Physical Health
Doctors Surgery, Prescriptions and Pharmacies
The first thing we'd recommend you do when moving into a new property in Plymouth is registering with a doctors surgery (or checking you are still in the catchment area if you have moved from another Plymouth address). To check which doctors surgeries you are able to register at, we'd recommend using this NHS tool.
As you might be aware, prescriptions are only free until you're 18, however, as a student you might be eligible for free prescriptions (income dependant) with a HC2 certificate, which you can find out more about here.
When it comes to collecting your prescription in Plymouth, there are plenty of places you'd be able to pick it up, but Boots in Drakes Circus is one of the most accessible.
Please do also make sure you've had your Meningitis ACWY vaccination before or shortly after coming to Plymouth, and keep up to date with flu vaccinations if you require them.
We'd also recommend that you get to know key services available from Derriford Hospital and the Cumberland Centre, as you may need to use these in the event of injury or emergency.
If you're concerned about your sexual health, the Students' Union provides free condoms freely available outside the Student Union Office, as well as pregnancy tests.
Dentist Practices and Orthodontists
Dentist practices are different to doctors in that they don't require you to be within a catchment area, so we'd recommend signing up at your most convenient practice, whether that be local to your home or close to AUP, it's whatever works best for you.
NHS dentist practices in the city may not always be taking on new patients, but you can search for all of the nearby practices (and orthodontists) on this map to find other local ones if your first choice has a waiting list. That being said, don't feel like you've got to suffer in pain - you can still see an emergency dentist even if you're not registered in the city.
As for costs, again these might be covered for you if you're eligible for a HC2.
Gyms
There is a wide range of gyms in Plymouth, all offering different student discounts and deals. There is The Gym, PureGym, Nuffield Health and plenty of independent and specialist gyms too.
If you live in the Mutley area, the closest gym to you is likely PureGym on Alexandra Road. If you're living in the city centre, then the closest gym is likely The Gym on Derry's Cross. If you're living closer to Union Street or in Devonport, your closest gym is likely MDL Fitness.
Opticians
There are plenty of different opticians across the city, including Vision Express, Specsavers, Boots and independent opticians too. Many of these offer regular deals for students that include free eye examinations or half-price prescriptions, so it's worth shopping around when you're due your next eye test.
If you're eligible for the HC2 certificate mentioned before, this can also cover your opticians appointments and any prescriptions you might require.
