Newly arrived expats in Manchester will be pleased to know that there is a comprehensive public healthcare system in the UK that offers an excellent standard of care. Those who fit the criteria of being 'ordinarily resident' in the UK – that is, living there permanently – will have access to this system, run by the NHS (National Health Service). Healthcare services are provided at little to no cost, although waiting times can be long.
After arriving in Manchester, expats should make it a priority to register with their local General Practitioner (GP). The GP is the first port of call for non-emergency healthcare, and specialist treatment generally requires a referral from a GP.
Expats who prefer to skip the queue can opt to use private hospitals. Though expensive, patients are seen to much quicker. If planning to use this option, expats should make sure they're comprehensively insured to cover the high costs.
Pharmacies, or chemists, are readily available in Manchester and can be found on major streets and in shopping malls. Big supermarkets also often have small pharmacies inside.
In an emergency, dial 999 and an ambulance will be dispatched to your location.
Below is a list of some of the main public and private hospitals in Manchester.
Hospitals in Manchester
The Christie
Website: www.christie.nhs.uk
Address: Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX
Pall Mall Medical
Website: www.pallmallmedical.co.uk
Address: 61 King Street, Manchester M2 4PD
Royal Manchester Children's Hospital
Website: www.mft.nhs.uk/rmch
Address: Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9WL
Salford Royal
Website: www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk
Address: Stott Lane, Salford M6 8HD
Spire Manchester Hospital
Website: www.spirehealthcare.com
Address: 170 Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2AF
Trafford General Hospital
Website: www.mft.nhs.uk/trafford
Address: Moorside Road, Davyhulme, Manchester M41 5SL