Healthcare in the UK is organised under the National health Service (NHS). The NHS
began in 1948, and is one of the largest organisations in Europe. It provides all residents
with free healthcare and treatment.

Finding a doctor

Family doctors are called General Practitioners (GPs) and they work in surgeries. GPs
often work together in a group place. This is sometimes called a Primary Health Care
Centre.

Your GP is responsible for organising the health treatment you receive. Treatment can be
for physical and mental illness. If you need to see a specialist, you must go to your GP
first. Your GP will then refer you to a specialist in a hospital. Your GP can also refer you
for specialist treatment if you have special needs.

You can get a list of local GPs from libraries, post offices, the tourist information office,
the Citizens Advice Bureau, the local health authority and on the Internet.

You can attend a hospital without a GP’s letter only in the case of an emergency. If you
have an emergency you should go to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department of
the nearest hospital.

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