The National Health Service is free at the point of use for all EU citizens. In order to obtain treatment you will require a NHS card.

You will need to bring with you the correct E-form for your status (see the chapter on Social Security in the General Part of this handbook), obtainable from your own country before coming to the UK. This should be taken to a Family Doctor (commonly called a General Practitioner or G.P.) when registering. Doctors are listed in phone books.

The G.P. provides all the basic health services, and there is no charge for an appointment with you G.P. However, doctors' prescriptions cost £6 per item, for those in employment.

In emergencies you can attend your local hospital's Accident and Emergency (also called the Casualty department. There is also a telephone help line for health questions provided by NHS direct, on 0845-4647.