Shirley Yanez / 02 June 2014 / Categories: Useful Guides

Simple guide to registering with a UK doctor

When you leave home, begin to stand on your feet and be independent it is important to be registered with a doctor and dentist should anything go wrong and you need help in an emergency. Don’t put off registering with both a GP and dentist, as dentists particularly are not obliged to offer emergency care to unregistered patients. If you are a student you can register with your new GP practise (term time) as a temporary resident and still be treated, as temporary resident by your regular physician when at home in the holidays.

When registering with a new medical practise you will need to take your NHS card with your NHS number on it. This shows you are eligible for treatment. If you don’t have your card you can get the number from your current practise. If you have trouble finding a GP, registering as a temporary resident or need assistance finding out your NHS number contact your local Primary Care Trust. They will be able to help you retrieve it.

When you get an appointment respect it and if you need to cancel give the practise plenty of notice. NHS doctors and dentists do not charge for missed appointments but they do have the right to remove time wasters from their lists which could cause you a problem in an emergency.

NHS Direct is an advice line manned by trained medical professional if you have a minor complaint, need advice but don’t feel a trip to the doctor is warranted. The number is 0845 4647 and is available 24 hours.

Even if you are registered with a GP you may use a walk in clinic, no appointments, you will be seen on a first come first serve basis so you may have to wait to be seen. Walk in clinics treat minor illness, injury and give free advice, confidential advice on all health issue including sexual health and STD (sexually transmitted disease) screening.

To find a dentist or doctor in your area just follow this link and enter your postcode.

If you are under 18 or under 19 and in full time education or receiving benefits your dental treatment is free. Otherwise the costs for treatment are divided into three bands, the first £17.50 which includes, exam, diagnostic X-rays and scale and polish, the second £48.00 includes all treatment above plus any fillings, root canals and extractions. Band three, £209 which includes everything in band one and band two plus more complicated procedures such as crowns, dentures and bridges.

NHS treatment does not include, composite or white fillings/crowns unless the treatment is on the front four upper and lower teeth.