GENERAL PRACTICE
It is essential that all IMGs and their dependents are registered with a GP when they come to the UK on a work visa.
I have personally never seen my GP since the past 6 years however I may need to see them at some point. Hence I have been registered from when I came to the UK on a work visa.
How to get registered with a GP:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Check the ratings of the GP surgery closest to you here:
https://www.cqc.org.uk/
You can also search on Google by entering the details of your GP surgery
I have always tried to register with the nearest GP and this way, I have a GP within walking distance for my wife and child.
Once you have selected a GP surgery, call them and ask about registering with them as a new patient. They will either ask you to fill a form online or fill a paper form and submit it with the necessary documents ( a scanned copy of passport/BRP).
You will then receive either a letter or a text message stating that you are now registered with the practice.
Remember to keep that form safe as it has your NHS number which is helpful to have ( although most healthcare providers can access your details by entering your date of birth, full name and post code).
When should I see my GP?
You do not have to see your GP unless you have any concerns.
This is a helpful website which can guide you to which service you need:
https://111.nhs.uk/
Why should IMGs register with a GP?
1. You never know when you need their services. Anyone can get sick at any time.
2. In case you need to be admitted to the hospital and need follow up with a GP, the hospital team can write them a letter
3. Most conditions are managed by GPs so if you have a long term condition and need regular medications, they can provide a prescription for those.
4. In case you struggle with mental well being, your GP may be able to provide a letter stating that you are struggling and by liaising with occupational health, you job load can be lightened.
5. Helps to prove your address when applying for ILR ( especially important if you have a dependent)
https://omarsguidelines.blogspot.com/2021/03/documents-imgs-can-start-collecting.html
If you are on regular medications prescribed from your home country
Bring enough supply to the UK when you come here and also get all the relevant investigations, clinic letters, etc.
When you register with a practice, you can arrange an appointment to see a GP and let them know about your chronic condition so that they can provide a prescription of the regular medications you have been taking. Sometimes, they are reluctant to prescribe the medications on the basis of investigations done abroad and may refer you to a specialist first/ do further investigations themselves.
As there can be a delay, it is very important you have your own supply of medications from your home country.
Cost of prescriptions.
They are free in Wales:
https://gov.wales/free-prescriptions
It costs in England:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/nhs-prescription-charges/
If you have a few regular medications on a prescription, you can save with a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC)
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/save-money-with-a-prescription-prepayment-certificate-ppc/
When are prescriptions free
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/who-can-get-free-prescriptions/
Relocating
Doctors relocate to a new city on a regular basis. In which case, they need to register with a new practice wherever they are relocating to.
The new practice usually has access to the records and if not, they can get the relevant information transferred.
Some tips:
1. GP surgeries are very busy so the best time to call is as soon as they open ( which is either 0800 or 0900 AM)
2. Most surgeries are good hence it is best to register with the one with the closest to your accommodation
3. Some surgeries are associated with other surgeries and when you book an appointment, you might be seen in a surgery which may be further away ( you can request the receptionist to book you in to the local surgery however if they do not have slots, you may have to drive/take a taxi/bus to another surgery within the same GP partnership)
4. GPs are very good clinicians and most have done specialist skills in rheumatology, women's health, etc.
5. Sometimes you will be seen by a practice nurse. They are equally good.
DENTISTS
There are 2 types:
1. NHS dentists - they still charge for treatment but it is a nominal fees
2 Private dentists - their charges are higher.
Unfortunately, it is very difficult to register as a NHS patient with a local dental practice as most state they are full.
Use this service to find a NHS dentist:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist
Once registered, they may ask you to come in for a dental check. This will cost.
If you struggle to find any, you may need to go private if you feel you need a dental check up ( if you do not feel it is necessary, then you can wait and keep checking if any dental practices in your city/nearby are taking NHS patients)
For dental emergencies:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/how-can-i-access-an-nhs-dentist-in-an-emergency-or-out-of-hours/
1. Start looking to register with a NHS dentist ASAP. You will eventually find one.
2. If you need non -urgent treatment and the only option is a private dentist, they also have dental plans whereby you pay a certain monthly charge and can access their services. It comes with its fine print though.
3. If you visit your home country, get whatever dental work is needed. You will find it cheaper there.
4. Once registered, do not leave the dentist unless you relocate to a city which is very far away. Once you have found a new dentist, you can leave your previous one.
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