How to see a doctor in Norway

For most health problems that are not emergencies, your fastlege (general practitioner) is the first doctor you should contact.

People who are registered as residents in a Norwegian municipality are normally entitled to a fastlege. Certain people with only a D-number may have different rights.

Your fastlege can assess physical and mental health problems, perform examinations, prescribe medicines and issue a sick leave certificate when appropriate.

If your GP cannot provide the treatment you need, the doctor can refer you to a specialist or hospital.

You normally need a referral to receive planned treatment from the specialist health service. Emergency treatment does not require a referral.

You can find information about your fastlege and change your GP through Helsenorge.

When you contact a doctor, explain your symptoms clearly and mention medicines you are taking and any important previous health problems.

If your Norwegian is not good enough to understand important medical information, ask about interpretation. Patients with limited knowledge of Norwegian may have the right to an interpreter in healthcare.

Adults normally pay a user fee when visiting a GP. The amount depends on the service and applicable rates.

Children under 16 normally do not pay user fees for GP appointments.

If your condition becomes urgent outside your GP's opening hours and you cannot wait, contact the out-of-hours medical service (legevakt) on 116 117.

For a life-threatening emergency, call 113.

Before your appointment, it can be useful to write down your symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and which medicines you use.

If you receive a referral, follow the instructions from the doctor and check messages from the hospital or specialist about your appointment.

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