What you can self-refer for on the NHS
A short list of the services that take you directly, no GP appointment needed, and the ones that still need a referral. Rules vary by area; the service's own page is the final word.
- Maternity
- Most maternity units take self-referrals online or by phone as soon as you know you are pregnant. Search the trust's name with "maternity self-referral". You do not need to see a GP first. Early pregnancy units usually need a referral from a GP, midwife or A&E, except for people with a known risk who have been given direct access.
- Physiotherapy (musculoskeletal)
- Most areas run a self-referral service for back, neck, joint and muscle problems, online or by phone, often with a first-contact practitioner at your GP practice. Availability depends on your integrated care board; the GP practice website usually says.
- NHS Talking Therapies
- Anxiety, depression, stress and similar: refer yourself directly to your local service through the NHS website's talking therapies finder. England only; you must be registered with a GP in the area.
- Sexual health
- Clinics take walk-ins and online bookings. Home test kits are available online in most areas.
- Drug and alcohol services
- Local services take direct contact. No GP needed.
- Stop smoking, weight management, exercise referral
- Mostly local council or NHS schemes with online sign-up. Some "gym referral" schemes still need a GP or practice nurse form.
- Hearing (audiology)
- Some areas allow adults over 55 to self-refer for hearing tests under Any Qualified Provider; others need a GP. Check your integrated care board's audiology page.
- Podiatry, continence, speech and language therapy
- Varies by area. Many community trusts take self-referrals for adults; children's services usually need a referral.
Still needs a referral
Hospital consultants and surgery, scans ordered for a hospital pathway, adult ADHD and autism assessments, children's community services in most areas. For those, the lever is choosing where the referral goes: your right to choose.
Sources: NHS services pages for each service type; local integrated care board pages for area rules. Last checked 14 October 2026. Not medical advice.