Patricia Harrison, Fetcham, Surrey, England
August 2009

I am an American who moved to England nine years ago. I really enjoy living here and love the history, the marvelous architecture, the culture, the bustle of London and the calm beauty of the countryside. However, most importanty, I have learned how much I appreciate the National Health System.

When my son was diagnosed with ADHD, I went to the NHS specialist pediatrician and she prescribed a Ritalin type medicine. We got the medicine free from the pharmacy. Children's medicines are free until they are 16, then it's 6 pounds per prescription. When the medicine would run out, I would simply visit my doctor's office (at no cost), the next month's supply is called in to the pharmacy and is waiting for me to pick it up. No lengthy forms to fill out, no hassle.

Recently I feel off my bicycle and had to go via ambulance to the Emergency Room. I was seen, x-rayed and discharged under three hours. I went to my doctor for aftercare. There are no bills, no annoying letters from hospitals or insurance companies, etc. When you enter the Emergency Room you do not go to a Finance Office or talk about money. I am in their database and that's it.

A close friend at work was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went to the specialist cancer hospital and got quick and wonderful care. In England one can buy "top up" insurance which costs 1200 pounds per year for a family, although it's not mandatory. When my friend asked her doctor if she should use her private insurance or use the NHS for her cancer care, he told her "...it's all the same treatment. You might have a different meal in the hospital but that's the only difference."

I can't imagine returning to live in the U.S. where I would worry about becoming bankrupt due to medical bills or would have to restrict my work options in order to find an employer who provides good medical benefits. As for my son, he'd probably not be able to get coverage. I'm so thankful that “pre-existing condition” isn’t a word in the vocabulary of the National Health System.