If you are settling in London, you will undoubtedly have queries about health services available in the capital. You will find several public and private hospitals throughout the city. Healthcare services in London are fully developed and are managed by the (NHS). However, you are advised to take out international health insurance before travelling if you intend to have a short stay there.
Health system in London
The NHS is one of the biggest employers in England and the UK overall, with around . It is often said that the NHS treats more than one million patients every 36 hours.
Access to healthcare is free of charge for London citizens and residents. However, foreigners have to pay unless they require emergency care. If you come from a country with a healthcare agreement with the UK, you may receive discounts on medical fees for illnesses you contracted after you arrived in London.
Good to know:
If you are a visitor from the EU, even if you are a former UK resident, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC), or S2 healthcare document to access the healthcare system. You will be charged if you cannot provide the mentioned documents.
Immigration Health Surcharge
Expats are required to pay per year for the NHS Immigration Health Surcharge as part of their immigration application. This applies to people staying in England longer than six months and can be paid by debit or credit card.
Registering with a GP in London
Once settled in London, you must obtain your National Insurance Number. Thereafter, you are advised to register with a GP (general practitioner) whose surgery is closest to your place. You can also receive healthcare in any hospital or healthcare centre by presenting your identification documents.
It's important to note that registering with a GP is essential for accessing routine healthcare services. To register, you'll need to complete a registration form (GMS1) and provide proof of address and identification. Most GP surgeries accept patients living within their catchment area, so it's worth checking whether you're eligible before applying.
NHS services available in London
The NHS provides a comprehensive range of services, including:
- GP consultations;
- Hospital treatment and specialist care;
- Mental health services;
- Dental care (though charges may apply);
- Prescription medications (with a standard prescription charge, unless you're exempt);
- Maternity and child health services;
- Emergency care.
Useful links:
Emergency numbers in London
In an emergency in London, dial 112 or 999, whether you need to call the police, firefighters, or ambulance services. The operator will forward your call to the appropriate department.
For non-emergency medical assistance, you can call 111 to speak to a trained adviser who can direct you to the appropriate service or provide health information.
Good to know:
Due to the high demand, the NHS is known to have very long waiting times; it is difficult and rare to get a same-day appointment with a general practitioner. Many GP surgeries offer online booking systems and telephone triage services to help manage demand. For urgent but non-emergency issues, you may be directed to walk-in centres or urgent care centres, which can be found throughout London.
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