Help This American Student Navigate the NHS

awesomebrad — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 22:39:20 -0800

NHSFilter: I'm going to be studying in the UK for a year, and I have some questions about my coverage under the NHS. I'm going to be entering the UK in September for a year-long course of study; I know that because I'm on a student visa and will be in the UK for more than six months, I'm entitled to NHS coverage. I do, however, have some questions.

I've taken several prescription medications to help control acne for the past two years. I know that the general charge for prescriptions is £6.85, and also that there is a list of medications which are not covered. I cannot, however, find this list, and as controlling acne isn't exactly essential to my survival, I need to know whether I'll be able to procure my medications in the UK under the NHS scheme (I don't need to worry about finding a GP to register with, as my school provides one). The medications I use are: Doryx (which is a slightly modified form of doxycycline), Nicomide (nicotinamide/niacinamide prescription vitamin), Retin-a micro, and Brevoxyl 4% creamy wash.

Additionally, I've just had a minor surgical procedure performed, and although it has gone well, it will require follow-up extending into the first part of my stay in the UK (just checks to make sure there's no recurrence). I noticed that the student coverage doesn't cover pre-existing conditions, will this be an issue? And the follow-up should preferably be performed by a specialist: will I/how will I need to go about getting a referral?

I've tried to include everything I can think of, but if you can see any issues here that could crop up and I haven't specifically asked about, I would appreciate it if you could let me know.

Thanks in advance, everyone!

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Help This American Student Navigate the NHS