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Can't get a GP appointment in England? 4 ways to book, and what to do if it's urgent

GP surgeries in England let you book, change or cancel appointments in several ways: the NHS App or NHS website, a form on the surgery's website, by phone, or in person at reception. You may be seen by a GP, nurse, clinical pharmacist or physiotherapist. Urgent appointments cannot be booked in the NHS App.

Reviewed 08/11/2026 · Applies to: England

Who this helps

Anyone living in England, including newcomers, who needs to see a GP or another member of the GP surgery team.

What to do

  1. Make sure you are registered with a GP surgery. Everyone in England can register for free, and you do not need ID, proof of address or proof of immigration status.
  2. Pick the booking route that suits you: the NHS App or NHS website, a form on your surgery's website, phoning the surgery, or going in and speaking to the receptionist.
  3. In the NHS App, select Appointments, then Book an appointment, then Check for available GP appointments. If your surgery offers it, you may also see Ask about a health problem or Request an appointment.
  4. Expect the surgery to ask what you need help with. You may be offered an appointment with a nurse, clinical pharmacist or physiotherapist instead of a GP.
  5. Need to be seen urgently or the same day? Call your GP surgery. Urgent appointments cannot be booked in the NHS App.
  6. If you have an urgent medical problem and are not sure what to do, use NHS 111 online or call 111. For common minor illnesses, a pharmacy can often help.
  7. Ask about evening (6.30pm to 8pm on weekdays) and Saturday (9am to 5pm) appointments if daytime is difficult.
  8. If you are still struggling to get an appointment, contact the surgery directly. If you are not happy with the response, you can complain to the NHS.

Before you act

  • This guidance is for England. GP services in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland work differently.
  • Surgeries may only make some appointments available online, and not every surgery offers every booking option.
  • This is general information, not medical advice.

Take the next step

Continue to the provider’s website to check the latest details and use the service.

NHS guide to GP appointments and bookings ↗

Destination: www.nhs.uk

Sources

MyAgumba explains the sources above. Eligibility and availability depend on your circumstances and the provider’s current rules.