During the pandemic, the Scottish Government issued guidance, recommending patient moves between GP practices be paused, except where individuals/households had moved outwith practice boundaries or were new arrivals to the area. From 1 June 2022 this guidance will be withdrawn.   

Primary care in Aberdeen City has experienced significant challenges over the last two years. In light of this, specific arrangements are being made in the city to support those practices, already at their maximum capacity, with the change in guidance.  

Where practices have the capacity to register new patients, they will continue to do this. However, some city centre practices have advised they are currently at maximum capacity and therefore not in an immediate position to register new patients. 

For those practices at maximum capacity, Aberdeen City Primary Care Team will hold a central waiting list. Individuals who wish to exercise patient choice and register with a new practice should still contact their practice of choice in the first instance. If the practice is not currently in a position to register new patients, they will be directed to the Aberdeen City Primary Care Team. The team will liaise with patients to find a suitable alternative practice or will advise when their preferred practice is able to take on new patients.  

This process is only in place for people who are choosing to move practice. If individuals have moved from one part of the city to another (and out of their current practice boundary), or are newly arrived in Aberdeen, they will be registered as normal. This is temporary measure, which will be kept under regular review. The aim is to remove the waiting list within three months, or sooner if circumstances allow. 

A Frequently Asked Questions guide has been produced to help people understand what is happening. It is available to view at: https://www.aberdeencityhscp.scot/lets-talk/faqs--change-to-registration-guidance