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Set up a practice action plan

Follow this step-by-step guide to get started and set up with the Register with a GP surgery service.

Prepare for digital registration

1. Start by talking to your key staff early on about the service

This includes the Practice manager, website provider, GP IT Lead, and registration admin staff. This step is crucial. 

2. Create a new shared mailbox for handling new registration requests

Make sure that everyone has access to the shared mailbox, and it is actively used. Add the new mailbox to your Profile manager.

3. Nominate a GP registration champion in your team

Select one or two champions in your team to advocate for 'Register with a GP Surgery Service.' They must be comfortable using a computer. 

4. Book a demo or practice using the demo version of the service

Get familiar with the questions on the registration form and use the demo version with your Practice Manager, GP IT Lead and registration admin staff.

5. Use PRF1 form for paper applications

Remove all copies of GMS1 from your surgery. Have a homepage link or button for new patient digital registrations. Consider adding a link to the PRF1 form for those who prefer a paper form.


Manage the service effectively

1. Manage the service through NHS Profile Manager 

Learn how to change your GP surgery shared inbox and configurable questions, opt in to auto registration, and pause the service.  

2. Enroll through NHS Profile Manager  

If you do not have Profile Manager, learn how to enroll and manage the service using Profile Manager. Do not forget to tell registration staff, administrators, and receptionists about this change.  

3. Update and manage your catchment area  

Read best practice on how to update and manage the catchment area for your surgery and learn about how catchment works. 

4. Make your link easier to find on your website

Improve visibility of the service on your website - best practice on where to add your unique registration link on your homepage and registration page.

5. Learn about the questions asked on the form  

Find out why we chose the questions in the online registration process and why that is all that is needed to successfully progress a patient registration. 


Tell your patients about online GP registration

Use our resources to let your patients know they can register online at your surgery

Get a personalised QR codes, posters, website text, social media copy, waiting room film and screensavers, to let your patients know they can register online at your surgery. 


What to do if you use auto registration from NHS England

You do not need to tell your patients if you use auto registration.

Find out about auto registration.

Last edited: 27 November 2025 8:58 am