Deciphering the NHS

The almighty NHS...to us Saffas it seems as if the NHS is just fantastic, yet it is heavily criticised by most Brits.  It has it's flaws and it's strong points, like any government org.

For the non-EEA applicants who are required to pay the hefty surcharge, you are contributing to the cost of services provided by the NHS.  For a break down in what you are entitled to follow this link to read up on the NHS entitlements.

Registering with the NHS is very simple actually, summed up as follows:

  • Source your local clinic where you will be settling.  Even if you are settling here in the short-term, they will get you registered on the system, which can be transferred later if you move.
  • Registration may require proof of identification, as well as proof of residence (within the area)
  • Complete the form and wait up to 7 days for a letter int eh post confirming your registration t the clinic, with a separate letter from the NHS confirming your number 
These letter can actually be used as proof of address if required so keep them safe!

Each clinic differs with new registrations, with some insisting on a check up to gather medical history.  Others are less formal and will leave it to you to make an appointment when you need it.  It's highly recommended that visiting the local clinic and registering is one of the things you do within a week of arriving, and at the same time, make an appointment to see one of the doctors.

Making that first appointment is especially critical if you take chronic medication of any description.  You can ask your doctor in South Africa to provide you with an official referral letter (they will know what format to use, and they are professionals so don't overthink this and try force a template onto your doc!).  The referral letter will typically contain details such as how long you have been a patient, what the diagnosis is, the treatment used and the medication prescribed.  You can provide this to your NHS doctor to be kept on file, but they will usually issue an identical script for whatever the equivalent medication is in the UK.  If you are concerned in anyway that you may get to a clinic within a few weeks, it's recommended that you carry 2-3 months worth of your medication with you when you travel.

When collecting a script, you will be charged a fee of £8.60 per item (England only), unless you apply for a prescription pre-payment certificate, which is in the form of a card, purchased annually to help reduce your costs.

Don't forget, the NHS is still staffed by professionals and they know their job well.  Trust them to assist you but it is very different to your private medical care in South Africa...don't expect it to be as easy or quick as you are used to.



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