New proposals to prevent health tourism have been launched by the Department of Health.

A key measure to restrict the access of foreign nationals to free NHS care is the requirement for all visitors to the UK to have health insurance.

People who have outstanding debts for previous NHS treatment could even be prevented from entering the country.

Health minister Mike O’Brien said: “While the NHS has a duty to any person whose life or long-term health is at immediate risk, we cannot afford to be an international health service, providing free treatment for all.

“Striking a balance between public health, migration and humanitarian principles is challenging. We are, however, determined to address these challenges and deliver high quality care to all those with a legal right to it, while protecting the NHS from those who would abuse it.”

Failed asylum seekers, who are not cooperating with the UK Border Agency, will not be entitled to free healthcare. However, those who do will remain entitled to free care prior to returning to their own country.

The DoH consultation also contains a proposal to relax the rules for UK residents who travel abroad for extended periods. UK residents are currently allowed to stay overseas for three months before they risk losing their automatic entitlement to NHS care - this would be extended to six months.

The consultation runs until 30 June.