Cancer Research UK main site

Liver tumor

noitv
Offline

Hello, I have no idea if you can offer any advice but....

My friend is from Ukraine, she has been diagnosed with a liver tumor, she has recently had an unsuccessful operation in Ukraine to remove the tumor. The operation in a private clinic was very expensive and It  now requires a further operation in another clinic, but the overwhelming issue being that the main concern for the health services in Ukraine appears to be paying a substantial amount of money in order to have an operation.

My question is, would it be possible to have the operation in the UK , and on the NHS ? , I am a British citizen born and lived all my life in Wales . I am asking if this could happen due to the intolerable position my close friend is in under extreme circumstances.

Thank you

  • Offline

    I doubt it. Certainly your status can have no relevance. Appears to depend on "ordinarily resident", whether or not Ukrainian can meet some of the exceptions is a matter for an expert.

    Mainstream rules are:

    "Hospital treatment is free of charge for people who are ordinarily resident in the UK. This does not depend on nationality, payment of UK taxes, National Insurance contributions, being registered with a GP, having an NHS number, or owning property in the UK.

    To be considered ordinarily resident, you must be living in the UK on a lawful and properly settled basis for the time being."

    Sorry can't be more optimistic.

  • Hi noitv

    I am sorry to hear about your friend. It does sound like this is a difficult and frightening time for her.

    Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the UK Government has issued guidance for Ukrainians seeking refuge in the UK. Essentially, anyone from Ukraine who is lawfully in the UK can access treatment through the NHS.

    You may want to contact Citizens advice in your area for further guidance on how your friend can come to the UK lawfully. Additionally, there are other agencies and the Ukrainian refugee help Ukrainian refugee help website that may provide useful information.

    I hope this information is useful, and that your friend receives the care and treatment she needs.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care

    Tina

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.