How can I see a doctor today in the UK?
In this article we will describe how you can see a doctor today in the UK.
In the UK, there are several ways to see a doctor today, depending on your location and urgency of your medical needs. Here are some options.
1. NHS GP Surgery
- Call your local GP surgery to book an appointment.
- Some GP surgeries offer same-day appointments or emergency slots
2. NHS 111
- Call NHS 111 (free from landlines and mobiles) for urgent (but non-emergency) advice and guidance.
- They can direct you to the most suitable service, including out-of-hours GP services (where they can make you an appointment directly) or an Urgent Treatment Centre/similar (see below).
3. Urgent Treatment Centres (UTC), Minor Illness/Injury Unit (MIU) or Walk-in Centre
- Find your local UTC, Minor Illness/Injury Unit or Walk-in Centre on the NHS website, or my Googling these terms and your location.
- These centres provide same-day appointments for many illnesses and injuries.
- They usually operate 8am-8pm, 7 days a week. So they area good out-of-hours option, or if you are away from your local medical services.
4. Accident and Emergency (A&E)
- For life-threatening emergencies, go to your local A&E department or call 999.
- A&E is for serious conditions, such as:
- Severe injury or bleeding
- New confusion, drowsiness or possible stroke
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Severe abdominal pain
- Suicidal feelings.
- Severe injury or bleeding
5. Private healthcare
- If you have private health insurance or want to pay for private care, you can contact a private doctor or clinic.
- Some private clinics and hospitals offer same-day appointments.
6. Online or phone consultations
- Some GP surgeries and private doctors/clinics offer online or phone consultations.
7. Work-related medical care
Your employer may offer rapid medical care, via:
- Occupational health department.
- Private doctor/clinic.
Ask what is available.
Before seeking medical attention
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Check the NHS website for health advice and guidance.
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Consider calling NHS 111 for non-emergency advice.
Summary
In this article we have described how you can see a doctor today in the UK. We hope it has been helpful.
Important
Remember to have your NHS number and any relevant medical information ready (e.g. past medical and surgical history, up-to-date drug list, and contact details of normal local doctors that you see), when seeking medical attention.
