Whether you’re moving to a new area, experiencing issues with your current service, or just want to find a practice that better suits your needs, changing your NHS GP (General Practitioner) is a straightforward process. Your GP is an essential part of your healthcare journey, so it’s important to feel comfortable and supported by them. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to change your NHS GP and register with the GP at hand, so you can make an informed decision about your healthcare.
1. Understand why you might want to change GP
There are many reasons why you might consider switching your NHS GP. Some common reasons include:
- Moving to a new area or coming to live in the UK for the first time
- A change in your health needs or preferences
- Dissatisfaction with your current GP or practice
- The need for a practice that offers specific services (e.g., extended hours or online consultations)
Before making the change, it’s important to reflect on what you’re hoping to achieve. This will help you select the right GP practice that suits your preferences and health needs.
2. Research and choose a new GP practice
You have the right to choose any GP practice that is accepting new patients in your area. The NHS website has a helpful search tool that allows you to find GP surgeries near you and see if they are currently accepting new registrations.
When choosing a new GP, consider:
- Location: Choose a GP close to your home or work for convenience.
- Services offered: Does the practice offer services that are important to you, such as online booking, extended hours, or a wider range of healthcare services?
- Accessibility: Ensure that the practice is accessible, whether you have mobility issues or need particular services like interpreters.
3. Register with Your New GP
Once you’ve chosen a new GP practice, you’ll need to register as a patient. This is usually a quick process:
- Visit the new practice: Go to the GP surgery to fill out a registration form. You may need to bring identification (e.g., passport or driving license) and proof of your address (e.g., utility bill).
- Complete the registration form: You will be asked to provide details like your name, date of birth, NHS number (if you know it), and a brief medical history. This helps the new practice understand your healthcare needs.
- Health check: Some practices may require a new patient health check to get a clearer picture of your health and medical history.
- Register online: Some GP practices, such as GP at Hand, offer the convenience of registering your details online.
4. Request Your Medical Records
Your new GP practice will need access to your medical records. They will request these from your previous GP on your behalf. You don’t need to do this directly, but you may be asked to sign a consent form allowing them to transfer your records. Be aware that it can take a few weeks for this to be processed, so your new GP may not have full access to your history right away.
5. Notify Your Previous GP
While you don’t need to inform your previous GP in advance, it’s a good idea to let them know once you’ve successfully registered with your new practice. You don’t need to provide a reason for changing, but it’s courteous to let them know.
Once your registration with your new GP is complete, your previous GP will stop providing you with care. You’ll no longer be part of their patient list, and any prescriptions or services will be managed by your new GP.
6. Wait for Confirmation
After you’ve registered with your new GP, the practice should confirm your registration, either by post, email, or text message. This confirmation will include your patient details and the name of your assigned GP (if applicable).
7. Follow Up If Necessary
In some cases, you may need to follow up with your new GP practice if there are delays in processing your registration or transferring medical records. If you experience any issues with registration or medical care, don’t hesitate to contact the practice for clarification.
8. Adjust to Your New GP
Once your registration is complete, and you’re officially a patient at your new GP practice, take some time to familiarise yourself with the new setup:
- Familiarise yourself with the NHS app: Take the time to learn how it works as you’ll likely be able to use it to book appointments, order repeat prescriptions, and even access test results. This will make your visits and prescriptions more convenient and streamline your communication with the practice.
- Book appointments and order repeat prescriptions: Make sure you know how to book appointments through the app. Many practices now allow patients to book both routine and urgent appointments digitally. Additionally, you’ll likely be able to request repeat prescriptions directly through the system, saving you time and ensuring you never run out of necessary medication.
- Understand the practice procedures: Get to know how the new GP practice works, including how to book appointments, prescription processes, and emergency protocols.
Important Things to Remember
- No rush: There’s no need to rush the process. Take your time researching and choosing the right GP practice for you.
- Your choice matters: You have the right to choose any GP practice that suits your needs, even if it’s outside of your immediate area (as long as the practice is accepting new patients). For example, GP at hand accepts patients within a 40mile radius of each of its five clinic locations.
- Be patient: The process of transferring your medical records can take some time, so don’t be alarmed if your new GP doesn’t have everything immediately.
Final Thoughts
Changing your NHS GP is a simple process that can have a big impact on your healthcare experience. By taking the time to research your options and choose a practice that fits your needs, you’ll be setting yourself up for a better relationship with your healthcare providers. Don’t hesitate to make the change if you feel that your current GP isn’t the right fit for you.
Remember, your health and comfort matter most, so choose wisely, and make the change that benefits you.
You can book an appointment with GP at hand doctor any time. To book an appointment:
Book a GP appointmentIf you’re not registered with GP at hand, you will need to switch from your current GP practice. A waiting period will apply once you have submitted your application, before you can access our services.
Register with GP at hand today