The healthcare system in England is a combination of public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Service (NHS) and is free for all UK citizens and permanent residents. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in England, but they may be charged for some services. The public healthcare system is used by both locals and foreigners, and people generally recommend using public hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in England are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.
England’s Private Healthcare System
England also has a private healthcare system, which is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often faster and more convenient. Private hospitals in England are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, and people generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private health insurance is available from a variety of companies, including Bupa, AXA PPP Healthcare, and Aviva.
England’s Top Hospitals
England has a number of top hospitals, including:
- The Royal London Hospital (public, London)
- The Royal Marsden Hospital (public, London)
- The Royal Liverpool University Hospital (public, Liverpool)
- The Royal Free Hospital (public, London)
- The Royal Brompton Hospital (private, London)
- The Wellington Hospital (private, London)
- The Cromwell Hospital (private, London)
- The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (public, London)
- The Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital (public, London)
Health Insurance Companies in England
The most popular private health insurers in England are Bupa, AXA PPP Healthcare, and Aviva. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in UK: How to Navigate the Health System
“NHS is okay for minor healthcare – check ups, vaccines, etc. that said, the women’s check up (PAP smea) is archaic! Facilities don’t have the proper examination table-stirrups to do a thorough screen,” commented one expat living in London, England.
“In England, medical services are provided by the National Health Service (NHS), which is a publicly funded healthcare system. The NHS provides a wide range of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, and community health services. Patients can access these services free of charge, although some services may require a fee. The NHS also provides access to specialist services, such as cancer care, fertility treatment, and organ transplants. Patients can also access private healthcare services, which are provided by independent providers and may require payment,” mentioned one expat living in England.
“Healthcare services in England are provided by the National Health Service (NHS), a publicly funded healthcare system. The NHS provides a wide range of services, including general practice, hospital care, mental health services, community health services, and long-term care. The quality of public healthcare in England is generally considered to be good, with the NHS providing free healthcare to all UK residents. Foreign residents in England are also eligible for free NHS care, although they may be required to pay for certain services. Expats in England can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their circumstances,” commented one member living in England.
