Healthcare in the UK: A Beginner’s Guide

Let’s start by saying “Health is wealth, and healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.” 

Every year, an approximate number of 130,000 Nigerians move to the UK for both business and leisure. Sometimes, some of these people permanently reside in the country. While they stay in the country, they are entitled to several benefits, which include healthcare. However, understanding the healthcare system in the UK can be overwhelming.

Nonetheless, this article aims to simplify everything, providing insight into the country’s health service system. In addition, we’ll also provide an in-depth look at the registration process and understanding of prescriptions. We aim to help Nigerians in the UK navigate the healthcare system seamlessly. 

Understanding the NHS (National Health Service)

NHS stands for National Health Service. The NHS is a publicly funded healthcare organization that offers services in multiple regions including England, Wales, and Scotland. Nevertheless, in this guide, we will be looking at the NHS system in the UK, since we aim to help Nigerians navigate healthcare in the UK. 

The National Health Service in the UK is known for delivering mostly free healthcare services to all individuals, including Nigerians. However, individuals must legally reside in the country, as the services offered by the organization are limited to residents. Although the services are mostly free, the NHS also offers smaller private healthcare services that people can choose to use if they wish.

Healthcare in the UK: Core Principles Of The NHS

1. The NHS offers free healthcare services

2. NHS is tax-funded, thus, its services are accessible to all residents in the UK without exceptions.

3. The NHS is surrounded by qualified professionals who provide quality services ranging from check-ups to emergency care. 

Read Also: Utilizing Employee Benefits: Healthcare, Pensions, and More

Healthcare in the UK: How To Register With A GP (General Practitioner)

A General Practitioner is a healthcare expert who serves as a gateway to access the NHS services. A GP offers primary health services ranging from consultations to managing patients’ overall healthcare. Registering with a GP grants individuals access to non-emergency appointments, and in some cases, beyond their limit, they refer patients to specialists.  

It’s noteworthy that to access healthcare in the UK, individuals must register with a GP of their choice. Registering with a GP is straightforward. Below is a step-by-step guide:

• Firstly, you’ll have to find a GP practice. This can be done by visiting the National Health Service website. The site offers a section where you can find a GP closer to your location. 
• Now, proceed to complete the registration form which involves providing a valid ID and proof of address.
• After registration, you’ll be provided with a medical card and the NHS number, allowing you to schedule an appointment.

Healthcare in the UK: Importance Of Registering With A GP

The importance of registering with a GP in the UK includes:

• Access to primary healthcare services
• Provide access to urgent medical or emergency care
• Referral to specialists
• Supports regular check-ups
• Access to vaccinations and immunizations
• Provide counseling
• Access to mental, dental and optical care
• Continuous tracking of patients’ health record

Read Also: Staying Healthy and Well: Mental and Physical Wellness for Students

Private Healthcare In The UK

In the UK, a relatively low number of people opt for private healthcare, even though they offer faster services than the NHS. The high cost of medical treatment is a major factor in the private healthcare sector, whereas treatment in the NHS is tax-funded. 

Regardless, registering with private medical care comes with potential benefits, which include:

• Quicker access to medical care
• Specialized treatments
• Availability of modern facilities
• Arrangement of appointment at the patient’s convenient time
• Exclusive medical services
• Reduce wait time

Unlike the NHS, private healthcare sectors are privately funded and regulated, either with personal money or insurance money. As a result, patients will pay a huge amount of money for medical treatment.

Private Healthcare And The NHS: Key Comparison

Feature	NHS	Private Healthcare
Access to medical services	Faster access	Delayed access to non-emergency services
Wait time	Short	Longer waiting period for non-emergency services
Medical service	Limited	Full range of medical service
Cost	Expensive	Tax-funded
Health professionals	Qualified	Qualified
Facilities	Standard	Basic
Emergency services	Limited	Available 24/7
Prescription cost	Paid	Free in some cases

Read Also: Healthcare In The Uk: A Guide for International Students

Healthcare in the UK: Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

The cost incurred in the private healthcare sector can be facilitated through Private Medical Insurance (PMI). This insurance allows patients to access healthcare services without covering the full medical fee. Popular private health insurance companies in the UK include:

• BUPA 
• Aviva 
• AXA PPP 
• WPA 
• Saga

Healthcare in the UK: Prescription

The GP typically provides prescriptions and charges may incur depending on the patient’s medical condition. The National Health Service (NHS) charges for both drugs and appliances. However, in some cases, they provide free medication, including contraception and medicines administered to hospital inpatients. Click here to learn more about NHS prescription charges and eligibility for free prescriptions.

Healthcare For International Workers and Students

Foreigners in the UK, either skilled workers or students, are eligible for free healthcare in the UK. To utilize this benefit, they must register with a GP near their workplace or university. This ensures fast response to emergency care if needed. For further assistance or information, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

Healthcare in the UK: Immigration Health Surcharge Refund

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee paid by non-UK residents when applying for a visa to stay in the UK for more than six months. This surcharge helps fund the National Health Service (NHS), allowing visa holders to access healthcare services during their stay

However, if you work in healthcare in the UK, you might be eligible for a refund of the IHS. Here’s how you can get your money back for the Immigration Health Surcharge:

• Before requesting a refund, you must be a certified health professional with a Tier 2 (General) Visa.
• You must have paid the IHS fee and worked in a reputable health organisation in the UK for at least 6 months.
• Now, to request a refund, you’ll apply online:
  • Visit the UKVI official website
  • Locate and click the Contact Centre Staff button
  • You’ll be redirected to the UKVI contact details, which include telephone or email
  • You will be requested to provide the following details
    • Name
    • Date of birth
    • Nationality
    • Passport number 
    • IHS reference number (if applicable)
    • GWF (13-digit) reference number (if applicable)
    • Visa application reference number (if applicable)
    • E-mail address
    • Employer’s name
    • Copies of your payslips for the 6 months
    • Reason for your refund request
• If the application is successful, you’ll receive a refund within 6 weeks after you receive a decision.
• Your dependants can also request a refund by including them in your application.

Conclusion

Navigating the healthcare system in the UK can be overwhelming. But, by understanding the basics, the registration process, and how to access medical services, one can have a smooth experience in the UK.