Doctors, Dentists & Opticians
Doctors/G.P
It’s really easy to register with a doctor, if you are not registered do so before you are ill. It is easier to register with a doctor near where you live, log onto www.nhs.uk to find a local GP practice who is taking newm patients. You can also find a list of doctors in the phone directories or contact your local Primary Care Trust (PCT). You can also find their details on www.nhs.uk. If you are asked for your NHS number or your medical card and you don’t have one you need to contact your local PCT and they will send you one. Sometimes doctors surgeries are full and so do not take on new patients. All you need to do is choose another one from the list, if you are having problems finding a practice who will take you on let the PCT know this and they will help allocate a doctor for you. It is the same process to register with a dentist and you normally do not need to register with an optician.
Away From Home?
If you are ill whilst you are away from home you can go to any doctor in an emergency and explain that you would like to register as a temporary patient.
No Address? If you are homeless you can still get treatment. Some doctors will agree to see you. Contact your local PCT and see local services at the back of Youthfax.
Dentists
It’s advisable to see your dentist every six months even if you think there is nothing wrong with your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride tooth, particularly before going to bed and restricting the amount and
frequency of food and drinks which contain sugar is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
If you do not have a dentist or are not happy with your present one, you can go to another one but check that the dentist does take NHS patients. Your treatment will be at a reduced cost if your dentist takes NHS patients.
If you are under 16 your treatment will be free, otherwise check the “HC11 Help with Health Costs” leaflet to see if you qualify for free treatment. If you do qualify for free treatment, inform the dentist before treatment to ensure you are not charged for the treatment.
Opticians
You can have an eye test at any opticians. Ask about charges. If you need glasses, the optician should give you a copy of your prescription. You can buy your glasses wherever you like.
Check the HC11 Leaflet to check for your entitlements and help with the costs of eye sight test and any help towards purchasing glasses. It’s a good idea to insure contact lenses as they can get lost easily.
