All patients registering with a GP are entitled to a free health check. Appointments to see
the GP can be made by phone or in person. Sometimes you might have to wait several
days before you can see a doctor. If you need immediate medical attention ask for an
urgent appointment. You should go to the GP’s surgery a few minutes before the
appointment. If you cannot attend or do not need the appointment any more, you must let
the surgery know. The GP needs patients to answer all questions as fully as possible in
order to find out what is wrong. Everything you tell the GP is completely confidential and
cannot be passed on to anyone else without your permission. If you do not understand
something, ask for clarification. If you have difficulties with English, bring someone who
can help you, or ask the receptionist for an interpreter. This must be done when you make
the appointment. If you have asked for an interpreter, it is important that you keep your
appointment because this service is expensive.

In exceptional circumstances, GPs can visit patients at home but they always give priority
to people who are unable to travel. If you call the GP outside normal working hours, you
will have to answer several questions about your situation. This is to assess how serious
your case is. You will then be told if a doctor can come to your home. You might be
advised to go to the nearest A&E department.

Charges

Treatment from the GP is free but you have to pay a charge for your medicines and for
certain services, such as vaccinations for travel abroad. If the GP decides you need to
take medicine you will be given a prescription. You must take this to a pharmacy
(chemist).

Prescriptions

Prescriptions are free for anyone who is

Under 16 years of age (25 in Wales)

Under 19 and in full-time education

Aged 60 or over

Pregnant or with baby under 12 months old

Suffering from a specified medical condition

Receiving Income Support, Jobseekers’ Allowance, Working Families or Disabilities Tax

Credit

<<Previous Page	Index	Top	Next Page>>