Important Note: The information below applies only to England.
The healthcare systems in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have some variations. It’s best to check their respective government websites for details.
The NHS provides free hospital treatment to people who live in England and are considered ‘ordinarily resident’. This means that you must live in the UK lawfully and permanently. Being ordinarily resident does not depend on nationality, tax payments, registration with a GP, having an NHS number, or property ownership. To be considered ordinarily resident, you must have indefinite leave to remain or status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
People who are not ordinarily resident in the UK may be charged for NHS services. The NHS is required by law to identify patients who are not eligible for free treatment and charge them accordingly. Full payment is required in advance for non-urgent treatments, which may include attending a haemophilia centre for treatment.
Emergency Department (ED) or Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) treatment is free. However, once you are admitted as an inpatient to a ward, including any observation wards in the ED such as ambulatory care or Clinical Decision Unit (CDU), attend an outpatient appointment or receive a virtual telephone consultation, the services provided are NOT free and therefore potentially chargeable to those not ordinarily resident in the UK.