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EF Academy and Language Schools Oxford
We provide healthcare services for students who attend the EF academy and language schools in Oxford
What can I expect from the NHS and how does the NHS work?
The NHS is a complex system, which can sometimes be difficult to understand, especially when determining responsibilities. It comprises various organisations with distinct roles, responsibilities, and specialties.
Healthcare in the UK is generally free, whether one consults a GP or requires hospital care.
Healthcare in the UK may differ significantly from that in a student's home country, as it is provided through the NHS (National Health Service). A GP (general practitioner) oversees primary care, which encompasses care outside of hospitals. If a student requires specialist care, EF healthcare will assist in arranging referrals to appropriate services.
View more information about NHS services for overseas visitors
Non-urgent care is managed through the GP practice. If the practice is closed, students should use the Out of Hours Service. For emergencies such as severe chest pains or difficulty breathing, students should go to Accident and Emergency (A&E) at the hospital. They can make their own way to the hospital or call 999 for an ambulance, which is also free.
If students are unsure about the type of service they require, they can discuss this with EF healthcare or the EF pastoral support team.
To access free NHS healthcare, students need to be registered with a GP. For EF students, the local GP practice is Hedena Health. To register please speak to your EF pastoral lead or complete our online application
Hedena Health comprises GPs, Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Paramedics, Clinical Pharmacists, and Practice Nurses, all of whom students may encounter during their stay in the country.
If students are prescribed medication, they may need to pay for the prescription at the pharmacy. Prescriptions are now sent electronically to a nominated pharmacy of their choice.
Eye tests are available from Opticians; students can check local listings for addresses and telephone numbers or explore the city centre, where many opticians offer special deals.

EF ACADEMY
International
Boarding Schools

How to book an EF Academy appointment
If you require an appointment, please speak with your EF pastoral team and they will arrange this for you. Hedena Health run regular clinics every week where one of our clinicians will see you face to face.
What can I expect at my EF Academy appointment?
The clinician will ask you a series of questions about your problem, be prepared to answer them truthfully and thoroughly to enable our clinicians to make a correct diagnosis. The clinician may prescribe you a medicine or they may advise you on how best to manage your problem yourself. Please be sure to ask any questions and say if you do not understand anything. They will also arrange any follow up you may need.