Book GP Appointment

When a booking has been confirmed, you will be expected to visit your NHS doctor surgery at the time and date agreed.

To use the NowPatient Book GP Appointment feature, the easiest way is to register a NowPatient account using your NHS Login credentials. Not everybody has NHS Login credentials – do not worry – you can still sign up using your email address. However, if you use your email address, then you will be required to link your account using NHS linkage keys. Please see the questions below which will explain how to obtain the linkage keys from your GP.

Linkage codes (also called linkage keys) are 3 codes that the NHS uses to protect your GP medical record and keep it secure for you.

This is a simple process:

• You will need to contact your GP practice and ask for access to “online services”

• You will also need to state that you would like them to send you your “3 linkage keys”

• Each GP practice manages these requests a little differently. Some prefer you to complete a request form online, via their website. Others prefer you to email or to phone

The simplest way to get these codes is by email. Below, we’ve included a template email you can use to request yours. download template here

Once you have requested online services, your doctor’s practice will send you a letter or email, with your codes. You should have the following 3 codes:

• Linkage key or passphrase

• ODS code or practice ID

• Account ID

When you have obtained the keys, you can simply enter them into your account profile or add them through the Book GP Appointment feature. Doing this will allow you to view your NHS GP records.