Duty Doctor Service

For when you have an urgent medical problem

• Available in all City & Hackney GP Practices
• 8am to 6.30pm: Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays)

1. Phone the practice and explain to reception that you have an urgent problem
2. If appropriate, reception can then put you on the Duty Doctor list
3. The Duty Doctor will ring you back within 2 hours
4. The Duty Doctor will decide with you what you need, which could be:

• Advice over the phone
• An appointment at the practice
• A home visit if you are really not well
• A referral to another service 

This service offers you quick access to your GP practice, where they know you and have your full medical record. We recommend this service instead of going to A&E at the hospital.

If you have a life-threatening emergency, please call 999.

Published: Jul 24, 2025