Healthcare services for students in UK

With one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world, as an international student in the UK you will be looked after.the health and wellbeing of international students, both mental and physical, is top priority and UK universities work hard to ensure that you are safe and supported during your studies.

The UK’s NHS (National Health Service) is one of the world’s best healthcare systems in the world, offering first-class, safe, and modern treatment and support.if you need a visa to study in the UK, as part of your application you will pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to gain access to the NHS. The usual fee is £624. However, there is a 25 per cent discount for student visa holders – so you should expect to pay £470 per year.

The IHS will allow you, if you need it, to consult a doctor on any physical or mental health issue, accident and emergency services, the diagnosis of any sexually transmitted diseases. It also offers reduced-price dental care if provided through an NHS dentist.as you have access to the NHS in the UK, you do not need private medical insurance during your studies unless you are studying a course that lasts less than six months and therefore, you do not have a student visa.

Shortly after you arrive in the UK, we recommend that you register with a GP (general practitioner), a doctor who deals with most general health problems, so that if you do end up needing medical assistance you will be able to access it easily. Most GP surgeries accommodate patients’ requests to see a doctor of a specific gender, if it makes you feel more comfortable.

How to register with NHS?

Here are the steps to register with GP surgery in locality you live, to access NHS services.

GP surgeries are usually the first contact if you have a health problem. They can treat many conditions and give health advice. They can also refer you to other NHS services.

Find a GP Surgery:
- Use the NHS website or the NHS App to search for GP surgeries in your area.
- Consider factors like location, hours of operation, whether GP surgery is accepting new patients and online registration options. 
Download and Complete the Registration Form:
- Download the registration form from the surgery’s website or obtain one from the surgery. 
- Fill in all the required details, including your name, address, date of birth, and NHS number (if you have one). 
Submit the Registration Form:
- You can submit the form in person at the surgery or through the post or online.
- Some surgeries also offer online registration through the NHS App or their website. 
Registration Appointment:
- You may be asked to attend a registration appointment to confirm your details and get your NHS number. 
- You’ll likely be asked to provide proof of address and identity documents, such as a passport or utility bill.