Do I need to register again with a new NHS number?

No — your NHS number usually stays the same. Your GP record is updated with your new name.

Will my prescriptions update automatically?

Usually yes once the patient record is updated, but if you have repeat prescriptions, ask the surgery to confirm it’s updated.

Do I need to show ID as well as my deed poll?

Some surgeries ask for ID, others don’t. Requirements can vary by practice.

How long does it take?

Often a few days, but it depends on the surgery’s admin workload and process.

Will hospitals and referrals update too?

They should once the GP record and referrals are re-issued/updated. If you have an active referral, ask the surgery how it will be handled.

Change your name with your GP (NHS)

If you’ve changed your name by deed poll, you’ll want your GP surgery to update your patient record so prescriptions, referrals and letters match your new name. This guide explains what to ask for and what to do if there’s a delay.

This helps ensure prescriptions, referrals and NHS app details match your new legal name.

This guide explains how to change your name with your GP in the UK after a deed poll, so your NHS records and prescriptions match your new legal name.

What you’ll need

Your deed poll (or other official name change document)
Photo ID if your surgery requests it (requirements vary)
Your NHS number (helpful, not essential)
Any proof you’re using the new name (optional, e.g., payslip/letter)

Step-by-step: updating your GP records

1. Contact your GP surgery (reception or admin team) and request a name update on your patient record.

2. Provide your deed poll (send/upload/bring in depending on the surgery’s process).

Ask them to update:
- your patient record name
- your prescription name
- your contact details (if needed)

3. If you use repeat prescriptions, request confirmation that future prescriptions will print in the new name.

4.If you have upcoming referrals, ask that referral letters and hospital correspondence use the updated name.

Updating prescriptions and NHS app

Prescriptions are usually updated once your GP record is updated.
If you use the NHS App, changes may take time to appear. If it doesn’t update after a reasonable period, contact the surgery and ask them to confirm the change has been applied correctly.

What if the surgery refuses or delays?

This is usually down to admin policy or uncertainty — not a legal issue.

Ask for the request to be handled by the practice manager.

Provide the deed poll again and ask what specific evidence they require.

If you need urgent medication/referrals, ask them to note the new name on correspondence while the admin update is processed.

Ask what specific document they need and who is authorised to approve the update (practice manager).