Healthcare Guide for Kenyans in Scotland
๐ฅ Your Health, Your Right
Healthcare in Scotland is free at the point of use through the NHS (National Health Service) - as long as youโve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application. This guide helps you navigate NHS Scotland services, register with a doctor, and know what to do in case of emergencies.
๐งญ 1. NHS Scotland Basics
- NHS Scotland provides healthcare to all residents, including international newcomers who have paid the IHS.
- You donโt pay for hospital care or GP visits.
- You may pay a small charge for prescriptions or dental treatment.
- Services are based on clinical need โ not your immigration status, as long as youโre eligible.
๐ Learn about NHS Scotland ๐ Explore NHS services and support
๐ฉบ 2. Registering with a GP
A General Practitioner (GP) is your first contact for non-emergency medical issues.
๐ Steps to register:
- Find a GP practice near your home
๐ Find a GP practice - Call or visit the practice to request registration
- Complete a registration form (can be done online or in person)
- Provide ID (e.g. passport, BRP) and proof of address (e.g. tenancy agreement)
Once registered, you can: - Book GP appointments
- Get referrals to specialists
- Request repeat prescriptions
- Access mental health support
๐ Tip: Register early โ donโt wait until youโre unwell.
๐ 3. Emergencies & Urgent Care
๐ Life-threatening emergency?
Dial 999 for an ambulance, fire, or police.
๐ท Not an emergency, but need urgent advice?
Dial 111 to speak to NHS 24, available 24/7.
Other urgent services: - Minor injuries units (for cuts, sprains, burns)
- Walk-in centres (in some cities)
- Out-of-hours GP services
๐ 4. Medicines & Prescriptions
- Prescriptions are free in Scotland.
- Your GP will give you a prescription, which you take to a pharmacy (โchemistโ).
- Most large supermarkets (e.g. Tesco, Asda) and high street chains (e.g. Boots) have pharmacies.
๐ฌ 5. Dental & Eye Care
- Dental care is not always free โ but itโs partially covered by the NHS.
- You must register with an NHS dentist (some waiting lists may apply).
- Eye tests are free every 2 years for residents in Scotland.
- Opticians can refer you to hospital eye specialists if needed.
๐ Find a dentist
๐ Find an optician
๐ง 6. Mental Health Support
Mental health is taken seriously in Scotland. Services include:
- Counselling via GP referral
- Crisis lines and walk-in support
- University mental health support (for students)
- Community mental health services
Helpful links:
- ๐ Breathing Space Scotland
- ๐ Samaritans โ call 116 123 any time, free
- ๐ NHS Mental Health
๐ถ๐ฝ 7. Family & Child Healthcare
Children under 16 receive free:
- Vaccinations
- School nurse visits
- Dental checkups
- Vision and hearing screening
New parents can access Health Visitors โ nurses who support families after childbirth.
๐งพ 8. Healthcare Rights & Protection
- If youโve paid the IHS, youโre entitled to most NHS services during your stay.
- You can choose a male or female GP.
- Your data is confidential and protected by law.
- Emergency services are always free, regardless of immigration status.
โ Key Checklist
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Register with a GP | โ |
| Know your nearest A&E | โ |
| Learn how to call NHS 111 | โ |
| Save emergency contacts | โ |
| Sign up for dental care | โ |
๐ค Need Help?
If youโre unsure, contact us via the contact page, and weโll help you navigate NHS services and connect with trusted local support.
Your health matters. And in Scotland, youโre not alone.