National Health Service
All UK residents are entitled to use the National Health Service free of charge. If you are an overseas student studying in the UK for six months or more, you will have the same entitlement as any other resident.
You should register with a General Practitioner (GP) as soon as you can. If you will be living in Kingston, you may want to register at the Fairhill Medical Practice on the University Penrhyn Road campus. Alternatively, visit the NHS Choices website for a list of other local GPs.
Fairhill Medical Practice
The Fairhill Medical Practice provides on-site GP services during term-time and at local branch surgeries during vacations. Services include medical and nursing consultations; contraceptive advice; smoking cessation; vaccinations; and 48-hour prescriptions.
To register with the Fairhill Medical Practice, you need to live in a Kingston University hall of residence or within the regular NHS catchment area in accordance with NHS policy (check this with the Fairhill Medical Practice or on the NHS Choices website).
For more information, visit the Fairhill Medical Practice website.
Sexual Health Clinic
This specialist drop-in clinic runs every week day during term time at the Health Centre Penrhyn Road, offering advice relating to sexual problems and difficulties. It also provides screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. The service is free, confidential and open to all students of Kingston University.
Immunisations
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR): The number of measles cases in England is rising. To reduce the risk of outbreaks, the Department of Health recommends that students coming to University have two doses of the MMR vaccine.
If possible, you should bring details of when you had any MMR immunisations when you enrol at the University. If you have not had two doses of MMR, please discuss this with your GP. You'll also be able to discuss it with someone from the Health Centre when you arrive so don't worry if you are not sure what you need.
For more information, download the NHS Measles leaflet (PDF).
Meningitis C: If you left school or college in the UK this summer, you should already have been offered the meningococcal C vaccine. If so, you do not need another dose.
If you have not already been offered the vaccine, please talk to your GP about it before you start University (or as soon as possible afterwards). You'll also be able to discuss this with someone from the Health Centre when you arrive so don't worry if you are not sure what you need.
For more information, visit www.meningitis.org or download the NHS Meningitis leaflet (PDF).
