How to Register Patients?

The law is:

NHS (GMS Contracts) Regs 2004, Schedule 6 para 17 - General discretion to register/refuse to register anyone in catchment area, so long as GP does not discriminate.

Primary Care (eg. GPs)

•      Asylum seekers and refugees - Entitled but difficulties may be that the GP surgery may require proof of identity and/or proof of address
•      Undocumented (including refused asylum seekers) / visa overstayers /overseas visitor - Can be registered at GPs discretion

Secondary Care (eg. hospitals & specialist care)

•     Asylum seekers - Entitled
•     Refused Asylum seekers - Not automatically entitled as they are not considered ordinarily resident but it is dependent on the treatment required and its urgency as well as on the ability of the individual to return home.
•     Undocumented/visa overstayers/overseas visitors - Not entitled to free treatment.

But the following treatment must be given to anyone, regardless of having to pay:

•      Antenatal care
•      Immediately necessary treatment (which would save life or deterioration/serious damage) without the cost if it is provided in A&E
•      Care given under mental health act section (without cost)
•      Treatment for TB and most communicable diseases (without cost)
•      Sexual health/ family planning services