Are Australians covered for any public health insurance when living in the UK?

Question

I am just trying to work out if it is cheaper for my girlfriend and I to get travel insurance or private health insurance as we will be abroad for 15 - 18mths

Answer 1

From what I have read and can gather, Australia has a reciprocal system with the UK in terms of free health care and I think you get basic care for free. I don't think you're covered for everything though. My sister got sick and had to go to hospital but wasn't admitted and we didn't pay anything for that.

It's a tough one I know because I've been trying to find a definate answer to this question as well as I'm moving there in 12 weeks.  

Answer 2

It looks like a non easy cracking nut,looking arount here,you may find something useful for you.http://health-insurance.expert-tip.info/...

Answer 3

Unless you are working and have been paying your "stamp" you will not be entitled to the services of the NHS for free.  If you became ill or had an accident you would probably be seen to but you would have to pay.  If I was in your shoes I would take out travel insurance...I certainly wouldn't like to receive a bill from anyone if I had an accident and had to arrange for the air ambulance to take me back to Australia.  You also have to consider what would happen to the other one of you if circumstances were such that one of you became ill or had to be flown home...you wouldn't get much help from the NHS there!