NHS coverage on WP?

[dboone]

I'm a US citizen, and recently entered the UK on a 5-year work permit. I was told by the ECO to be sure to obtain private health insurance since I wasn't covered by the NHS. After a 28-hour airline ordeal I wasn't in much condition to ask any questions at the time, but this seemed odd to me - I was under the impression that all UK residents were eligible for NHS treatment? I spent the last 3 years on a student visa where I was covered (at least that's what I was told, I never used it).

The visa in my passport says "No recourse to public funds", but since this is what was on my student visa as well I had assumed this has to do with benefits, not health care.

Anyone have any information on this? Was the ECO mistaken, or have I been under the wrong impression?

[sakura]

The ECO is completely wrong. You are covered and can use the NHS free of charge. Note that this also includes any dependents you have (children, spouse, etc).