We are raising awareness of student's rights to access a local GP.

GP access looks at an individual’s ability to access their GP at a time that suits them, and that any additional contact meets their expectations.

What does it mean for GP’s to be accessible?  

• How are GP services providing adequate appointment times?
• Are they allowing enough parking and disabled access?
• Are international students aware of the services available to them, with the appropriate interpreters and requirements in place?
• Are UK students living away from home receiving the same level of care in other countries?

So, what’s the issue?

IN MANY CASES, STUDENTS DON'T KNOW THEIR LEGAL RIGHTS WHEN IT COMES TO GP ACCESS. 

GP ACCESS IS ONLY ONE SERVICE OF MANY THAT THE NHS OFFERS.  LIKE A DOMINO EFFECT,  WHEN ONE SERVICE FAILS, IT RIPPLES OUT AND SPREADS TO OTHER SERVICES.  IF A STUDENT DOESN'T KNOW WHERE TO ACCESS A GP THEY MAY GO TO MORE COSTLY AND RESOURCE HEAVY SERVICES, SUCH AS WALK-IN CENTRES AND A&E WARDS.

Health Away From Home will combine a physical and digital campaign, focusing on the issues students face regarding access to healthcare.  Our campaign will be directed towards addressing the specific issue of GP Access. 

We will be providing information booklets, informing students of their rights to access healthcare, the support available to help with costs and the locations of local general practitioners in the local area.

This campaign will form the basis of an on-going HealthWatch Luton project.