Matt and I went to the local doctor today to fill out some forms and get our national health insurance numbers.
We are official temporary Brits.
I’m not quite sure how the system works yet, but from what we’ve seen so far it seems pretty simple. Basically, Matt, Frankie, and I had to fill out a few short forms at the doctor’s office. The forms were really basic—Just a two-page document that asked general questions about our medical histories. Once they type the information into their computer, the clinic assigns us our individal NHS (National Health Service) numbers. We would then use the NHS numbers when booking appointments.
Since the Maryport clinic is contracted to provide NHS services (as pretty much all doctors out here are), we won't have to pay for any of our consultations, treatments, or medicines. We’re registered with the main clinic in Maryport, but if we wanted to go to another NHS doctor in this town or any other, that would be fine too. Basically, if you have the NHS number, you’ll get treatment almost anywhere.
Honestly, it was really surprising how laid-back the clinic was about our registration paperwork. They didn’t ask for any proof of residency, or even any ID. We just walked in, told them we needed a NHS number, and walked away in fifteen minutes with everything finished. The receptionist at the front desk also made it clear that even though we won’t have our NHS numbers until next week, that we could still receive treatment if something serious came up. The NHS number seems to not be a requirement for emergency treatment.
It'll be interesting to see how public heath care works out here. It’s very different from what we’re used to in the US. It's so weird not having to deal with insurance companies and the endless paperwork that goes along with them.
Do you have to start saying "Cheerio" and "Pip pip" now?
ReplyDeleteThis will be very interesting to see how the system works. It is so interesting to watch this process. WhenI hear that you have mastered the turn about I will know you have totally gone British.
ReplyDeleteFeefs, my personal fav English expression is "Bob's your uncle." I might have to adopt that one.
ReplyDeleteI've also started to say "Is everything sorted?" instead of "Did you get everything figured out?" And, Matt says "cheers" now as a salutation.
Jo, no roundabouts yet. I'm feeling more confident with the driving, though, so it's possible that I might tackle one soon.