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- At birth you are issued with your own medical card and NHS number. You will also be registered with a doctor (General Practitioner or GP) by your parents or guardian until you turn 16 years old
- Your parents or guardians will only be consulted about your health if your doctor feels you are incapable of making your own decisions or with your permission
- Once you are 16, you can choose your own doctor, although most people stay with their family doctor
- Make sure you get the emergency line number for your doctor once you’ve registered
- Always go to your doctor first unless it is a real emergency. They can give you the best advice for you and refer you to a hospital or a specialist if necessary
- Since April 2007 everyone in Wales is now entitled to a free prescription.
- You can visit any chemist or pharmacist who will be able to give you your prescription.
- You are free to change doctors at any point and your medical records will automatically be transferred to your new doctor when you register
- Doctors are there to help you get better so don’t be afraid to talk to them honestly. Everything you say is confidential
