Is Healthcare Free in the UK

Who Is eligible for free healthcare in the UK?

UK free healthcare services are available through NHS for “ordinarily residents.” This means you need to live in the UK on a lawful and settled basis, like being a British citizen or having indefinite leave to remain. Expats and new residents can access NHS care if they meet these requirements.

Short-term visitors staying less than six months usually need to pay a surcharge to use most NHS services. However, emergency care and treatment for certain infectious diseases are free for everyone.

To qualify for free NHS treatment, you generally need to live and work in the UK. Visitors from the EEA or Switzerland with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and GHIC can also access some NHS services.

Is NHS care free and what’s included in free service?

NHS care is technically free at the point of use, meaning that most services do not require immediate payment when you receive treatment. Instead, the cost is covered through taxation and national insurance contributions.

National Insurance is a key component of the UK’s social security system, supporting healthcare through the NHS and providing various benefits. By paying National Insurance, individuals and employers contribute to the funding of essential services and benefits that support public welfare.

What’s included in free NHS services: (make a card)

• General Practitioner (GP) Visits -Consultations with your local GP are free, including routine check-ups and medical advice.
• Hospital Care -Emergency and elective hospital treatments are free, including surgeries and inpatient care.
• Maternity Services-Comprehensive care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care is provided at no cost.
• Emergency Care -Treatment in Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments is free, although follow-up treatments or hospital admissions might not be.
• Preventative Services – Immunisations, vaccination programs, and health screenings are free.
• Treatment for Certain Conditions – Care for infectious diseases, physical or mental conditions related to torture or violence, and some long-term health conditions are covered.
• Mental Health Services – Access to psychological therapy, counselling, and psychiatric care is free.
• Community-Based Care – Services like home visits from nurses, physiotherapy, and palliative care are included.

Charges that apply:

While NHS care is free at the point of use, some services and items, like prescriptions and dental care, may still involve costs.

• Prescriptions, there’s a standard charge of £9.35 per item, though certain groups are exempt.
• Dental Care, charges vary based on the type of treatment needed.
• Eye care, routine eye tests and some treatments may incur costs.
• Travel Costs, expenses related to travelling to NHS facilities are not covered.

What are the Prescription Charges in the UK?

In England, each prescription costs £9.35. However, you don’t pay if you are:

• Under 16 or over 60
• Aged 16-18 and in full-time education
• Pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months
• Having certain medical conditions
• Receiving specific benefits (e.g., Income Support, Tax Credit.)

Consider a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) if you need any prescriptions:

• 3-month PPC: £30.25
• 12-month PPC: £108.10

In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, all NHS prescriptions are free for everyone.

Why healthcare is free in the UK?

In the UK, healthcare is free at the point of use because of the National Health Service (NHS). The NHS is funded by taxes, which means that you don’t have to pay for most medical services when you visit. This system was set up by the National Health Service Act of 1946 and is based on the idea that health is a basic human right, not something that should be bought or sold.

Even though you don’t pay for NHS services directly, the system isn’t entirely free. The money to run the NHS comes from taxes that people pay. This means that everyone contributes to the cost through their taxes, making sure that everyone can access free healthcare uk without worrying about paying at the time of treatment.

The goal of the NHS is to make sure that everyone in the UK can get the medical care they need. By using tax money to fund healthcare, the NHS aims to provide fair and equal access to services. This approach helps create a healthier population and supports the overall well-being of the country.

How Much Does Healthcare Cost When Visiting the UK Temporarily?

When you visit the UK temporarily, you’ll usually have to pay for most NHS services. Hospital treatment often costs 150% of the normal NHS rate. However, there are some exceptions and exemptions that might reduce the costs.

Accident and emergency services are free for everyone, but once you are stabilised, you will be asked for your insurance details.

​​For example, if you’re not a resident and you need to give birth in the UK, it could cost you around £7,500.

To handle healthcare expenses, it’s a good idea to have health insurance that covers treatments in the UK. This can help you get reimbursed for NHS costs.

If you already have health insurance, check if it covers treatments abroad. If not, think about getting a local UK health insurance policy for your visit.

Is NHS free for foreigners in the UK?

Healthcare in the UK is not entirely free for foreigners. If you’re staying longer than six months, you must pay an immigration health surcharge with your visa application. Sometimes called the NHS surcharge, it adds £1,035 per year per person to the cost of a UK visa. For children, students and those on Youth Mobility visas, the fee is £776 per year (2024)

This surcharge helps cover most NHS services during your stay. However, it’s wise to have additional health insurance to cover any extra costs. For short visits, make sure you have insurance to handle your medical needs.

How to Access treatments in the UK?

If you’re visiting or moving to the UK, here’s what you need to know about getting healthcare:

When Visiting

Before you come, make sure you have health insurance for your stay. If you have an emergency, call 999 or go to the nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. For non-urgent issues, call 111 or visit a walk-in NHS centre. If you need medicine, talk to a pharmacist. Always carry your health insurance documents with you, as you might need them in an emergency, but your insurance might not cover everything.

When Moving

If you’re moving to the UK, you’ll pay a health surcharge when applying for your visa. This allows you to get NHS services for free. Once you’re in the UK, register with a local General Practice (GP) by filling out a form and showing proof of your immigration status. Some GP surgeries may not accept new patients, so you might need to find another one. For extra coverage, think about getting additional health insurance.

Is it a good idea to have private health insurance?

Having private health insurance can be a smart choice for extra peace of mind and quicker access to healthcare. It provides benefits that the NHS might not cover, such as faster treatment and a wider choice of hospitals and specialists. Here’s a look at your options for both international and local health insurance.

International Health Insurance

International health insurance is a great choice if you’re an expat, diplomat, or on a work contract in the UK. It offers global coverage, including medical care and emergencies. Here’s a comparison to help you choose:

Cigna Global

Cigna Global offers comprehensive international health insurance with extensive health plans for inpatient and outpatient care. They provide cancer cover, virtual GP services, and various plans to suit your needs. Prices vary depending on cover levels, but basic plans often start around £2,000 per year.

AXA Global

AXA Global is known for its broad international insurance policies and flexibility. They include options for inpatient, outpatient and cancer treatments. Virtual GP services are available. Premiums generally start around £1,500 per year but can vary based on the level of cover.

April

April provides customisable international health insurance with good health cover for both inpatient and outpatient care. They also offer comprehensive cancer cover and virtual GP access. Annual premiums typically start at about £1,200.

Domestic UK Private Health Insurance

If you plan to stay in the UK for more than six months and have registered with a UK GP, domestic health insurance is a good choice. Here’s a brief look at each UK health insurance provider:

AXA

AXA offers a range of domestic health insurance plans with excellent cover, including the best hospital lists, inpatient and outpatient care. Their policies cover cancer treatment and provide access to virtual GP services. Prices start from around £1,000 per year, depending on the plan.

Aviva

Aviva’s health insurance includes a comprehensive health plan for inpatient, outpatient, and cancer care. They also offer virtual GP services. Expect to pay around £900 per year for basic plans.

Bupa

Bupa is a leading provider with strong policy options for inpatient and outpatient care, including cancer treatment. They provide virtual GP services and a network of top hospitals. Basic plans start at about £1,100 per year.

Vitality

Vitality offers innovative health insurance with benefits for inpatient and outpatient care, cancer coverage, and virtual GP services. Their plans often include wellness benefits and start at around £950 per year.

WPA

WPA provides flexible health insurance with good coverage for inpatient and outpatient treatments. Cancer care and virtual GP access are included. Prices typically begin at £800 per year.

The Exeter

The Exeter offers tailored health insurance plans with comprehensive coverage, including cancer treatment and virtual GP services. Basic plans start at around £850 per year.

Freedom Health

Freedom Health provides a range of plans with coverage for inpatient, outpatient, and cancer treatments, as well as virtual GP services. Annual premiums start at about £900.

Best Providers

For international coverage, Cigna Global and AXA Global are top choices due to their extensive networks and coverage options. For domestic insurance, Bupa and Aviva offer strong coverage and service. It’s important to compare providers based on what specific coverage and benefits you need, as well as your budget.

Why Use a Broker for Health Insurance in the UK?

Free healthcare through the NHS is great, but it can sometimes involve long wait times. If you’re staying in the UK for more than six months or need quicker access to care, using a broker can help. 

Benefits of Using a Broker:

• Free Service: Our assistance is completely free to you. We are compensated by insurance companies, so you don’t incur any extra costs.
• Expert Advice: Our team at Premier PMI has in-depth knowledge of the insurance market. We guide you through different options and help you make informed choices.
• Coverage Clarity: We ensure you understand what is covered by your insurance and what isn’t, so there are no surprises.
• Price Comparison: We compare various insurance plans and prices to find the best deal for you.
• Faster Access to Care: Private insurance can offer quicker appointments and treatments compared to the NHS, giving you timely access to UK health care services.

Conclusion

Using a broker like Premier PMI makes finding the right health insurance in the UK easier and more efficient. We help you navigate the insurance market, compare prices, and understand your coverage options, ensuring you get the best plan for your needs.