15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in England
Last updated on Jan 09, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in the UK is generally considered to be of a high standard, with the NHS providing free healthcare to all citizens. In comparison to the US, the UK has a higher life expectancy and lower infant mortality rate. Emergency services in the UK are well-equipped and highly trained, with ambulance services responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance in the UK, you can dial 999 or 112 from any phone.
How are healthcare services 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," remarked one expat living in UK.
What are medical services 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," remarked one expat living 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," said one expat living 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 expat.
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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," said an expat 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," said an expat 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," said one expat living in UK.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in England?
"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," commented one expat living in Sheffield, UK.
"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," wrote one expat.
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," commented 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," wrote one expat.
"I will be getting my first vaccine tomorrow at the age of 59. The UK has done an excellent job with the vaccine," commented one expat who moved to London.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in England?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in England about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"Ensure that both you and your partner are registered with a GP as soon as possible, as they will be able to help you throughout your pregnancy by providing support, advice, and guidance. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the NHS maternity services available to you. Look into private medical insurance to provide additional benefits such as choice of midwife and private rooms where available. Make sure to book antenatal classes and childbirth sessions in advance to ensure that you have the opportunity to get to know your chosen birthing partners and to ask any questions that you may have. Finally, don’t forget the importance of the hospital bag preparing; pack important documents, supplies and other items that may help you on the big day," explained one expat.
"Go with the flow and relax. Communicate and discuss.
So many people will look after you with that one midwife you don't get on with should not colour your vision of the whole team and experience or country.
I am gutted our next child will not be born there,"
said one person in London.
"Move to Chipping Norton. Not all units are good units. Chipping Norton has the UNICEF Baby Friendly Award. They care for their mums and do not consider them numbers. As maternity services struggle to provide good care, Chippy is a diamond in the lot," remarked one expat in Chipping Norton.
Are healthcare services good in England?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in England. They wrote:
"The National Health Service (NHS) in England provides excellent healthcare to its citizens, with an emphasis on preventative care. Health services are delivered by a wide range of stakeholders, including general practitioners (GPs), mental health professionals, community health professionals, and hospitals, who provide consultations, diagnosis, treatments, and aftercare. Citizens of England can also access help from pharmacists and dentists as needed. Patients will be assigned a surgeon and a general practitioner who are responsible for coordinating their care. The NHS also provides a range of additional services, such as specialist services for rare conditions and surgeries, as well as hospitals for more serious conditions and treatments. Furthermore, a number of private healthcare providers operate in England, allowing people to receive additional treatments that are not available through the NHS," explained one expat living in UK.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat 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.
Additional Information:
- UK Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in UK
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in UK
- Best Places to Live in UK
- Real Estate in UK
- Guide to Real Estate in UK
- Pros & Cons of Living in UK
- Cost of Living in UK
- Culture Shock in England
- Homeschooling in England
- How to Enroll Your Children in School in England
- Educational System in England
- 2024 Guide to Living in UK
- Pros and Cons of Living in UK 2024