A woman who has chosen to reject the NHS and travel to China for medical treatment has revealed the reasons behind her decision. « I’m ill but I am flying to China next week to do my medical tests and diagnostic tests there instead of pursuing it through the NHS with my GP, » Amie began in a TikTok video. Acknowledging that her decision sounds « ridiculous », she explained it would take at least a fortnight just to secure an appointment in the UK.
But in the Far East during that time period, Amie claims she could consult a specialist, undergo several tests including an endoscopy, receive her results, and be placed on a treatment plan. « Who knows if they would even do those tests or take me seriously? » Amie said of her GP, expressing concerns her local practitioner could simply dismiss her complaints due to her young age.
She continued: « This is not me trying to s*** on the NHS. I actually checked and I have contributed £54,000 over the last five years to National Insurance, which obviously is taken out of my pay. And to think that I actually feel that I can’t even get diagnostic tests for when I have been really unwell for a really long time… it’s just really s***. »
Amie reiterated her stance that she isn’t simply « bashing » the NHS, but went on to claim the service just « isn’t working » any more.
« So I’m going to China next week on my own – to Beijing – and I’m going to see a specialist and get all the diagnostics, » she said. « This is so weird and I’ve never done anything like it before… but it’s just infinitely easier to get stuff in China. »
WARNING – explicit language in TikTok video below
Amie concluded by explaining she will continue using the NHS going forward, but for her present condition she feels she « hasn’t been listened to for so long ». « I don’t feel like people take me seriously because I’m young… anyway, I’m getting my visa on Friday (November 21) and then flying on Tuesday, » she said.
Wriring in response, one TikTok user expressed support of Amie’s trip, sharing: « Nine years of trying with the NHS and it took two HOURS in China to finally get my endometriosis diagnosis. »
Another revealed: « I had a root canal procedure in Shanghai and it was the most pleasant dental experience I have ever had. No pain or discomfort, beautiful facility, incredible staff. »
A Chinese resident told Amie: « Not crazy at all. Very clever and efficient way to do all the medical tests in China. I am a Chinese live in the UK. If I feel not right I would buy flight ticket straight away back to China rather than to see the GP here. Hope you get well soon and good luck. »
Meanwhile, an NHS medic also contributed, stating: « I’m an NHS doctor based in Manchester, and I completed my medical degree in China. I believe many aspects of healthcare practice in China are highly advanced. I’m confident you won’t regret it.
Amie also outlined her position in a caption accompanying her video: « China is infinitely more efficient when it comes to medical care than the NHS. Pricing is reasonable even for non-Chinese people who will pay fully out of pocket. Fingers crossed I can have some answers sooner than later! »
