[DanaC]

On a much more personal note: I have chronic eczema and also have asthma. How much would it cost me per month, I wonder, for high-end corticosteroids, various prescription emolients and two different inhalers, if I had to pay for them myself? Certainly, no insurance company would be likely to help with that as they are both pre-existing conditions. This of course would likely also apply to the semi-regular anti-biotics and occasional trips to casualty for breathing difficulties that are too serious for a simple inhaler. If I were to show symptoms of skin cancer, the eczema (which increases the risk of skin cancer and also makes it harder to spot) would mean it would be entirely possible (and if that list of cases Bri posted is in anything other than a list of rarities) for an insurance company to deny coverage on the grounds of the pre-existing condition.

I spent a childhood in and out of doctors' surgeries and hospitals. I still have to seek medical help on a very regular basis. The NHS has taken care of me and continues to do so. I can, if I want to (and I do when things are bad) buy a 3 month pre-pay prescription for £27. It covers me for any NHS prescription during that period. That's it, that's all I ever have to pay. (except dental care for which we do have to pay towards the cost of treatment).