Report

Towards true universal care

This report from UK think tank IPPR looks at reforming the NHS charging system.

The system of charging migrants for healthcare in England has become increasingly stringent in recent years. Since the introduction of the new rules, there is a growing body of evidence highlighting their adverse impacts. Through interviews with people with direct experience of NHS charging, healthcare workers and policy professionals, we found further evidence of systemic problems with the current charging system. Other countries in Europe operate fairer systems to provide healthcare for residents without immigration status. Drawing on these examples from other countries, we tested out alternatives to the current system with our expert interviewees. Based on our interviews, we drew up a shortlist of five alternatives to the current charging system.