The NHS was born in 1948. It's founding principals:
* that it meet the needs of everyone
* that it be free at the point of delivery
* that it be based on clinical need, not ability to pay
"It is not free though, as it is supported through taxes" I have heard this a lot. It is funded by taxes but has become so integrated in our society we see it as an absolute necessity. A bit like The Fire Service, or Education.
It is an absolute essential service to keep the public healthy. We live on a small island and within close proximity to each other, which makes public health important for all of us, even visitors. Yes, back in 1948 these services were extended to visitors.
It is far from perfect. It requires more than an overhaul. It is, however, worth fighting for. Privatization is the worst thing that could happen. We need to stick to it's founding principals.