Registering with a surgery is the first step you should take after arrival to access health services. You will be assigned to one doctor, who you will go through if you need advice and to be referred to a hospital. You normally register with a surgery close to where you live.

You DO NOT need:

Proof of address

Immigration status

An NHS number

Follow this link to find a GP surgery close to where you live:

https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp

More detailed advice on registering with a GP and health services can be found at the Government’s website on Homes for Ukraine:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/register-with-a-doctor-and-get-medication-homes-for-ukraine

Dental care isn’t set up in the same way as GP care. You haven’t got to register with a dentist that is closest to your address.

You can have some dental work done on the NHS (free) or you will have to pay for the work. Dental work done for free will be limited to work needed to keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of pain.

How to find an NHS dentist:

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/how-to-find-an-nhs-dentist/

• In North Birmingham it has been very difficult for Ukrainians to find a place with a dentist as an NHS patient. This is because there are very few places available for new patients with dental practices.

What to do if you need dental care, but can’t find a dentist to register with:

• Firstly, try calling your nearest dentist to ask if you can have an appointment. You may need to pay for the treatment.
• If you are in pain or need emergency treatment, the Scott Arms Dental Practice is open 7 days a week from 8:30 – 11pm and will be able to assist you.

If you are on universal credit, you will be probably be entitled to a free eye test and a basic pair of glasses.

Three of the largest chains of opticians in North Birmingham are Boots, Visions Express and Specsavers.

https://www.boots.com/opticians/eyetest

https://www.visionexpress.com/opticians/sutton-coldfield/sutton-coldfield

https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/suttoncoldfield

Most adults have to pay prescription charges. The charge for each prescription is £9.65.

To find a pharmacy near you, use the NHS link below:

https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy

Your caseworker at Refugee Action will help you with the process of registering with health services.