Medical

In the event of an emergency, dial 999 for an ambulance.

Health care whilst in the United Kingdom - Your Entitlements
You are entitled to subsidised health care through the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the United Kingdom.

Medicare benefits are not available for treatment received in the UK, however, the Australian Government has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with the UK which means that as an Australian resident your are entitled to assistance with the cost of medical treatment whilst in the UK. You do not need to enrol in the NHS.

Australia's Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with the UK covers any medically necessary treatment you require which may arise whilst in the UK.

Advise medical staff in the UK that you wish to be treated under the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia.

Always advise the doctor that you want to be treated as a NHS patient. Doctors in the United Kingdom do not have to accept a patient for treatment under the NHS. They can request a private consultation fee when a rebate is not available. If you do not want to pay a private consultation fee you will need to get treatment from a doctor who is prepared to treat you under the NHS, or from the outpatient section of a public hospital.

Australia's Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with the UK covers any medically necessary treatment you require which may arise whilst in the UK....


What's Covered

  • medical treatment and other services normally provided by a doctor to NHS patients
  • in-patient treatment including medicines, nursing care and accommodation in a public ward of a NHS hospital
  • outpatient treatment in a NHS hospital
  • NHS prescription medicines (a small fee is charged)
  • ambulance travel

What's NOT Covered

  • non-subsidised medicines from retail pharmacies
  • Medicines prescribed by the doctor treating you as a private patient
  • all treatments by NHS dentists.

Do I need Travel Insurance?

It is advisable to take out suitable insurance for the period that you will be away. Reciprocal Health Care Agreements do not replace the need for private travel health insurance.

Proof of Eligibility:

You will need to provide the NHS with:

  • your Australian passport or other passport which shows you are a permanent Australian resident
  • a valid Medicare card

Advise medical staff in the UK that you wish to be treated under the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia.

Further information on your UK medical entitlement is available from Medicare Australia.