Navigating student healthcare in London is easy when you know the basics. Here’s what you need to do:
- Register with a GP (General Practitioner): This is your main point of contact for NHS services. Use the NHS ‘Find a GP’ tool to locate one near your accommodation or university. Registration is simple – just provide your name, date of birth, and address. Some GPs may ask for additional documents like a passport or proof of student status.
- Understand NHS Services: Once registered, you’ll have access to free GP consultations, A&E services, and referrals to specialists. Prescription medications in England come with a standard charge unless you qualify for exemptions. Dental and optical care require separate fees.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): International students pay this fee during their visa application, granting access to NHS services. For services not covered, consider private insurance for added support.
- Prepare Medical Records and Vaccinations: Bring immunisation records, a supply of regular medications (60–90 days), and any relevant medical documents, ideally translated into English.
- Access Mental Health Support: NHS provides free mental health services, including therapy and crisis support. Universities and local organisations also offer counselling and wellbeing resources.
- Accommodation Support: Quality student housing, such as Cube Student Living, often provides 24/7 assistance for health-related needs, secure facilities, and a supportive community.
Plan ahead to avoid stress later. Register with a GP, organise medical records, and explore mental health resources early. A proactive approach ensures you can focus on your studies while staying healthy in London.
Register with a Local GP (General Practitioner)
Why You Need to Register with a GP
Your GP is your main connection to the NHS, acting as the first point of contact for most health concerns. Without registering, it can be challenging to access routine medical services, get prescriptions, or be referred to specialists. Additionally, registering with a GP provides you with an NHS number, which is essential for using a broader range of NHS services across the UK.
For students with chronic conditions or those needing regular medication reviews, having a registered GP ensures consistent care. International students, in particular, benefit from registering early, as it simplifies access to healthcare without having to navigate repeated NHS procedures.
Here’s how you can complete your registration quickly and easily.
How to Register with a GP
To find a GP near you, use the NHS ‘Find a GP’ tool (nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp). Simply enter your postcode or enable location access. Choosing a surgery close to your home or university is usually the most practical option.
According to NHS guidelines, you don’t need to provide ID, proof of address, or immigration status to register in England. In most cases, you’ll only need to provide your name, date of birth, and address. Some surgeries may also ask for an emergency contact and details of your previous GP, if applicable. If you have a carer, you might be asked to include their information as well.
While the basic process is straightforward, requirements can vary slightly based on your visa type and the policies of the GP surgery. International students should be prepared to provide additional documents, as some surgeries may request a passport, visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), proof of address, and a letter from your university confirming your student status.
If you’re staying in temporary accommodation, you can still register using that address. For example, Cube Student Living offers a stable address and 24/7 support to help with local healthcare registration.
It’s best to register as soon as possible – ideally within your first week in London. This ensures you’ll have quick access to healthcare when needed and sets the foundation for maintaining your health and wellbeing during your studies.
Know Your NHS Access and Health Insurance
NHS Services for Students
Once you’re registered with a GP, you can access a variety of NHS services at no cost. These include GP consultations, emergency care at A&E, hospital treatments, mental health support, and referrals to specialists. While most NHS services are free, there is a standard charge for prescriptions unless you qualify for an exemption. For example, exemptions apply if you’re under 16, aged 16–18 and in full-time education, pregnant, or have specific medical conditions.
For dental and optical care, the NHS operates differently. Dental services are divided into treatment bands, with set charges depending on the type of care you need. Eye tests, on the other hand, usually come with a small fee unless you meet eligibility criteria for free tests, such as being of a certain age or receiving specific benefits. Once you’re clear on what the NHS covers, you can decide if additional insurance is necessary to fill in any gaps.
Immigration Health Surcharge and Private Insurance
If you’re a non-EU international student, you’ll need to pay an annual Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application. This payment grants you access to standard NHS services. However, while the IHS covers most routine treatments, private health insurance can provide quicker access to non-urgent care and cover areas like dental and optical services or counselling. This makes private insurance a useful option to complement NHS coverage, ensuring you have support for services not included in the NHS.
For students on short courses lasting less than six months, full NHS coverage may not apply. In such cases, private insurance becomes even more important. If you plan to travel frequently or have specific medical needs requiring private treatment, additional insurance can offer extra reassurance.
When selecting private insurance, look for policies tailored to students. Many insurers provide plans designed to address NHS limitations, offering benefits like faster access to specialists or more extensive mental health support.
Using the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
If you’re planning to travel around Europe during your studies, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) can be a valuable asset. The GHIC provides access to emergency medical treatment and some routine healthcare across EU countries, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. International students with valid visas can apply for a GHIC free of charge through the NHS website, and it typically arrives within a week.
With a GHIC, you’ll pay the same rates as local residents for state-provided healthcare in participating countries, which can save you money compared to private medical bills or travel insurance claims. However, the GHIC doesn’t cover private healthcare, repatriation, or non-urgent treatments. For longer trips, it’s best used alongside comprehensive travel insurance.
Some student accommodations, like Cube Student Living, simplify access to healthcare documentation, helping you stay prepared for both local and international medical needs during your studies.
Everything To Know About the NHS 🇬🇧 How to Get a GP as an International Student in UK with IHS
Get Your Vaccinations and Medical Records Ready
Sorting out your medical paperwork before heading to London is a smart move. Having your immunisation records and medical documents ready ensures that your new GP can hit the ground running with your care.
Required Vaccinations
Double-check your immunisation records to make sure you’re up to date with routine vaccines. If you’re missing any, your GP can help you catch up. Vaccines like COVID-19, flu, and RSV are easy to arrange through the NHS website or by visiting a walk-in vaccination centre.
Once you’ve sorted your vaccinations, gather all the necessary documentation to share with your new GP.
Bringing Your Medical Records
- Pack your official immunisation records along with a letter detailing any ongoing prescriptions, including dosages and reasons. It’s a good idea to bring a 60–90 day supply of your medications. For short-term treatments, make sure you have enough to complete the course.
- If you have pre-existing conditions like asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy, ask your doctor for a detailed letter outlining your condition and treatment plan. This will help ensure you receive consistent care.
- Include any recent test results or notes about pending diagnoses, as these might come in handy for your new GP.
- Make sure all your medical records are in English or come with an official English translation.
Before travelling, check with your doctor to see if your medications are available in the UK. Keep in mind that medication brands may vary, but your GP can prescribe suitable alternatives.
If you’re staying at well-organised accommodations like Cube Student Living, they offer 24/7 support to help with healthcare paperwork and booking local appointments.
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Plan for Prescriptions and Medical Needs
Sorting out prescriptions in the UK takes a bit of preparation, especially if you rely on regular medications. Once you’re registered with a GP, most medications are easy to access through the NHS and are generally affordable.
Managing Regular Medications
If you’re on regular medications, bring enough to last until your first GP appointment. Keep them in their original, labelled packaging to avoid issues and ensure you have enough time to arrange new prescriptions. For controlled substances like ADHD medications or strong painkillers, you might need a letter from your doctor explaining your need for these medicines.
Always pack your prescription list in your hand luggage. Include the generic names of your medications – not just the brand names – as names can vary between countries. For example, paracetamol in the UK is known as acetaminophen in some other places.
Once you’ve got enough supplies to tide you over, your next step is to set up prescriptions locally.
Transferring Prescriptions to the UK
Prescriptions from outside the UK aren’t valid here, so you’ll need to see a local GP to get new ones. Book an appointment as soon as you’re registered, and bring along your medication packaging and any supporting letters from your previous doctor to make the process smoother.
In England, most medications come with a standard prescription charge. If you need regular prescriptions, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) can save you money over the year. Meanwhile, students in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland benefit from free prescriptions. If you’re on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you might qualify for additional help through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
Your GP may prescribe a different brand or formulation of your medication. This is common and typically doesn’t affect how the medication works. However, if you’re unsure or have concerns, bring them up during your appointment.
Once your basic prescriptions are sorted, it’s time to think about more complex medical needs.
Support for Complex Medical Needs
If you have ongoing conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, or mental health concerns, get in touch with your university’s health service as soon as possible. Many universities have teams dedicated to helping students manage their care and avoid treatment gaps.
For medical devices such as insulin pumps, CPAP machines, or mobility aids, research UK suppliers and check for compatibility before you travel. Some devices may need different plugs or settings to work properly.
If you need regular specialist appointments, ask your GP about referrals to NHS consultants. While private healthcare can provide quicker access, it’s often much more expensive.
Some student accommodations, like Cube Student Living, offer 24/7 on-site support. This can be a huge help in emergencies or when you need assistance arranging healthcare appointments.
Lastly, keep emergency contact details for your doctors back home. While your UK GP will manage your day-to-day care, having access to your medical history can be crucial in emergencies or for rare conditions.
Access Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
London is home to a wide range of mental health resources specifically designed for students. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, reaching out for support early can make a huge difference in your university experience.
Mental Health Services via the NHS
The NHS offers free mental health support to all registered patients, including international students. If you have concerns, your GP can guide you to the right services or refer you to a specialist when necessary.
One of the key programmes available is Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT), which provides talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling. The best part? You don’t need a GP referral – you can contact IAPT services directly.
For urgent situations, the NHS 111 helpline is available 24/7, offering immediate advice and crisis support. In cases of a mental health emergency, you should call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department without delay. Additionally, many NHS trusts run drop-in centres and crisis cafés for immediate, no-appointment-needed support.
For confidential emotional support, you can also contact Samaritans at 116 123, available around the clock. Keep in mind that while NHS services are comprehensive, waiting times can vary. It’s worth exploring other resources to complement NHS care.
University and Community Wellbeing Resources
Universities across London typically have wellbeing teams dedicated to supporting students. These services often include free counselling, mental health support, and crisis intervention, with shorter waiting times compared to the NHS.
University counselling services may offer short-term therapy (6-12 sessions), group therapy, stress management workshops, and peer support programmes. Many also provide 24/7 crisis support through helplines or online chat services tailored to their students.
London’s community organisations, like Mind in the City, Hackney and Waltham Forest and Richmond Mind, offer additional support such as counselling, group sessions, and wellbeing activities. Many of these programmes are designed with young people and students in mind.
For late-night support, Nightline services, run by trained student volunteers, provide confidential listening and support during evening hours. Check if your university participates in this network.
Local community centres and libraries often host wellbeing activities, including mindfulness sessions, art therapy, and mental health workshops. Your local council’s website is a great place to find out what’s available nearby.
If NHS waiting times are too long, private therapy services can be an alternative. Many offer reduced rates for students, and platforms like BetterHelp and Counselling Directory can help you find affordable options.
Early Mental Health Planning
Proactively planning for your mental health can save time and stress later. Register for services before you need them, so you’ll know where to turn if challenges arise. Even if you’re feeling fine now, being prepared is always a good idea.
For those with pre-existing conditions, bring documentation from your current healthcare provider to ensure a smooth transition. A summary letter detailing your diagnosis, medications, and treatment history can be especially helpful.
If you’re taking psychiatric medication, make sure to bring enough for at least the first month while you arrange prescriptions through a UK GP. Since some medications may have different names or formulations in the UK, having the generic drug names written down can prevent mix-ups.
Most universities have disability support services that can arrange adjustments for mental health conditions, such as extended deadlines or alternative exam formats. Registering early ensures you have support in place if needed.
Joining student societies focused on mental health and wellbeing is another great way to connect with others. These groups often organise activities like meditation sessions and awareness events, helping you build a supportive network.
Finally, living in an environment that prioritises wellbeing can make a big difference. Accommodation providers like Cube Student Living offer 24/7 on-site support and community-focused living spaces, making it easier to adjust to life in London.
Use Accommodation Support Services
Your choice of accommodation can play a big role in ensuring smooth access to healthcare while you’re living in London. Quality student housing providers, such as Cube Student Living, go beyond simply offering a place to stay. They provide a support system that aligns with your healthcare needs, making it easier to access local services and manage your wellbeing.
24/7 On-Site Support for Health Emergencies
Having access to round-the-clock support can be a game-changer, especially during health emergencies or when you need medical advice. Cube Student Living offers a dedicated team available 24/7 to assist with various needs, including helping you connect with local healthcare services.
"Your wellbeing is our top priority. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to provide support, whether you need help with maintenance, advice on local services, or just someone to talk to. We’re here to ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay, so you can focus on your studies and make the most of your university life."
This level of on-site assistance ensures that you’re never left to handle a health concern alone. Whether it’s contacting a healthcare provider or navigating NHS services, the team is there to guide you every step of the way.
Secure and Convenient Living
The environment you live in has a direct impact on your health and wellbeing. Cube Student Living properties are designed with security and comfort in mind, featuring 24/7 CCTV, secure key-entry systems, and on-site security staff to create a safe and stress-free atmosphere.
Located in prime areas, these accommodations are conveniently close to healthcare facilities. On-site maintenance teams are quick to address any issues, from heating to plumbing, ensuring a healthy and functional living space – particularly important during colder months.
The fully furnished studios, complete with en-suite bathrooms and private kitchens, provide a clean and comfortable space where you can maintain personal care routines and prepare nutritious meals. A secure and well-equipped home not only supports your physical health but also contributes to your mental wellbeing by reducing stress and fostering a sense of stability.
Building a Supportive Community
Living in a supportive community can have a profound impact on your overall health. Cube Student Living actively works to create an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can connect and build meaningful relationships. Regular study groups and wellness activities encourage collaboration and social bonding.
"Our friendly and professional staff actively support both academic and personal needs."
Students from universities such as the University of Greenwich and the University of West London have highlighted how responsive and professional on-site support has helped them navigate the challenges of student life. A strong community not only eases the pressures of academic life but also promotes mental health by fostering a shared sense of belonging and mutual support.
Conclusion: Your Health and Wellbeing in London
Taking charge of your healthcare as a student in London is straightforward when you plan ahead. Registering with a local GP should be at the top of your list, as this gives you access to NHS services and ensures you have a reliable point of contact for medical care during your studies. Keeping your medical records organised and understanding your insurance – whether through the Immigration Health Surcharge or private coverage – sets a strong foundation for managing your health.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Between NHS mental health services and the resources offered by universities, you’ll find several options to support your emotional wellbeing.
Where you live also plays a key role in maintaining your health. Your accommodation isn’t just a place to sleep – it can contribute to your overall wellbeing. Providers like Cube Student Living recognise this by offering 24/7 on-site support, secure facilities, and a sense of community that promotes a healthy lifestyle. The right housing can complement your healthcare efforts and provide added peace of mind.
Staying on top of your health requires a proactive approach. Register with a GP, keep your records in order, ensure your insurance is sorted, and don’t hesitate to use mental health resources. Addressing concerns early – whether physical or mental – can prevent them from escalating into bigger challenges.
Your health and wellbeing are the foundation for your academic success and personal growth in London. A little preparation now will allow you to focus on making the most of your time in this vibrant city.
FAQs
What should international students do if they need healthcare services not covered by the NHS in London?
If you’re an international student in London and find yourself needing healthcare services that aren’t covered by the NHS, private health insurance is worth considering. It can help cover treatments or services that fall outside the NHS’s remit.
Don’t forget to register with a local GP (General Practitioner) to access NHS services, provided you’re eligible. Your visa type and whether you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) will determine what NHS services you can use. For anything beyond NHS coverage, London offers a range of private healthcare providers and specialist clinics to cater to your needs.
By taking these steps, you’ll be better prepared to handle any healthcare situations that may arise during your time studying in the UK.
How can international students manage their prescriptions when moving to London for studies?
If you’re relocating to London from abroad, sorting out your prescriptions ahead of time is essential. Make sure to bring a copy of your prescription along with a covering letter from your doctor. Ideally, have these documents translated into English to avoid any issues. Before you move, speak with your doctor about how to maintain continuity of care and the process for transferring or reissuing your prescription in the UK.
Once you’ve arrived in London, registering with the NHS should be a top priority. This will give you access to healthcare services, including prescriptions, ensuring you can stick to your medication routine and receive any treatments you might need during your time in the city.
What mental health support is available for students in London, and how can they access it through their university or the NHS?
Students in London have access to a range of mental health support services through their universities and the NHS. Universities often provide free, confidential counselling, wellbeing services, and dedicated student support teams. These services are typically easy to access via the student portal or by reaching out to the university’s support office.
The NHS also offers free mental health resources, including counselling, helplines, and mental health clinics. By registering with a local GP, students can tap into these services. Beyond this, peer support networks and organisations like Nightline and Student Minds are available around the clock, offering guidance and someone to talk to when needed.
For those staying in premium student accommodations, such as Cube Student Living, there’s the added benefit of a supportive community atmosphere. These spaces often include dedicated areas for study and relaxation, creating an environment that encourages both academic focus and overall wellbeing during your time in London.