The National Health Service — free healthcare for all UK residents. GP registration, A&E, prescriptions, and how it works for newcomers.
The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare to all UK residents at the point of use. Founded in 1948, it is the 5th largest employer in the world with 1.5 million staff. Funded through general taxation and National Insurance contributions.
• £9.90 per item (England only)
• FREE in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
• FREE if:
under 16, over 60, pregnant, low income, student under 19, with certain conditions
•
Prepayment certificate: £31.25/3 months or £111.60/year (unlimited prescriptions)
• Band 1 (check-up): £26.80
• Band 2 (fillings, root canal): £73.50
• Band 3 (crowns,
dentures): £319.10
• FREE if: under 18, pregnant, on benefits
• Private dental can be
more expensive
• NHS dental hard to find (long waits)
• NHS sight test: £25-£30
• FREE if: under 16, over 60, on benefits, or have certain
conditions
• Glasses/contacts: pay yourself
• Specsavers, Vision Express popular
•
Free voucher for glasses if eligible
• Optional — runs alongside NHS
• Bupa, AXA, Vitality main providers
• Cost:
£50-£200+/month
• Benefit: Faster appointments, private rooms
• Many employers offer
private health insurance
• Can choose consultant and hospital