Public is ‘ready to spend on private care’
Most of the public are ready to spend their money on going to a private doctor if they think it necessary, according to a survey.
As many as 54% of those taking part in the study, by private doctor specialist company Ellerton Marketing, would pay for private healthcare if the need arose.
For the 46% who would not, 20% might consider paying in the event of extended NHS waiting times, poor NHS treatment or for faster referral to specialists (19%).
When asked about post-pandemic healthcare services, a quarter of participants felt that telephone or online consultations should continue.
The survey received over 500 responses and is broadly reflective of UK demography, a company spokesman said.
Overall, 44% of participants had paid to access healthcare at some time and 14% had private health insurance.
Asked what a private health insurance provider could do to encourage them to consider moving their policy, responses included:
Lower premiums;
Less red tape;
Make things as easy as possible;
Cashback for healthy lifestyle;
Include pre-existing conditions;
Fewer exclusions;
Offer an incentive to join;
No NHS GP referral.