Using and paying for private healthcare

Paying for private healthcare

Self-pay

You pay the provider directly. Ask for a fixed-price quote that covers consultations, tests and follow-up.

Private medical insurance

Check with your insurer that the provider and the treatment are covered before you book.

NHS-funded

Some independent hospitals and clinics also treat NHS patients at no cost to the patient, through an NHS referral.

The CQC register does not record which types of funding each provider accepts, so always ask the provider – and get the answer in writing before you commit.

Using private healthcare

Check it is registered

Your private healthcare provider should be registered with a national regulator, such as the Care Quality Commission in England.

Check what the price covers

Package prices vary between hospitals – be vigilant and double-check what is covered.

Check your insurance

Insurance covers all or part of private treatment costs, but policies vary widely, so double-check what yours covers.

It sits alongside the NHS

Private healthcare is not intended to replace the NHS; it offers alternative and additional options.

Paying for scans and screening tests

The provider must be registered

It is a legal requirement that all providers of screening services in England are registered with the Care Quality Commission.

Ask about the fees

Are the fees clear? Is there a pressurising “book now for a reduced price” offer? Will the company charge extra to follow up results?

Who follows up an abnormal result

Often a company only offers the test. If it finds something abnormal, it is up to you to seek advice, further investigation or treatment – and often the tests will need to be repeated by the NHS.

False alarms happen

False positive results are inevitable in screening. They lead to unnecessary worry, and to follow-up tests and investigations which may carry risks of complications.