GPs and dentists in Northern Ireland

If you or someone you know is in distress or despair, Lifeline is a free crisis helpline, open all day, every day.

Your GP

If your condition isn't serious, you can expect to see a doctor within a reasonable timescale. You can ask for an appointment with a certain doctor, nurse or health professional. If you can't keep an appointment, tell the practice as soon as possible.

Many doctors in Northern Ireland offer online services to book or change an appointment and order a repeat prescription. Some GPs can send prescriptions to a local pharmacy.

Out of hours and crisis help

When your practice is closed, the GP out of hours service is available, including 24 hours on Saturday and Sunday. Lifeline is a crisis response free helpline available across Northern Ireland. It offers immediate help by telephone all day, every day if you or someone you know is in distress or despair.

Dentists

You can use a Health Service dentist with a set scale of charges, or pay for a private dentist. Once registered, you stay on that dentist's patient list for 24 months. This registration period will be extended if you return for another examination or further treatment during that period.

The use of dental amalgam in children under 15 years old and pregnant or breastfeeding women is restricted, unless the dentist thinks it's necessary. For free dental treatment on a low income, see help with health costs.

If you are disabled and it is hard to visit a dental surgery, you can be referred to a clinic with extra time and facilities, or the Health Service community dental service may be able to visit you at home.

Common questions

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