Before NHS

[netibiza]

NHS began in July 1948, what was in place before. I was born in Hospital before 1948 so what system of insurance was there or was it all private.

[gessoo]

Out of interest Neti, which hospital? I was born before 1948 too, unfortunately!! I am sure my parents could not have afforded any private treatment - surely free treatment in hospital was available before the NHS? I don't think my family could have afforded any insurance either. Interesting question - I look forward to hearing the answers.

[gessoo]

Methusala aka jno, will hopefully come along and tell us ;o)

[netibiza]

I was born in Brighton General Hospital. after it was a workhouse!!!

[felinechums]

In Northern Ireland, most births before the NHS were home births. A local woman would assist at the birth, and if the doctor had to be called, it would cost money. My sister was born in 1944 and she was born at home with a neighbour helping but by the time I was born in 1950 hospital births were free of charge. Don't know about the rest of the UK

[jno]

I regret to say that, although unquestionably ancient, I'm not British, so can't help you there neti... as far as I know you basically paid for your own health care or relied on charity if you couldn't. When doctors slapped the bottoms of newborn babies they were actually sticking a price tag on; yours probably said 'This Style 10s6d' or something like it. I think National Insurance existed, though.

Here's wikipedia

[netibiza]

ah ha jno - are you American by any chance????

[jno]

I am a citizen of the world neti, come to steal your jobs and your children (or failing that, go on the dole at the taxpayers' expense).

[gessoo]

Citizen of the World eh, jno. I thought you were at the very least a Greek God/Goddess! (or Jabba the Hut)