Gordons Chemists launches private GP services across Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s pharmacy chain Gordons Chemists has partnered with private healthcare provider Duality Healthcare to launch a network of GP clinics across its 55 branches. The initiative combines in-person consultations with virtual appointments, creating the first hybrid private healthcare model of its kind in the region.

The first clinic is scheduled to open in Derry/Londonderry in early December, offering a full range of face-to-face GP services. Four additional branches will host virtual GP hubs as part of the first phase, with further locations planned for 2026.

The partnership integrates Duality’s medical team within Gordons Chemists’ locations to provide same-day appointments, direct referral pathways, and instant prescription collection at pharmacy counters. Patients can access private virtual consultations with Duality clinicians, while the face-to-face services aim to reduce waiting times and improve convenience.

John Kernohan, chief executive of Gordons Chemists, highlighted that the collaboration leverages the pharmacy chain’s expertise to deliver a seamless, connected healthcare experience. Duality Healthcare CEO John McEvoy described the project as a major step in linking community pharmacy with primary care services through innovation and collaboration.

The launch follows the introduction of a £72 annual prescription fee across all branches, reflecting rising costs and underfunding. The new hybrid clinics aim to maintain accessible private healthcare while adapting to the evolving demands of patients in Northern Ireland.

The initiative establishes a blueprint for integrating retail pharmacy networks with private medical services, demonstrating how traditional healthcare channels can be enhanced to meet modern patient needs.

Discover how this collaboration is reshaping access to private healthcare across Northern Ireland in the full story.