Guess where you'll find some of the most unpredictable weather? That's right—the UK! Such constantly changing weather makes it so easy to get sick, and finding a doctor here isn't a walk in the park either! But don't worry! BACCOM has gathered essential tips and advice for seeking medical care in the UK. By the time you reach the end of this article, you'll feel much more at ease about handling any health-related concerns!
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The Healthcare Culture in the UK
Healthcare culture in the UK usually prioritises self-care before seeking medical help. 🏥 The majority of people here are used to the unpredictable weather and often treat common illnesses at home. They tend to visit a doctor only when they're seriously unwell, as doctors here prefer not to prescribe medication unless it's absolutely necessary. It's a part of the self-sufficient spirit you'll find in UK Culture!
What to Do If You Get Sick?
The first step, assess your own symptoms
When you're feeling a bit off, like you might be coming down with something, it's important to take a moment to check in with yourself. Then, consider trying some basic over-the-counter medicines, known as General Sales List (GSL) medicines, according to your symptoms. These are readily available without needing a prescription. If there's a specific medication you don't have and can't go out to buy, don't worry! In the UK, there are convenient delivery services like Click Health, or you can even opt for popular delivery platforms like Uber or Deliveroo. They can bring your needed medication right to your doorstep. You can find further information on 8 Apps Must-Have for Newbies in the UK.
However, if self-treatment doesn't help or if you're still worried, BACCOM recommends you immediately reach out to see a doctor for a proper check-up. If there's something serious, it's best to get it treated as soon as possible!
BACCOM Tips :
If you have friends or acquaintances around, it's wise to inform someone. This way, they'll be aware of your condition and ready to assist in case of an emergency.
A checklist of General Sales List (GSL) medicines you should keep on hand.
GSL medications are incredibly important, especially for those with medical conditions who need to have them readily available. Purchasing medications abroad often requires a prescription from a doctor, and many medications can be quite expensive. If possible, BACCOM recommends bringing along both your medications and a first aid kit. Check out the list of essential medications below! 💊
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Inhaler / Balm (highly recommend)
Antihistamines (for allergies)
Travel Sickness Tablets
Cold Medicine
Aspirins / Painkillers
Throat Lozenge
Anti-inflammatory Drugs
Triamcinolone Oral Paste
Oral Rehydration Salts
Diarrhoea Tablets
Muscle Relaxant
Plasters
Tincture
Ointment For Itch
Insect Repellent
Regular Medication
You can go ahead and download the checklist for medications and other essentials that BACCOM has prepared on Get ready for your UK study adventure with this checklist!
What to Do When Symptoms are Severe?
When symptoms are really severe and taking medication hasn't helped, it's time to see a doctor or contact a medical staff which can be divided into 4 cases :
General Practitioner (GP)
The Urgent Care Centre or Walk-in Centres
Call 111
Call 999
These 4 cases are categorised by the severity of symptoms, and here are the details :
1. General Practitioner (GP)
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A General Practitioner or GP is a doctor who provides general medical care under the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. When you arrive in the UK, you'll need to register with a GP at a GP Surgery (clinic) near your accommodation or educational institution. This ensures that if you fall ill, you can access treatment quickly and conveniently, especially for students with medical conditions requiring continuous care. It's a right that comes with the visa application process. Comparatively, the GP system is similar to social security and the process may take some time.
Suitable for : Those with general health issues seeking medical advice from a doctor. The speed of receiving treatment depends on the GP Surgery you're registered with. Some branches may have more patients, making it difficult to see the doctor in person, or if you opt for a walk-in, most often you won't get to see the doctor right away. BACCOM recommends scheduling an appointment in advance, ideally about 1 week ahead. However, if it's a less busy GP Surgery, you may receive faster service. You might even get to see the doctor on the same day! So, it's important to choose the GP Surgery wisely.
For students, visiting a GP for examination is free of charge, covering both the check-up and diagnosis. However, you will receive a prescription from the doctor, which you can use to buy medication from various stores such as Superdrug, Boots, Tesco Pharmacy, and others. If your condition doesn't get any better, you should promptly reach out to the GP again to coordinate with nearby hospitals for further treatment.
For detailed instructions on registering with a GP, you can check out the guidance provided on GP Services Guide: How to Register with a GP Surgery.
2. The Urgent Care Centre or Walk-in Centres
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The Urgent Care Centre provides prompt treatment for various urgent conditions that cannot wait for a GP appointment, but are not fatal to require emergency care at the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. They typically operate from early morning until late at night, and no appointment is necessary; you can walk in anytime. Experienced nurses or GPs will be available to care for you. However, your symptoms will need to be assessed to determine the severity and whether immediate care is necessary. If it's not urgent, you might have to wait in a queue, allowing those with more urgent needs to receive treatment first.
Suitable for : people who experience unexpected accidents resulting in moderately severe injuries but not life-threatening, such as fractures, sprained ankles, or wounds requiring specialised first aid from experts.
3. Call 111
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111 is the emergency hotline of the National Health Service (NHS), the United Kingdom's national healthcare organisation. It provides healthcare services to all citizens of the UK, free of charge, from birth to death. The government allocates funds and supports all expenses. You can call this number if you're seriously ill, need urgent advice, and don't want to wait for a GP. A doctor will assess your symptoms, and if it's deemed a serious emergency, you'll be referred to the appropriate clinic or hospital. Importantly, the service is free, and ambulances are available for those who can't make it on their own.
Suitable for : Patients with non-life-threatening symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or intense headaches, when the cause is unknown. You can call this number for assistance. What's special about the NHS is that they have interpreters to assist foreigners who aren't fluent in English. So, if you're worried about explaining your symptoms accurately after just arriving in the UK, don't fret! There are interpreters available to help you out, for sure!
4. Call 999
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999 is the emergency contact number for the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department in the UK. It's used to call for ambulances, police, or fire brigade. You shouldn't be calling randomly or for fun as it could disrupt the work of emergency responders.🙅
Suitable for : Calling for help when you are seriously ill or injured, to the extent that your life may be in danger. For example, in cases of major accidents like car crashes causing heavy bleeding, or sudden cardiac arrest. When you make the call, they will assess the situation and dispatch an ambulance immediately. Upon arrival, the emergency responders will re-evaluate the situation to determine the level of emergency care needed.
BACCOM Tips :
If you're in urgent need of medical assistance, don't hold back. Express the severity of your symptoms without hesitation. Delaying could make matters worse. So, be upfront about your discomfort and urgency. 🚑
Do international students need insurance?
For international students travelling to study in the UK for more than 6 months, you will be entitled to healthcare coverage under the NHS. This is because you'll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) during the visa application process, which grants access to NHS healthcare services. The IHS fee is £776 per year for students, those on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa, and applicants under 18.
Overall, if you're studying in the UK for more than 6 months, you'll automatically have access to NHS healthcare coverage as part of your visa application process. That means you won't need to purchase additional health insurance, so you're all sorted! 😁
With our concern, the best way to go is to stay healthy! You should prepare necessary medications in advance, try to maintain good health by eating nutritious food, and getting enough rest. Falling ill here can be quite challenging due to the healthcare system possibly taking some time. As you prioritise your health, remember that a comfortable living space is also essential for your well-being. At BACCOM, we're dedicated to helping you find your ideal home on your UK journey. So, if you still have doubts or need assistance with accommodation in the UK, feel free to reach out to BACCOM!
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