England's National Health Insurance Plan

Implemented in 1948, England's national health insurance plan has as its main mission to provide quality health care to all residents. England's national health insurance plan alleviates concern about availability of medical care. Services are accessible to all and maintain a respect for personal choice. The commitment to quality is evident by the overall level of satisfaction expressed in patient surveys.

History

• The core of the plan, as laid out by its founder Aneurin Bevan, insists that services are provided as needed and that services are free at the time they are provided. In 2000, the core principles were revised to address the provision of comprehensive services, respect for diversity, focus on service quality, dedication to employees, continuity of care, confidentiality and commitment to medical development.

Services

• A full range of services are provided. Service areas include emergency and urgent care, hospital, dental, general practitioner, optical, pharmaceutical, social care and mental health. The general practitioner provides basic medical care and is able to make referrals for specialty services as deemed appropriate.

Costs

• The national health insurance plan is funded by taxes. Residents do not typically pay additional amounts for health care services. Exceptions include some prescription medications, optical services and dental treatments. Assistance programs are available for those who may not be able to afford extra costs.

Oversight

• The national health insurance plan is administered by the Department of Health. Services are divided into eight categories and a trust or authority is assigned to provide oversight for each category. The six types of trusts are acute, ambulance, care, foundation, mental health and primary care. The two authorities are strategic health and special health. A Patient Advice and Liaison Service exists as a mechanism for patients to address concerns regarding services received. Representatives are available to help resolve concerns and assist patients with completing a formal complaint when appropriate.

Results

• Surveys completed by patients indicate overall satisfaction with the national health insurance plan. Achievements including an increase in life expectancy and decrease in infant mortality have been noted.