Top Ten Reasons That People Choose Private Medical Health Insurance
Research from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) showed that the uptake of private medical insurance (PMI) is on the rise and that around 7,335,000 people now have some form of private health cover in the UK.
Nick Starling, the ABI's Director of General Insurance and Health, said of the trend: "The continued rise in the number of people covered by PMI is good news. PMI gives people the peace of mind that they are able to get access to the treatment they need, at the time they need it, where they need it.
"PMI is good for companies and the economy because it enables employees to get back to work after illness or injury as quickly as possible. This is why there has been a continued rise in the number of people covered by corporate policies."
Further research from a different organisation polled those who have private medical health insurance on their reasons for doing so.
If you don't already have health cover, here are a few things you might want to consider - the top ten reasons that people choose private healthcare policies.1. Cleaner hospitals
More people are investing in private health insurance because of fears about hospital cleanliness and hospital 'superbugs' such as MRSA and C.difficile. They believe that private hospitals are cleaner and thus safer.
2. Faster access to specialists
Many people choose private healthcare as it gives them peace of mind, knowing that if they need to see a specialist for any reason, they will be seen quickly. Although research has shown that the NHS meets its 18-week targets, 80% of people in Britain still feel that is still too long to wait for treatment.
3. No waiting lists/less pain
Of course being seen quickly has the advantage that you'll be in pain for less time. Additionally, often the sooner you are treated, the less chance there is of long-term or recurring problems.
4. Faster recovery
A faster recovery was important to many of the research participants. Recovering quickly means you'll feel better sooner and also you'll have to take less time off work.
5. Ability to see same consultant
Being able to see the same consultant through private healthcare is important to many people as it gives them continuity of care and reassurance.
6. Better quality treatment/advice
Some people feel that they are given a better quality of service and treatment when they are treated privately.
7. Ability to choose location to suit you
Private healthcare appeals to many people because of the choice and flexibility it gives them over where they receive their treatment. With a private treatment plan you'll be able to shop around more and choose the treatment provider that suits you.
8. Ability to see specialist at time to suit you
With a private health policy you'll also have more choice over your appointment dates and times. This means you'll have more scope to book something that suits you at a time you can definitely make.
9. Faster return to work
Time off work is a worry to employees, the self-employed and employers. It can mean lost money and increased stress for all concerned. With a private healthcare package, you should be back on your feet and at work sooner, saving you money in the long run.
10. More comfortable hospitals
When they are ill, many people value comfort and privacy during their stay in hospital. With a private healthcare policy you'll get a private room and the option of luxuries such as a TV in your room.
These are the top ten reasons that more and more people are choosing to invest in private healthcare. If any of them matter to you, it might be time to consider private medical health insurance yourself?