The health system in the UK is mostly public, run by a unique organisation, the National Health Service (NHS)

It is completely free for all residents in the UK for primary care: GP, sexual and reproductive health, emergencies.

You can consult a doctor in a GUM clinic (genitourinary medicine) or Sexual Health Clinic. They are open and free to all whatever your nationality and/or the length of your stay in the UK. You can have access to tests for STI, HIV, hepatitis as well as an emergency treatment if necessary; tests and follow-up in case of sexual abuse; emergency contraception; free condoms.

To find a Sexual Health Clinic near you, visit the NHS website

You can go to the emergency department of the hospital at any time.

(Accident &Emergencies or A&E)

For vital emergencies call 999. An ambulance can be sent to you if necessary.

If you plan to stay in the UK for a few months or years, do register with a GP surgery in your area. You will need proof of address and identity.

To open your file, you will usually be seen the first time by a nurse practitioner and your file will be accessible to all doctors within the NHS who look after you (specialists, emergencies, tests..)

All consultations and additional tests are free. There is a fixed price of £9.15 for each medicine prescribed. For those under 16 years old, people on benefits, pregnant women and over 60 years old, prescriptions are free.

In order to see a specialist you have to be referred by the GP.

If you plan to stay in the UK for less than a year, do ask for your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you leave France. It is free and will give you free access to the NHS. You can obtain it by creating an account on ameli.fr

If you need to see a doctor, you can go to a walk-in centre for a general medical consultation.

It is important that you do bring your EHIC card with you or you might have to pay £60-£75 for the consultation.

You can also see a private doctor at your convenience; the fees are often over £100-£120.

In the UK a large amount of medicine can be bought without prescription, over the counter medicines (OTC), at the chemist or in supermarkets.

You can find everything you need to treat minor ailments like colds, flu symptoms, sinusitis, etc.

NHS 111 is a medical helpline; you can obtain information regarding NHS services near you as well as medical help and advice.

To find a walk-in centre or surgery or A&E near you, visit the NHS website.

You can also call us for information.