Accessing healthcare services

Healthcare Services

Finding and registering with a doctor

If you’re wondering how to find and register with a doctor (a GP), it’s simpler than it sounds. You can find out which practices operate in your area by visiting the NHS Wales website. You can also ask friends and neighbours for recommendations. Local practices usually have information leaflets and websites.

To register with a GP, just get in touch with your chosen practice. They’ll ask for your NHS medical card details or have you fill in a form. This helps transfer your medical records to their care.

Lost your medical card? Don’t worry.

If you need a new or replacement medical card, you can contact the team via e-mail at nwssp-primarycareservices@wales.nhs.uk. New medical cards are no longer issued. Instead, you’ll receive a letter with your NHS details.

Can a surgery refuse to register me?

Surgery refusal happens only for specific reasons, like living outside their coverage area or a closed patient list. If you’re refused, you should get an explanation. If you’re struggling to find a GP, phone 01443 848585 or email shared.services@wales.nhs.uk. They can guide you to an alternative surgery.

Changing your GP made easy

Changing your GP is straightforward. You don’t need to provide a reason. Simply contact the new surgery you want to register with, hand over your medical card if they agree to take you on, and your records will be transferred.

Practice register removal

You might be removed if you move away or behave inappropriately at the surgery. Usually, you’ll receive a warning and an explanation unless your actions are violent, in which case removal can happen immediately.

What to expect from your GP practice

GP practices provide a leaflet with details about their services, surgery times, home visits, and more. Most aim to see non-urgent cases within two days, though waiting times vary.

Rather than get a face-to-face appointment, consider phone calls or e-consultations for quick advice without leaving home.

Other healthcare services

Your local pharmacy

Local pharmacists offer various health care services to help you without needing an appointment. They can give advice on common illnesses, provide over-the-counter medicines, and offer guidance on managing long-term conditions. Pharmacists can also support your wellbeing by offering smoking cessation advice, flu vaccinations, and emergency contraception. Plus, they can help you understand your prescribed medications and ensure you take them correctly. It’s a convenient and accessible way to get professional health support right in your community.

NHS 111

NHS 111 is a helpline for non-emergencies when you need quick medical advice. Trained advisors assess your symptoms and guide you on the best steps, like connecting with a nurse, suggesting self-care, or scheduling a doctor’s appointment. It’s handy for getting help when your regular surgery is closed or during non-office hours. Expect to speak to a call-handler at first. A doctor or nurse will call you back (this could take a few hours depending on the problem).

Accident and emergency

NHS A&E departments offer urgent and immediate care for severe or life-threatening conditions, like major injuries, serious illnesses (e.g., heart attack symptoms), difficulty breathing, severe allergic reactions, loss of consciousness, intense pain, or concerns about mental health. For less severe issues, consider NHS 111 or your GP.

999

You should only call 999 for medical help in emergencies or situations that require urgent attention. Dial 999 for life-threatening conditions, chest pain or suspected heart attack, suspected stroke, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness. Always call 999 in situations where immediate medical assistance is crucial. The emergency services are trained to handle urgent medical situations and can provide guidance over the phone while help is on the way.