Former surgeon, Dr Amber Kennard, is a woman with vision. In 2006 she created the first in a chain of integrated private family healthcare clinics – housing GPs, dentists, specialists and therapists, including alternative ones like reflexology, baby massage and sports physiotherapy, all under one roof. So how did she come up with the idea for integrated health care? “I was always being asked by friends to recommend specialists, such as dermatologists, and thought it would be a good idea to have a one-stop shop offering affordable private healthcare, where all the specialists were thoroughly vetted.” In the US and Australia there is much more emphasis on ‘prevention’ than in the UK and Dr Kennard felt that it was time for a more pro-active approach to health where people would be encouraged to have health checks. “Rather than having a one-off private health check by a doctor you don’t know, it’s much better to have it done by someone who knows you and will also follow up any concerns and explain everything to you.”

Besides offering vetted specialists and therapists, the Westover aims to go back to basics offering an old-fashioned family GP service. “The core value of GP healthcare in this country used to be one where you would see the same family doctor at each visit rather than a different GP each time. We’ve made the Westover as family friendly as possible,” enthuses Dr Kennard. Indeed, if parents take out dental cover their children get free dental check-ups until age 13. “We even do tooth brushing classes for children!”

Dr Kennard’s 13-month old son, Alexander, inspired her to start a club for parents and children called the The Little Westies in Wandsworth and Chiswick. ”We have a lovely soft play area, a café and classes for children such as music and art as well as antenatal and first aid classes.” You don’t have to be a member to visit.

There are now four clinics in the Westover group: Brompton Cross, Wandsworth, Notting Hill and Chiswick, and Dr Kennard is planning to open a total of 10 clinics in the London area. “Our aim is to have clinics in the City too. The only thing stopping us is finding properties.” So, watch this space. Medical membership costs £45/month and dental £22/month. See thewestover.com for more information.