Introduction
Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Among the many things to navigate, understanding the healthcare system is paramount. For Indians arriving in or residing in the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) is the cornerstone of healthcare. This comprehensive guide aims to provide clear, practical, and reassuring information to help you understand and navigate the NHS effectively. Whether you are a recent arrival or an established British Indian, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to access the healthcare services you and your family need. The NHS is a publicly funded healthcare system that provides a wide range of services, largely free at the point of use for UK residents. Understanding its structure, how to register, and what services are available is crucial for a smooth transition and peace of mind.
This guide will cover key areas including what the NHS is, eligibility for services based on visa types, how to register with a General Practitioner (GP), making appointments, understanding prescriptions, and accessing various services such as dental, eye, emergency, maternity, and mental health care. We will also touch upon the NHS Health Surcharge and briefly mention private healthcare as an alternative or supplement. Our goal is to empower you with the information needed to confidently access the NHS.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general guidance only. NHS policies and procedures can change. It is essential to always check the official NHS (www.nhs.uk) and GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
What is the NHS?
The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system, established in 1948 with the core principle of providing healthcare that is free at the point of use. Unlike the healthcare system in India, which is a mix of public and private providers with varying costs, the NHS is designed to ensure that all UK residents have access to healthcare regardless of their financial situation.
The NHS is funded primarily through taxation and National Insurance contributions. It covers a wide range of services including primary care (GP services), hospital care, emergency services, maternity care, mental health services, and more. The NHS operates on the principle that good healthcare should be available to all, regardless of wealth.
One of the most significant aspects of the NHS for those coming from India is that most services are free at the point of use. This means that when you visit a GP, attend an accident and emergency department, or receive hospital treatment, you typically do not pay anything at the time of service. However, there are some services that may require payment, such as prescriptions, dental care, and eye tests, though exemptions exist for certain groups.
The NHS is organised into various trusts and clinical commissioning groups across the UK, with slight variations in structure and services between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. For the purpose of this guide, we will focus primarily on NHS services in England, though many principles apply across the UK.
Understanding the NHS is the first step to accessing the healthcare you need in the UK. It is a system that, while different from what you might be accustomed to in India, is designed to provide comprehensive care to all residents.
Eligibility for NHS Services for Different Visa Types
Eligibility for NHS services varies depending on your immigration status and the type of visa you hold. Here is a general overview of eligibility for Indians with different visa types:
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Settled Status
If you have Indefinite Leave to Remain or settled status in the UK, you are entitled to full NHS services on the same basis as British citizens. This means you can access all NHS services free at the point of use, with the exception of certain services that have charges for everyone (such as prescriptions in England).
Work Visas (Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, etc.)
If you are in the UK on a work visa for more than six months, you are generally entitled to use NHS services. However, you will likely have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application, which gives you access to NHS services.
Student Visas
Similar to work visas, if you are in the UK on a student visa for more than six months, you will have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge and are entitled to use NHS services.
Visitor Visas or Short-term Stays (Less than 6 months)
If you are visiting the UK for less than six months, you are generally not entitled to free NHS hospital treatment. However, certain services remain free to everyone, including:
•Emergency treatment (but not follow-up treatment)
•Treatment of certain infectious diseases
•Family planning services
•Treatment for physical or mental conditions caused by torture, female genital mutilation, domestic violence, or sexual violence
Dependants
Dependants of those with work or student visas are generally entitled to the same NHS services as the main visa holder, provided they have also paid the Immigration Health Surcharge.
British Nationals Overseas (BNO) Visa
If you are on a BNO visa, you and your dependants are entitled to use NHS services once you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge.
It is important to note that regardless of your immigration status, GP practices have discretion to register anyone as an NHS patient. Additionally, emergency treatment at A&E departments is free for everyone, regardless of immigration status.
Always check official sources: Immigration rules and NHS entitlements can change. It is always advisable to check the latest information on the official GOV.UK website or consult with an immigration advisor if you are unsure about your entitlements.
How to Register with a GP (General Practitioner)
In the UK, your first point of contact for most health concerns is a General Practitioner (GP). GPs are doctors who provide primary healthcare services and can refer you to specialist services if needed. Registering with a GP is one of the first things you should do upon arriving in the UK, even if you are currently well. Here’s how to find a local GP surgery and register:
Finding a Local GP Surgery
1.Use the NHS Website: Visit the NHS website (www.nhs.uk) and use the ‘Find a GP’ service. Enter your postcode to find GP surgeries near your home or workplace.
2.Ask for Recommendations: Speak to neighbours, colleagues, or fellow Indians who live in your area for recommendations of GP surgeries they use.
3.Check Catchment Areas: GP surgeries have catchment areas, which means they only accept patients who live within a certain distance. Check if your address falls within the catchment area of the GP surgery you wish to register with.
4.Consider Your Needs: Some GP surgeries offer additional services or have doctors who speak Hindi, Punjabi, or other Indian languages. Consider these factors when choosing a GP surgery.
The Registration Process
1.Contact the GP Surgery: Once you’ve found a GP surgery, contact them to confirm they are accepting new patients and to ask about their registration process. Many surgeries allow you to register online, while others require you to visit in person.
2.Complete a Registration Form: You will need to complete a GMS1 form (or a similar registration form provided by the surgery). This form asks for basic information such as your name, address, date of birth, and contact details.
3.Provide Identification: While not a requirement for registration, you may be asked to provide identification and proof of address. This could include your passport, visa, utility bills, or tenancy agreement. However, it’s important to note that you cannot be refused registration because you don’t have these documents.
4.Health Questionnaire: You may also be asked to complete a health questionnaire to provide information about your medical history, current medications, and any ongoing health conditions.
5.NHS Number: If you have previously been registered with a GP in the UK, you may have an NHS number. Providing this can help the surgery access your medical records. If you don’t have an NHS number, one will be assigned to you.
6.Registration Confirmation: Once your registration is processed, you will receive confirmation that you are registered with the GP surgery. This may take a few days.
7.New Patient Check-up: Some GP surgeries offer a new patient check-up, which may include basic health checks such as blood pressure, height, and weight measurements.
Remember, everyone in the UK has the right to register with a GP, and you do not need to provide proof of address, immigration status, or an NHS number to register. If you encounter any difficulties registering with a GP, you can contact NHS England’s Customer Contact Centre for assistance.
Making GP Appointments and What to Expect
Once you are registered with a GP surgery, you can make appointments to see a doctor or nurse. Here’s what you need to know about making GP appointments and what to expect during your visit:
Making GP Appointments
1.Booking Methods: Most GP surgeries offer multiple ways to book appointments:
•By phone: Call the surgery during their opening hours.
•Online: Many surgeries have online booking systems through their websites or the NHS App.
•In person: Visit the reception desk at the surgery.
2.Types of Appointments:
•Routine appointments: For non-urgent matters, you may need to wait several days or weeks.
•Urgent appointments: For matters that need attention the same day but are not emergencies.
•Telephone or video consultations: Many surgeries now offer remote consultations.
•Home visits: Available in exceptional circumstances for patients who are housebound.
3.Appointment Availability: GP surgeries typically operate during weekday working hours, though some offer extended hours in the evenings or on weekends. Appointments are usually 10-15 minutes long.
4.Preparing for Your Appointment: Before your appointment, make notes about your symptoms, when they started, and any questions you have. If you’re taking any medications, bring a list or the medications themselves.
5.Language Support: If English is not your first language and you need an interpreter, inform the surgery when booking your appointment. They can arrange for an interpreter to be present, either in person or via telephone.
What to Expect During a GP Visit
1.Arrival: Arrive a few minutes before your appointment time. You may need to check in at reception or use a self-check-in screen.
2.Waiting: You may need to wait a short while, even if you arrive on time, as appointments can sometimes run over.
3.The Consultation:
•The GP will call you into their consultation room.
•They will ask about your symptoms and medical history.
•They may perform a physical examination if necessary.
•They will discuss treatment options or next steps with you.
4.Outcomes of the Consultation:
•Prescription for medication (which you take to a pharmacy/chemist)
•Referral to a specialist or for tests
•Advice on self-care
•Request to return for a follow-up appointment
5.Confidentiality: All consultations with healthcare professionals in the UK are confidential. Information about your health will not be shared without your consent, except in rare circumstances where there is a risk to your safety or the safety of others.
6.Asking Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand something. GPs are there to help and should explain things in a way you can understand.
7.Follow-up: If you need a follow-up appointment, you can book this before leaving the surgery or call later to arrange it.
Remember, if you cannot attend an appointment, it’s important to cancel it as soon as possible so that the slot can be offered to another patient. Most surgeries have policies regarding missed appointments, and repeatedly missing appointments without cancelling may affect your registration status.
Understanding Prescriptions and Pharmacies/Chemists
In the UK, if you need medication, your GP will usually provide a prescription which you then take to a pharmacy (also called a chemist). Here’s what you need to know about prescriptions and pharmacies in the UK:
Prescriptions
1.Prescription Forms: When a GP prescribes medication, they will give you a prescription form (often green in colour). This form lists the medication, dosage, and instructions for use.
2.Electronic Prescriptions: Many GP surgeries now use electronic prescriptions, which are sent directly to a pharmacy of your choice. You simply go to the pharmacy to collect your medication.
3.Prescription Charges: In England, there is a charge for each item on a prescription (currently £9.90 per item as of April 2024). However, prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
4.Exemptions from Prescription Charges: Some people are exempt from prescription charges in England, including:
•Children under 16
•People aged 60 or over
•People with certain medical conditions
•Pregnant women and those who have had a baby in the last 12 months
•People on certain benefits
5.Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC): If you need multiple prescriptions, a PPC can save you money. It’s like a ‘season ticket’ for prescriptions, allowing you to get as many prescriptions as you need for a set price.
6.Repeat Prescriptions: If you have a long-term condition requiring regular medication, your GP may issue a repeat prescription. This allows you to request further supplies of your medication without seeing the GP each time.
Pharmacies/Chemists
1.Finding a Pharmacy: Pharmacies are widely available across the UK. You can find your nearest pharmacy using the NHS website or by asking at your GP surgery.
2.Opening Hours: Most pharmacies are open during regular business hours, with some larger pharmacies and those in shopping centres open in the evenings and on weekends.
3.Services Offered by Pharmacies:
•Dispensing prescriptions
•Selling over-the-counter medications
•Providing advice on minor health concerns
•Offering services such as flu vaccinations, blood pressure checks, and smoking cessation support
4.Pharmacy First: The NHS Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to provide advice and treatment for a range of common conditions without the need to see a GP. This includes conditions such as sore throats, coughs, colds, and minor skin conditions.
5.Emergency Prescriptions: If you run out of medication and cannot get a prescription from your GP, a pharmacist may be able to provide an emergency supply. There may be a charge for this service.
6.Online Pharmacies: There are also online pharmacies that can dispense prescriptions and deliver medications to your home. These must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
7.Medication Reviews: If you take multiple medications, you may be offered a medication review with a pharmacist to ensure your medications are working well together and to address any concerns you may have.
Remember, pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can provide advice on a wide range of health issues. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions about your medications or minor health concerns.
Dental Care under the NHS (and Differences with Private Care)
Dental care in the UK is available through both NHS and private providers. Here’s what you need to know about NHS dental care and how it differs from private dental care:
NHS Dental Care
1.Finding an NHS Dentist: Not all dentists in the UK offer NHS treatment. To find an NHS dentist accepting new patients, you can:
•Use the NHS website’s ‘Find a Dentist’ service
•Call NHS 111 for assistance
•Ask your GP for recommendations
2.Registration: Unlike with GPs, you don’t need to formally register with an NHS dentist. Instead, you make an appointment when you need treatment. However, some dentists may offer a registration-like system where they see you for regular check-ups.
3.NHS Dental Charges: NHS dental treatment is not free for most adults. Charges are set into three bands:
•Band 1: Covers examinations, diagnosis, advice, and simple treatments like scale and polish (currently £25.80 in England)
•Band 2: Covers everything in Band 1, plus fillings, root canal treatment, and extractions (currently £70.70 in England)
•Band 3: Covers everything in Bands 1 and 2, plus crowns, dentures, and bridges (currently £306.80 in England)
4.Exemptions from NHS Dental Charges: Some people are exempt from NHS dental charges, including:
•Children under 18
•People under 19 in full-time education
•Pregnant women and those who have had a baby in the last 12 months
•People on certain benefits
5.Emergency Dental Care: If you need emergency dental treatment, contact your dentist or call NHS 111 if your dentist is closed.
Private Dental Care
1.Availability: Private dental care is widely available and may offer more appointment availability than NHS dental care.
2.Cost: Private dental care is generally more expensive than NHS treatment. Prices vary between practices and depend on the treatment needed.
3.Treatment Options: Private dentists may offer a wider range of treatments and materials than are available on the NHS, particularly for cosmetic procedures.
4.Dental Insurance: Some people choose to take out dental insurance to help cover the cost of private dental care.
Differences Between NHS and Private Dental Care
1.Cost: NHS dental care has set charges, while private dental care costs can vary significantly.
2.Waiting Times: NHS dental appointments may have longer waiting times compared to private appointments.
3.Treatment Options: Private dentists may offer more cosmetic treatments and use different materials for fillings, crowns, etc.
4.Frequency of Check-ups: NHS dentists typically recommend check-ups every 6-24 months depending on your oral health, while private dentists might suggest more frequent check-ups.
Eye Care under the NHS (and Differences with Private Care)
Eye care in the UK is provided through a combination of NHS and private services. Here’s what you need to know:
NHS Eye Care
1.NHS Eye Tests: Free NHS eye tests are available to certain groups, including:
•Children under 16
•People aged 60 or over
•People with certain medical conditions
•People on certain benefits
•If you don’t fall into these categories, you will need to pay for an eye test (typically £20-£30)
2.NHS Optical Vouchers: If you’re eligible for a free NHS eye test, you may also qualify for an NHS optical voucher to help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses.
3.Hospital Eye Services: If you have an eye condition that requires specialist treatment, your GP or optician can refer you to hospital eye services, which are provided free under the NHS.
4.Emergency Eye Care: If you have a sudden eye problem, you can:
•Visit an NHS walk-in centre
•Go to A&E if it’s serious
•Call NHS 111 for advice
Private Eye Care
1.Private Eye Tests: Available at opticians across the UK, with prices typically ranging from £20-£30.
2.Glasses and Contact Lenses: These are generally not covered by the NHS (except for those eligible for optical vouchers) and must be purchased privately.
3.Specialist Services: Some opticians offer specialist services such as colorimetry for visual stress, which are usually only available privately.
4.Laser Eye Surgery and Cosmetic Procedures: These are not available on the NHS unless there is a medical need, and must be obtained privately.
Differences Between NHS and Private Eye Care
1.Cost: NHS eye tests are free for eligible groups, while private eye tests have a cost.
2.Waiting Times: Private eye care may offer more flexible appointment times and shorter waiting periods.
3.Range of Services: Private providers may offer a wider range of services and more frequent eye tests.
4.Choice of Glasses and Contact Lenses: Private providers typically offer a wider selection of frames and lens options compared to what is available with NHS optical vouchers.
Both NHS and private options are available for dental and eye care in the UK. Your choice may depend on your eligibility for NHS services, your budget, and your specific needs.
Emergency Services (A&E – Accident & Emergency, and When to Call 999 or 111)
Understanding how to access emergency healthcare services in the UK is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about emergency services and when to use them:
Accident & Emergency (A&E) Departments
1.What is A&E? A&E departments (sometimes called Emergency Departments or Casualty) are for serious and life-threatening emergencies. They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
2.When to Go to A&E: You should go to A&E or call 999 for serious and life-threatening conditions such as:
•Loss of consciousness
•Acute confused state
•Fits that are not stopping
•Persistent, severe chest pain
•Breathing difficulties
•Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped
•Severe allergic reactions
•Severe burns or scalds
•Major trauma such as a road traffic accident
3.What Happens at A&E:
•Upon arrival, you will be assessed by a triage nurse who will determine the urgency of your condition
•Patients are seen in order of medical priority, not arrival time
•You may have to wait several hours if your condition is not life-threatening
•Treatment will be provided as necessary, and you may be admitted to hospital or discharged with follow-up care instructions
4.Cost: A&E services are free to all, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
When to Call 999
1.What is 999? 999 is the UK’s emergency telephone number for police, fire, and ambulance services.
2.When to Call 999 for Medical Emergencies:
•Someone is unconscious or not breathing
•Someone has severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
•Someone is bleeding severely
•Someone has had a serious injury or accident
•Someone is having a seizure and it’s not stopping
•Someone is experiencing symptoms of a stroke (use the FAST test: Face, Arms, Speech, Time)
3.What Happens When You Call 999:
•You will be asked which emergency service you need
•For medical emergencies, ask for an ambulance
•You will be asked for details about the emergency and your location
•The operator will give you advice on what to do until help arrives
When to Call 111
1.What is NHS 111? NHS 111 is a non-emergency service available 24/7 for medical advice when it’s not a life-threatening situation.
2.When to Call 111:
•You need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency
•You don’t know who to call for medical help
•You don’t have a GP to call
•You need health information or reassurance about what to do next
3.What Happens When You Call 111:
•You will speak to a trained advisor supported by healthcare professionals
•You will be asked questions about your symptoms
•Depending on your situation, you may:
•Be given advice on self-care
•Be connected to a nurse, emergency dentist, or GP
•Be told how to get the medicine you need
•Be given a face-to-face appointment if you need one
•Be told how to get any other help you need
4.NHS 111 Online: You can also access NHS 111 services online at 111.nhs.uk, where you can answer questions about your symptoms and receive advice.
Urgent Treatment Centres
1.What are Urgent Treatment Centres? These are facilities for less serious injuries and illnesses that need attention the same day but are not life-threatening.
2.When to Use Urgent Treatment Centres:
•Sprains and strains
•Suspected broken limbs
•Minor head injuries
•Cuts, grazes, and wounds
•Minor scalds and burns
•Ear and throat infections
•Skin infections and rashes
•Eye problems
•Coughs and colds
•High temperature in a child
•Stomach pain
•Being generally unwell
3.How to Access: You can find your nearest Urgent Treatment Centre on the NHS website or by calling NHS 111.
Remember, it’s important to use emergency services appropriately. A&E departments and ambulance services are for serious and life-threatening emergencies only. For non-emergency situations, consider other options such as your GP, NHS 111, or an Urgent Treatment Centre.
Maternity Services
The NHS provides comprehensive maternity care for women throughout pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care. Here’s what you need to know about maternity services in the UK:
Antenatal Care
1.First Steps: As soon as you know you’re pregnant, you should:
•Contact a GP or midwife to start your antenatal care
•Self-refer directly to maternity services using the NHS website or by contacting your local hospital
2.Booking Appointment: Your first official antenatal appointment (booking appointment) usually takes place between 8 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. This appointment is longer than others and includes:
•Discussion about your health and pregnancy
•Blood tests and checks
•Information about your care options
•Advice on staying healthy during pregnancy
3.Antenatal Appointments: Throughout your pregnancy, you will have regular appointments with midwives and sometimes doctors. The number of appointments depends on whether it’s your first pregnancy and if there are any complications.
4.Scans and Tests: The NHS typically offers:
•A dating scan at around 12 weeks
•An anomaly scan at around 20 weeks
•Additional scans and tests if needed
•Screening tests for conditions such as Down’s syndrome
5.Antenatal Classes: The NHS offers free antenatal classes to help you prepare for labour, birth, and early parenthood. These are usually available from around 30-32 weeks of pregnancy.
Labour and Birth
1.Birth Options: Depending on your health and preferences, you may choose to give birth:
•In a hospital maternity unit
•In a midwife-led unit
•At home with midwives in attendance
2.Birth Plan: You will be encouraged to create a birth plan outlining your preferences for labour and birth, though this may need to be flexible depending on how your labour progresses.
3.During Labour: You will be cared for by midwives, with doctors available if needed. Your birth partner can usually stay with you throughout labour and birth.
Postnatal Care
1.Hospital Stay: After birth, you may stay in hospital for a few hours or a few days, depending on your health, your baby’s health, and the type of birth you had.
2.Community Midwife Visits: After returning home, you will receive visits from a community midwife to check on you and your baby’s health and provide support with feeding and baby care.
3.Health Visitor: A health visitor (a qualified nurse or midwife with additional training) will take over your care from the midwife around 10-14 days after birth and will continue to provide support until your child is 5 years old.
4.Postnatal Check: You will be offered a postnatal check with your GP around 6-8 weeks after birth to check on your physical and mental wellbeing.
Eligibility and Costs
1.Eligibility: All pregnant women in the UK are entitled to maternity care, regardless of their immigration status. However, those who are not ordinarily resident in the UK may be charged for some services.
2.Costs: For those eligible for NHS care, maternity services are free at the point of use. This includes all antenatal, birth, and postnatal care.
Mental Health Services Available through the NHS
Mental health is an integral part of overall wellbeing, and the NHS provides a range of mental health services. Here’s what you need to know about accessing mental health support through the NHS:
Primary Care Mental Health Services
1.GP Support: Your GP is usually the first point of contact for mental health concerns. They can:
•Provide advice and support
•Prescribe medication if appropriate
•Refer you to specialist mental health services
•Recommend self-help resources
2.NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT): This service provides psychological therapies for common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. You can:
•Be referred by your GP
•Self-refer in many areas via the NHS website or by contacting the service directly
3.Types of Therapy Available: NHS Talking Therapies offers various treatments, including:
•Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
•Counselling
•Guided self-help
•Group therapy
Specialist Mental Health Services
1.Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs): These teams support people with more complex mental health needs in the community. They include psychiatrists, psychologists, community psychiatric nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists.
2.Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS): Specialised services for children and young people with mental health difficulties.
3.Crisis Teams: Provide urgent help during a mental health crisis, available 24/7 in most areas.
4.Inpatient Services: Hospital care for those who need intensive support during periods of severe mental illness.
How to Access Mental Health Services
1.Through Your GP: Your GP can assess your needs and refer you to appropriate services.
2.Self-referral: Some services, particularly NHS Talking Therapies, accept self-referrals.
3.In a Crisis:
•Contact your GP or local crisis team
•Go to A&E if you’re at immediate risk
•Call NHS 111 for urgent advice
•Call 999 if you or someone else is in immediate danger
4.Online Resources: The NHS website offers information, self-help guides, and tools for managing mental health.
Cultural Considerations
1.Language Support: Interpreters can be arranged for therapy sessions if English is not your first language.
2.Cultural Sensitivity: Many mental health professionals are trained to provide culturally sensitive care, though this can vary.
3.Community Support: There may be specific mental health support groups or services for the Indian community in your area.
Mental health services in the UK aim to be accessible to all, but waiting times can vary depending on the service and your location. If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help through the NHS.
The Role of the NHS Health Surcharge (Immigration Health Surcharge – IHS)
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee that most non-EEA nationals must pay as part of their visa application if they are coming to the UK for more than 6 months. Here’s what you need to know about the IHS:
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
The IHS is a payment that gives visa holders access to the NHS on the same terms as UK residents. It was introduced to ensure that temporary migrants make a fair contribution to the cost of healthcare services they may use while in the UK.
Who Needs to Pay the IHS?
Most non-EEA nationals applying for a visa to work, study, or join family in the UK for more than 6 months need to pay the IHS. This includes:
•Work visa applicants (such as Skilled Worker visa)
•Student visa applicants
•Family visa applicants
•Dependants of the main visa applicant
Exemptions from the IHS
Some people are exempt from paying the IHS, including:
•Those applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain
•Dependants of a member of the UK’s armed forces
•Dependants of a member of another country’s armed forces who is exempt from immigration control
•Diplomats or members of international organisations
•Health and Care Worker visa holders and their dependants
How Much is the IHS?
As of February 2024, the IHS costs:
•£1,035 per year for most adult applicants
•£776 per year for students, dependants under 18, and Youth Mobility Scheme visa holders
The IHS is paid upfront for the entire period of the visa. For example, if you apply for a 5-year Skilled Worker visa, you would pay £5,175 (5 x £1,035) at the time of your visa application.
How to Pay the IHS
The IHS is paid online as part of the visa application process. You will be directed to pay the IHS before you submit your visa application.
What the IHS Covers
Paying the IHS gives you access to NHS services including:
•Consulting with a GP
•Hospital treatment
•Emergency care
•Maternity services
•Mental health services
However, you may still need to pay for:
•Prescriptions (in England)
•Dental treatment
•Eye tests and glasses
•Some vaccinations
If Your Circumstances Change
If your visa is curtailed or you leave the UK before your visa expires, you may be eligible for a partial refund of the IHS. Conversely, if you extend your stay in the UK, you will need to pay the IHS for the additional period.
Private Healthcare as an Alternative or Supplement
While the NHS provides comprehensive healthcare services, some people choose to use private healthcare as an alternative or supplement. Here’s what you need to know about private healthcare in the UK:
What is Private Healthcare?
Private healthcare involves paying for medical treatment directly or through health insurance, rather than using the NHS. It operates alongside the NHS and is provided by private hospitals, clinics, and some NHS hospitals that offer private services.
Reasons People Choose Private Healthcare
1.Shorter Waiting Times: Private healthcare often offers quicker access to consultations, tests, and treatments compared to the NHS.
2.Choice of Specialist: You can choose which consultant or specialist treats you, which is not always possible on the NHS.
3.More Comfortable Facilities: Private hospitals may offer private rooms, more flexible visiting hours, and other amenities.
4.Access to Treatments Not Available on the NHS: Some treatments, particularly certain cosmetic procedures or experimental treatments, may only be available privately.
How to Access Private Healthcare
1.Self-Pay: You can pay directly for private treatment without insurance.
2.Private Health Insurance: Many employers offer private health insurance as a benefit, or you can purchase it individually. Popular providers in the UK include Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and Vitality.
3.GP Referral: Even if you plan to use private healthcare, you may still need a referral from your NHS GP for certain specialist services.
Costs of Private Healthcare
Private healthcare costs vary widely depending on the treatment, location, and provider. As a rough guide:
•Private GP consultation: £100-£250
•Specialist consultation: £150-£300
•MRI scan: £350-£700
•Hip replacement: £10,000-£15,000
•Private health insurance: £700-£1,700 per year for an individual (varies by age, health status, and level of cover)
Combining NHS and Private Care
Many people use a combination of NHS and private healthcare. For example, you might:
•Use the NHS for routine care and emergencies
•Use private healthcare for elective procedures with long NHS waiting lists
•Have private health insurance that covers certain treatments but rely on the NHS for others
It’s important to note that using private healthcare does not affect your entitlement to NHS care. You can switch between the two systems as needed.
When considering private healthcare, it’s advisable to research providers thoroughly, understand exactly what is covered if you have insurance, and get clear information about costs before proceeding with treatment.
Conclusion
Navigating a new healthcare system can be challenging, but understanding how the NHS works is an essential part of settling into life in the UK. The NHS provides comprehensive healthcare services that are largely free at the point of use, a significant benefit for Indians living in the UK. By registering with a GP, understanding how to access different services, and knowing when and how to use emergency care, you can ensure that you and your family receive the healthcare you need when you need it.
Remember that the NHS is designed to be accessible to all residents, regardless of their background. While there may be cultural and language differences compared to the healthcare system in India, NHS staff are committed to providing care that respects individual needs and preferences. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of your healthcare, and make use of the various support services available, such as translation services if needed.
As you settle into life in the UK, your understanding of the NHS will grow, and navigating the system will become easier. This guide has provided a foundation, but healthcare policies and procedures can change, so always check the official NHS and GOV.UK websites for the most up-to-date information. With time and experience, you’ll become confident in accessing the healthcare services you need, contributing to a healthy and fulfilling life in your new home.
Disclaimer: This guide is intended for general information purposes only and was last updated in June 2025. NHS policies, procedures, and charges may change over time. Always refer to official NHS (www.nhs.uk) and GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) websites for the most current and accurate information regarding healthcare services in the UK.