GP urgent care center (UCC): how does it work?

Only for emergencies outside office hours

The urgent care center (UCC) is GP-led and is meant exclusively for cases of emergency occurring at night, on weekends and during public holidays.

Always make sure to call first

You cannot simply visit the UCC. You need to call in advance to make sure you receive the help you require quickly. When you dial the UCC’s number, you will be given a number of options. In the event of a potentially life-threatening situation, press 1 to be given priority.

Details to hand during your phone call

Always have your details ready to hand: these include your (EU) insurance pass, ID and a list of any medications you might be using.

What to expect when you call

When you call us, a triage assistant will answer the phone. This assistant has been trained to determine instantly how serious your complaints are and how to proceed. This happens in consultation with the doctor in attendance. Next, there are three possibilities:

• Telephone advice: You will be given an explanation and self-care advice by telephone (verified by the general practitioner).
• Consultation at the UCC: You will make an appointment to visit the center. You will be examined by a general practitioner or a nurse (verified by the general practitioner).
• Consultation at your home address (house call by the general practitioner): A doctor will only make a house call if for medical reasons you are unable to visit the UCC.