Commencing in February 2010, there is a consultation in process on proposed changes to the charging Regulations for overseas visitors requiring hospital treatment and the recovery of any charges, which also looks at the initial thinking around possible future introduction of health insurance for some visitors.
Health Minister Mike O’Brien has recently said:
Whilst the NHS has a duty to any person whose life or long-term health is at immediate risk, we cannot afford to be an international health service, providing free treatment for all. Striking a balance between public health, migration and humanitarian principles is challenging. We are however, determined to address these challenges and deliver high quality care to all those with a legal right to it, while protecting our National Health Service from those who would abuse it?
One of the options being looked at, under a consultation paper, is for a health insurance system aimed at deterring “health tourists” entering the country to obtain treatment, and increase the payments that the National Health Service receives from treating overseas visitors.
So, under these proposals, proof of health insurance could become compulsory for all visitors who have to pass through immigration control upon entry into Britain.
Commenting on the proposals that foreign visitors who refuse to pay what they owe, Immigration Minister, Phil Woolas stated, “For the first time the UK’s immigration rules would state explicitly that a record of failing to discharge payment obligations to the NHS will impact upon a person’s ability to enter and stay in this country”.
This could have the effect of barring those who owe the NHS from previous trips to the United Kingdom being prevented from entry at the border; those who remain in the country who also have an outstanding debt from having their Visa extended.
The consultation (“Review of access to the NHS by foreign nationals Consultation on proposals”) runs until 30th June 2010 and details can be found here:
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