A recent report has shown that an increasing number of people are now opting for private healthcare cover rather than relying in the National Heath Service, reflecting the concerns that many have when it comes to NHS care. The survey showed that many of the people switching to private healthcare cover have stated that their reason for switching was fear of super bugs such as MRSA.
Rumours about falling staff levels and low quality of care have also contributed to the decision of many consumers to protect the health of themselves and their loved ones with a private healthcare plan rather than opting for NHS care when treatment is required. According to the Association of British Insurers the private healthcare sector has been in decline for some years, but has now started to gain momentum again as more and more people turn to this type of healthcare.
One industry official said: ‘The whole issue of cleanliness has shot up the agenda. People don’t want to be treated in the sort of hospital where you have to keep on your slippers every time you pop to the bathroom.’ She added: ‘The NHS doesn’t provide everything people want. We see less sitting on the fence and more people coming to try private health cover.’
Another official added: ‘Patients today are sophisticated consumers of healthcare. They research the treatments they want, but cannot always get them through the NHS.’ Those looking for cover are warned, however, not to cut back on benefits just to shave a few pounds off the cost. One industry professional said: ‘It tends to be the younger buyers who are most gung ho and shave off everything to get the cheapest possible premium. Older buyers - and by this I mean people in their 40s and 50s - are much less willing to cut benefits.’
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