1/5: Introducing your GP service:

What can I expect?

Your GP and the staff at the surgery are members of a primary health care team. Their job is to provide a range of services for you and your family, from emergency call-outs to arranging hospital consultations.

How do I register my child with a GP?

Most people prefer to register their child either with their own GB or at least within the same practice, because it's more convenient and it makes sense to take her to someone who already has a relationship with the family. It you don't want to do this, or haven't got a GB you can find a list of local GP's in your nearest public library, from your local health authority or board, community health council or Citizens Advice Bureau.

Choose an NHS practice near to where you live, and go along to register, taking your child's medical cards with you. Each child has to be registered separately regardless of age. If you are registering a baby, take the pink form (FP58), given to you by the Registrar of Births, and a medical card will be issued after you have registered your baby.

Can I choose which GP I want?

Yes, but sometimes the practice you want may not accept you or your child because their list is full or you live too far away. If you have difficulty finding a GB ask your local health authority or health board to arrange one for you.

What should I look for in a GP?

All practices have a leaflet that gives information about the services they provide and the qualifications of staff in the practice. You can also ask to meet the GP before you register.

Here are some questions to consider when looking for a GP:

• Can you get to the surgery easily?
  
• Are their surgery times convenient?
  
• Do you want a male or female GP?
  
• What services does the practice provide?
  
• Is there a GP who speaks your language?
  
• Can you speak to the GP over the phone and get advice?
  
• Does the waiting area seem friendly to children with books and toys for them?
  
• Which GP is registered to do child health surveillance? This is when your GP has completed a further qualification in child health; all doctors registered for child health surveillance are registered with their local authority.
  
• What are the out-of-hours arrangements?
• Are staff helpful in answering your questions?

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