Outcry Grows Over Free NHS Services for Migrants as Britons Face Long Waits

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Concerns are mounting over the UK’s current healthcare policy that grants free medical treatment to asylum seekers, including prescriptions, dental care, and eye tests, while British citizens continue to face significant delays in accessing NHS (National Health Service) services. Critics argue the system places additional strain on already overstretched resources and raises questions about fairness for taxpayers.

GB News presenter Patrick Christys has publicly condemned the policy, stating during a recent broadcast: “It’s not free, is it? Because we’re all paying.” His comments have struck a chord with viewers frustrated by prolonged GP and hospital waiting times, while newcomers reportedly gain immediate access to services at no cost.

The current system, outlined on the official UK Government website under the NHS entitlements: migrant health guide, confirms that asylum seekers and even those whose applications have been refused remain eligible to register with a GP and receive free primary care. This includes not only general medical appointments but also prescriptions and urgent treatment, regardless of their immigration status.

While these entitlements are defended on public health and legal grounds, the growing discontent highlights a widening divide between official policy and public opinion. For many, the issue is not just about legality but about perceived imbalances in resource allocation, especially at a time when millions of UK residents struggle to access basic medical services.

The discussion comes amid a surge in GB News’ viewership, with the broadcaster recently surpassing the BBC to become the most-watched news channel in the UK as of 1 August 2025. The rise suggests a shift in public sentiment and media trust, with audiences increasingly turning to outlets that reflect concerns over immigration, healthcare access, and government spending.

As pressure mounts on ministers to address NHS backlogs, calls are growing for a re-examination of benefits granted to migrants upon arrival. The debate is expected to intensify ahead of the next parliamentary session, with public services and border control likely to remain high on the political agenda.