National Health Service (NHS)

The National Health Service (NHS) is the publicly funded healthcare system of the United Kingdom. Founded in 1948, it was born out of a long-held ideal that good healthcare should be available to all, regardless of wealth. Today, it remains one of the world's largest and most comprehensive public health services.

Unlike insurance-based systems in the USA or parts of Europe, the NHS is primarily funded through taxation. For the patient, this means that the vast majority of services are free at the point of use. You do not receive a bill after visiting a doctor or staying in a hospital for surgery.

Who is Eligible for Free NHS Treatment?

Eligibility for free NHS hospital treatment is not based on British nationality or holding a British passport. Instead, it is based on the legal concept of "Ordinarily Resident".

1. UK Residents

If you are living in the UK lawfully and on a settled basis, you are considered ordinarily resident. You are entitled to full NHS care free of charge.

2. Immigrants & Visa Holders (The IHS Fee)

If you are moving to the UK for work, study, or family reasons for more than 6 months, you likely paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) during your visa application.

• Status: Paying the IHS gives you access to the NHS on the same basis as a permanent resident.
• Exceptions: Assisted conception (IVF) is usually not covered for visa holders.
• Refunds: If you are a health and care worker, you may be eligible for a reimbursement of this fee.

3. Short-term Visitors & Tourists

Tourists are not entitled to free non-emergency hospital treatment. While A&E (Accident and Emergency) care is often free at the point of delivery, you will be charged 150% of the cost for any subsequent admission or follow-up treatment unless you have travel insurance.

Step 1: Registering with a GP (General Practitioner)

In the UK, you cannot usually go directly to a specialist at a hospital. You must first register with a General Practitioner (GP). Your GP is your gateway to the entire health system.

What is Free vs. What Do You Pay For?

While "free healthcare" is the slogan, there are specific costs involved, particularly in England. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have abolished many of these charges.

How to Access NHS Hospitals?

Unlike some countries where you can walk into any hospital and ask to see a Cardiologist, the NHS operates on a Referral System.

The Referral Pathway:

1. Visit your GP: Discuss your symptoms. The GP will treat you or decide if you need specialist care.
2. The Referral: If needed, the GP sends a referral letter to a local NHS Hospital Trust.
3. The Appointment: You will receive a letter or notification (via the NHS App) with your hospital appointment date.
4. Waiting Times: Non-urgent surgeries (elective care) can have waiting lists ranging from weeks to months.

Emergency Services: 999 vs 111

Knowing which number to call can save lives and help the NHS manage resources.