If you are moving to the United Kingdom, one of the most important systems to understand is healthcare. The UK has a national healthcare system called the NHS — short for National Health Service. It provides medical care to residents, mostly for free at the point of use.
But how do you register with a doctor? What is covered? What should you do if you feel unwell? This guide explains everything in clear, simple steps — perfect for expats, international students, and long term visitors.
What Is the NHS?
The NHS is the public healthcare system in the UK. It is paid for through taxes and available to anyone who lives in the country. Most services are free, including:
- Doctor appointments (called GPs)
- Hospital treatment
- Emergency care
- Mental health support
- Maternity care
- Some dental and eye care (with limits)
You do not pay when you see a doctor or go to the hospital — but you may need to pay for things like prescriptions, dental work, or over-the-counter medicine.
Who Can Use the NHS?
You can use the NHS if:
- You are living in the UK for more than 6 months
- You have a visa or permission to stay
- You paid the Immigration Health Surcharge when applying for your visa (usually part of the visa fee)
If you are in the UK temporarily (under 6 months), you can still use emergency services but may have to pay for routine care.
Step One: Register with a GP (Doctor)
A GP is a General Practitioner. This is your main doctor — the first person you contact for non-emergency health problems.
How to register:
- Find a GP practice near your addressUse the NHS website to search by postcode
👉 Find a GP near you on the NHS website
- Check if they are accepting new patientsYou may need to call or fill out a form online
- Provide documentsThey may ask for ID and proof of address. Some practices are flexible if you do not have these yet
- Wait for confirmationOnce registered, you can book appointments and get access to NHS services
💡 Tip: Register early, before you get sick — it saves time later
Step Two: Know Where to Go for Different Health Needs
Not every health problem needs a hospital. Here is a guide:
| Situation | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Cold, cough, rash, headache | GP or pharmacist |
| Prescription renewal | GP or online pharmacy |
| Mental health support | GP or NHS talking therapies |
| Minor injury or infection | Walk-in clinic or urgent care |
| Emergency (serious injury, etc) | Hospital or call 999 |
Step Three: Understand Prescriptions and Medicine
If your doctor gives you a prescription, you will take it to a pharmacy (chemist) to get your medicine.
How it works:
- You pay a flat fee per item (about £9.65 as of 2025)
- Some people get free prescriptions (children, students under 19, pregnant people, or low income)
- You can also buy over-the-counter medicine like painkillers, cold medicine or allergy pills at most pharmacies
👉 Shop UK pharmacy essentials online
Popular pharmacy chains include:
- Boots
- Superdrug
- Lloyds Pharmacy
You can also order prescriptions online once registered with a GP.
What If You Need Help Quickly?
Walk-in centres or urgent care
- No appointment needed
- Good for infections, minor injuries, or if your GP is closed
Search “NHS walk-in clinic near me” to find the closest one
111 NHS Helpline
- Free phone number: just dial 111
- Open 24 hours a day
- Speak to a nurse or adviser who will tell you what to do next
Use this if you are unsure whether to go to hospital or not
999 Emergency Number
- Use only for real emergencies
- Example: chest pain, breathing problems, serious accidents
Dental and Eye Care
These are partly covered by the NHS, but not always free.
NHS dental care:
- Basic treatments like check-ups and fillings are available at lower prices
- Private dentists charge more but may be faster
👉 Search for an NHS dentist near you
Eye care:
- NHS eye tests are free for children and some adults
- Glasses are not free but may be discounted
You can also go to opticians like Specsavers or Vision Express
What About Private Healthcare?
Some people choose to buy private health insurance or pay for private doctors to get faster service or more options.
Private care may be useful if:
- NHS waiting times are long
- You want extra dental, mental health or specialist treatment
- You are not eligible for full NHS access
👉 Compare UK health insurance plans here
But for most everyday needs, the NHS is enough — especially if you are registered and know where to go.
Digital GP and Online Services
You can now speak to a GP online or through an app. These services are fast, helpful and sometimes free with the NHS.
Try:
- NHS App – Book appointments, view records and order prescriptions
- Livi – Online GP for NHS patients in some areas
- Push Doctor – Paid service for video appointments
Common Questions
Do I need insurance to use the NHS?
No. If you paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, you are covered.
Can I register with a GP if I do not have a UK bank account or utility bill?
Yes, most GPs will accept alternative documents or just ask for proof of residence.
Is the NHS free for students?
Yes, if you are studying for more than 6 months and paid the health surcharge.
What if I move house?
You can register with a new GP near your new address.
Final Thoughts
The NHS can seem confusing at first, but once you register with a GP and understand the basics, it becomes simple. Most care is free, doctors are kind and experienced, and support is available 24 hours a day if you need it.
Take the time to register early and learn which service to use — it will save stress later.