From what I can see HSCT is free of charge in the UK. How does it work in other countries?
So, Peter, you believe an overseas newsletter! What you read is true but not the full story.
Yes, you can get HSCT on the NHS for free - if you qualify.
Then you have the problem of getting to the place that is doing the treatment.
As for other countries, why ask?
Most countries have rules about who can get treatment and under what conditions.
If you qualify, and if the treatment is available, then you get it.
If it is not available in a given country, then there may be some provision for those who have paid into a state health scheme to go outside the country for treatment. But this assumes that the money is available to cover the cost.
I got caught this way back in the late '90s. I needed a heart bypass operation. The waiting list was over a year and getting longer. A signed form E112 would have enabled me to get the op done on the continent. All it would have cost me was the travel costs (including a private ambulance on the return trip) and some hotel costs for my wife to accompany me.
My GP was quite happy to sign. My consultant at ##### Royal Hospital was quite happy to sign. The local Primary Care Trust said “No Way! We do not have the money”.
A year later, that nice Mr Blair announced that “It would now be possible for UK citizens to get operations abroad”. The lying little sht did not mention the shortage of cash to pay for this.
So, the story in that US Newletter was true, but a long way from the full truth.
Geoff