Need a doctor in London? Between the NHS and private practice, finding a doctor can be complicated. Private consultations, waiting times, administrative procedures… How do you find your way around and get an appointment quickly?
Public hospitals: the NHS (National Health Service)
The NHS (National Health Service) is the public, tax-funded healthcare system available to residents. As an expatriate, this means you can benefit from free or low-cost access to healthcare if you come to the UK legally.
To join, you need to register with a General Practitioner (a doctor who treats common illnesses). All you need to do is fill in a registration form called the GMS1 and provide proof of address.
The NHS will support you with routine care such as doctor’s visits, necessary hospital treatment or even pregnancy monitoring. However, you will have to pay for certain services, such as dental and optical care, as well as prescription drugs. The NHS is therefore a free solution, but it has long waiting times and is only available in the public sector. This is why expatriates often choose to take out private health insurance. The latter provides faster access to quality care and specialists in certain health fields. But the question that may arise is: expatriate insurance in the UK, how to choose?
Private hospitals
Why choose a private hospital in London?
As an expatriate, private healthcare in London offers you several advantages. You’ll have access to specialists, without the need to go through a GP as in the NHS.
You’ll also benefit from significantly reduced waiting times, both for consultations and for medical procedures. This means you can receive treatment more quickly. Unlike the public system, the private sector allows you to choose your London doctor and hospital, offering greater flexibility.
What’s more, some private clinics offer multilingual services. This makes communication easier for expatriates who are not fluent in English. You’ll be treated more smoothly, and you’ll avoid any misunderstandings during consultations if you don’t speak English.
How much does a consultation in London cost?
As an expatriate, private healthcare in London offers you several advantages. You’ll have access to specialists, without the need to go through a GP as in the NHS.
You’ll also benefit from significantly reduced waiting times, both for consultations and for medical procedures. This means you can receive treatment more quickly. Unlike the public system, the private sector allows you to choose your London doctor and hospital, offering greater flexibility.
What’s more, some private clinics offer multilingual services. This makes communication easier for expatriates who are not fluent in English. The result is a smoother treatment process, and no misunderstandings during consultations if you don’t speak English.
Where to get medical treatment in London?
Which hospital to visit in London
If you’re looking for quality medical care in London, here’s a selection of six reputable private hospitals. These hospitals, which you can visit when you take out health insurance with Mondassur, offer specialized services and rapid access to treatment:
- St Mary’s Hospital (Paddington): Public hospital with a renowned private wing, The Lindo Wing, specializing in maternity and neonatal care. Ideal for childbirth in a highly secure medical environment.
- King Edward VII’s Hospital (Marylebone): Prestigious private hospital offering specialist care in orthopedic surgery, urology and general medicine. Renowned for its personalized service and high level of comfort.
- The London Clinic (Harley Street): Private medical center specializing in oncology, surgery and specialized care. Modern facilities and comprehensive care for complex pathologies.
- Medicare French (Earls Court): Clinic dedicated to the French-speaking community, offering consultations in general medicine, pediatrics and gynecology, as well as vaccination and prevention services.
- St Thomas’ Hospital (Westminster): Large public hospital with a private wing, The Westminster Maternity Suite, offering high-quality prenatal and obstetric care.
- The Portland Hospital (Westminster): London’s only private hospital dedicated entirely to women’s and children’s health, with specialist services in maternity, paediatrics and gynaecology.
Emergency numbers in London
In the event of a medical emergency in London, you need to know the right numbers to contact to get help quickly. Here are the main emergency services and their contact details:
- 999 for vital emergencies (ambulance, fire department, police)
- 111 for free medical advice or non-urgent health problems (24 hours a day)
- 112 is the European emergency number (which also works in the UK)
