I know we here in UK knock the NHS sometimes, but really we are so lucky. I can get an appointment with the doctor probably the same day if I suspect an infection of any sort. I would be prescribed antibiotics which are given to me at the in-surgery pharmacy. They'd cost me nothing at all as I'm well over 60. The consultation is free. I can go back again for a final check-up. The surgery is 5 mins away by car. If (touch wood) it turned nasty eg pneumonia, I'd get a free ambulance to be treated free in our spanking new hospital. 'What's not to like?' as they say.