Hi

I can't find an answer to this after a search on here or looking on the NHS website.

If you go back for a holiday are you eligible for NHS treatment? What happens if you are in an accident? I know travel insurance would cover it if need be.

When you get treated in Casualty do they even ask for ID? I don't remember?

Thanks.

Morally, as you're not a resident there, do you think you'd deserve free treatment?

Non residents visiting the country need insurance.

I've just had my one stop appointment for my carpal tunnel surgery for both my wrists back in the UK. Forgot to tell the hospital although I told our surgery.....disappointed, as I'm still having sleepless nights

But I don't think you're eligible for treatment...

After living there all of our lives and after paying taxes for over 20 years and the ridiculous amount my husband got taxed yes I do think I deserve treatment if needed when on holiday.

My mum has just had the operations for that. Its quite a painful recovery but she says it been worth it.

I had it when pregnant - I feel for you. Its horrible.

Emergency treatment is free for everyone. Non-emergency treatment is only available for UK residents.

That's what I wanted to know. Thanks Jonboy.

I'm not getting into an argument with you - I am ignoring this just like I did the other thread that you were rude to me in the other night. I have no idea what your problem is.

You had a sense of humour bypass, there was no rudeness.

My problem is with those that believe they can come and go between countries and take advantage of healthcare, when some of us have been waiting years just to see a consultant. You're just adding to the problem - resources are finite. If you're not contributing any longer and have left somewhere, you should accept the need to take out some insurance.

Thread closed as OP has her answer. It won't be deleted as it may be useful for others in the future who are wondering whether UK citizens that choose to leave the UK are entitled to NHS treatment free of charge, but will now know that only UK residents are entitled to that. So travel insurance would be necessary for any visits.

Thanks for answering everyone.

If I can sneak in before CO puts the hammer down, the link is

http://www.nhs.uk/chq/pages/1086.aspx?categoryid=68

Note that if you are admitted by ER to the hospital you have to pay, so travel insurance is still required.

I've had Carpel Tunnel surgery...my recovery wasn't painful at all.

Umm I thought that, simple cut under local anaesthetic. Nurse practitioners do it now.

To add to this ...... emergency treatment in ER is free at point of service; if you get admitted to the hospital then that is chargeable.

So travel insurance with medical coverage is required, unless you want pay for your treatment

I simply wanted to know what to do in an emergency - you know if my young child had an accident etc. I already have insurance but I like to know the lay of the land before I go anywhere. I was not talking about seeing a Consultant about anything - I was talking doctors appointments for something like an acute ear infection that comes from no-where which I am prone to.