Website of the Department of Health

Question

How do I complain about the NHS?

Answer

The NHS has an official complaints procedure that you should use for specific or individual complaints. The nhs.uk website has information for the public on the NHS complaints procedure.

• How to make a complaint about the NHS (opens new window)

Question

How do I complain about social services?

Answer

Each council that provides social services has its own complaints procedure. See the ‘Complaints about social services’ page for more information.

• Social services complaints procedure

Eligibility for NHS and social services

Question

Am I entitled to help with health costs or prescription charges?

Answer

Some people are entitled to help with health costs and prescription charges. The Help with health costs leaflets (HC11 and HC12) set out the list of current charges and who is entitled to help. The Prescription Pricing Authority holds information on who is eligible for help with prescription costs.

• HC11: Help with health costs
• NHS costs and exemptions
• Prescription Pricing Authority (opens new window)

Question

I am going abroad – how do I get treatment if I need it?

Answer

The Health advice for travellers section of the website provides comprehensive information about the UK’s healthcare agreements with other countries.

• EHIC and Health advice for travellers

Question

I am coming to the UK – what health services can I use?

Answer

The Overseas visitors section of the website has information on health services available to non-UK nationals visiting or living in the UK.

• Overseas visitors

Health and social care advice online

Question

Where can I get information about a medical condition?

Answer

NHS Direct online offers high-quality advice about health and healthy living.

• NHS Direct (opens new window)