How to register with a GP
Everyone is entitled to register with a GP practice. If you are new to an area, you should register with a GP as soon as possible.
Patients are required to live within a practice boundary area to register. To find out which practice(s) cover your
address, please use the NHS Lothian tool.
There are current challenges in certain areas for new patients registering with a general practice due to population growth, localised influx of students or new housing developments, with some practices unable to absorb the new demand with current workforce and premises. As a result, it may take longer than normal to register with a practice.
If you are away from home for more than 24 hours, but less than three months, you may access GP services as a temporary resident. If you are staying with a family who are registered, you may be able to attend their GP practice.
General Practices have a duty to provide emergency or immediately necessary treatment where clinically determined at any place in its practice area. The practice is required to provide 14 days of further primary medical services following provision of immediate and necessary treatment, however this does not mean that you are permanently registered at that practice.
People who are homeless may access local GP services. Alternatively, GP, nursing and mental health services are available at The Access Place (TAP), 6 South Gray’s Close, Edinburgh, EH1 1NA. The telephone number is 0131 529 5015. Advice regarding housing and social work services are also available at TAP.
If required, information on interpreting and translating services can be found at Translation, Interpretation and Communication Support – Your Rights & Privacy (nhslothian.scot)
If an interpreter or translator is required for your appointment, your GP practice will arrange this.
Should you have any other queries regarding GP registration, please contact loth.primarycareenquiries@nhs.scot
