Doctors

Generally speaking, if you are resident in the UK for a minimum of six months (because you are working or studying) you are eligible to visit a NHS doctor. However, you must register with a doctor’s practice before you can request an appointment to see a doctor.

Registration is reasonably straightforward. You will need to complete a form, which asks about your current health and medical history, and have a medical check-up (usually this involves giving a urine sample, being weighed and measured and having your blood pressure taken). You will also need to bring some form of ID with you and the name and address of your last doctor.

A list of NHS doctors can be found on the NHS Direct website or by calling 0845 4647.

If you are eligible for NHS treatment, there is no charge for visiting a doctor. However, if you require medication, a chemist will charge you £6.65 for each item the doctor prescribes - this is a standard fee so it’s worth asking the chemist if a cheaper, but similar, product is available without prescription. NOTE: There is no charge for the contraceptive pill.

If, however, you are only visiting the UK for a short time, you may be required to pay for any treatment you receive (although Australians and New Zealanders are entitled to free emergency treatment under the Reciprocal Healthcare Agreement). More information can be found at www.doh.gov.uk.

Family Planning (and emergency contraception)

To locate your nearest Family Planning Clinic, look in Yellow Pages under ‘Family Planning’ or visit the Family Planning Association web-site.

Most Family Planning Clinics provide FREE pregnancy testing, cervical smears, breast screening and condoms. Some also offer abortion advice and referral.

Emergency contraception can be obtained from:

• Family Planning Clinic;
• Doctor;
• Some A&E departments – although it’s best to phone in advance and check;
• Some chemists without a prescription.