PMI vs. NHS

16-Jan-2009

The benefits of having private medical insurance are that you can usually get to see consultants far quicker than if you were bogged down in NHS waiting lists, which can typically be around 4 weeks long.  Additionally, the benefit of PMI is that surgery can be carried out right away as well. 

PMI also offers the choice of what hospital to be treated at, whereas with NHS you do not have this luxury.  The downside of this is that cover provided can vary greatly from company to company in the private sector.  It is important if you decide to go with PMI that you acquire the appropriate cover for the circumstances of you and your family.   Shopping around online, and utilising the quote comparisons provided at SimplyFinance can help you find the right cover for you.

Other benefits of going private:

*  choosing the specialist who treats you and seeing the same consultant throughout your treatment
*    having your own room
*    privacy
*    unrestricted visiting hours
*    access to medical techniques that may be unavailable or difficult to get on the NHS.

The NHS has a huge place in health care, whether it's from your GP or hospital care, if you need that.  NHS offers treatment life-long, and can provide care for those who have long-term illnesses or pre-existing conditions.  PMI is generally best for acute illnesses but does not offer care for pre-existing conditions.  Generally, pre-existing conditions may be best off having PMI, but then choosing to self-pay for expenses relating to chronic illness, such as asthma. 

PMI Typically Covers:

*   nursing and medical care
*    a private room
*    operating theatre fees
*    drugs and dressings used in your treatment
*    costs if you have to stay longer because of complications related to the procedure.

Using a combination of PMI and NHS may be something to consider.  PMI is not seen as a replacement for NHS in Great Britain, as we have seen PMI can provide wonderful care, but does have certain limitations regarding pre-existing and chronic conditions.