USING THE HEALTH SERVICE

If you or someone else has an accident and need emergency treatment, dial 999 for an ambulance (minicom 669999) or go to the Accident & Emergency Care Department at York Hospital. For drug/alcohol first aid, see drugs & alcohol: what to do if... For emergency dental treatment, contact your dentist; if you can't do this, it is possible to go to A&E.

Registering with a doctor (GP)

From the age of 16 you can, if you wish, register with a doctor in your own right. Take your medical card with you if you have one. You can also change to another doctor - you don't have to give a reason for changing.

You can get a list of the doctors in your area from the Patient Advice & Liason Service (PALS) or from the NHS Direct helpline or NHS website. If you are away from home and need a doctor, you can register as a temporary patient.

If you are homeless, and don't have a doctor, you can register with the Pesonal Medical Services (PMS) Team for the Homeless.

York NHS Walk-in Centre and NHS Direct

For health advice and information you can speak to a registered nurse in confidence at the Walk-in Centre (8am - 6pm) or by phoning NHS Direct (24hr). They can also direct you to the right NHS service to help you, and the Walk-in Centre can treat a range of minor illnesses and injuries. No appointment is necessary. You'll be asked a few personal details, but you can remain anonymous if you wish.

Confidentiality and consent

You are entitled at any age to a confidential consultation with a Doctor. You can get treatment in confidence if they are satisfied that you understand the information you are given, your choices and the possible consequences. If you are under 16, they are legally obliged to encourage you to discuss the issue with your parents - but even if it is about contraception, they must respect your confidentiality.

Free NHS treatment

For details about free prescriptions, dental treatment and help with eye tests etc., get a copy of Form HC1 "Claim for help with health costs" from post offices, your GP or the Jobcentre Plus. You should be entitled to free prescriptions if you are:

Dentists and Opticians

Dental treatment is free on the NHS to people under 18, and to most other people who get free prescriptions. (Even if you're not entitled to free treatment, it is still cheaper if your dentist takes NHS patients). If you dont' have a dentist or want to change yours, you can get details from NHS Direct helpline or website; or call the Dental Line to be put on the waiting list. However, check that your dentist accepts NHS patients before treatment starts - NHS Direct will be able to tell you. If you have to pay for dental treatment, there are various private companies that allow you to spread the costs by paying a standard amount each month.

Most people entitled to free prescriptions are also entitled to free eye tests and vouchers towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. You can get an eye test at any optician, and can use the vouchers where you like. Get a copy of your prescription to take with you.

For more information about NHS services contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). They can also help if you want to make a complaint or give feedback about NHS services.