Types of NHS medical facilities
- GP Surgeries: Your first port of call for most health issues. GP surgeries offer consultations, basic treatments, and referrals to specialists if necessary. They also manage chronic conditions and provide vaccinations.
- Hospitals: Equipped for more complex diagnostics and treatment, including surgery, emergency care, and maternity services. Hospitals are referral-based, meaning you’ll usually need a GP or specialist to send you there.
- Walk-in Centres and Urgent Care: For non-life-threatening emergencies when you can’t wait for a GP appointment. These centres treat injuries and illnesses requiring immediate attention.
- Dental Practices: Offering both NHS and private services. NHS dental services cover routine and some emergency care, but charges apply for most treatments.
- Pharmacies: Beyond dispensing medications, pharmacies offer health advice, vaccinations, and treatments for minor problems.
- Sexual Health Clinics: These centres offer confidential advice, testing, and treatment for sexual health issues, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception. Services are available to everyone, regardless of their GP registration status.
- Physiotherapy Centres: For patients needing rehabilitation services, such as those recovering from injuries or with conditions affecting movement. Access is usually through a GP referral.
- Mental Health Services: Offering support for mental health issues ranging from anxiety and depression to more severe mental health conditions. Services can include counselling, therapy, and psychiatric support, typically accessed via GP referral.
- Specialist Clinics: For specific medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease, the NHS has clinics that offer targeted care and management programs. Access is through GP referral.
- Community Health Centres: These provide a range of services including vaccinations, health screenings, and support for pregnant women and young children. They often house multiple services under one roof, making healthcare more accessible.
- Minor Injury Units (MIUs): For treatment of minor injuries like cuts, burns, and simple fractures. Faster than A&E for minor issues, but not equipped for life-threatening conditions.
- Children’s Health Services: Dedicated paediatric care, including well-baby clinics, developmental screenings, and vaccination programs. Usually integrated into community health centres or offered via GP practices.