12 February 2012
This information applies to England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Anyone can change their GP without giving a reason. On the other hand, if you moved out of the GP’s usual area, there is no need to change unless the GP says that treatment and home visits can not be continued.
If you decide to change GPs, you should contact the surgery you want to change to, and ask to register as a patient with them. If they agree to take you on, they will ask you to fill in a registration form or ask you for your medical card details. Some GP practices also want to see proof of your identity, like a passport, and proof of your address, like a utility bill.
The GP practice will then send your details to the health authority, who will write to you to confirm that you're registered with the new practice. Your medical records will be sent to the new practice.
Some health authorities also issue NHS medical cards. If they do, they will send you a new card when they write to you. But not all health authorities issue cards, and you don't need a card to register with a GP or get NHS treatment.
If you want to change doctors because you've been removed from a doctor’s list, the procedure is similar to changing through choice. If you're having trouble finding a GP who will take you on, contact your health authority who can allocate a GP in your area.
You can find more information about your rights as an NHS patient on Adviceguide.
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