National Health Service (NHS)
National Health Service (NHS)
The National Health Service (NHS) is the publicly funded healthcare system in the United Kingdom. Pronounced as /ˈnæʃənəl ˈhɛlθ ˈsɜːrvɪs/, the term originated from the Health Act 1946 that led to its establishment on July 5, 1948.
Etymology
The term "National Health Service" is derived from its purpose and structure. "National" refers to its coverage across the entire United Kingdom, "Health" signifies its focus on healthcare provision, and "Service" indicates that it is a public service accessible to all UK residents.
Function
The NHS provides a comprehensive range of health services, the vast majority of which are free at the point of use for people legally resident in the United Kingdom. This includes General Practice, Hospital Care, Dental Care, and Emergency Care.
Structure
The NHS is divided into four regional services: NHS England, NHS Scotland, NHS Wales, and Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland. Each regional service operates independently, with its own management and administration.
Related Terms
- Public Health: The science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private communities, and individuals.
- Universal Healthcare: A health care system in which all residents of a particular country or region are assured access to health care.
- Primary Care: Health care provided by a medical professional with whom a patient has initial contact and by whom the patient may be referred to a specialist. Often provided by general practitioners.
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