Temporary Registration
If you are ill while away from home, or if you are not registered with a doctor, but need to see one, you can receive emergency treatment from the a GP practice for 14 days. After 14 days you will need to register as a temporary or permanent patient.
You can be registered as a temporary patient for up to three months. This will allow you to be on the local practice list, whilst still remaining a patient of your permanent GP.
To register as a temporary patient simply contact the local practice you wish to use. ALL temporary patients MUST be able to provide identification, preferrable photographic (passport, driving licence etc), but a valid bank debit card can be accepted. Credit cards cannot be accepted.
If you usually reside in a country that is within the European Economic Area (EEA), you will be able to receive free treatment under the NHS, provided you are in possession of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you cannot produce your EHIC, you can only be seen under a private, fee-paying, basis.
If you usually reside in a country that is outside the EEA, you are not entitled to free NHS treatment unless your country has a reciprocal arrangement with the UK. Reception can advise if this is the case. You will be charged for all consultations and treatment if your country does not have a reciprocal arrangement.
NB Practices do not have to accept you as a temporary patient, although they do have an obligation to offer treatment in the event of a medical emergency.