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Your GP is usually the first point of contact for NHS healthcare. They can help with ongoing treatment, referrals, and the medical evidence you might need for benefits or social care. You can find more about NHS services and how to register with a GP on NHS.uk.
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Tips: 1/10
Register with a GP as soon as possible
Register with a GP as soon as possible. You don’t need proof of address or immigration status to register with a GP. Find a local practice on NHS.uk and contact them to join their list. If one practice is full, try another nearby.
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Register with a GP as soon as possible
You don’t need proof of address or immigration status to register with a GP. Find a local practice on NHS.uk and contact them to join their list. If one practice is full, try another nearby.
Keep your GP updated about your condition
Tell your GP about any changes in: (1) Your symptoms, (2) Your medication and (3) Your daily difficulties. This helps them keep good records and support referrals or benefit forms.
Ask for clear explanations
If you do not understand something, ask your GP to explain it in simple words. You can ask them to write it down for you. You can also ask for an interpreter or communication support.
Request supporting letters when needed
Your GP can write letters describing how your condition affects your daily life. These can support applications for PIP, Blue Badges, or social care. Allow a few weeks for completion.
Make use of referrals and allied health professionals
Your GP can refer you to: (1) Physiotherapists, (2) Occupational therapists, (3) Speech and language therapists and (4) Specialists. These professionals can give reports and advice to support your care.
Time your calls to beat the queue
Many GP and NHS phone lines open exactly at 08:00. One trick some patients use is to phone just before the lines open and stay on the call so the message finishes as the system switches over. For example, if the automated greeting is about a minute long, calling around 07:59:00 can place you first or second when the queue opens. Use this technique considerately and only where appropriate, or check if your practice offers online booking or callback options.
Bring someone to appointments for support
If communication or memory is difficult, bring a trusted person to help you listen, take notes, and explain your concerns. They can also help you recall what the GP said afterward.
If you’re unhappy with your GP, you can change practice
You can move to another GP practice at any time. If you have concerns, try discussing them first, but if you still feel uncomfortable, register elsewhere through NHS.uk.
Ask for regular medication reviews
If you take ongoing medication, request a review every 6 to 12 months to check whether it’s still suitable and whether side effects are being managed. Pharmacists can also support this process.
Seek advocacy or support if appointments feel difficult
If appointments make you feel anxious or if communication is hard, ask for help. You can ask for: a patient advocate, a communication partner or a support worker. Many NHS teams and charities offer this support.