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> This doesn't mean that is is free, as my National Insurance contributions are substantial, but that I know that I don't bear any financial risk from going to
by johnday 9y ago
> This doesn't mean that is is free, as my National Insurance contributions are substantial, but that I know that I don't bear any financial risk from going to see a doctor.
In fact, it's more important than that. Because you pay NI upfront, it relieves the feeling of burden that you might otherwise feel towards the NHS, which actually makes you more willing to go to the doctor. This means you're more likely to catch minor things before they become major problems (further reducing NHS costs).
- mmikeff 9y agoExactly. It's bad enough to be worried that you might have skin cancer, then to worry so much about the cost that you don't go see the doctor can only compound the issue. I would guess (and don't know) that if you had super amazing insurance then maybe it covers all these unexpected extras. But for those that do not have that level of cover the decision must go something like: I'm worried that this mole looks bad, if I go and see a doctor then I might get a nasty bill, but if I don't go and see a doctor then it might get worse and when it does I'll have no choice but to go, oh and the cost of the treatment could bankrupt my family