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Registering with a GP and using the NHS

How to register with a doctor, when to use NHS 111, and what to do in an emergency.

5 min readLinks to official guidance

Register early

A GP (general practitioner) is your local doctor. Register in your first weeks so you can get care quickly when you need it. Many universities have a GP practice on or near campus. How to register with a GP surgery.

Which service to use

  • Emergency (life-threatening): call 999 or go to A&E.
  • Urgent but not an emergency: use NHS 111 online or call 111.
  • Mental health crisis: in England, call 111 and select the mental health option.
  • Routine care: contact your GP surgery.

Costs

If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, you can generally use the NHS in the same way as residents. Prescription charges may apply in England.

This guide is general information, not professional, medical or legal advice. Rules and services change, so check the official source before acting.