Are you planning to move to the UK and looking for the best healthcare options? Find out how the UK healthcare system works, the pros and cons of NHS and private healthcare, the specifics of health insurance for expats and tips on choosing the best option

The UK healthcare system, known as the National Health Service (NHS), is funded by taxpayers and provides free healthcare to all residents of the country, regardless of their income. Most Britons traditionally choose the NHS.

At the same time, the country also has a well-developed private healthcare sector. Its main audience is wealthy citizens who want to avoid queues and get help faster.

So many expats face a choice: trust the public system or take out private insurance?

How does the UK healthcare system work? What are the pros and cons of both options? Let's find out.

Choose a reliable health insurance policy from Visit World to travel abroad safely.

How is the NHS system in the UK structured?

British hospitals are managed by special organizations - NHS trusts, which are responsible for providing medical and public services. There are about 219 trusts in the country, and each of them takes care of several hospitals.

The first line of contact for patients is a general practitioner (GP). Statistics show that there are 76 GPs per 100,000 people in the UK. Foreigners need to find and register with a GP when they move – this can be done online, by phone or in person.

Once registered, you can make an appointment and get a referral to a specialist if necessary. In the event of an emergency, you should call 111 – they will assess your symptoms and advise you on what to do next.

Although NHS care is free, citizens of countries outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland must pay an annual immigration health levy of £470 to access services on an equal basis with local residents.

What services does the NHS cover?

- GP consultations.

- Ambulance calls.

- Childbirth.

- Sexual health and contraception services.

- Referral to specialist treatment.

What do you have to pay separately?

- Prescription drugs (£9.65 per unit).

- Dental services.

- Ophthalmological services and making glasses.

Advantages of the NHS

- Completely free basic and specialized medical care.

- Equal access for all

Disadvantages of the NHS

- Long waiting times for an appointment.

- Limited access to narrow specialists.

- Inability to undergo regular preventive examinations without a referral.

Private medicine in the UK

Private hospitals and clinics are run by charities and non-profit organizations. There are more than 500 private hospitals in the country, offering high-level medical services. However, many of them do not have emergency or intensive care departments.

In the private sector, you can make an appointment with a general practitioner even on the day of your visit. More expensive packages (VIP level) provide an even wider range of services and services.

To get an appointment at a private institution, there are two options:

1. Pay for the service yourself during the consultation.

2. Take out private health insurance (independently or through your employer)

The cost of services varies depending on the clinic and treatment. Typically, a consultation costs from 40 to 200 pounds sterling.

Pros of private medicine in the UK

- Minimum waiting time.

- Better service conditions.

- The ability to choose your own doctor and hospital.

- Access to procedures and treatments that are not available through the NHS.

Cons of private medicine in the UK

- High cost of services without insurance.

NHS or private medicine: what should an expat choose?

Foreigners who have paid the immigration fee are entitled to use the NHS. However, many expats also take out private insurance for faster and more convenient access to healthcare.

If the rating of your nearest NHS hospital (according to the Care Quality Commission – CQC) leaves much to be desired, it may be worth considering private medicine and taking out appropriate insurance.

The NHS is more suitable for those who

- Are entitled to free treatment.

- Are willing to wait to save money.

- Do not have acute or complex illnesses.

Private medicine is suitable for those who

- Want quick access to a doctor or specialist.

- Need specialized or high-tech treatment.

- Want to choose the medical institution and specialist themselves.

Health insurance in the UK

Many private clinics cooperate with the NHS, helping to get the necessary treatment faster.

Some of the most popular insurance companies in the UK are Allianz Care, Bupa Global and Cigna Global. The cost of the policy depends on the type of plan, coverage and additional options.

International health insurance in the UK

You can take out an international policy even before moving to the UK. Such insurance allows you to receive assistance not only in the UK, but also in any country in the world.

In addition to standard services (emergency care, hospitalization, outpatient treatment), you can include coverage for chronic diseases, dentistry, sports injuries or medical expenses in the policy.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during your trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

Buy a reliable travel insurance policy from trusted insurance agents on the Visit World portal!

The UK healthcare system offers high-quality and affordable medical services thanks to the National Health Service (NHS), but it has its limitations in the form of long waiting times and limited access to specialists. Private healthcare, although more expensive, provides faster and more flexible access to the treatment you need.

The choice between NHS and private healthcare depends on your personal needs, budget and expectations from healthcare. For maximum security and comfort, you should also consider taking out international health insurance, which will provide an additional level of protection both in the UK and abroad.

As a reminder! The UK offers numerous opportunities for foreign workers in 2025, in particular due to the shortage of personnel in various sectors of the economy. We have already told you which professions are most in demand, including in the agricultural sector, the hotel business, construction and healthcare, and what are the requirements for job candidates in the UK.

---

---