How to register with a GP; understanding your patient rights
GP access is an ongoing issue you tell us about. We want to help you understand your rights when registering with your GP, using NHS guidelines.
What do I need to register with a GP?
Proof of address:
NHS guidelines state that you don't need proof of address, immigration status, ID or an NHS number to register with a GP. However, some GP surgeries ask for supporting documentation. They might have a few reasons to do this:
- It can help the surgery find your medical records or transfer them from another practice.
- It confirms that you live in the surgery's practice area if they do not accept patients from outside this area.
If you don't have a permanent address, you can still register using a temporary address or the address of the GP surgery.
Personal ID:
You do not have to provide an ID when registering with a GP, but it does help. Below is a list of documents that you can use as ID:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Biometric residence permit
- Travel document
- HC2 certificate
- ARC card
- Utility bill
What could stop me getting registered with a GP?
A GP must explain why they refuse your request to register in writing. The GP has the right to refuse if:
- The practice isn't currently accepting new patients.
- The practice only accepts patients living within its practice area.
- you have been removed from that surgery before.
What to do if you're refused the right to register
There could be several reasons a GP may refuse your registration. But they must explain why in writing within 14 days.
If you have problems registering with a GP surgery:
If you feel you can’t raise an issue about registering with a GP practice, or complaint with your local doctors surgery, then you can make a complaint through the NHS organisation that commissions the GP practice.
The NHS commissioner is known as an integrated care board. They are the organisation that arranges NHS services for people locally (also known as a commissioner).
For GP practices in North Yorkshire (excluding Craven)
- Telephone: 01904 555 999
- E-mail: hnyicb.experience@nhs.net
- Post: The Experience Team, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire
Integrated Care Board, Health Place, Wrawby Road, Brigg. - DN20 8GS
For GP practices in Craven
- Telephone: 01924 552 150
- Email: wyicb.complaints@nhs.net
- Post: NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, Complaints Team, White Rose House West Parade, Wakefield. WF1 1LT
If you’re still unhappy...
If you have followed the complaints procedure but do not think the issue has been resolved or are unhappy with the outcome you can ask the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsmanfor an independent review.
- Phone: 0345 015 4033
- Visit the website: www.ombudsman.org.uk/making-complaint
- If you use British Sign Language, you can use SignVideo service
I want to change my GP practice. Do I have to give a reason?
No, you don't have to tell your practice why you want to change or your new one why you made that decision.
You'll need to fill in a registration form. A request will then be made to your current GP to transfer your medical records to the new GP surgery.
Read more information on registering with a practice further away from your residence.
Registering as a temporary patient
You can register with a GP practice as a temporary patient. You can register as a temporary resident with a GP surgery for up to three months. To register, you must fill out a temporary services form (GMS3) from GP surgeries.
After three months, you must reapply to register as a temporary resident or become a permanent patient.
Accessing GP care as a student
If you become unwell or need other medical treatment when you're at home or not staying near your university GP, you can contact your nearest practice to ask for treatment.
You can receive emergency treatment for 14 days. After that, you will have to register as a temporary resident or permanent patient.
You can also visit an NHS urgent treatment centre. You don't need an appointment, and you don't need to be registered.
They can treat minor injuries or illnesses such as cuts, bruises and rashes. They aren't designed for treating long-term conditions or life-threatening problems.
