Health care

NHS Healthcare

If your course lasts for six months or more you will automatically qualify for NHS (National Health Service) treatment. The NHS is the UK's state health service in which some medical services are free, and for some you may have to pay.
We strongly recommend that you register with a doctor/GP practice as soon as possible after your arrival in the UK as some doctors will not attend to you if you are not registered.

Your local doctor, also known as a general practitioner (GP), provides a wide range of services including providing advice on health problems, physical examinations, diagnosis of symptoms, and prescribing medication and other treatments. Usually a small group of GPs work together in a practice, often referred to as a surgery, clinic or health centre.

You can find information about the GP surgeries and doctors in your area by entering your UK resident postcode on the NHS Choices website.

Unless it is a medical emergency, you are advised to contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 before going to hospital.


Further information

For further information on staying healthy in the UK please see the UKCISA website.