City in West Midlands, United Kingdom
Healthcare in Birmingham: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Birmingham
NHS A&E is free for emergencies; call 999. Waits are often long, and private GP clinics exist but are limited.
Hospitals for foreigners in Birmingham
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham | Major trauma center and A&E |
| Birmingham City Hospital | A&E; Dudley Road, west of the center |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: £60–100 ($79–132) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In United Kingdom: Good NHS care but long A&E waits. Emergency A&E treatment is free; hospital admission is billed to most non-resident visitors at 150% of NHS cost. Carry insurance.
- Pharmacies: Boots and Superdrug are everywhere; pharmacists treat minor illnesses. Call NHS 111 for non-emergency medical advice.
- Health spending: US$5,860 per person a year (2024); 3.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 999 · All emergencies 999.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter United Kingdom, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Birmingham for foreigners?
Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham: Major trauma center and A&E
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Birmingham?
About £60–100 ($79–132) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for United Kingdom?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in United Kingdom expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Birmingham
Going to Birmingham solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United Kingdom
- Visit Birmingham
- Transport for West Midlands
- Birmingham Airport
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.