GPs provide the best care for minor and chronic problems and will know your medical history. They can also access a full range of hospital based services, including X-rays and blood tests and they can refer you to specialist clinics which are not available to A&E.
What services do GPs provide?
- Advice, information and prescription medicines
- Routine monitoring of ongoing health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease
- Most contraceptive services, minor surgery and immunisations
- Screening for smears and child health
- Referral to specialist healthcare services
What to do if your GP is closed?
After normal working hours and on Public Holidays you should call NHS 24 on 111 if you are experiencing pain that is not life-threatening but cannot wait until your surgery reopens. See our NHS24 and GP out-of-hours section.
If you suspect your condition is an emergency, such as if you have had a severe injury, suspect you are at immediate risk of a heart attack or stroke, you are experiencing breathing difficulties or severe bleeding, call 999 immediately.
Find your nearest GP
You can use our Find your nearest database if you know your postcode to find your closest GP
Registering with a doctor or health service
Do you need to register with a doctor and a dentist? Find out more about how to do this by following the link below.
Registering with a doctor or dentist