Planning to move to the UK? Today, BACCOM has gathered essential information about General Practitioner (GP) just for you. We'll explore the world of GP together, covering everything from registration processes to helpful tips and tricks. So, without further ado, let's jump right in!
First, let's get to know the National Health Service, or NHS, before talking about GP and the GP surgery registration process.
What is the NHS?
The National Health Service (NHS) is the United Kingdom's primary healthcare system, funded by the government to support healthcare facilities known as GP surgeries. It offers free medical services to all citizens, including international students holding a study visa lasting longer than 6 months. So, if you're here for an extended period, you'll have access to free healthcare services through the NHS, just like British citizens, be it for routine check-ups or emergency situations!
Here are the services provided by the NHS that international students will receive :
Consultations with doctors for advice and treatment on various physical and mental health conditions.
Accident and emergency services.
Diagnosis and treatment services for sexually transmitted infections.
Eligibility for COVID-19 vaccination (if needed).
Dental services, which are not free but offered at a special rate.
The services provided by the NHS include a healthcare fee known as the ImmigrationHealth Surcharge (IHS), which you have to pay when applying for a UK visa. This fee covers healthcare services during your stay in the UK, so there's no need to purchase additional health insurance. However, the surcharge amount may vary from year to year; you can check the fee on IHS fee.
What is a GP?
GP stands for General Practitioner, which refers to a medical doctor who provides general medical services and operates within the NHS. They typically work in a clinic or healthcare facility called a GP surgery.
There are different types of GP surgeries available. Some function as independent healthcare facilities known as GP surgeries, while others operate within hospitals and clinics, offering GP services. GP surgeries are essential in providing care for patients in local communities and nearby educational institutions. They are the main point of contact for general healthcare needs and help with referrals to hospitals or other medical services for specialised treatments.
GP surgeries offer treatments without direct charges, but they might experience longer wait times due to high demand.
Before accessing services from a GP, it's necessary to register with a GP surgery in advance.
Why should you register with a GP surgery?
Even if you're just completing a two-year master's degree and feel fully prepared with your medications, registering with a GP surgery is highly recommended. Beyond healthcare access, GP registration offers several advantages. Here's why BACCOM suggests this :
1. To preserve your right to receive medical care while living in the UK.
As you've already paid the IHS fee during the visa process, you can access free healthcare while you're living here.
2. To ensure that you receive convenient, prompt, and effective medical treatment.
If you haven't registered with a GP beforehand, you may experience significant delays in receiving medical treatment when needed, as you won't have a medical history with a GP surgery.
3. If you become seriously ill, your GP surgery can promptly coordinate and refer your case to a hospital.
You don't need to worry about whether the GP surgery you register with is a small clinic or not, because it won't affect your care. Your GP will assess your symptoms, and if they're serious, they will refer you to a larger hospital where you can get the treatment you need.
4. You can purchase medication at a much lower cost.
Your GP prescribes medications at a flat rate per item. So, if it's an expensive medication, it's much more cost-effective!
5. Free annual health check-up
GP surgeries offer an annual free health check-up for those eligible for NHS services. Just book an appointment with the GP surgery for your examination.
6. Provide free condoms
This service is available to individuals aged 16 and above who have registered with a GP surgery in their area of residence. Some places may have condom dispensers where you can receive them for free, simply by using your C-Card or BRP.
7. Some universities offer GP surgery services on campus
Here are examples of universities that offer GP surgery services :
University of London
The Royal College of surgeons of England
Royal College of General Practitioners
King’s College London
University College London
London School of Economics and Political Science
How to register with a GP surgery?
There are 2 ways you can register with a GP surgery : either by registering directly with the GP surgery in the UK or by registering online through the NHS website or app.
1.) Registering directly with a GP surgery :
This is an on-site registration process, which means you'll need to take your documents to the GP surgery you've chosen in the UK yourself. Here are the details and steps to follow :
Search for a GP surgery near your accommodation on Find a GP Then, check the status of new patient registrations and choose your preferred GP surgery.
Once you've selected a GP surgery, you'll receive a registration form to complete. You can either pick up a paper copy by visiting the surgery in person or complete it online through the NHS app or website.
Take necessary documents to the GP surgery for registration. Documents required for registration include : ▪️ Passport ▪️ Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card for individuals residing in the UK for over 6 months ▪️ Proof of Address (e.g., mobile phone bill, bank statement) ▪️ Tenancy Agreement ▪️ Student ID or confirmation documents from the university
Once registration is complete, you'll receive an NHS number and a GP card, which you'll use for accessing healthcare services in the UK.
2.) Registering online through the NHS website or app :
To register online for a GP surgery, all you need to know is your UK address. This allows you to register before arriving in the UK. However, not all GP surgeries offer online registration, so check their status on the website or NHS app first. Here are the details and steps for registering online :
Search for a GP surgery near your residence through the NHS app or website Find a GP Then, check their status for new patient registration and select your preferred GP surgery. If the chosen GP surgery offers online registration, you'll see the option Register online with this GP to click on.
Fill in the required information and answer all the questions. This step typically takes about 15 minutes.
Double-check the details for accuracy, then click Accept and submit
After successfully registering, the website or app will confirm with Application complete and provide a reference number for tracking. You'll also receive an email from the NHS to confirm your registration. Once completed, the GP surgery will process your information and register you as a patient there, usually within 2 weeks.
Where should you register with a GP surgery?
Some suggest choosing a clinic near your place, while others recommend one close to your university. However, BACCOM suggests registering with a GP surgery that's conveniently located for travel and has positive service reviews, which you can easily check by using your address on Find a GP. Some locations may be very close but have poor reviews, so it's best to avoid those. Also, consider checking wait time reviews. Some clinics may require booking well in advance, even up to a week, due to high demand, while others may offer quicker appointments. That's why, when selecting a GP surgery, take your time and choose wisely!
How to visit your GP?
If you need to see your GP, you'll need to book an appointment in advance. There are several ways you can do this :
Make an appointment online using the NHS app or website. You can register and fill out the appointment form there.
Book an appointment by phone. You can find the phone number of a nearby GP surgery through here Find a GP
Walk-in to make an appointment.
The waiting time for appointments can vary depending on the availability of the GP surgery and the severity of your symptoms. Sometimes, it may take several days to a week to secure an appointment. If you require urgent advice, you can call 111, the NHS emergency number, for a brief assessment of your symptoms before visiting your GP. The service operates 24/7 and is free of charge.
Additionally, if you are unable to visit the hospital, you can request a GP to come and examine you at your accommodation, but there will be a fee for this. The cost can vary based on factors such as the urgency of the examination, the distance the doctor has to travel, and the time involved. Typically, the fee will range from £50 to £200.
What services do GP surgeries provide?
At the GP surgery, you can get advice for common illnesses like headaches, fever, and stomachaches. Plus, for minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, or rashes, you don't need to book an appointment beforehand—you can just walk in and get treated.
In case of serious illness or severe injuries, the GP surgery will promptly refer you to the appropriate healthcare facility for immediate care!
The treatment covers all conditions. No matter what you're dealing with, you can visit a GP to have your symptoms assessed, treated, and referred if necessary. It's super convenient!
If you think your symptoms aren't serious enough for a doctor's visit, you can consult with a pharmacist nearby. They can offer guidance and provide General Sales List (GSL) medicines, which are readily available at most pharmacies like Superdrug, Boots, Tesco, or your local supermarket.
Examples of medicines that can be purchased without a prescription from a doctor :
Painkillers, cold medicine, and cough syrup
Certain medicines, such as eye drops and emergency contraception, can be purchased without a prescription, but it's essential to seek advice from a pharmacist before buying.
Examples of medicines that require a prescription from a doctor :
Antibiotics
Medications for specific conditions, such as antidepressants, antiemetics, bronchodilators for asthma, medications for high blood pressure and heart disease, etc.
In addition to visiting a GP, there are other healthcare facilities in the UK where you can receive treatment. You can find more information about them here. 👉🏻 UK Health Hacks: Your Ultimate Guide to Managing Illness and Insurance Insights
How much do GP services cost?
One of the greatest advantages of visiting a GP is that it's completely free! From registering with the GP to receiving treatment, there are no charges. However, if you require medication, you may need to pay for it. The good news is that these medications are typically cheaper compared to market prices, as they come at a flat rate.
It's important to note that the NHS policy does not cover the issuance of medical certificates. So, if you require one for insurance claims or other purposes, there's a fee starting at £10. The cost varies depending on the type, duration, and complexity of the examination.
As you prepare for your journey to the UK, remember that quick access to healthcare is crucial for your well-being. With this in mind, BACCOM recommends locating a GP surgery in your area beforehand so you can easily register. And if you need guidance or assistance with accommodation in the UK, don't hesitate to reach out to BACCOM! We're here to assist you every step of the way 😊
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