Talking to a doctor in another language can feel daunting, especially when you’re not well. A few phrases prepared in advance can take a lot of the worry away. Here are the essentials for a GP visit in the UK.
Booking the appointment
- I’d like to book an appointment, please.
- Do you have anything sooner?
- Is it possible to have a telephone appointment?
Describing how you feel
- I’ve had a headache for three days.
- It hurts here. (point) It’s a sharp / dull pain.
- I feel dizzy / sick / very tired.
Understanding the next step
- Could you say that again, more slowly, please?
- Do I need a prescription?
- Where do I collect my medicine?
A tip: it’s completely fine to say “Sorry, I don’t understand — could you repeat that?” Doctors and receptionists hear it every day, and asking means you leave with the right information.
In my ESOL lessons we practise exactly these real-life situations — the doctor’s, housing, shopping and more — so that when the moment comes, the words are already there.
