What's Free
- A&E (Accident & Emergency) — free for everyone, including treatment
- Treatment for infectious diseases — TB, HIV, COVID-19
- Family planning — contraception, abortion, sexual health screens
- NHS 111 (medical advice) — free phone consultation
- Specific public-health services — vaccinations during outbreaks
What's Charged
- Hospital admission after A&E — billed at 150% NHS rate
- Outpatient appointments — paid
- Specialist consultations — paid
- Surgery — paid
- Prescriptions after A&E — £9.90 per item
- GP appointments — paid (£100-200 for non-NHS-registered)
- Repatriation — never NHS, always private/insurance
Real Cost Examples
| Scenario | Estimated cost | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| A&E for sprained ankle (treated, sent home) | Free | All visitors |
| Broken leg requiring surgery + 3 days hospital | £8,000-15,000 | Insurance covers |
| Heart attack + stent + cardiac unit (5 days) | £15,000-30,000 | Insurance covers |
| Stroke + rehabilitation 2 weeks | £20,000-50,000 | Insurance covers |
| Air ambulance back home (international) | £15,000-80,000 | Insurance covers |
| Standard repatriation | £5,000-25,000 | Insurance covers |
GHIC for EU Citizens
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens with a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) get free NHS treatment at the same level as UK residents — including admissions, follow-up, ongoing care.
- Free in your home country from your healthcare authority
- Replaces the old EHIC after Brexit
- Covers: medically necessary treatment
- Does NOT cover: repatriation, private hospital, elective treatment
- Best paired with travel insurance for full coverage
Why Travel Insurance
- NHS A&E free but admission charged for non-residents
- Repatriation always paid
- Trip cancellation not NHS-related
- Lost luggage not NHS-related
- Recommended: SafetyWing $45/month, World Nomads, Allianz
- Coverage minimums: £2M medical, £500k repatriation, £1.5k luggage, £500 cash
⚠️ Real risk: Hospital bills for uninsured non-residents can reach £30,000-100,000 for serious incidents. ALWAYS travel with insurance.