Please note this page is currently under development
Registering with a GP and Dentist
Just as you place significant importance on looking after your patient; it is equally as important that you look after yourself. This includes not only your physical health but also your dental and mental health, and that of your family. It is therefore very important that upon your arrival in the UK you register with both a GP and a dentist of your choosing.
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GP services |
Dental services |
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You have a right to choose a GP practice that best suits your needs. Ensure you Try comparing GP practices according to facilities, services, access and performance before you decide. When registering for a GP you will be asked to complete a GMS1 Form. A blank version can be found here. Further information on NHS GP services can be found here. Find a GP: https://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/LocationSearch/4 |
In the UK, you are expected to pay a contribution towards the cost of your dental care. The amount you will pay will differ depending on whether you are a NHS patient or a private patient. Most dentists will provide both NHS and private treatment, so it is important to check whether the treatment you are paying for is NHS or private or a combination of the two. Further information on NHS dental services can be found here. Find a dentist: https://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/Dentist/LocationSearch/3 |
Prescription charges
In the UK, there is a charge attached to most NHS prescriptions. If you require more than 3 prescription items in 3 months or 12 items in a year, it would be worthwhile paying for a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) as this will save you money. PPCs are available either 3 monthly, or 12 monthly and charged at £30.25 and £108.10 respectively; this is paid over 10 monthly direct debit instalments.
In some situations, you may be provided with a free NHS prescription. A list of those who do not have to pay is provided on the back of the prescription (part 1). See the full list here which could help you or a member of your family.
Local Occupational Health
Within your workplace you will have access to occupational health services. Most departments operate a self-referral system in addition to referral by your line manager. Occupational health is a multidisciplinary specialty with doctors, nurses, psychologists, ergonomists and so on, that explore the relationship between health and work. The primary aim of the discipline is to maintain the physical and mental health of the workforce. They additionally assist with needlestick injuries, vaccination and workplace risk assessments.
If you feel you need support do consider accessing your local service. The contact details are usually found on your trust intranet/via switchboard or ask your supervisor for a referral. For Dentists in Training and GP Doctors in Training, Occupational Health can be accessed via Single Lead Employer.
Other support systems
It is important to recognise that we may encounter a number of challenges both professionally and personally. We may require additional support from external services a useful list of which can be found here. A useful starting point is to discuss any concerns with your supervisor, local occupational health or to contact BMA peer support services which provide confidential support free for all doctors independent of membership status.
Professional Support and Wellbeing (PSW) service
Many of our doctors and dentists in training, including our International Medical Graduates, sometimes find that they need some additional support to progress through their training. This could be exam support whilst trying to balance home life, work and training. It could be related to professional skills that are needed to meet training competencies, such as confidence, communication and leadership skills. Or there could be factors related to your health and wellbeing that are impacting you at work and affecting your progress in training. The Professional Support and Wellbeing (PSW) service is available to provide short-term, solution focused interventions when you are experiencing difficulty to help you get back on track, overcome any hurdles and give you the best chance to complete training successfully. More information about how to access the service is provided here: https://www.eastmidlandsdeanery.nhs.uk/trainee/psw
Out of Programme (OOP) and your sponsorship
Not every doctor or dentist in training will complete their training within identical timeframes and pathways. Sometimes a consideration may be to take some time Out of Programme to allow you to manage your wellbeing and to pursue other training opportunities. As an IMG, if you are considering going Out of Programme Guidance (OOP) you should consider the implications this may have on your sponsorship as the requirements vary on the different categories of OOP. More information is provided here: https://medical.hee.nhs.uk/medical-training-recruitment/medical-specialty-training/overseas-applicants/overseas-sponsorship-guidance/out-of-programme-oop-and-your-sponsorship
Less Than Full Time Training (LTFT)
For more details see: https://eastmidlandsdeanery.nhs.uk/policies/ltft
If you are on a Tier 2 or Skilled Worker visa please make sure the LTFT percentage you apply for complies with the requirements of your visa. The sponsorship team have a full list of FAQs which can be found here
Supported Return to Training (SuppoRTT)
SuppoRTT applies to doctors in training who have been out of training for a period of 3 months or more for example due to: a gap in training, parental leave, sick leave/phased return or OOP (Out of Programme). SuppoRTT can offer, for example, a period of enhanced supervision, refresher courses and simulation training, mentoring or professional coaching, conferences and workshops