Health information for new students

The UK is generally a healthy place to live and you will probably remain in good health throughout your period of study.  There is an NHS medical centre at the London School of Economics - St Philips Medical Centre - which is staffed by four GPs and two nursing sisters (see St Philips Medical Centre).

Inoculations and injections

If you are required to have any vaccinations, including meningitis, or evidence of a recent check-up or chest x-ray, you should arrange to have these when applying for your visa. In exceptional circumstances, some people may be asked to undergo a straightforward medical on their arrival in the UK.

The School's Medical Centre offers advice on the vaccinations you should have before coming to university. See Vaccination advice for students.

Health treatment and insurance

The National Health Service (NHS) provides health treatment for UK residents, some of which is free, and some which must be paid for. Generally speaking, consultations and clinic visits are free, while medicines and vaccinations must be paid for. For more information on what you will be entitled to when you come to London,  see Guide to the National Health Service.

In order to access the full range of NHS medical services it is necessary to register with an NHS doctor known as a General Practitioner (GP).  To find out how to register with a GP, see All you need to know about registration with a NHS GP.

Useful links

• NHS Direct
• UKCISA Guidance notes for students 2008/09 - This guide is extremely helpful.  Please click on the Keeping Healthy link for more information.

Please note that LSE cannot be held responsible for the content of external websites.

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