By Amber O’connor
Copyright dailyrecord
The NHS is urging thousands of students in Scotland to complete an important health check ‘as soon as possible’. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde shared the important advice in a social media post. Taking to X , the health board explained that new students may need to register with their local health services, and explained how to do so. The post said: “Are you a new student to Glasgow? Welcome! Make sure to register with a GP, dentist, and optician as soon as possible. It’s quick, easy, and means you can get the Right Care in the Right Place.” The advice highlighted that new students should get acquainted with their new health care professionals for the new academic year. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s website offers advice for students. The ‘Information For Students’ page also includes a student checklist that all pupils are advised to complete. By doing so, they can ensure they’ll know where to turn should they need support during their studies. The checklist advises students to register with a GP and ensure they know how to use the virtual A&E service. It also urges them to locate their nearest pharmacy, find out where to go for mental health support, and find out how to access sexual health services. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde explains: “All students living within Greater Glasgow and Clyde should ensure they are registered with a local GP. Registering with a GP is free, and will ensure that if you need primary care, you will not need to go back home, or rely on A&E services which should only be used for very urgent or life-threatening illness and injuries.” Students can use Scotland’s service directory to locate their nearest GP practice. To register, they must submit an application form, and the practice will confirm their registration. The webpage also explains how students can use the virtual A&E service. The guidance says: “All students can access NHSGGC’s virtual A&E service which provides emergency care consultations either through video or over the telephone. It means you can get urgent care without having to travel to a physical A&E.” It can be accessed by calling NHS24 on 111. Knowing where to locate a local pharmacy is key because they are the “first port of call for a full range of minor ailments”. The webpage explains: “You do not need an appointment and there are hundreds of pharmacies across Greater Glasgow and Clyde.” For mental health support, it’s possible that colleges and universities will have their own dedicated service. However, there are multiple ways to access support. The advice says: “When you need help you should first contact your GP. Your GP can refer you to your local Community Mental Health Service. If you need support when your GP surgery is closed, call NHS 24 on 111. “You can also call Samaritans for help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call them on 116 123 (freephone) or email: jo@samaritans.org. Breathing Space offers a confidential phone line for anyone in Scotland feeling low, anxious or depressed. You can call free on 0800 83 85 87.” For sexual health services, Sandyford provides specialist sexual health services for Greater Glasgow and Clyde. Information on clinic locations, opening times and services is available from the Sandyford Sexual Health Services website .
