Healthcare in the United Kingdom
Expats in the UK are entitled to free emergency treatment at all NHS hospitals but are liable for in-patient treatment and dental work. The UK has negotiated reciprocal healthcare agreements with a range of foreign countries meaning citizens are exempt from healthcare payments.
Once you move to the UK, you should make a priority of registering with a local GP to receive your unique NHS number. This GP will become your referral point for any treatment and will prescribe medicines to you.
For a list of GPs call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit their detailed website below for a wide range of healthcare related information.
Private healthcare can be expensive but does guarantee preferential treatment and, crucially, freedom from the long waiting lists that many NHS patients complain of. For more information and an exhaustive list of providers visit www.privatehealth.co.uk
National Health Service homepage: www.nhs.uk/Pages/homepage.aspx
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