No matter how healthy your lifestyle, you might need to seek medical assistance during your studies. For almost all of our students, NHS services can be accessed free. In the UK, the first place to go for help with most illnesses is a GP surgery (sometimes known as a 'GP Practice'). GPs are doctors who work outside of hospitals. GP surgeries often employ other qualified staff such as nurses and physiotherapists as well. The teams can help with anything from minor injuries and bacterial infections to pregnancy, ongoing health conditions and mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. They can also refer you on to specialist doctros if you need specific follow up treatments.
You need to register with a surgery so they can list you as one of their patients. It doesn't take long and you should think about doing this as soon as you arrive at LSE, even if you've never really seen a doctor often before.
You can find your nearest GP surgeries on the NHS website.
You can also use Walk-in Centres if you're not registered anywhere or couldn't get an appointment with your regular surgery. Find your nearest on the NHS website.
In the case of serious illness or accident, or if your GP surgery is closed and you cannot wait until it reopens you should go to an Accident and Emergency (A & E) department at a hospital. If you, or someone you are with are at great risk and need urgent attention, you can call 999 and request an ambulance. You should only attend A & E or call an ambulance in emergencies.
More information about healthcare options in the UK can be found on the Disability and Wellbeing Service website.
More information for pregnant students can be found online or by speaking with your Academic Mentor.
More information for International Students can be found on the UKCISA website.