Survey Finds that Lengthy NHS Waiting Times are the Primary Motivation for Choosing Private Healthcare

September 3, 2024 TruthUSA

The findings also indicate a shift in attitudes towards private health care, especially among those aged 18 to 34.

According to a survey, the top reason cited for using private health care was the inability to get an NHS appointment quickly enough.

45 percent of survey respondents mentioned waiting times as a factor in seeking independent health services, followed by 27 percent who found it easier to book private appointments.

Additionally, 20 percent stated that they had workplace health insurance, and 17 percent believed the care received in private settings was of higher quality than in the NHS.

The Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN), conducting a survey on public attitudes towards independent health care, reported increased demand for private health care since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chief Executive of IHPN, David Hare, mentioned that the 2024 “Going Private” survey revealed a growing willingness among people in the UK to pay for treatment.

Using private health care is becoming normalized, with 32 percent of surveyed individuals stating they had used it before.

Of those who had used private health care previously, 42 percent went straight to independent services for their next care needs, compared to 55 percent who initially sought care from the NHS.

There is also a generational shift, with individuals aged 18 to 34 showing a more positive attitude towards private health care and being open to using it.

75 percent of 25 to 34-year-olds and 74 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds said they would consider using private health care, making them the most receptive demographics.

Younger generations are more likely to access private GP services, with 54 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds and 44 percent of 25 to 34-year-olds having done so, higher than the average of 27 percent.

Long Waits

A recent report by the Health Foundation highlighted the UK’s longer waiting times compared to other high-income nations.

The UK has some of the longest waiting times, with 11 percent waiting over a year to be seen, and 61 percent waiting at least four weeks to see a specialist.

Compared to other developed nations, the UK also performed poorly in terms of patients spending time with their GPs, with only 58 percent feeling they had spent enough time with them.

The government and NHS England have set a target of March 2025 to eliminate waits of over 12 months and are working to reduce waiting times.

Rachel Roberts contributed to this report.

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