Registering as a new patient

To join Eastfield Medical Practice, work through the four steps below and tick them off as you go. You can complete the form online or collect one from the surgery, whichever suits you.

1. Check you live in our practice area

   We can only register patients who live within our practice boundary. Please use the NHS Lothian address checker to confirm your address is within our area.

   Check the practice area

   Done — my address is within the practice area

2. Get your details together

   Have these ready — the form is much quicker with them to hand:

   • The name and address of your previous GP practice
   • A list of your current repeat medication (or a repeat slip from your old practice)
   • Your CHI number (on any letter from a Scottish hospital or clinic) — helpful, but not essential
   • Photo ID and proof of address — helpful, but not essential
   • Any allergies and ongoing conditions to mention on the form
   Done — I have what I need

3. Order a final repeat prescription from your current practice

   If you take regular medication, order one last repeat prescription from your current GP before you register with us. Your medical records can take a few weeks to reach Eastfield, and we cannot issue repeat prescriptions until we have enough information — this makes sure you do not run out while your records transfer.

   Done — I have enough medication to cover the move

   I don't take repeat medication — skip this step

4. Complete the registration form

   Once you have done steps 1 to 3, complete the new patient registration form online:

   Open the registration form

   If you would prefer, you can collect a registration form in person from reception and hand it back to us at the surgery.

What happens next

Once we receive your form, your registration will usually be processed within 72 hours, Monday to Friday — weekends and public holidays are not included. We will also request your records from your previous GP practice — these can take a few weeks to arrive. You can book appointments and order prescriptions as soon as your registration is complete.

• If you take regular medication or have an ongoing health condition, please book a new patient check once you are registered, so your care and prescriptions continue smoothly.
• Ask reception about online services, so you can order repeat prescriptions through Patient Services.
• Your notes transfer automatically. You do not need to do anything, and you can be seen before they arrive.

If you live outside our area

If the address checker shows that you live outside our practice boundary, you can find a GP practice for your area on NHS inform. If you need care while temporarily in the area, please phone the practice to discuss a temporary registration.

Common questions