健康 Health

The NHS is a complex system, which can sometimes make it difficult to understand – especially working out who is responsible for what. It’s made up of a wide range of different organisations with different roles, responsibilities and specialities. These organisations provide a variety of services and support to patients and carers.

Over recent years there have been changes to the way the NHS is structured and works. The likelihood is that you may not have even noticed this – it won’t have affected how you access your local doctor or hospital. But the changes have affected who makes decisions about health services and who holds the budget to pay for these services.

You can find out more about the NHS structure in England and who does what by visiting the NHS website. The King’s Fund has also produced a series of structure diagrams and a  short animation about the NHS.

NHS England

There are a variety of ways that you can get involved in our work, both informally and formally. These pages include information about some of these opportunities and where you can find further information. Please use the read the sections on the left to find out more.

NHS England also holds events for those working in the NHS, members of the public and other groups with an interest in healthcare services. Details of upcoming events are on the NHS England website.

How to register with a GP surgery

Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery. It’s free to register.

You do not need proof of address or immigration status, ID or an NHS number.

You might be able to register with a GP surgery that’s not in the area you live. Find out about registering with a GP surgery out of your area

GP surgeries are usually the first contact if you have a health problem. They can treat many conditions and give health advice. They can also refer you to other NHS services.

Registering with a GP

Find a GP that suits what you need. Some GP surgeries offer more services than others. You can look up GP surgeries to see what they offer and how they compare.

Find a GP

Because of coronavirus (COVID-19), try to avoid going into a GP surgery to register.

You can:

  • check the GP surgery website to see if you can register online
  • call or email the GP surgery and ask to be registered as a patient

You can download a GMS1 registration form on GOV.UK if you’re asked to complete one.

You do not need proof of ID to register with a GP, but it might help of you have one or more of the following:

  • passport
  • birth certificate
  • HC2 certificate
  • rough sleepers’ identity badge
  • hostel or accommodation registration or mail forwarding letter

If you’re homeless, you can give a temporary address, such as a friend’s address, a day centre or the GP surgery address.

If you need to help registering with a GP surgery

If you need help registering or filling in forms, call the GP surgery and let them know.

You could also ask for help from:

  • local organisations – for example if you’re homeless you could ask a centre that supports homeless people
  • Citizens Advice
  • your local Healthwatch

 

Useful links:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/get-involved/get-involved/how/