New Patients

We welcome new patients who live within our practice area to register with us.

We are now accepting new registrations at the practice.

How to register with us

It’s easy to join Bishop’s Close Medical Practice. You can register in any of the following ways:

1. Register Online

Use the NHS online service- Register with a GP surgery. This is the preferred method to avoid delays or errors.

Please use the link below to access the New Patient Registration Form online:

Register now

2. Download a Registration Form

Download and print our registration form (Please complete and return it to reception.)

View form

3. Collect a Form from the Surgery

Visit the practice and pick up a registration form. Our friendly reception team is always happy to help.

Once you have submitted this form, you may need to provide the practice with suitable proof of ID (passport, driving license, bank statement or utility bill).

Having Your NHS Number

It is helpful if you know your NHS number when registering. You can find it here: Find your NHS number – NHS

Named GP

As part of our commitment to personalised care, every patient is allocated a named GP. You can still choose to see any GP or healthcare professional within the practice.

Repeat Medication

If you have a repeat medication a telephone appointment will be arranged with a member of our pharmacy team to ensure that there is a smooth transition for ordering of all your medications. You will be advised if you a long term condition review.

Text Messaging Service

We offer a text message service to send appointment reminders and important practice updates. Please remember to update your contact details — especially your mobile number — using the ‘Update Your Details’ section if anything changes.
For more information on our Text messaging service click here

Temporary Registrations

If you are staying in the area temporarily, you can receive urgent treatment from us as a temporary patient for up to 3 months.

Please speak to reception, as you may be asked to complete a short form.

You will remain registered with your usual permanent GP during this time.

FAQs

What are the acceptable examples of Photo ID and Proof of Address?

Acceptable photo ID:

Current passport or identity card
Resident permit issued by Home office
Current UK photocard driving licence
HM Forces identity card
Police photographic ID card
University or college photo smartcard
NHS smart card

Acceptable proof of address:

Recent utility bill (within 3 months of the current date)
Local authority tax bill ( valid for current year)
Bank or building society statement ( within 3 months of a current date)
Current tenancy agreement
Court order (within 12 months of the current date)
UCAS letter (within 12 months of the current date)

What is temporary registration?

If you become ill while away from home, or are not registered with a GP, you can receive emergency treatment from a local GP practice for up to 14 days.

You may then register as a temporary patient for up to three months, allowing you to receive care while remaining registered with your usual GP.

To register, contact the GP practice directly. Practices do not have to accept temporary patients but must provide emergency treatment if needed. You cannot register as a temporary patient at a practice in the same area where you are already registered.

What if I live outside the practice area?

Our practice covers the Spennymoor area and surrounding villages, including Kirk Merrington, Hett, Byers Green, Newfield, Binchester, and Croxdale. We also accept patients living west of the A167 in Ferryhill (Dean Bank area).

If you live outside our practice area, you will need to register with a GP closer to where you live.