Why Have Private Medical Insurance
Why Go Private?
Well in the UK we pay for a health service out of our taxes, so why would you want to pay for something that's free?
NHS Rationing - The National Health Service budget is under pressure and this is not likely to change for the foreseeable future. It’s not down to cuts its increasing demand and increased costs. So you could be on the receiving end of rationing.
Speed Avoid Waiting - Depending on the type of medical insurance cover that you take out, your situation can be dealt with faster. Which is really important in the case of cancer diagnosis. The waiting times on the NHS have improved between referral and treatment but with budgets being stretched this situation can change.
Choice and Results - Again depending on the type of cover you can choose which consultant to go with. By way of an example one our policyholders was recommended to a top consultant for an operation on his ankle. He was in a cast for two weeks and this was taken off. He used an air cast boot for a further four weeks. At the local NHS hospital someone known to us had the same operation and he was in a cast for six weeks and in an air cast boot for two weeks. By choosing the consultant our policyholder had a better outcome.
Better Facilities - Private hospitals environments are ‘private’ in the context that you’re not on a ward, no mixed gender issues, the facilities are generally better. You should get your own shower, bathing and toilet facilities.
MRSA - Is a major concern; although steps have been taken to combat MRSA in the NHS its still a worry, given that official figures show that about 15% of reported MRSA cases result in death.
We could not find in our research any cases of MRSA in private hospitals. You might care to read a report by the Telegraph on this issue.
Other Reasons for Private Medical Insurance
Unrestricted visiting hours
Personal care: a team of medical students won't be examining you along with your consultant. The consultant generally will be there, to see you when promised, not hours later. You’ll have time with your consultant to discuss your symptoms.
Continuity of care: you are likely to be seen by the same consultant throughout your treatment.
Specialist claim team: your insurer may have a team that deals specifically with a certain type of condition, such as cancer, who can help advise you.
If you have medical insurance already and you want a new quote just use the ‘get a quote’ button, or if you are considering it for the first time, you can arrange a ‘chat’ so that we can provide you with any information that you may require.
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Health Insurance Search are independant medical insurance brokers, based in the UK helping you get the best medical insurance for you your family or your company.