My doctor in the US told me before I left that the socialized medicine of the UK was far superior to our own health care system, provided you didn't get really sick (her exact words were "Don't have a heart attack or you may be dead before you get to see a specialist"). So, I thought that before anything happened where I needed a doctor urgently, I should find a GP. In the UK, you choose your doctor by where you live. So I randomly called up one surgery (as they are called here) and asked to register with them. After spelling my name three times over the phone, I had an appointment scheduled for the end of April. This is not an actual appointment with a doctor...this is an appointment to fill out the medical forms and show the receptionist my proof of ID and proof of residency. Then you make an appointment to see a nurse who will take your vitals. Then, once everything checks out, you can make an appointment to see a doctor.
Upon consulting my friend and coworkers, I decided to call up another surgery in the area, which they said was nicer, and I was told I could come in at any time to register. So, this morning, in the spitting rain, I walked to the surgery, anticipating the worst. Please remember, I come from a world of HMOs and EPOs and PPOs, where I've always had health insurance through my employer or school. I've always been able to see any doctor I've wanted and I've never had to pay too much. I've also been brainwashed to believe that the US has the best health care system around (for those who can afford it) and that socialized medicine doesn't work and isn't as good. So I was expecting what I imagine a free clinic in New York to look like. Instead, I was met with a very nice building, a very clean waiting room, and a very nice and helpful receptionist...who knew! I filled out the form, showed my proofs of ID, and have an appointment to come back next week for my visit with the nurse. Plus, their hours are convenient...two nights a week they are open until 8:00 pm so I don't need to take time off of work to go. I'll update you after the appointment.
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3 comments:
Good luck!
I am dying to find out about your experience.
I have had very intimate encounters with both systems at their most extreme cases: USSR and US. I will not give it up let! See what you will find.
Olga
Can't wait to hear about your appointment. I signed up at our local surgery too, but have not used it. We still have our health insurance back in the States. We just try and stay as healthy as possible. FYI- if you go to a non-chain chemist, they will sometimes sell you stuff that you might only be able to get as a RX when they hear your American voice. Chemists can give you all kinds of stuff here that pharmacists in the States would need a script for.
I wish you the best of luck, and will stay tuned to your updates about socialized medicine. I have heard nothing but horror stories from those who've experienced socialized medicine firsthand, and I've had a taste of the homegrown version myself (VA hospital), so I'm curious what your experiences will be like.
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