private insurance or not?

I am glad to hear that.  And I believe it.  I have this book called "Living and Working in Britain " wrote by a Brit ( I think) and he talks very negativly about the NHS.

Marilena, I have the same book. I think a lot of it is helpful, but you should take what the author says with a grain of salt. I think he's trying to be funny in some chapters, but just ends up worrying people! I've had no problems with the NHS and (barring any serious long-term condition) wouldn't consider taking out private insurance.