Deciding between private and public healthcare is often confusing, especially for family needs. Worry not and read this blog to learn the benefits of choosing private clinics in London over the NHS. Continue till the end to explore the essentials!
Public vs Private Healthcare
The public healthcare system is popularly known as the ‘National Health Service’ or NHS. It is funded through Government taxes and offers free services to London residents. Services typically include GP appointments, accident and emergency facilities, etc. In contrast, Private healthcare clinics provide services through insurance policies. They offer similar facilities to those of the NHS but in a more customised way. Read below to know more.
Drawbacks regarding the NHS
Firstly, there is a massive influx of people visiting the NHS. Thus, it becomes impossible to address every patient issue, leading to unwanted delays in treatment. Moreover, due to insufficient facilities, several patients are denied admission. Unfortunately, problems like underfunding and the unavailability of manpower still persist in public health systems!
Top 6 benefits to choose private clinics for your family
Here is a list of advantages private healthcare clinics offer to promote family health. They are as follows:
GP Consultations
These appointments are much more effective in a private setting. Moreover, one can make quicker consultations and can have frequent visits. This allows better treatment and quality care.
Minimised wait times
Unlike the NHS, private clinics do not have a huge patient list. This allows individuals to wait less and obtain timely treatment. Moreover, it reduces the burden on public health systems, which already suffer from understaffing and facility shortages.
Enhanced personal care
Private GPs in London can offer personalised treatment approaches for their patients. This promotes the doctor-patient relationship and strengthens the bond with time. As implied, patients will likely continue visiting the same GP, whether it is for themselves or their families.
Emergency facilities
Private healthcare systems remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Thus, upon facing an unexpected illness or emergency, one can immediately consult a GP for treatment. Although an A&E facility is available in the NHS, there is less doctor accessibility than in a private clinic.
Continuity of care
One will not switch to new GPs for every health issue as this breaks consistency. Moreover, sticking to a particular doctor builds rapport, paramount to obtaining treatment and care. However, this is difficult to obtain in a public healthcare setting.
Availability of catered solutions
The NHS provides general care and cannot address every need, whether rare medicines or sophisticated treatments. Thus, if an individual becomes critical and requires a particular treatment, consulting a private clinic is the one-stop solution!
Easy payment options
Cost is a prime concern for individuals seeking private clinics in London. Worry not, as most clinics help with a suitable payment plan that works best for families. Although this may seem very challenging, it is one of the best ways to achieve the right solution. Consider asking the healthcare provider beforehand to guide you through the process, and it is done!
How do you find the right GP for your family?
There are many ways to ensure that you choose the best clinic. Consider asking friends and acquaintances who have taken service from a private clinic in advance. Another great tip is to research the available clinics thoroughly. Try to go through the services and prices along with reading patient reviews on the websites. Undoubtedly, this will help you make an informed choice! Here’s a list of questions that you must ask yourself. They are as follows:
- Will the clinic offer specialised treatments if I require them?
- Are emergency services available?
- What do the previous patients say about the clinic and its services?
- Are there proper standards for the clinic?
- Does it offer 24X7 medical services?
However, the list continues. Clearly note down all the specifications and doubts regarding clinic services, as this helps outline the needs. Moreover, it guides you in making the right choice for you and your family!
Is it possible to use both healthcare systems?
Practically, yes! Individuals paying for private healthcare are still entitled to visit the NHS. Also, those using the NHS can switch to private clinics or use both simultaneously. However, make sure you refrain from mixing up treatments while undergoing a particular medical procedure from any healthcare system. This is because it can hamper the ongoing process and reduce its effectiveness. Lastly, no strict rules define obtaining GP appointments and associated services. If you wish to use both Private and Public systems, go for it!
Conclusion
Almost every private clinic in London offers customised solutions to its patients. Their services are rapid and cost-effective, ensuring 100% reliability. So, do not wait long—book one as soon as possible!
