With PMI can I choose the specialist that I see?
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jackie123
1 year ago
Expert Financial Adviser Answer
Darren Smith
answered 1 year ago
Generally speaking, yes, that's the whole idea of paying.
But having said that you would need to check whether your preferred treatment location (private hospital or private wing in an NHS hospital) offers that service and is on the list of authorised locations for your policy provider and policy level.
usually the more budget the policy, the more restricted choice as the "centres of excellence" will often carry a premium. But this is where careful choice of a policy excess can give the reassurance of knowing you have access to the best locations but without having to pay for it each month - just set aside the excess instead.
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But having said that you would need to check whether your preferred treatment location (private hospital or private wing in an NHS hospital) offers that service and is on the list of authorised locations for your policy provider and policy level.
usually the more budget the policy, the more restricted choice as the "centres of excellence" will often carry a premium. But this is where careful choice of a policy excess can give the reassurance of knowing you have access to the best locations but without having to pay for it each month - just set aside the excess instead.
Expert Financial Adviser Answer
John Stirling
answered 1 year ago
Your policy may have some restrictions as to where or who you can see - more commonly 'where' as you will have a list of approved private hospitals. Some budget policies the list is essentially one hospital with occasional exceptions. However many private consultants work in more than one location, so with a bit of research even with a budget policy you should have quite a wide choice. Your GP will generally refer you for specialist treatment, and at that point you can ask their advice, and assistance in identifying the 'correct' consultant for you.
Private medical insurance is a bit different to the NHS - you need to take a bit more responsibility in ensuring you see the right person if you are concerned, although most private insurers will deal with that for you if you aren't worried about who you see.
In summary, speak to you GP, your insurer, and your chosen consultant, and you have the best chance of getting the outcome you are after.
report abuse
Private medical insurance is a bit different to the NHS - you need to take a bit more responsibility in ensuring you see the right person if you are concerned, although most private insurers will deal with that for you if you aren't worried about who you see.
In summary, speak to you GP, your insurer, and your chosen consultant, and you have the best chance of getting the outcome you are after.
