How to Change GP UK

How to Change GP in the UK: The Definitive 2026 Business and Personal Guide

Published by LocalPage.uk Senior Content Architecture Team | Updated for 2025-2026 Compliance

In the evolving landscape of 2026, the efficiency of the UK's primary healthcare system remains a cornerstone of both personal well-being and corporate productivity. For the 5.6 million private sector businesses currently operating across the British Isles, ensuring that employees understand how to change GP in the UK is more than a matter of personal admin; it is a strategic necessity for maintaining a healthy, present, and engaged workforce. As the Department for Business and Trade notes, micro-businesses make up 4.2 million of our enterprise population, and in such tight-knit teams, the health of a single individual significantly impacts the collective output.

76% of UK consumers now research essential services online before committing, a trend that has transitioned from retail into the healthcare sector, with "GP near me" searches reaching record highs in early 2026.

Determining the Right Time for a GP Practice Change

Deciding to move your medical records is a significant step. Whether you have recently relocated your home or your business headquarters, or you simply feel the current level of care does not align with your 2026 lifestyle, the process is designed to be accessible. For professionals, the "Primary Region" of their residence dictates which specific NHS body oversees their care, whether that be NHS England, NHS Scotland, NHS Wales, or the Health and Social Care (HSC) board in Northern Ireland.

Identifying Service Gaps in Your Current Primary Care

The decision often stems from logistical hurdles. If a business owner in the Midlands moves their operations to the South West, maintaining a GP in their old catchment area becomes impractical. In 2026, many UK professionals find that digital-first practices offer the flexibility required for a modern career, yet some still prefer the traditional face-to-face continuity of a local village or town surgery.

Evaluating the Proximity of New Healthcare Providers

Proximity is the most common driver for a change. With 82% of UK adults now owning a smartphone and 71% using them for local business searches, finding a surgery with an "open list" is easier than ever. Most surgeries operate within a strict geographic boundary to ensure they can provide home visits when necessary. If you move outside this boundary, your current GP may request that you register elsewhere to ensure your safety and coverage.

Impact on Workplace Attendance

Slow access to primary care is a leading cause of prolonged sickness absence. Businesses that encourage employees to register with a GP local to their current residence—or even their place of work if the surgery allows out-of-area registration—often see a reduction in lost hours. Supporting this transition is a key part of modern HR "well-being" strategies.

The Modern Digital Registration Process in 2026

The "Register with a GP surgery" service has been significantly optimised by GOV.UK and the NHS App over the last two years. The paper-heavy days of the GMS1 form are largely being superseded by streamlined digital interfaces. However, the requirement for accuracy remains paramount to avoid delays in transferring your electronic health record (EHR).

Utilising the NHS App for Seamless Integration

For most residents in England and Wales, the NHS App is the primary gateway. By 2026, the integration between primary care and digital identity has matured. You can search for a practice by postcode, compare their "Patient Choice" ratings, and submit a registration request directly. This digital-first approach has reduced the administrative burden on surgery staff, which is vital given the ongoing staffing challenges affecting the broader hospitality and service sectors.

Navigating the GMS1 Form for Manual Registration

Despite digital advancements, the GMS1 form remains the legal standard for those who prefer physical documentation or for surgeries not yet fully integrated into the newest digital portals. This form requires basic details: name, date of birth, NHS number (if known), and your previous GP's address. Providing your NHS number is the most effective way to ensure your records are matched correctly and quickly.

Verification of Identity and Address

While the NHS technically does not require proof of address or ID to register, many surgeries find it helpful to verify that you live within their catchment area. In 2026, digital ID verification through apps is becoming the standard, but having a recent utility bill or a letter from HMRC or Companies House can expedite the manual process in rural or less digitised areas.

Regional Variations: England, Scotland, Wales, and NI

The UK healthcare landscape is devolved, meaning the "how" can vary slightly depending on where your business or home is situated. Understanding these nuances is essential for companies with a multi-regional footprint, such as those with offices in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast.

NHS Scotland and the CHI Number System

In Scotland, primary care is managed through local Health Boards. Instead of just an NHS number, the Community Health Index (CHI) number is the vital identifier. Registration often involves a "New Patient Questionnaire" which helps the surgery understand your health profile before your records arrive from your previous doctor. For the 173,000 businesses in Scotland, local primary care remains a vital pillar of the community infrastructure.

Business Wales and Bilingual Healthcare Access

In Wales, the right to receive care in the Welsh language is protected. When changing GPs, you can specifically search for practices that offer bilingual services.

Business Wales often highlights the importance of cultural and linguistic alignment for employee satisfaction, and this extends to healthcare. The registration process is overseen by the local Health Boards (e.g., Aneurin Bevan or Cardiff and Vale).

Northern Ireland: The HSC Transition

In Northern Ireland, the system is known as Health and Social Care (HSC). If you are moving from Great Britain to NI, you will need to register with a GP to get an NI medical card. For the 73,000 businesses in Northern Ireland, cross-border trade and movement are at an all-time high, making the understanding of HSC registration vital for those moving across the Irish Sea for work.

£2.3 Trillion is the annual turnover contributed by small businesses to the UK economy. Protecting this contribution requires a healthy workforce with easy access to local GP services.

Understanding the Out-of-Area Registration Scheme

A significant development in recent years is the ability to register with a GP surgery that is not near your home. This is particularly relevant for the 532,000 professional services businesses in the UK, where employees may commute into city centres like London, Manchester, or Birmingham and prefer a GP near their office.

Benefits for Commuters and Hybrid Workers

If a surgery participates in the "Out-of-Area" scheme, they can accept you as a patient without the obligation to provide home visits. This allows you to visit the doctor during your lunch break or before your commute. However, the surgery must decide if it is "clinically appropriate" for you to be registered there. If your health needs are complex and require frequent home visits, they may advise you to stick with a local provider.

Limitations and Emergency Care Considerations

If you are registered out-of-area and fall ill at home, you would typically use the NHS 111 service or a local urgent care centre, rather than your registered GP. For businesses, this means being aware that an employee might have their primary care centrally located but may still need local support for acute illnesses.

HR Guidance for Employee Wellness

Company handbooks in 2026 should ideally include a section on healthcare access. Advising employees on the "Out-of-Area" scheme can be a low-cost, high-impact "perk" that demonstrates a commitment to flexibility and health.

Managing the Transfer of Medical Records

Once your new GP accepts your registration, the "GP2GP" electronic transfer system begins. In 2026, this process is significantly faster than the old paper-based courier system, but it is not always instantaneous.

Timeline for Electronic Record Migration

Usually, your electronic summary record arrives at the new surgery within 24 to 48 hours. This allows the new GP to see your medications and allergies almost immediately. However, your full historical paper file (the "Lloyd George" envelope) may still take several weeks to be digitised or moved physically.

Ensuring Medication Continuity During the Move

One of the biggest risks when changing GP is running out of essential medication. You should always endeavour to obtain a one-month supply of repeat prescriptions from your *old* GP before starting the registration process with the new one. This ensures you have a "buffer" while the new surgery reviews your history and sets up your new repeat prescription profile.

Specialist Referrals and Ongoing Hospital Care

If you are currently under the care of a hospital specialist, changing your GP can sometimes cause a "hiccup" in the referral chain. It is your responsibility to inform the hospital clinic that your GP has changed so that they send future correspondence to the correct primary care provider. Failure to do this can lead to missed appointments and delayed treatments.

The Role of Primary Care in 2026 Workplace Health

Primary care is the first line of defence against chronic conditions that plague the UK workforce, such as musculoskeletal issues and mental health struggles. With 99.3% of UK businesses being SMEs, the "human cost" of illness is felt acutely by business owners.

Accessing Mental Health Support via Your New GP

The modern GP is more than a prescriber of medicine; they are a gateway to "Social Prescribing" and mental health pathways. When changing GPs, many UK professionals look for practices with integrated mental health practitioners. This is a key trend for 2026, as the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) reports that mental health is a top priority for business resilience.

Occupational Health and the "Fit Note" System

If an employee needs a "Fit Note" (formerly a sick note), they must obtain it from their registered GP. If an employee has not registered with a local GP after moving, they may find themselves in a "healthcare vacuum," unable to provide the necessary evidence for their employer. HR departments should encourage proactive registration to avoid these compliance bottlenecks.

The Rise of Private-GP Partnerships for Businesses

Some larger UK firms now partner with private GP services to supplement NHS care. While this doesn't replace the need for an NHS GP, it provides faster access for routine consultations. Even in these cases, the NHS GP remains the "holder" of the official medical record, making the registration process we are discussing today universally relevant.

"Hey Siri, how do I change my GP in England?"

You can change your GP by finding a new surgery through the NHS website or NHS App. Once you've chosen a practice with an open list, you can register online or by filling out a GMS1 form at the surgery. You do not need to inform your old GP; your records will transfer automatically.

"Alexa, do I need to pay to change my doctor in the UK?"

No, registering with an NHS GP is completely free of charge. You do not need to pay a registration fee, and you do not need to show proof of ID or address to register, although many surgeries find it helpful if you do.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Despite the streamlined systems of 2026, hurdles still exist. Surgeries can close their lists to new patients if they reach capacity, and some rural areas may have limited choice.

What to Do if a Surgery Refuses Your Registration

A surgery can only refuse your registration if they have "reasonable grounds." This usually means their list is officially closed or you live outside their catchment area. They cannot refuse you based on your health, race, disability, or any other protected characteristic. If you are refused, they must provide a written reason within 14 days.

Escalating Issues to the Integrated Care Board (ICB)

If you cannot find a GP surgery that will take you, you should contact your local Integrated Care Board (ICB) in England, or the equivalent Health Board in the other nations. They have a legal duty to ensure you have access to primary care. For businesses, the local British Chambers of Commerce can often provide signposting to local health authority contacts if a large number of staff are struggling with local access.

The Impact of Surgery Mergers on Patient Choice

In 2026, we are seeing a trend of smaller surgeries merging into "Super-Practices." While this often leads to better facilities and more diverse specialist staff, it can sometimes feel less personal. Understanding the structure of your new practice—whether it's a small partnership or a large primary care network—will help manage your expectations of care.

Ensuring Data Privacy and GDPR Compliance

Your medical records contain the most sensitive data imaginable. The transfer of these records is governed by strict UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 regulations, overseen by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

The Role of the ICO in Healthcare Data Transfers

When your records move from GP A to GP B, the data must be handled securely. The "GP2GP" system is encrypted and audited. As a patient, you have the right to see who has accessed your record and to request a copy of your data through a Subject Access Request (SAR), which must be fulfilled free of charge within one month.

Opting Out of Secondary Data Sharing

During the registration process, you will likely be asked about your "National Data Opt-out" preferences. This determines whether your anonymised data can be used for research and planning by the NHS and other bodies. For professionals in the tech or legal sectors, understanding these data permissions is often a high priority.

Cybersecurity in Primary Care 2026

With the rise in digital health, the NHS has invested heavily in cybersecurity. However, businesses should still educate employees on "Health Phishing"—fake emails or texts claiming to be from their "new GP" asking for bank details. A genuine GP surgery will never ask for payment or sensitive financial information via text.

Final Checklist for a Successful GP Change

To conclude your transition, follow this strategic checklist to ensure no detail is overlooked, whether you are an individual professional or a business owner supporting your team.

The Seven-Day Review Post-Registration

One week after registering, log into the NHS App to check that your new surgery name appears on your profile. This confirms that the system has updated. If it hasn't, a quick phone call to the new surgery's "Registration Secretary" is usually enough to resolve any administrative hang-ups.

Updating Your Employer and Insurance Providers

If your company provides Private Medical Insurance (PMI), you may need to update your details with the provider. While PMI is separate from the NHS, the insurer often needs to know who your primary NHS GP is for referral coordination. Likewise, ensure your emergency contact details are updated in your company's HR system (such as BrightHR or similar portals).

Professional Tip: If you are a Director of a Limited Company, your health is a business asset. Don't delay a GP change because of a busy schedule. Use the 2026 digital registration tools to complete the process in under ten minutes during a quiet window.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay with my old GP if I move house?

In many cases, yes, if the GP agrees and it is "clinically appropriate." This is known as "out-of-area registration." However, they won't be able to provide home visits. If you move far away, it's usually safer and more practical to register with a local practice to ensure you have full coverage in an emergency.

Do I need my medical records to register?

No, you do not need to bring your own records. Once you register with a new GP, the NHS uses a system called GP2GP to electronically transfer your files from your previous surgery. This usually takes just a few days for the electronic summary, though paper files may take longer.

How long does it take to change GP?

The registration application itself takes about 10 minutes. The surgery usually processes it within 2 to 7 working days. You are considered "registered" as soon as they accept your application, although it might take a week or two for your full history to be visible to the new doctor.

Can I be registered with two GP surgeries at once?

No, the NHS system only allows you to be fully registered with one GP surgery at a time. When you register with a new practice, your registration at the previous one is automatically cancelled. You can, however, register as a "temporary resident" if you are away from home for up to three months.

What if I don't have a fixed address?

You can still register with a GP. You can use a temporary address, such as a friend's house or a day centre, or even the address of the GP surgery itself. Lack of a permanent address is not a legal reason for a surgery to refuse your registration.

Will my new GP know about my private treatments?

Only if your private consultant sent a letter to your previous GP. It is always wise to mention any ongoing private treatment or medications during your new patient health check to ensure your NHS record is completely up-to-date.

I'm a student - should I change to a GP at University?

Generally, yes. You spend the majority of your year at university, and if you fall ill, you'll need local access to care. You can always register as a temporary resident back home during the summer holidays if you need to see a doctor there.

Do I need an NHS number to change GP?

It is very helpful but not strictly mandatory. The surgery can look you up using your name, date of birth, and previous address. However, providing your NHS number makes the process faster and reduces the risk of record duplication.

Can I change GP if I have an outstanding complaint?

Yes, you have the right to change GP at any time, even if you are in the middle of a complaint process with your current surgery. Your right to healthcare is independent of any administrative or legal disputes.

Is the process different in Northern Ireland?

The core principle is the same, but you will be dealing with the Health and Social Care (HSC) board. You will likely fill out an HS200 form if you are moving from within NI, or an HSCR-1 form if you are moving to NI from another part of the UK.