A British woman has made the drastic decision to fly to China for essential medical diagnostics, expressing profound frustration with the National Health Service after contributing tens of thousands of pounds.
'Infinitely easier': The decision to seek treatment abroad
In a candid TikTok video that has since garnered significant attention, a woman named Amie explained her unusual choice. "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," she stated, acknowledging that her plan might sound "ridiculous" to some.
Her reasoning, however, was rooted in a stark comparison of efficiency. Amie claimed that while it would take a minimum of two weeks just to secure a GP appointment in the UK, that same timeframe in China would allow her to consult a specialist, undergo several tests including an endoscopy, receive her results, and be placed on a treatment plan.
A system that 'isn't working'
Amie's frustration was compounded by a fear of not being taken seriously by her local practitioner due to her young age. "Who knows if they would even do those tests or take me seriously?" she questioned, reflecting a concern shared by many younger patients.
She was keen to clarify that her intention was not to attack the NHS outright. To underscore her point, she revealed she had checked her financial contributions to the system. "I have contributed £54,000 over the last five years to National Insurance," she stated, highlighting the personal investment that made her situation feel particularly unjust.
She summarised her painful dilemma: "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 that she wasn't simply "bashing" the NHS but felt compelled to state that the service just "isn't working" for her current needs.
Overwhelming support and shared experiences
The response to her video revealed she is far from alone in her thinking. One commenter shared a powerful testimony: "Nine years of trying with the NHS and it took 2 HOURS in China to finally get my endometriosis diagnosis."
Another user praised the quality of care, recalling, "I had a root canal procedure in Shanghai and it was the most pleasant dental experience I have ever had." A Chinese national living in the UK validated Amie's plan, calling it a "clever and efficient" move and admitting they would do the same.
Perhaps the most striking endorsement came from an NHS doctor based in Manchester, who wrote: "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."
With her visa secured on Friday, November 21, Amie prepared for her solo trip to Beijing the following Tuesday, hoping for answers after feeling unheard for so long. She confirmed she would use the NHS again in the future, but for this pressing health concern, she felt international private care was her only viable path to a diagnosis.
