Private Hospitals - Why go private?
Why do patients opt for private hospitals?
What are the pros and cons – check out our guide
below.
Private hospitals and private health care is a top
priority for many of us. Some of the main reasons patients opt for
private hospitals include:
- To avoid long waiting lists
- Because of concerns around hospital cleanliness, MRSA and
superbugs
- Private hospitals offer a choice of when you want to be
treated
- Private hospitals offer a choice of where to be treated and a
choice of consultants
- Private hospitals offer treatments (such as cosmetic surgery)
that are simply not available on the NHS
Private Hospitals - Patient Care
Private hospitals are preferred by patients undergoing surgery
and who are looking for time, space and comfort to recover. Being
in conditions where issues of dignity and respect or privacy and
discretion are a concern can add to the stress and anxiety of
health care. Private hospitals offer comfort and en-suite rooms
with few restrictions on family and friends' visiting hours.
Private Hospitals – Priority Treatment
As well as the physical comfort and mental well-being, private
hospitals offer private treatment that is usually quick and
convenient – with consultations at times to suit you. Although
private hospitals are run separately to the NHS, they do work
together. In some scenarios it is possible to get private hospital
treatment for NHS patients. Cosmetic procedures often need a GP
referral letter.
Choosing Private Hospitals
When it comes to choosing private hospitals or clinics, you can
search online for the private hospitals nearest to where you live
for your convenience. Private hospitals often have their own
website that outline their facilities, treatments and offer
step-by-step guides so you know exactly what to expect. You can
also see if their philosophy fits your needs. Other areas to
investigate before choosing private hospitals include:
- The private hospital's MRSA rates
- Patient satisfaction surveys and scores
- Access to medical specialists
- Cost: if there are complications or your stay is extended, make
sure you are aware of the potential high costs of private hospital
treatment and care.
It's possible to view results of inspections of private
hospitals and the NHS hospitals online – the Healthcare Commission
publishes results on their website.