Welcome to Kensington Medical Centre, your trusted GP healthcare provider in the heart of Belfast City Centre!

There is always great benefit in being registered with a GP close to where you live, and this is as true for a student, as much as anyone else! 

We are located very close to many of the local student residences, used by Queen's and Ulster University, and also Belfast Met, such as 

Mezzino Bradbury Place  30-44 Bradbury Place, Belfast, BT7 1RS - 120 meters

Fresh Student Accommodation, Botanic Studios, 78-86 Dublin Road, Belfast, BT2 7HP - 220 meters

Novel Aster House, 45 Botanic Ave, Belfast, BT7 1HZ - 280 meters

Vita Student Accommodation, 27 Bruce St, Belfast BT2 7JD - 480 meters

Elms BT2, 1 McClintock Street, Belfast, BT2 7GL - 800 meters

Student Roost - Swanston House, 41-45 Queen Street, Belfast, BT1 6ET - 1km

John Bell House, College Square East, Belfast BT1 6DJ - 1.1km

Elms BT1, 8 College Avenue, Belfast BT1 6DS - 1.1km

Any student residing at an address that is within our defined practice area is welcome to register.

At Kensington Medical Centre, we understand the unique healthcare needs of university students and aim to support your physical and mental well-being throughout your academic journey.

Why Register Locally?

Registering with a local GP close to your university is essential, particularly if you spend a significant amount of time in the area. It ensures continuity of care, quick access to services, and prompt medical attention whenever needed, without waiting until illness occurs.

Free Services

Access to our healthcare services is free for all students.

Quick and Urgent Appointments

We offer same-day appointments for urgent healthcare needs, ensuring you receive prompt medical attention.

Tailored Services for Students

We provide a range of services specifically designed to meet student health needs, including:

Contraception Services – Comprehensive advice and support.
Counselling and Mental Health Support – Confidential and professional mental health services.
Health Education – Information and resources on maintaining good health.
Vaccinations and Immunisations – Including NHS travel vaccines.
Lifestyle Advice – Guidance on diet, exercise, sleep, and general well-being.

Chronic Condition Management

Our team specialises in managing chronic or ongoing health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, and other long-term illnesses. Regular monitoring, support, and prescriptions are provided.

Choice of GP

You have the option to choose either a male or female GP for your consultations, based on your comfort and preference.

Prescription Services - Free

We provide efficient handling of both repeat and acute prescriptions. NHS prescriptions are free in Northern Ireland.

How to Register

Registration is simple and quick:

- Complete the registration form online or in person.
- Provide identification, such as a student ID, passport, visa (if applicable), and proof of address.

Eligibility & Coverage

We primarily serve students residing within postcodes BT1–BT12 and BT17. Please confirm your postcode eligibility during registration.

International Students

International students are warmly welcomed and encouraged to register promptly. Be aware of potential healthcare charges or NHS surcharges applicable to your visa conditions.

Health Card and Registration Timeline

Registration usually takes a few days, and you can typically expect to receive your NHS health card shortly thereafter.

Emergency and Ongoing Care

Registering early ensures continuity of care, particularly if you have ongoing health conditions or require regular medication. In emergencies, contact emergency services immediately by calling 999.

We look forward to supporting your health throughout your university studies.

Register with a local GP as soon as you arrive at university or college

Please visit New Patient Registration - Kensington Group Practice (kensingtonmedicalcentre.co.uk) for information about documentation required to register.

Queens University Belfast and  Ulster University (Belfast Campus), nor Belfast Metropolitan College, do not operate an on-campus health centre, so in case of emergency it is important that you register with a medical practice that is close to your accommodation, either on or off campus.  Visit Find a GP practice | nidirect for your nearest GP; or Out of Hours GP for urgent medical treatment.

If you are taking regular medication, supplying a medical history from your previous GP can assist us with your prescribing requirements.

What happens next?

• Once registration documents are accepted – we will not contact you to confirm your registration has been processed.
• A Health & Care Card will be sent directly from BSO (these are not issued by the Practice).
• Appointments can be booked following the registration being completed

Meningitis Information

Local, EU and international students aged up to 25 years and starting university for the first time, should get the Meningitis ACWY vaccine from their GP before going to university. The Meningitis ACWY vaccine will increase protection against four Meningitis groups (A,C,W and Y).

There is an increased risk of infection with meningitis spreading when people live closely to each other such as in university halls of residence and other shared accommodation. It is therefore recommended that students receive vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting university.

Meningococcal bacteria can cause:

• meningitis (inflammation of the lining in the brain)
• septicaemia (blood poisoning) often leading to a rash of dark spots

Meningitis can cause death or long-term health problems including:

• amputation
• deafness
• epilepsy
• learning difficulties

Symptoms of meningitis:

Meningitis can affect anyone, but is common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. Symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include:

• a high temperature (fever) over 37.5C (99.5F)
• vomiting
• a headache
• a blotchy rash that doesn't fade when a glass is rolled over it (this won't always develop)
• a stiff neck
• discomfort or pain to the eyes due to light exposure
• drowsiness or unresponsiveness
• seizures (fits)

All students who are changing their GP or who are registering with one for the first time should choose a GP in the local area when starting university.  If not already vaccinated, they can arrange to get this vaccine and other vaccines as appropriate. This should be done straight away – ideally in the first week of term – don’t leave it until later.

If you would like further information about meningitis vaccination, visit: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/men-acwy-vaccination-teenagers-and-students