Doctors
NHS Oxfordshire works with local GPs and has a contract with them to provide a range of services. There are 83 GP practices in Oxfordshire. Practices may have a number of GPs working as partners or be a single GP practice. Many employ a practice nurse who work alongside PCT community nursing teams, including health visitors and district nurses.
Why Should I Register With A Doctor?
If you are not already registered with a family doctor, please do so straight away - don't wait until you need medical treatment. It is important for you and your family to be registered as patients with a General Practitioner. That way, if you become ill or need advice, your doctor will have access to your medical records and know about any previous treatment you may have had.
How Do I Register With A Doctor?
You can approach any practice to ask to be registered there, although doctors are not under obligation to accept you. Should you require further information, contact the practices you are interested in - they will have a leaflet outlining the services they offer and will be happy to answer any queries you may have.
To register, contact your first-choice practice and ask if you can register as a patient. If you are accepted, they will advise you of the registration procedure. Take along your NHS medical card if you have one - this will speed up the process.
Sometimes it may not be possible to register with your first choice of doctor. If this happens you should contact other practices in your area.
Thames Valley Primary Care Agency
If you have difficulty registering with a general practice in the Oxfordshire area, please contact Thames Valley Primary Care Agency. The Agency can help you with enquiries such as:
- how to register with a local GP practice
- how to get an NHS medical card; how to find out your NHS number
- how to get a prescription exemption certificate
Telephone Thames Valley Primary Care Agency on 0118 918 3333.
Can I Receive Treatment From Any Doctor, Even If I Am Not Registered With Them?
Yes. If you are away from home and fall ill, contact the nearest surgery and ask for treatment. If you are planning to live in an area for more than three months, we recommend that you register as a permanent patient for the time you are there.
Can I Change My Doctor?
Yes. You can change your doctor at any time and for any reason. To see a different doctor at the same practice, speak to reception who will advise you on how to proceed. To change practice completely, simply register with a new practice. You do not need your current doctor's permission to change.
What If I Need To See A Doctor Out Of Hours?
Out of hours services are available, but only for medical problems that cannot wait until the following day to be treated. If your problem is urgent, call your surgery on the usual number. An answer machine message will give you the out of hours number to call. This will put you in touch with a doctor, but usually it won't be your own.
If you are not sure of what to do and need health advice at any time, day or night, contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. Advice is completely confidential.
Also see Local Services: Out Of Hours Services.