In many other countries, those who cannot pay for a doctor visit simply do not get any medical care, but people in the UK can rest assured that if they need to see a doctor, their ability to pay for the visit will not be a factor. Amazingly, the National Health Service also offers free emergency medical services to visitors in the country who have had an accident or health crisis that requires emergency care.

This applies to medical care that is received in a hospital emergency room, a walk-in emergency clinic or centre, or a GP’s office. Free medical services are also offered in situations of communicable disease outbreaks, such as the pandemic flu, or for compulsory psychiatric services.

If you end up being admitted to a hospital, you will then be responsible for the fees incurred there for services or medicines.

Residents of European Union countries, people with UK work visas, and other long-term visitors generally have more extensive access to free health care, as well.

For many visitors, purchasing a travellers health insurance plan may be advisable. Then if you do need health care services that are not covered by the NHS, your travel insurance will be the one who has to pick up the bill.

Most hospitals in London have Accident and Emergency Departments that are open 24 hours a day for urgent care. There are also quite a few walk-in centres that are staffed by doctors at all times and can offer emergency care to travellers.

Ambulance services, as well as emergency police and fire services, can be accessed by dialling 999 from any public or private phone. Your concierge or hotel staff should also be able to direct you to an emergency health care centre should the need arise while you are visiting London.

London health services give travellers some peace of mind while in the city.

NHS Direct

NHS Direct is a confidential 24-hour telephone helpline. By calling 0845 4647, callers can speak to a nurse for advice at any time of the day or night.

Photo courtesy: den99

Return from London Health Services to Tourist Information for London

Return from London Health Services to Tourist Information for London