While America debates moving to a health care system more like the UK, the majority of Brits want to try an American approach. According to Simplyhealth's latest survey, 59% of people would consider paying to be seen privately due to concerns about access to diagnosis and treatment.
Simplyhealth's report 'Are we an instant health generation?' carried out by YouGov suggests that concerns about cost, waiting times and access to healthcare are driving people to seek private alternatives to the NHS. Just over half believe that they will need to wait longer for treatment than ever before and 45% agree that government changes may mean that they are denied treatment altogether by the NHS.
Raman Sankaran, spokesperson for healthcare provider Simplyhealth commented, "Understandably, with the suggested changes to the NHS, people are worried about what this means to them, prompting people to consider turning to the private sector for faster access. In fact, over 50% are worried about the cost of looking after their individual and family health over the next five years. However, it can be a misconception that private access is only available to the more affluent."
The results already show that 9% of respondents pay for private medical insurance themselves and 19% currently have employers that cover the costs for them. A further 12% have dental insurance and another 6% have a health cash plan .
Dr Pixie McKenna, resident Doctor on Channel 4's "Embarrassing Bodies", says, "Simplyhealth's report confirms my suspicion that members of the public have a genuine concern about how the NHS will care for them in the future. It is staggering that 45% believe they may be denied treatment at some point in the future, while over half feel they may need to wait longer for treatment.
"Although the survey shows that there is concern around accessibility to NHS treatment, your local GP should still be your first port of call if you have a health concern. If your doctor decides that you need specialist input and then you are referred elsewhere, it is at this point you can elect to see a consultant on the NHS or privately."
The research was carried out online by YouGov between 26 July 2011 - 28 July 2011. It surveyed 5,097 UK adults aged over 18 and the results are weighted to the profile of the UK's working population. All research conducted adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines
