The rules aren't written in a particularly clear way, but in general the idea is that NHS eligibility is residence-based, and people who aren't ordinarily resid

The rules aren't written in a particularly clear way, but in general the idea is that NHS eligibility is residence-based, and people who aren't ordinarily resident are entitled to urgent treatment only. Flying back just to pick up prescriptions is definitely against the spirit of the rules. Enforcement -- or even understanding -- of the rules on a local level seems spotty. I've helped overseas visitors find their way through the NHS. Some GPs and out of hours services have treated them like a local patient and when asked about payment had no idea, whilst one GP pulled their wallet out in the consulting room and demanded cash there and then. Hospitals are supposed to be more consistent, but I haven't any experience there.