We aim to offer services which are ‘teenage-friendly’. In summary, this means that:
- We welcome teenagers and aim to put them at ease when they come to the practice
- We can assure teenagers that confidentiality will be maintained if aged 12-16, and they ask to keep details of their consultations confidential or if they consult us about potentially sensitive issues
- Teenagers are welcome to see a Doctor on their own if they wish and are aged 12-16. We would however advise them to come with an adult where possible.
Sexual health advice is available, as is advice on other issues such as depression, drugs, alcohol and self-harm and we can advise teenagers about emergency contraception if required.
Medical Care as a student away from home
It’s important to look after your health when moving away from home for the first time. This includes registering with a new GP and finding your local sexual health service.
If, like most students, you spend more weeks of the year at your university/college address than your family’s address, you need to register with a GP near your university/college as soon as possible.
That way you can receive emergency care if you need it, and access health services quickly and easily while you’re away.
This is especially important if you have an ongoing health condition, particularly one that needs medicine, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy.
You can choose to register with any local GP. The health centre attached to your university is likely to be the most convenient, and the doctors working there will be experienced in the health needs of students.
Other health services available
Many university health centres have good links with specialists, such as psychiatrists, sports physicians, psychotherapists, counsellors and physiotherapists.
Having trouble getting an appointment? You can also always ask your local pharmacist for medical advice and support.
They may not be at the pharmacy counter when you go in, so ask the person at the counter if you can speak to the pharmacist.
Getting ill during the holidays
If you become unwell or need other medical treatment when you’re at home or not staying near your university GP, you can contact your nearest practice to ask for treatment.
You can receive emergency treatment for 14 days. After that you will have to register as a temporary resident or permanent patient.
Find out how to register as a temporary resident with a GP
You can also visit an NHS urgent treatment centre, which can provide treatment for minor injuries or illnesses such as cuts, bruises and rashes.
However, they are not designed for treating long-term conditions or life-threatening problems. You do not need an appointment and you do not need to be registered.