Register with a GP

It’s really important to ensure you have access to local healthcare services during your time at Manchester. We recommend registering with a GP as soon as possible. Don’t wait until you feel unwell.

A GP (general practitioner) is a local, family doctor who provides the main point of contact for general healthcare. GPs provide their services in a practice or surgery. There is often more than one GP based in a practice and there are usually other services available such as practice nurses and healthcare assistants.

GPs are also part of a wider system of healthcare services including local pharmacists and hospitals. Your GP may recommend that you speak to a pharmacist for advice and treatment for minor illnesses and conditions like coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains. Your GP may also refer you to a local hospital if they think you need more specialist healthcare.

Choosing a GP practice

You should be able to register with a GP of your choice, as long as the practice covers the area where you live and they have space for new patients.

There are a few things you might want to think about when choosing a GP:

• Is the location convenient for you. Is it accessible by public transport or within walking distance.
• Practice opening hours – if you have a full timetable, check if the GP offers appointments outside of standard working hours (9am to 5pm)
• Appointment system – find out how appointments can be booked. Does the practice offer a booking system that is convenient for you.

You can search for GP practices in your local area here. Use the postcode for your address to find practices that are close to where you live.

We recommend having a look at some practice websites and comparing the different services on offer to help you choose one that is best for you.

How to register with a GP

To register with a GP, you will need to complete a registration form called a GMS1. GMS1 forms are available at the practice or you can download the form here. It’s also worth checking if your chosen practice offers an online registration service.

GPs are currently limiting who should visit them in person. Check before going in to your chosen practice and only visit in person if you need to.

Some GP practices could ask you to provide proof of identity as part of their registration process.

You may also be required to provide proof of your student status and they could ask to see your passport or visa.

Once you are registered at the practice, you may be asked to complete a health questionnaire or book an appointment for a health check. This will help the practice to ensure your records are accurate and the GP can make sure that routine checks to promote your health and wellbeing are all up to date.

Accessing dental care and treatment

Dentists are health practitioners who help you look after your teeth and provide treatment with problems such as toothache.

Dentists offer regular check-ups to help you keep your mouth, teeth and gums healthy. Signing up with a dentist also means you can have access to treatment if you have problems with your teeth in between check-ups.

You don’t have to register with a dentist in the same way as GP. Simply find a dental practice that is convenient for you and contact them to check if you can make an appointment.

NHS Dentists

Dentist services are available on the NHS. However, you are expected to pay a contribution towards the cost of your care.

Most dentists provide both NHS and private dental treatment. If you would like to receive treatment on the NHS, you will need to check if your chosen dental practice is taking on new NHS patients.

Not all dental practices have space for new patients. You may have to join a waiting list, try another practice or pay for private treatment.

You can search for NHS dentists here.

Emergency Dental Treatment

If you have a regular dental practice, call them to see if they can give you an emergency appointment.

If you’re regular dentist can’t see you, Manchester residents can ring the Manchester Dental Helpline.

In-hours helpline: +44 (0)161 476 9649, Monday to Friday 8am-6pm

Out-of-hours helpline: +44 (0)161 337 2246, Monday to Friday, 6pm-10pm and Weekends and Bank Holidays, 10am-10pm

Outside of these hours call NHS 111.

If you live outside of Manchester, contact a local dentist to see if they can provide you with an emergency appointment.

Alternatively call NHS 111 for help both in and out of hours.