The National Health Service (NHS) was launched on 5 July 1948 by Health Minister Aneurin Bevan. Its founding principle was that healthcare should be free at the point of use and based on clinical need, not ability to pay. The exam may ask you the year, the founder or the principle.
How the NHS is funded
The NHS is funded mainly from general taxation, with a smaller contribution from National Insurance. Most services — GP appointments, A&E, hospital treatment, ambulance services — are free for UK residents. Charges apply to dental care, eye tests, prescriptions in England (Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have abolished prescription charges) and most aspects of social care.
Further reading: a related editorial guide on this topic opens in a new window for additional context.
Registering with a GP
Your first contact with the NHS as a new resident is normally a General Practitioner (GP). You can register with any GP surgery in your local area. You will be asked for proof of identity and address. The GP can refer you to a hospital specialist if needed and is usually the first stop for non-emergency care.
Calling 999 or 111
For a life-threatening emergency call 999 and ask for an ambulance. For urgent but non-emergency advice call 111 — a free 24-hour service that can direct you to a pharmacy, an out-of-hours GP or a walk-in centre.
Why the NHS matters in the exam
The Life in the UK handbook treats the NHS as one of the great achievements of post-war Britain. Be ready to identify Aneurin Bevan as its founder, 1948 as its founding year and "free at the point of use" as its founding principle.
Keep going
- Read the full study notes for Modern Society.
- Try a practice test on this chapter.
- Sit a full 24-question timed mock.
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