Do I need to Change my GP when I move?
Moving can be a stressful and costly process and changing your address comes with a list of institutions/local authorities or utility providers to notify: the Department of Work and Pensions, the DVLA, HMRC, and the NHS are only a few of those who need to be updated with your new address.
Most people tend to forget that they need an NHS change of address when they move. Below we answered some questions on how this can be done.
Notifying your GP of your change of address
Having a GP change of address is necessary when you move house, even if your new home is in the same area and you don’t need to change doctors. Updating the NHS with your new address is important. If this step is forgotten, your personal information might end up going to the incorrect address and you can miss important notifications. Also, in some cases, you could even be subject to identity fraud.
When do you need to change your GP?
If you are remaining in the catchment area of your current GP when moving house, chances are that you don’t necessarily need to change doctors. The catchment area is the geographical area served by an institution, and your GP practice will confirm this with you when updating your address with them-your current GP might still be able to continue treating you at your new address, as long as you are fairly nearby. In this case, they will have to assure the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) that they’re happy to do so.
You can also register with a surgery that is closer to your work or your children’s school if this is more convenient for you but keep in mind that registering with a GP that’s far from where you live could influence referrals for hospital tests and treatments, or access to community health services.
If you are relocating to a different area that is outside the catchment zone, and you need to register with a new GP, make sure you check which surgeries are taking on new patients and keep in mind that some doctors offer services that others don’t, so it’s worth comparing and choosing the one that suits you best.
Another important thing to consider is that you cannot be treated at a GP surgery that you’re not registered with unless it is an absolute emergency. In this case, you will have to complete a temporary registration form.
How much does it cost to change GP?
If you are worried about the cost when changing your GP, you would be happy to know that this service is free of charge. It can be done online, via the NHS website or app, where you can also find the closest GP surgery to your new
The takeaway
If you are moving house and wondering if you need to change your GP in the process, the answer can differ depending on the area of your new home. The most important thing is to notify the NHS of your change of address so your information can be updated in the system and notifications be sent to the correct address.
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