LONDON, UK. November 6th, 2024 - Latest data from the Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN) shows record levels of Brits are using private healthcare.
More than half of the people in the UK have close family or friends who have used private healthcare. The latest data from the IHPN Going Private report shows that 55% of UK Brits have close friends or family that have used private healthcare, while 32% have used private healthcare for themselves. This was even higher in the East Midlands with 64% of people knowing close friends or family who have used private healthcare, and in Northern Ireland (59%) and Wales (58%).
David Hare, Chief Executive, IHPN, said: “We are starting to see the proliferation of private healthcare into the mainstream where more and more people are choosing to go private for ease and accessibility. Figures show that most people in the UK know someone close to them who has used private health services either through health insurance or self-pay. It is evidence that people are generally viewing private healthcare as a rapid and easy way to access healthcare.”
The biggest reason that people cite for choosing to go private is that they couldn’t get a NHS appointment quickly enough (45%) and that it was easier to book a private appointment (27%). 20% have private healthcare or health insurance through work and 17% rated services through private health as being higher quality. 50% of people say that private healthcare is better for accessibility.
The most common treatments that people choose are consultation with doctor (45%), diagnostic treatment such as a scan (45%), consultation with other healthcare professional (35%), GP appointment (34%), minor operation where you went home on the same day (25%), major operation where you needed to stay overnight (16%) and ongoing treatment for a serious problem like cancer treatment (5%).
The IHPN recommends that if people are considering private healthcare then it is important that they are aware of the choices that they can make.
David Hare recommends the five following steps:
1. Do your research
David said: “Before accessing treatment it is advisable to do some research and two good places to start are healthcare provider inspection reports from one of the national care regulators, for instance the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England, and the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN), the independent government-mandated information organisation for private healthcare.
2. Explore payment plans and options
“Private healthcare is often more affordable than people realise and the majority of providers offer flexible payment plans so that the cost of the treatment can be spread over a period of time.”
3. Find out what’s in your local area
“Find a private healthcare Consultant in your local area to suit you. There are hundreds of private healthcare providers all over the UK so you shouldn’t have to travel - go to our Find a Member page or phin.org.uk to find your nearest provider.”
4. You’re in control
“Remember that it is your choice, completely, so canvas friend and family recommendations and also via the CQC and PHIN to find the individual clinician or clinic that has the specific expertise that you require. Your GP will also be able to support you.”
5. Book a consultation
“Before committing to treatment, book a consultation with your chosen private healthcare supplier who will look at your case and advise you on the potential outcomes and treatment path. Consultations vary in time but this is your chance to ask all of the questions that you have face to face and receive specific personalised information. Take notes! And if you feel you want, then take someone that you trust with you.”
ENDS
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