The Beacon Centre Questions and Answers

Do I have to register?

You do not need to register use the Beacon Walk-in Health Centre. Any member of the public can simply walk in to see a GP Beacon Centre, regardless of where they are registered.

Do I need to book an appointment to see a GP?

Patients do not need to book an appointment. Qnce you arrive you will be booked in by the Reception Team. Should you be asked to come into the Beacon from a 111 call, you will still need to book in with Reception but you details may be on the beacon system already.

Can I book an appointment?

No appointments are made. As above the Beacon Centre is purely a walk-in centre and patients will be seen in order that they are booked.

How long will I wait to see a GP?

The Beacon Centre strives to see all patients within 1 hour of booking in at reception. But all patients should be aware that during the weekend or bank holidays the centre can get very busy with requests to see GP.  Also the GP’s will be helping patients by making advices calls or direct home visits so some delays can be expected in high demand periods.

Can I see the same Beacon GP again?

Should you wish to see the same GP more than once patients are advised to contact their own GP practice.  As the Beacon Centre has many different doctors who cover the 7 days that the centre is open, patients can only see the doctor who is working at that time.  Beacon does not arrange any pre-booked appointment with specific GP.

Do I need to tell my own GP?

Your own GP will be informed of your visit and any medication that has been prescribed via  the patient software system.

If the problem persists, what should I do?

With any ongoing problems, patient are always advised to go to their own GP practice should problems still persist.

I am on holiday, can I use the beacon Centre?

Yes, If you fall ill while away from home or if you are not registered with a doctor on the Island but you need to see one you can come into the Beacon Centre

Please try and have the following information available when you see a doctor.
• Details of your on-going medical problems.
• Details of medical problems you have suffered in the past.
• The name of any medicines that you are currently taking.
• Details of anything you are allergic to. 
• Contact details of your regular or previous doctor.

Can I get travel vaccinations?

No, you will; need to contact your own GP surgery to arrange travel vaccinations.

Can I get help from home?

If you feel you need medical assistance please call 111.  You can speak to a clinical advisor you will offer assistance or guide you through the appropriate NHS pathway.

Can I get a prescription for someone else?

The Beacon Centre can only issue a prescription to a patient they actually see, no matter what you relation are or how much information you may have about that patient.

Can I get a Repeat Prescription?

Beacon GP’s cannot issue repeat prescriptions. To obtain a repeat prescription, you need to contact your registered GP practice. 

Should I come to the Beacon for a Dental Problem?

The beacon centre may be able to suggest temporary pain relief. However, if you have a dental problem, you should seek help from your dentist. Alternatively, you  can contact the Isle of Wight Dental Helpline on 0845 050 8345.