GP practices are there to support you with a range of new and ongoing health concerns. The doctors, nurses and other health professionals at your local GP practice treat many conditions and give health advice. They can also refer you to other NHS services.

You should be able to book or change an appointment at your GP practice:

• online, find out more about how to start using online services
• by phone
• in person, by going into the surgery and talking to the receptionist

In some GP practices, you may also be able to have a consultation online or over the phone. Speak to your GP for more information about this option.

How to register

You can look up GP surgeries to see what they offer and how they compare here

Some surgeries register new patients online or by calling/ emails for more information. If you are asked to complete a registration form you can download one here: GMS1 registration form on GOV.UK

You do not need proof of ID to register with a GP, but it does help if you have one or more of the following:

• passport
• birth certificate 
• HC2 certificate 
• rough sleepers’ identity badge 
• hostel or accommodation registration or mail forwarding letter 

If you’re homeless, you can give a temporary address, such as a friend’s address or a day centre. 

If you need help registering or filling in forms, call the GP surgery and let them know. You could also ask for help from: 

• local organisations – for example if you’re homeless you could ask a centre that supports homeless people 
• Citizens Advice 
• your local Healthwatch
• NHS England customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 22 33 
  

Changing GP surgeries 

You should tell the GP surgery if you change address or move out of the area. If you change GP surgeries, you will need to complete the registrations forms and may be invited for a health check conversation with a member of the new practice.  

Who will I see at my GP surgery?

Most Primary Care Networks (small groups of local GP practices working together) employ a variety of clinical professionals who specialise in areas of patient care. You may get an appointment with one of these highly trained and qualified team members, rather than with a GP if it’s clinically appropriate. 

To see full details of these additional roles in primary care, please go to the NHS England website

Call your GP practice if you need an urgent appointment. If your GP is closed and you cannot wait until they re-open please use NHS 111. 

Registering for GP treatment when away from home

You can call any GP surgery to get emergency treatment for up to 14 days if you are not registered with a GP or are away from home. 

If your treatment will last longer than 14 days, you’ll have to register as a temporary or permanent resident. Find out more here: register as a temporary resident