broader desire among healthcare professionals for greater autonomy, work-life balance, and the ability to design person-centred services.
This blog outlines key considerations for AHPs thinking about private practice and offers a practical roadmap for a successful transition.
NHS vs. Private Practice: Key Similarities and Differences
While both sectors are committed to patient care and upholding clinical standards, they differ significantly in structure, delivery, and professional experience.
| Category | NHS Employment | Private Practice |
| 1. Salary | Fixed via NHS pay bands | Variable, based on caseload and service fees |
| 2. Supervision | Team-based and formal | Peer-led or independent |
| 3. Training | Funded CPD via organisational programmes | Self-directed, often self-funded |
| 4. Service Delivery | Guided by NHS frameworks and population targets | Tailored, holistic, and person-centred |
| 5. Work-Life Balance | Structured shifts and duties | Flexible, practitioner-led scheduling |
Private practice offers the freedom to innovate and personalise services, while NHS employment provides stability, structure, and multidisciplinary team support.
Understanding the Shift from NHS to Private Practice
The shift from NHS to private practice involves moving outside NHS-commissioned services to deliver care independently, in private clinics, or within multidisciplinary teams. While patient care remains central, allied health professionals must also handle business responsibilities such as scheduling, billing, marketing, and maintaining compliance with HCPC standards, GDPR, and clinical governance expectations.
Why More AHPs Are Considering Private Practice
More allied health professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, and speech and language therapists, are exploring private practice for greater autonomy, flexibility, and holistic patient care. This shift allows AHPs to shape clinical services, focus on specialist areas beyond NHS frameworks, and reduce organisational constraints. It reflects evolving AHP roles and aligns with NHS England and Health Education England initiatives promoting integrated care and new ways of working within the healthcare system.
Critical Factors to Weigh Before Leaving the NHS
Transitioning from a structured NHS role to private practice is a significant step for any allied health professional. While it offers autonomy and flexibility, there are crucial factors to consider before leaping.
Loss of NHS Benefits
Leaving the NHS means forfeiting valuable employment benefits such as employer pension contributions, paid annual leave, maternity or sick pay, and access to Health Education England-funded CPD programmes. AHPs in private practice must plan for these gaps by budgeting for time off and investing in their professional development.
Income Variability
Unlike the fixed NHS pay scale, private earnings fluctuate based on patient flow, caseload, and referral consistency. AHPs must set realistic pricing, manage overheads, and build financial buffers to navigate leaner periods in the early stages of business.
Professional Isolation
Working independently can lead to reduced peer interaction and loss of team-based supervision. AHPs should actively engage with professional bodies, attend CPD events, and build referral networks to stay clinically connected.
Regulatory and Legal Compliance
Private AHPs remain fully accountable to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They must ensure compliance with HCPC standards, maintain accurate records, follow GDPR guidelines, and secure professional indemnity insurance without institutional support.
The Process and Documentation Required for Transition
Moving into private practice requires thoughtful planning and regulatory readiness. AHPs should ensure the following:
- Business Registration
Register as a sole trader or limited company with HMRC. - HCPC Registration
Maintain an active registration with the Health and Care Professions Council. - Professional Indemnity Insurance
Obtain coverage that complies with HCPC’s performance and ethics standards. - Enhanced DBS Check
An enhanced DBS check is essential for working with vulnerable adults or children, and Verovian Agency is happy to assist you with the application process. - GDPR Compliance
Draft data protection and patient consent policies for the lawful handling of patient information. - Marketing and Admin Tools
Create a website, secure booking system, and standardised clinical documentation.
Support from professional bodies such as the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), RCOT, and RCSLT can help AHPs navigate legal and business requirements.
Challenges Involved in the Transition
Though rewarding, the move into private practice can present several challenges:
- Inconsistent referrals and caseloads: Start part-time or join platforms that match AHPs with clients to build stability.
- Increased administrative responsibilities: Invest in digital tools to manage bookings, billing, records, and evaluations.
- Confidence and identity shifts: Seek mentorship, peer supervision, or business coaching tailored to healthcare professionals.
Staying connected to professional groups and attending CPD events will support both competence and confidence in the new environment.
Tips for a Successful Career in Private Practice
To build a sustainable and impactful private practice, AHPs should:
- Clarify your clinical focus and define your service offering.
- Set clear pricing that reflects your experience and overheads.
- Use secure digital systems for records, communication, and compliance
- Market your practice through a website, social media, and referral partnerships
- Join AHP networks for support, supervision, and development opportunities
- Monitor outcomes using patient feedback and service data
Success requires both clinical excellence and strategic thinking across business and healthcare domains.
Conclusion
Private practice provides a compelling pathway for allied health professionals who seek to redefine their roles, innovate in service delivery, and take greater ownership of their careers. While the transition from NHS employment demands careful planning, it offers flexibility, purpose, and the ability to shape care at an individual level.
Ready to Take the Leap?
Verovian Allied Healthcare Recruitment Agency supports AHPs ready to explore roles beyond traditional NHS frameworks. Whether you're a dietitian, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist, we connect you with private sector opportunities that align with your goals, values, and clinical strengths.
Join our network of forward-thinking healthcare professionals today. Let’s build your future together.
