If you are a UK resident you are entitled to medical care assistance from the National Health Service (NHS). Most of the NHS services are free, but some need to be paid for, such as prescriptions (currently £7.40 in England, free in Wales since 1997, free in Northern Ireland since April 2010 and free in Scotland since April 2011), eyesight tests, glasses and dental treatments. If you are receiving state benefits you may be entitled to assistance with these costs. To apply for this help you will have to fill out a detailed form which you can pick up at doctors, dentists or at a pharmacy.
If you are planning to live in the UK for more than 3 months, it is important you register with your local doctor and dentist at your nearest medical practice. Do not wait until you are ill to register. When you have found your nearest doctor’s surgery you will be asked to complete a registration form. You will be asked to provide information about your address, any previous or current medical conditions and a contact telephone number.
Doctor’s surgeries are usually open Monday-Friday during normal office hours. The surgery you register with will be able to provide you with their opening times and a list of services they provide. It is best to book an appointment a few days in advance; you can do this by going into the surgery or by telephoning their appointment line. Surgeries often allocate a few spaces for 'emergency appointments', which are usually available when the surgery opens.
If you are unsure about where to go for health services, advice about a minor injury or a general query about healthcare, you can phone NHS Direct. The number is 0845 4647. When your call is answered state what language you want to speak in and they will put you through to an interpreter if required. This telephone service is available 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. 365 days a year. It is staffed by nurses and professional advisers who will provide you with confidential advice.
Emergency Care
The telephone number for emergency services in the UK is 999 for Ambulance, Police and Fire Services. If you or your family are seriously ill and need urgent medical attention, then dial this number and ask for the ambulance service. You will be asked what the problem is and for your location. This call is free of charge.
Pharmacies
At a pharmacy (or chemist) you can pick up medicine prescribed by your doctor. Pharmacies also sell a range of medicines for minor ailments, which you can buy without a prescription. You may be familiar with the red or green cross symbol, UK pharmacies offer similar services. People who work in pharmacies can give you healthcare advice and will be able to help you to find out about many medical services that are available.
Children
If you have a child under the age of 5, you are entitled to free health visiting services. Health visitors are qualified nurses who have completed extra training. They are able to help you with a wide range of information:
● Child immunisation
● Healthy eating
● Child growth and development
● Nurseries
● Playgroups
● Education
● Housing
Dentists
Details of private and NHS dentists can be found in local telephone directories or on the Internet. Depending on your location, you may have to join a waiting list to register as an NHS patient. Most NHS patients pay one of two flat rates for dental treatment, depending on the type of work carried out. You will usually also pay a small fee for dental hygiene work.
