Registering with a GP Surgery
Every individual in England has the opportunity to register at a GP surgery, enabling access to NHS services at no cost.
There’s no requirement for proof of residence, immigration status, identification, or an NHS number.
Typically, GP surgeries serve as the initial point of contact for health-related concerns. They are equipped to manage various health issues, offer guidance on health matters, and facilitate referrals to additional NHS services.
Most people will need to register with a surgery close to where they live.
Find a GP Surgery
Click the button to find the available GP surgeries near to your postcode
Find a GP SurgeryDo I need ID or proof of address?
No, it’s not necessary to provide identification, an NHS number, or a proof of address for registration.
Certain GP surgeries might request additional documents, which can assist in:
Locating your medical records or transferring them from your existing GP
Verifying your residence within the surgery’s catchment area (or “practice boundary”), particularly if they don’t accept patients living outside this area
Even without a permanent address, you can register by using a temporary address or the address of the GP surgery itself.
Can a GP surgery refuse to register me?
A GP surgery has the right to decline your registration if:
– They are currently not taking on new patients
– Your residence is outside their catchment area, and they only register patients within this boundary
– You have previously been removed from their patient list
Should a GP surgery choose not to register you, they are obligated to send you a written explanation within 14 days detailing the reasons.
Registering children
For children below the age of 16, a parent or guardian is required to handle their registration. This typically involves completing a distinct form. Additionally, you might need to present identification to confirm your status as their parent or guardian.
If you possess a personal child health record (commonly known as the “red book”) from your child’s birth, presenting this can be beneficial.
Changing GP surgeries
If necessary, you have the option to switch your GP surgery.
– Reasons for this might include:
– Relocating to a new area
– Issues encountered with your current GP surgery
– Being previously removed from the patient list of a surgery
Upon registering with a new GP surgery, you typically receive a notification confirming your successful registration.
Your medical records will be moved from your previous GP, a process that may take up to 28 days.
Changing my address
It’s important to inform your GP surgery when you change your address.
– Failing to notify your GP about a change of address could result in:
– NHS correspondence, such as appointment dates or test results, being sent to an incorrect address
– Your GP surgery being unable to offer home visits or other services if you relocate outside their coverage area
When you register with a new GP, they will communicate with your previous GP to inform them of your move.
Registering as a temporary resident
You have the option to register as a temporary resident with a GP surgery for a period of up to 3 months. This is particularly useful if you’re residing temporarily away from home but prefer to keep your regular GP surgery.
To register, you will need to complete a temporary services form (GMS3), which is available at GP surgeries.
After the initial 3 months, you must either reapply for temporary residency or opt to become a permanent patient.
This option to register as a temporary resident is also available if you are visiting from another country.
In cases where your application is declined, you are still entitled to receive any immediately necessary treatment for a period of up to 14 days.