Since 2015, all GP practices in England have been allowed to register new patients who live outside their practice boundary area. This arrangement provides greater choice for patients when selecting a GP practice.
What is out of area registration?
Patients can approach any GP practice, even if they reside outside the practice area, to inquire about being accepted onto the patient list. However, practices have the option to refuse registration for out of area patients.
If your application is considered, the GP practice will only register you without home visits if it is clinically appropriate and practical for your individual case.
When is out of area registration appropriate?
The practice will assess whether it is clinically appropriate and practical to register you as an out of area patient without the obligation to provide home visits.
Some factors they may consider include:
Clinical conditions or care needs that could be compromised by registration without home visits (e.g., complex long-term conditions requiring home-based care or community support).
Practical reasons that may limit the benefits of out of area registration (e.g., you do not frequently spend time near the practice area). The practice may ask you or your current/previous practice (with your consent) additional questions about your health and circumstances to help make this decision.
If accepted as an out of area patient
You will attend the practice and receive the full range of services as a regular patient.
If you have an urgent care need and the practice cannot assist you at home, they will advise you to call NHS 111. Who will connect you with a local service for a face-to-face appointment or a home visit, if necessary.
However, the practice may decide that out of area registration is not in your best interest or practical. In such cases, they may offer registration with home visits (if you live close to the practice area) or advise you to seek registration with a more local practice.
If your health needs change after being accepted as an out of area patient, the practice may review and reconsider your registration status.
How to register as an out of area patient
Visit the practice and inform the reception team that you would like to register as an “out of area patient.” They will provide you with the necessary paperwork.
This arrangement applies only to GP practices and patients residing in England. For further information, please visit the NHS Choices website NHS Choices | BHR Hospitals.