With the new academic year fast approaching, you may consider what primary healthcare services are available to you as a student studying in Wales and at Cardiff Met.
With the new academic year fast approaching, you may consider what primary healthcare services are available to you as a student studying in Wales and at Cardiff Met. Understanding the support available can help you access the right care with confidence during your time at university.
Registering with a General Practice
We recommend registering with a General Practice in Cardiff, so you have access to routine or urgent care if you need it during your time at university. This is important, especially if you have an ongoing health condition.
You can register with a GP through collecting a form from your chosen practice or register online, depending on what practice you decide to register with.
By being registered with a GP, you will also be eligible for free NHS prescriptions from a pharmacist in Wales.
For more information regarding General Practice registration: https://cavuhb.nhs.wales/patient-advice/students/registering-with-a-gp/
Local Community Pharmacy Services
You can also receive healthcare advice or over the counter treatment for minor illnesses through your local community pharmacy.
Services available include:
- Common Ailments Service: You can receive free treatment for a range of common minor illnesses and conditions, including skin complaints, infections, digestive issues and everyday health concerns.
Examples of conditions covered under Common Ailments Service: Acne, athletes foot, backache (acute), Chickenpox, cold sores, conjunctivitis (bacterial), colic, constipation, dermatitis (dry skin), diarrhoea, dry eye, hayfever, haemorrhoids, head lice, intertrigo, indigestion, ingrowing toenail, nappy rash, mouth ulcers, oral thrush, ringworm, scabies, sore throat, teething, threadworm, urinary tract infections, vaginal thrush, verruca.
- Contraception Services: You can receive confidential access to over-the-counter products such as condoms, pregnancy tests and emergency contraception.
- Pharmacist Independent Prescriber: Assessment and treatment of conditions like ear infections, sore throats, UTIs, as well as access to contraception, without needing to book an appointment with a GP.
For more information regarding local community pharmacies: https://cavuhb.nhs.wales/our-services/community-pharmacies/
Vaccinations
It is also important to consider staying up to date with all your key vaccinations. A Meningitis B vaccine is available free of charge for university students who are eligible. First-dose of Meningitis B vaccinations will be available on Llandaff Campus and Cyncoed Campus between the 18th and 22nd of September.
Please refer to the University’s FAQs for more information: https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/study/new-students/faqs/.
Your SU Advice & Wellbeing Services
Your Students’ Union Advice & Support team offers a drop-in service for any wellbeing concerns. We have designated spaces and qualified staff who can help you explore the range of support resources available within the University and externally during your time as a student.
We also offer services such as counselling and mental health support, disability support, money management advice and sexual health resources.
For more information regarding SU Wellbeing Services: https://www.cardiffmetsu.co.uk/support/
NHS 111
NHS 111 is a free, non-emergency service in the UK providing medical advice and directs people to the appropriate healthcare services. If you need urgent mental health support, you can call 111 and press option 2. NHS 111 Wales is available 24 hours a day and can be accessed free of charge online or by calling 111.
In life threatening situations, always call 999 or attend the nearest Emergency Unit.
For more information regarding A&E services: The Emergency Unit (A&E) - Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
If you have any queries regarding healthcare services, you can visit your SU for further advice and support.