I’m Aanya, a first-year medical student and someone who has recently registered and got familiar with the healthcare services available at Exeter. Whether it be for a classic case of fresher’s flu or just routine check-ups, signing up to healthcare services is a must when starting university. It can seem confusing at first (I thought so too!), but I am here to break it down in a, hopefully, easy way for everyone.

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Do you have to pay?

Going to the doctors and walk-in centres is free and if you are ever in an emergency and you should go to A&E (Accident and Emergency) you will also be treated for free. If you are an international student and want to find out more about medical treatment in the UK based on your circumstances or eligibility, you can have a look at the student support web page.

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If you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your student visa application, you will not be charged for any NHS (National Health Service) medical treatment.

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How does healthcare work in the UK?

The NHS provides the majority of treatment in the UK at both local doctors’ surgeries, dentists, walk-incentres and hospitals. Treatment is usually free, although you may have to pay for any prescribed medicines.

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You need to register at a doctor’s surgery to make an appointment to see a doctor (in the UK doctors at surgeries are called GPs (General Practitioners). Normally you would register at the surgery closest to where you are living, but you can also register for the Student Health Centre on the Streatham campus.

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How can a pharmacy help me?

Your local pharmacy can be a really useful first stop if you're feeling unwell or have questions about medication. You don't always need to see a GP first.

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Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals and can give you confidential advice about common illnesses, medicines and looking after your health. If they think you need to see a GP or another healthcare professional, they can tell you what to do next.

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You can speak to a pharmacist about things like coughs, colds, sore throats, aches and pains, minor illnesses and questions about medication.

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Depending on the pharmacy, they may also be able to help with:

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• contraception and emergency contraception

• blood pressure checks

• stopping smoking

• sexual health services

• advice about new or existing medication

• safely disposing of medicines you no longer need

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Services can vary between pharmacies, so it's worth checking what's available before you visit.

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How can I register with a doctor?

You never know when you might need to see a doctor, so it is much better to be registered before you need an appointment for something. The Student Health Centre is on the Streatham campus and you can register online. The form only takes 10 minutes to complete, and it takes around 2 working days to be registered.

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If you’re based at St Luke’s campus like me, you may be closer to the Heavitree Practice, in which case you can go into the practice to obtain a registration form to fill out. For more information, you can visit their website.

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The above GPs are simply recommendations, and you can always find a GP surgery close to where you live, if you live off campus, by using the NHS‘ Find a GP’ service.

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It’s important to note that if you have a health condition that requires repeat prescriptions for regular medication to register as soon as you can! If you are under 19 years old and in full-time education, you won’t have to pay prescription charges.

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How can I find a dentist?

The NHS advises you have a dental check up every 2 years, so it is a good idea to be registered with a dentist too to make sure your mouth, teeth and gums stay healthy! Located on North Street, my dentist is one of the NHS and private dentists in Exeter and they are accepting new patients so you can sign up here.

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To find a dentist in Devon, you can follow this link.