Moving to a new home is exciting, but updating your address with the NHS and your GP surgery is essential. Accurate contact details help ensure you receive appointment reminders, test results, prescriptions, and care notifications—on time and at the right address. This guide will walk you through why updates matter, step-by-step how to do it, and tips to make sure your health care stays seamless while you settle into your new location.
Why Updating Your NHS Record Is Important
NHS records are linked to the national Personal Demographics Service (PDS), which holds your name, date of birth, NHS number, and contact details. Healthcare providers—including hospitals, GP surgeries, and screening programs—rely on this system to reach you. If your address is outdated, you risk missing essential communications such as immunisation invites, cancer screening letters, or referral notices. ([turn0search1])
Additionally, if patient contact data is missing or malformed—like incorrect email or phone number—the NHS may send a notification prompting you to correct it via an online service. ([turn0search1])
Step-by-Step: Updating Contact Details Online
Via NHS Website or App
- Log in via NHS login or NHS App
- Go to “Account Settings” → “Contact details”
- Update your mobile number and email as needed
This method is ideal for updating phone or email. However, for postal address changes, you should notify your GP surgery directly. ([turn0search1])
Notify Your GP Surgery
If you remain with the same surgery but have moved within its catchment area, inform them through the NHS App or their online portal (e.g. SystmOnline or Accurx). Some practices also offer an “Update Contact Information” digital form. ([turn0search13], [turn0search7])
If you’ve moved outside the area, you may need to register with a new GP. Use the NHS App or NHS webpage to find and register with a surgery in your new postcode. After registering, your medical records will be transferred—this can take up to 28 days. ([turn0search9], [turn0search5])
When to Update Your Address
Ideally, update NHS contact details and GP surgery immediately after moving. This ensures:
- Test results or screening invites reach you on time
- Your primary care services align with your new location
- Home visits or community care aren’t missed
If you delay, notices might go to your old property, increasing risks—especially if mail is returned or stolen.
Common Scenarios & How to Handle Them
Staying with your current GP
If your new home is close by, some surgeries may still register and care for you—though home visits may be limited. Always update your address so your post and medical correspondence reach you reliably. ([turn0search21])
Registering with a new GP
When moving farther away, use "Find a GP" on the NHS site or the NHS App to register with a new surgery in your area. Your records will be transferred automatically. ([turn0search5])
Unable to access online services?
You can also notify your surgery by calling or emailing. Have your NHS number, date of birth, and new postal address ready. Most surgeries will update your record within a few days.
CCG & Data Governance Considerations
GP practices are required under NHS England contracts to allow patients to update demographics, including address, email, and phone via digital channels. Practices may periodically send messages prompting updates if data is missing or inconsistent. ([turn0search7])
Potential Risks If You Don’t Update
- Missed appointment or screening invites
- Prescriptions being sent to your old home
- Increased risk in emergencies—such as care delays
Both NHS and healthcare professionals may rely on notes tied to your old address, leading to miscommunication during critical moments.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Update
- Use official NHS login or App via NHS website only
- Create strong passwords and enable two-factor if available
- Review address details for accuracy (postcode, flat number, street name)
- Save screenshots or confirmations for your records
- If switching GP, choose a practice that covers your new address
Summary
Updating your address with NHS and your GP practice is not only recommended—it’s essential for continuing to receive healthcare smoothly. Whether it's appointment reminders, test results, or even emergency referrals, accurate contact details help ensure you stay connected to your services. The online tools and apps provided by NHS make the process quick and secure. If you’ve moved, take the few minutes needed today to make this important update.
Sources: NHS Digital contact update guidance and PDS policy, NHS England GP data users guide, NHS App support pages. ([turn0search1], [turn0search7], [turn0search9], [turn0search5], [turn0search13])