Whether you are living in halls or a private house in Cardiff you need to register with a Doctors (GP) practice as soon as you arrive.
You should contact the practice of your choice (that’s within your catchment area) as soon as possible to register or to ask for further information. Don’t wait until you become ill to register with a practice – do this as soon as possible when you arrive in Cardiff to ensure that you have easy access to services when you need them. Registering may take up to two weeks.
You can find your nearest GP practice and a list of other useful local services such as dentists, opticians or pharmacies by entering your postcode here.
When you move to a new practice, you need to take along your NHS medical card. This has details of your current practice, and NHS number and will make it easier for you to register. The NHS number ensures that the new practice will be sent your medical records quickly.
If you do not have an NHS card, you can get the NHS number from your current practice. It is a good idea to write this down along with your name and address. Keep this information safe because you’ll need it whenever you move practices.
If you have any queries about registering with a GP practice, or would like assistance finding a local GP practice, you can contact the NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership Registrations Team on 01495 300727.
Remember, there are a wide range of health services available to help you if you are feeling unwell. If you are not sure which is the most appropriate service for your health condition, Choose Well can guide you.
For other health related information and advice please visit:
nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647
Moved house?
If you are moving house you need to check with your surgery to see if you need to change your Doctors surgery as you may be out of your catchment area.
During the Winter months, free flu jabs are available to those who are most at risk of contracting the flu virus. It’s very easy to get a free flu jab, simply book an appointment at your GP’s practice today. Flu jabs are also available at some local pharmacies for those who are most at risk.
Students who are most at risk of contracting flu are those who are/have:
- Asthmatic (or those who use preventative inhalers)
- Diabetic
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Registered carers (or those living at home)
- Pregnant
- HIV/AIDS
- Using medicines that weaken the immune system
It’s important that you protect yourself and others around you from the flu virus in order to prevent complications developing in the future.
More information on how to Beat Flu!
In a serious emergency or when you have a life threatening illness, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance if you need immediate medical attention. For example, if you have severe chest pain, severe breathing problems, severe bleeding or if someone is unconscious (this list is not exhaustive).
If you need to visit the Emergency Unit, but your condition is not life threatening, you must now phone first. This is how the system works:
Your GP and local pharmacists can offer advice on medicines and can provide emergency contraception.
If you’re not sure which NHS service to use, Choose Well