Can I Keep My GP If I Move Out of the Area? (UK Guide)

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Moving house can be stressful, and if you’re managing a health condition, changing GP practices might feel like one more hassle you’d rather avoid. So it’s a common question:

Can I stay registered with my current GP if I move out of the area?

The short answer is: sometimes, but not always. Here’s what you need to know.

NHS GP Practices and Catchment Areas

Most GP surgeries in the UK have a catchment area, a specific geographic area they cover. This helps ensure GPs can provide home visits and access to local services for their patients.

If you move outside your GP’s catchment area, the practice is not obliged to keep you on their list. But in some cases, they might allow it.

Option 1: Stay with Your GP (Outside the Catchment Area)

Some GP practices do accept patients who live outside their catchment area, especially if:

  • You don’t need regular home visits
  • You have a long-standing relationship with the GP
  • You’re willing to travel to appointments

This is called an “out-of-area registration.”

If your GP agrees that you’re unfit for work, they will issue a fit note. This may be given as a paper copy for you to share with your employer.

If your GP agrees, you’ll likely be asked to sign a special agreement confirming that:

  • You understand the practice won’t offer home visits
  • You’ll need to call NHS 111 or use local services in emergencies

Your GP may also reserve the right to review or end the arrangement if your needs change.

Option 2: Register with a New Local GP

If your current practice doesn’t accept out-of-area patients, you’ll need to register with a new GP near your new home.

You can find local GP surgeries using the NHS website, compare services, and check which ones are accepting new patients.

To register, you’ll usually need:

  • Proof of address (e.g. a utility bill or tenancy agreement)
  • ID (e.g. passport or driving licence)
  • NHS number (optional but helpful)

Things to Consider

Before deciding whether to stay with your current GP or register elsewhere, think about:

  • Travel time – Are you happy to travel further for appointments?
  • Continuity of care – Is it important to stay with a GP who knows your medical history?
  • Practical needs – Do you rely on home visits, referrals to local services, or repeat prescriptions?
  • Your GP’s policy – Some practices have strict boundaries due to workload or CQC regulations.

What If I Don’t Tell My GP I’ve Moved?

If your practice finds out you’ve moved out of area and you haven’t told them, they may remove you from their list. This could disrupt your access to care, especially for ongoing conditions.

It’s always best to speak to your GP practice honestly and ask what your options are.

In Summary

  • You might be able to stay with your GP after moving, ask your practice about “out-of-area registration.”
  • Your GP is not required to keep you on their list if you move out of area.
  • If needed, you can register with a new GP close to your new address, and the NHS makes it simple to do.

Remember, your health and comfort matter most, so choose wisely, and make the change that benefits you.

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