Overseas Students
We are very used to treating people from a wide range of countries and different religious and ethnic backgrounds. The University of Birmingham has a large overseas student population especially from southern Africa and Asia and we very much welcome students and their families to register with us as NHS patients.
We understand that illness can be very difficult especially in a different country and hope that you find the practice easy to access and use. Please register as soon as you can after you arrive.
What does the NHS cover?
Consultations and virtually all hospital care is free but prescriptions carry a standard charge set by the government - currently this is £7.30. This is paid at the pharmacist unless you have an exemption (students are not automatically exempt and need to apply via the HC1 form)
Many medications are available "over the counter" directly from the pharmacist and a few such as pain killers can be bought at supermarkets, but most drugs, including antibiotics need a doctor's prescription.
Dental care has limited NHS availability.How do I see a doctor?
Appointments are necessary to see a doctor unless your problem is urgent: phone or call into the practice to book one. Most appointments are available for the same or next day and a proportion are bookable up to 2 weeks in advance The practice's receptionists will be able to advise you and may suggest that seeing another member of staff such as a nurse would be more appropriate for you.
If you need to see an NHS specialist, then this can only happen after a consultation and referral by one of the practice doctors.
Private specialists are available but are expensive and still need a referral from a doctor.
Who can register with us?
Please note that you have to live within the practice area to be able to register and also that short term non-dependant visitors may not be eligible for NHS treatment in which case we offer appointments and treatment on a private basis - please enquire if you need details.
Problems with English
If you feel that your English abilities may cause difficulties during the consultation, then please do bring a family member or friend with you to give support and help with translating.
Translators for many languages can be arranged with enough warning.