General Practitioner [GP] And Doctors

Your local GP practice

GP’s deal with a range of health problems. They also provide health education, offer advice on smoking and diet, run clinics, give vaccinations and carry out simple surgical operations. A GP is a local doctor. You need to register with a GP so you can see the GP when you are sick.

If your GP cannot deal with a problem, then you'll usually be referred to a hospital for tests, treatment, or to see a consultant with specialist knowledge.

For up to date information about GP’s near you use the NHS website [External Link].

Your Social Worker or Personal Advisor can also provide guidance to help you find a GP. 

For more information on how to register with a GP use the NHS website [External Link].

Health Summary

As a Care Leaver, to enable you to make a smooth transition to adulthood and to equip you to manage your health needs we provide you with a Health Summary which will give you information about your health from your health records.

The Health Summary includes, where available:

• your genetic history

• birth history

• health and development history

• any medicines you take

• illnesses you have had

• if you are allergic to anything

• details of any therapy/hospital attendances

• a copy of immunisations you received

This information will be useful in understanding your current health needs and ensure you have all the information about your health history that you need for your adult life, it will not be shared with your GP or Personal Advisor without your consent.

The Health Summary also contains information around accessing health services and will be shared with you in writing, and you can also have the opportunity to meet with a health professional to discuss any aspects of the summary.

If you are 18 and have not received a health summary, please let us know and we can provide you with one.