Quote:
Originally Posted by Akatrin
Sooo... someone in the know, whats the deal? Do I have to get one? I've been reading up on it a bit - I will be using health services/doctors/specialists while in the UK. Is this like the Australian equalivent of Medicare?
Also, How does it work with getting private health insurance? I have the highest level of cover over in Australia, and due to my various medical conditions I think it's something I'm going to have to keep up my entire life. Any suggestions?
Finally, is the "National Insurance number" the same as a "National Health Service Number" that a GP can give you?
Cheers,
~Kat
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Hi there
Your NI number goes on your health card too and is a general NI / Health identifier, although the card has its own number as well.
Private health care is very expensive in the UK if you dont get it through a company scheme. I used to pay about £110 a month whilst in a company scheme, but when I came out of the scheme and tried to join as an individual it doubled! Plus, I'm afraid, they most often dont cover existing conditions.
If you are paying into the UK system by NI contributions though, you will be entitled I guess to free healthcare under the National Health Service. Queues are long for some treatments, but generally you can get to see a GP within a day in most areas.
Its only when you leave the UK you realise how much you took health cover for granted.