How can I find my NHS number?
First if all, what is the NHS number? The NHS number is given to you when you are born.
This is how to find it :
- On the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number/
- It should also be at the top of NHS hospital letters about you.
Why do you need to know it?
You will need it when registering on the NHS app. It is expressed as 3 groups of numbers, like this: 123 456 7891 – like in the photo above.
There are other reasons for knowing it. For example, if you have a common name (or a long one that is hard to spell), knowing it helps staff ensure they have your correct notes – i.e. to identify yourself correctly.
You may also have a local hospital number. These have different formats around the country. Its good to know that too.
Different NHS computer systems
Information about you can be on several different NHS computer systems – e.g. more than one local hospital, mental health, pharmacy and GP – all with different local numbers. But the NHS number will be the same. This is why it is important, especially if you have a common name which can lead to confusion – e.g. misinterpreting blood tests about you when they about someone else.
Why is there no national ID card, including NHS?
That is a bigger question beyond CKDEx! It may seem a good idea to have one ID card (e.g. passport, drivers license, NHS and National Insurance). But many are not keen in the creeping powers of the ‘deep state’.
Summary
We have described how can I find my NHS number. You can get your number from NHS or hospital letters or find it online: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number/. It is increasingly important to know it.
Last Reviewed on 11 March 2024