In 1999, as a boarding school student in England, I experienced my first winter illness - a sinus infection. Seemingly benign, it was a first - miles from home and in great pain. At home, being sick meant warm meals (typically chicken soup or congee), gentle check-ins, and someone noticing when things weren’t quite right. Away from family, I learned to adopt an English stoicism - “I’ll manage" and somewhat embarrassed to ask for help. 

Winter illnesses soon became an annual affair and I had to navigate various medical ailments whilst away from home as a student for almost a decade.

As a GP who has lived and worked internationally, I have seen how healthcare expectations vary across countries, cultures, and upbringing. Access to appointments is continually being addressed, both in the NHS and privately, but true continuity of care - seeing the same doctor who knows you and your family remains difficult to achieve. 

Working with global patients at Osler Health International, I learned what it means to support families who move frequently - students, parents and siblings who know airports and often a collection of different school corridors too well. The challenge isn’t just medical; it’s emotional, practical, and relational. Families want reassurance that their child is seen as a whole person, their concerns are heard, and care is coordinated, even from afar. 

At Maison Medica, “No Waiting” is a promise - when you reach out, you’re not passed from desk to desk or form to form. You are met with attentive, compassionate, culturally aware care. 

This 'Medical Home' is personal to me - a blend of experience, observation, and education. Maison Medica exists because I know what it feels like to be unwell when far from home. With us, I hope every student, parent, and family we serve feels supported throughout their very special time studying in England. 

Dr Nithya Nahappan is a Private GP with over sixteen years of diverse clinical experience across the UK, Ireland, and Singapore. She is known for providing high-quality, compassionate medical care for international families, professionals, and students. Dr Nithya is accessible to her patients both online, and in person, in Central London and Surrey.