Managing a Chronic Condition in the UK: Diabetes, Asthma & More 2026

Moving countries with a chronic condition like diabetes, asthma, epilepsy or a heart condition adds an extra layer of planning to your move — but the NHS is well set up to take over your ongoing care, and getting the sequence right in your first few weeks makes all the difference.

Before you leave home

1. Get a detailed letter from your current doctor covering your diagnosis, current medication and dosages, recent test results (e.g. HbA1c for diabetes, peak flow readings for asthma), and any specialist equipment you use
2. Bring a 3-month supply of medication where possible, in original packaging (see our guide on bringing medication into the UK)
3. If you use medical devices (insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, inhalers with spacers), bring spares and check UK plug/charging compatibility
4. Research whether your specific device or medication brand is available on the NHS — brand names differ between countries even for the same active ingredient

Registering and getting your condition on record

As soon as you arrive, register with a GP and specifically mention your condition at registration — most practices ask you to complete a health questionnaire, and flagging a chronic condition here fast-tracks the right follow-up.

For diabetes, asthma and several other long-term conditions, your GP practice will usually invite you to:

• An initial long-term condition review appointment
• Ongoing annual reviews (blood tests, foot checks and eye screening for diabetes; inhaler technique and peak flow reviews for asthma)
• Referral to a hospital specialist team if your condition needs more complex management than a GP can provide alone

Prescription costs — check if you're exempt

England charges a standard fee per prescription item, but several groups are exempt, including people with certain conditions such as diabetes (types requiring insulin) and some other long-term conditions, via a Medical Exemption Certificate. Ask your GP whether your condition qualifies. If it doesn't, and you take multiple regular medications, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) covers unlimited prescriptions for a set period and often works out much cheaper.

Managing your condition day-to-day at university

• Tell your college welfare officer or personal tutor about your condition (you're not obliged to, but it helps them support you around exams, deadlines and any emergencies)
• Check whether your accommodation kitchen and daily routine support your dietary needs (particularly relevant for diabetes)
• Carry an alert card or medical ID (bracelet or similar), especially useful in a country where paramedics don't know your history
• Know the location of your nearest pharmacy and out-of-hours support — see our guide on NHS 111 vs A&E vs GP vs pharmacy

Is this covered by the IHS?

Yes — chronic condition management, specialist referrals and ongoing NHS care are all covered under the Immigration Health Surcharge you paid with your visa, with no exclusion for pre-existing conditions. See our full breakdown of what the IHS covers for the details on prescription charges and any gaps.

Confidence from the start

Managing a long-term health condition in a new country is manageable with the right early steps — GP registration, a clear medical letter, and setting up repeat prescriptions in week one. Our arrival packages and UniLife support are designed to help students get this admin sorted quickly, so you can focus on settling into Oxford with confidence.