As President Obama heats up the debate in America about whether to introduce free healthcare for all, debates have started to arise here in the UK about our very own healthcare system. The NHS has always been criticised over one reason or another, whether this is over long waiting lists, hospital cleanliness or access to revolutionary, but expensive treatment. It is only really now though that politicians and speakers have begun to consider whether the future of the British healthcare system lies within the NHS. Some people abroad, in countries where thousands of people have to go without basic treatment because they simply cannot afford it, dream of a free healthcare service and in this case it might seem that we take the NHS for granted. But others, who favour private healthcare as a more favourable option look upon the NHS as one reason why a free healthcare system should not be introduced in the United States. British MP Hannan even joined in the criticism of a 60 year old service that has encouraged some people to choose to pay for their healthcare anyway, often through private health insurance.


The main advantage it seems to the British healthcare system is that people can have the best of both worlds. The NHS is excellent for emergency treatment, especially after incidents like road traffic accidents. For less unpredictable healthcare needs, private hospitals are a good way for people to upgrade their care if they feel they want to. Private health insurance is just one way that private healthcare can be accessed, but can make it much more affordable to a lot of people. Cash plan private health insurance in particular, is a much more cost effective way having that extra security and peace of mind, and has meant that private health care is no longer something that is considered a luxury and confined to the rich. David Cameron has said that he wants to open up the NHS debate even further, and with an election arising in the coming year, the next few months could be vital for the future of the NHS.