Healthcare & Health Insurance in England
Summary: Digital Nomads in UK share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in UK, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in England?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in England, they replied:
"Healthcare services in England are provided by the National Health Service (NHS), a publicly funded healthcare system. The NHS provides a wide range of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, community health services, and long-term care. The quality of public healthcare in England is generally considered to be good, with the NHS providing free healthcare to all UK residents. Foreign residents in England are also eligible for free NHS care, although they may be required to pay for certain services. Expats in England can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their circumstances," said one member in UK.
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What is the quality of medical care in England like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in England, they replied:
"NHS is okay for minor healthcare - check ups, vaccines, etc. that said, the women's check up (PAP smea) is archaic! Facilities don't have the proper examination table-stirrups to do a thorough screen," said one member in London.
"In England, medical services are provided by the National Health Service (NHS), which is a publicly funded healthcare system. The NHS provides a wide range of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, and community health services. Patients can access these services free of charge, although some services may require a fee. The NHS also provides access to specialist services, such as cancer care, fertility treatment, and organ transplants. Patients can also access private healthcare services, which are provided by independent providers and may require payment," explained one expat in UK.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in England?
"Healthcare in England is generally considered to be of a high quality and is free at the point of use for all UK residents. However, health insurance can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and the provider. Private health insurance can be costly, but it can provide access to private healthcare services, such as shorter waiting times and more choice of treatments," said one foreigner in UK.
What are emergency services like in England?
When we asked about emergency services, members in England wrote:
"Emergency services in England are highly efficient and well-equipped to respond to a variety of medical and other emergencies. In the event of an emergency, the public can call 999 or 112 to request an ambulance. The operator will ask for details of the emergency and dispatch the appropriate service. Ambulance services are provided by the National Health Service (NHS) and are free of charge," remarked one member in UK.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"England is home to many top tier medical facilities. In particular, cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds are known for their outstanding selection of medical specialists. Within these cities, there are a range of specialty clinics and hospitals that can provide the highest levels of care and expertise. Additionally, certain universities and research centers such as those based in Oxford, Cambridge, Newcastle and Bristol are associated with renowned specialist teams who focus on specific areas in medicine," explained one digital nomad living in UK.
Are common prescription medications available in England?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in England. These medications are prescribed by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacist. The medications available in England are subject to the same regulations as those in other countries, and must meet the same safety and efficacy standards. Patients in England can also access generic versions of medications, which are often cheaper than the brand-name versions," explained one digital nomad living in UK.
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in England?
"Medical facilities and medical care in England are of a high standard. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to all residents thanks to its highly trained physicians and state-of-the-art equipment. The NHS also works to ensure access to quality care regardless of background or financial situation. The country also provides access to a broad range of specialists and the latest treatments, including experimental treatments. Patients from all over the world have been drawn to England due to the quality of care provided. All in all, medical facilities and medical care in England are of a very high quality," said one foreigner in UK.
"Healthcare in Sheffield is top notch and government hospitals, clinics and doctor's surgeries are in close proximity, regardless of where you are. It's important to register with a doctor when you move to England," remarked one member in Sheffield.
As a foreigner living in England, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in England, you will have access to public healthcare. The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to all permanent residents of England, regardless of nationality. The NHS provides a wide range of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, and community health services. The quality of care provided by the NHS is generally very good, and the staff are highly trained and experienced," explained one expat living in UK.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in England if they have access to public healthcare in England. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a huge impact on the local healthcare system in England. Many hospitals have had to make difficult decisions about how to manage the influx of patients, while also ensuring that staff are safe and protected. GP surgeries have had to adapt to new ways of working, such as offering virtual appointments and telephone consultations. The NHS has also had to rapidly increase its capacity to provide testing and treatment for Covid-19. Despite the challenges, the NHS has continued to provide excellent care to those who need it, and the public have been incredibly supportive of the healthcare system during this difficult time," said a member in UK.
"I will be getting my first vaccine tomorrow at the age of 59. The UK has done an excellent job with the vaccine," explained one person living in London, UK.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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Digital Nomads in UK offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in UK.