Did you know that patients registered with a GP practice in NHS Lothian can access a number of health and wellbeing services without needing to see a GP first?
Self-referral services can help you get the right support more quickly, including help with mental health, physiotherapy, foot care and minor injuries.
Below are some of the key services available across the NHS Lothian area.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
If you are feeling anxious, low, stressed or overwhelmed, support is available.
You can explore local wellbeing services and resources through iThrive Edinburgh. This site provides information on mental health support and community services across Lothian.
Edinburgh patients may also benefit from Thrive Welcome Teams, offering short supportive conversations and signposting to the right services.
For urgent emotional support, you can contact:
- Breathing Space
- Samaritans (24/7)
Get urgent mental health help:
If you have an urgent mental health need, there’s support available to get you the right care in the right place.
Physiotherapy Self-Referral
If you have muscle, joint or back pain, you may be able to self-refer directly for NHS physiotherapy.
Complete the NHS Lothian Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Self-Referral Form to access assessment and treatment.
Podiatry (Foot Health) Self-Referral
NHS Lothian podiatry services may be available through self-referral for foot and lower limb problems.
You can apply using the NHS Lothian Podiatry Community Self-Referral Form.
NHS Lothian Travel Clinics
Travel health services are available through NHS Lothian Travel Clinics to help you prepare safely for trips abroad. These clinics offer advice on travel-related illnesses, vaccinations, and how to protect your health while travelling. You can book appointments directly and access guidance tailored to your destination through NHS Lothian Travel Clinics.
Community Pharmacy Support
Your local community pharmacy can provide expert advice without an appointment, including support for:
- Minor illnesses
- Medication queries
- Repeat prescription advice
- Healthy living guidance
You can find your nearest pharmacy using NHS Inform – Find a Pharmacy.
Stop Smoking Support (NHS Lothian)
If you would like help to stop smoking, free NHS support is available across NHS Lothian. Stopping smoking is one of the best steps you can take for your health, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, lung conditions and cancer. You can access advice, nicotine replacement options and local stop smoking services through NHS Inform – Quit your Way Scotland.
Support is available for anyone living in the NHS Lothian area, and you can also speak to your community pharmacy for additional stop smoking advice.
Sexual Health Services (NHS Lothian)
Confidential sexual health services are available to anyone living in the NHS Lothian area. You can access advice, STI testing, contraception, emergency contraception and specialist clinics without needing to see a GP first. Appointments and service information are available through NHS Lothian Sexual Health Services. Many services offer self-referral options and online booking. If you are unsure what support you need, the website provides guidance on clinics, waiting times and available treatments.
Minor Injuries Assessment (MIA)
If you have a minor injury that does not require A&E, you may be able to attend a Minor Injuries Assessment (MIA) Unit.
MIA services can help with:
- Sprains and strains
- Minor burns
- Simple fractures
- Minor wounds
- Bites and stings
To access the correct local service, patients should first call NHS 24 on 111. NHS 24 will assess your symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate Minor Injuries Unit if needed.
More information is available at NHS Inform – Minor Injuries Units.
When to Seek Emergency Help
For serious or life-threatening emergencies, always call 999 or attend A&E immediately, especially for:
- Chest pain
- Severe bleeding
- Severe breathing difficulty
- Signs of stroke (face dropping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
Please note: These services are available to patients registered with GP practices across NHS Lothian, although access routes may vary slightly depending on where you live.