Patients not required to prove residency to register with GP

Patients who register with a GP practice on the Isle of Man aren't required to prove their residency.

Health Minister David Ashford confirmed in this week's sitting of the House of Keys that newly-registered patients are asked if they reside in the practice's catchment area, but further proof isn't sought.

Mr Ashford added that the National Health Service Act requires his Department to provide heath services to all people on the Island, which includes visitors.

Over 87,000 people were registered with Manx GPs at the end of 2017, despite the 2016 census showing the Island's population to be just over 83,000.

The Minister insists that figure will include those who have left the Island or passed away.