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It is important to choose the surgery and doctor (in the UK called a GP) that are
most likely to meet your needs. You can
choose the surgery and doctor you would like to be registered with, providing
you live within that surgery's designated traveling area, and the doctor is
willing to accept you on his/her list. However,
if you do live outside the catchment area for that surgery, please check that
the particular surgery you have chosen is able to take you.
 The following is a list of various factors to consider in
choosing a surgery/doctor:
- Do the
doctors and other staff speak other languages?
- Are there a
range of clinics and services available?
- Are there
male and/or female doctors available?
- Is the
surgery accessible by public transport?
- Is it
accessible for wheelchairs/people with disabilities?
- Are there
experienced or newly qualified doctors at the practice?
- Is there
access available to other doctors within the practice or only with the doctor
you are registered with?
- What are
the surgery's practices regarding same-day appointments, and home visits?
You do not have to register all members of your family with
the same doctor, but if the doctor knows the whole family he/she may find it
easier for him/her to treat a problem.
You can choose a doctor within the surgery but it is not
uncommon to have an appointment with another doctor if yours is not available. All surgeries have practice leaflet detailing
information regarding the surgery, doctors, staff, services available and hours
of service.
Do not expect to spend a lot of time at an appointment with
your doctor (generally 5 to 10 minutes), and if you need to spend a little more
time with your doctor, it is advisable to mention this when making your
appointment. Then perhaps a double
appointment can be booked or additional time for a consultation. You do not pay for a doctor's appointment or
for a house call.
Changing Doctor
If you wish, you have the right to change your doctor. If there is an alternative doctor in your
area, it is quite easy to change. You do
not need your doctor's consent to change or even need to let him/her know,
although it would be helpful. Just
register with the new doctor of your choice.
You should be aware that a doctor could also remove you from
his/her list without any reason being given. However, although this is a rare situation and only happens in
exceptional circumstances, the doctor must give you seven days notice to allow
you to find another doctor. But during
this time, he/she is still responsible for your care.
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