As the only qualified medical practitioner regularly contributing to the forum – but, like other members, not making money out of the time given – I have already expressed sympathy for the two fathers-in-law whose plights we have read about on this thread.


I am also sorry to read about other members who have had unfortunate experiences, either personally or with their loved ones.


Naturally it’s impossible to defend every health worker and explain every anecdote where health care appears sub-optimal.

My one post on this thread ( but many others elsewhere ) explaining the situation in the Philippines and the UK, is accurate to the best of my knowledge.


“ Private “ medical care – where payment is made directly, as opposed to indirectly - should be of the same standard and based on good evidence. Be aware that the same doctor treating for fee(s) may well also be giving the same health care for a salary, in a taxation-funded health service. Of course there may not be a choice – which is why many Filipinos succumb to illness which is either not treated, or inadequately treated because they can’t afford it, and their insurance may not cover it.


Private healthcare is not a business quite like any other business. Only certain conditions can be treated privately. Lucrative procedures may be “ cherry picked “. For emergencies, and other conditions if complications arise - or may often be expected because of the type of illness ( requiring intensive care for example ) - in the UK the NHS will ALWAYS be needed. Conversely, “ Health tourism “ may appear relatively cheap in some countries, such as the Philippines, but consideration should be given to follow up and possible complications.






The vast majority of NHS “ clients “ ( a dreadful description – they are patients ! ) are treated well by the NHS and have reason to count their blessings. This compares favourably with countries like the Philippines MAINLY because more resources are available in the UK – not just money, but numbers of health workers per head of population.