How to register with a GP
Everyone should be registered with a GP practice. If you are new to an area, you should register with a local GP as soon as possible.
A list of GP practices can be found by consulting NHS Inform
Use the search box on the right-hand side of the homepage to enter your postcode and find the nearest general practice nearest to you. Patients are required to live within the practice boundary area to register – you may need to check this on the practice website.
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 are under 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 English is not your first language, information on interpreting and translating services can be found https://www.nhsinform.scot/contact-us
Please also find a contact for GP registration queries: loth.primarycareenquiries@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
