Registration is free and you don't need a passport, proof of address or proof of residency. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to register, what phrases to say in English, and what to do if you get rejected.
Where should I go? 999, 111, pharmacy or general practitioner
In the UK, you don't go to the hospital for every problem. This guide explains where to go in each situation, what to say, and how to ask for an interpreter. All of these services are free.
Your right to a free interpreter in the NHS
At a GP surgery, hospital, or on the 111 line, you have the right to ask for a free professional interpreter. It costs you nothing, and you don't need to have your child or a friend translate.
Pharmacy First
For seven common problems such as sore throat, sinusitis, and shingles, you can go straight to a pharmacy. A pharmacist can assess you without a GP appointment and provide medicine if needed. The consultation is free and no appointment is required.
Dentistry in the UK: Cost, Finding a Practice, and Emergency Pain
NHS dental services are not free, but it's much cheaper than the private sector and has three charge bands. Some people are fully exempt. Here we explain how to find a practice that accepts NHS patients and what to do for severe pain.
Renewing a prescription with the NHS app
If you take regular medication, you don't need to make an appointment every time. Request a refill in minutes with the NHS app and have your medication delivered to your preferred pharmacy.
How to create an NHS account (NHS login)
With an NHS account, you can order prescriptions, book GP appointments, and view test results. Here we explain step by step how to create an account, and what options you have if you don't have photo ID.
What you can do with your NHS account
With an NHS account you can get prescriptions, book appointments, view your records and test results, and track hospital letters. Here we explain what you can do and what you can't.
What is Form HC1 and how to fill it out?
If you have a low income you can use form HC1 to get an HC2 certificate and make prescriptions, dental care, glasses, and travel to hospital free or cheaper.
Mental health services in the UK
Getting help for your mental health in the NHS is free, confidential, and does not affect your immigration status. For speech therapy, you don't even need a doctor's referral — you can sign up yourself.
Sexual health in the UK: free and confidential services
Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and contraception are free for everyone, regardless of residency status. You do not need a referral from your GP and can go directly to the clinic.
Vaccines in the UK
NHS national schedule vaccines are free. If you don't have a vaccination card or your vaccinations are incomplete, you don't need to start over; the clinic will continue from where you left off.
Cancer screening in the UK
The NHS has three cancer screening programmes: bowel, breast and cervical. Invitations come by post, so it's important to register at your GP surgery and make sure your address is correct.
Quitting smoking in the UK
NHS stop smoking services are free and multiply your chances of success. Nicotine patches and gum, medication, and weekly counselling are among the options available to you.
