When you think about a general practitioner’s salary, you might imagine a cushy paycheck for relatively regular hours. But the reality is much more nuanced. After 11 years in practice, I’ve learned that the income and lifestyle of a GP can vary significantly depending on where and how you choose to work. Here’s a breakdown of my experience, including the highs and lows of working as a self-employed doctor.
Why I Chose Private Practice ?
Six years ago, I made the decision to leave a salaried position at a larger clinic to start my own practice in a small town. I grew up in this area, so when the local mayor offered to subsidize my office rent—covering a €550 monthly fee—I jumped at the chance.
Before this, I worked in a busy medical center with four GPs and two specialists. While it was great for professional collaboration, the high-pressure environment left me burned out. Late evenings, overwhelming patient loads, and constant interruptions made it clear I needed a change. Now, I work independently, which has given me more control over my schedule and a much better work-life balance.
A Day in the Life of a Self-Employed GP
These days, I work 40 to 45 hours per week, seeing patients from 9 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m.. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I offer walk-in consultations, which often bring patients from neighboring towns where there’s a shortage of GPs. On average, I see 15 to 18 patients per day, which allows me to take my time and provide thorough care—a priority, especially since 80% of my patients are seniors.
While I miss the diversity of patients I saw at the group practice—children, teens, working professionals—my current setup has its own rewards. Building long-term relationships with elderly patients has taught me a lot about compassionate care and the importance of listening.
The Financial Side
One of the biggest changes since going solo has been my income. I earn around €7,300 per month after paying social charges like URSSAF. That’s roughly €1,000 less than I made in my previous salaried role. However, this difference is offset by the fact that I no longer pay rent for my office and have more flexibility in how I structure my work.
Could I earn more? Absolutely. By increasing my patient load or taking fewer vacations, my income would rise. But I value the time I spend with each patient and prefer to avoid a conveyor-belt approach to medicine. At €26.50 per consultation, my focus remains on quality over quantity, even if it means earning less.
Managing Overheads
Running a private practice does come with added responsibilities. Besides social charges, I pay for utilities, software subscriptions, and a tele-secretary service that handles my appointment scheduling. The tele-secretary costs me around €500 per month, but it’s worth every cent to avoid interruptions during consultations.
What Do GPs Earn on Average?
According to a 2017 study by France’s DREES, general practitioners generate an average of €92,000 in annual revenue. However, this figure depends heavily on factors like patient volume, practice location, and additional expenses. Rural GPs like me often have fewer overhead costs, while those in urban centers may face higher rents and competition.
Finding Balance
After years of navigating the medical field, I’ve come to appreciate the balance I’ve struck between professional fulfillment and personal life. While the income may not be as high as it could be, the ability to control my schedule and spend time with family is priceless.
Being a GP isn’t just about earning a paycheck; it’s about forming meaningful connections with patients and building a career that aligns with your values. If you’re considering this path, know that the rewards go beyond the numbers on your payslip.
