In recent years, the UK has seen a significant shift in how people access healthcare, with more patients opting to pay directly for private treatments. Since the pandemic, there has been a 30% rise in out-of-pocket payments, as growing concerns about NHS waiting times and access to care continue to drive demand for private alternatives.

At Ready Health Standish, we’ve seen first-hand how this trend is reshaping patient choices — and we’re here to provide timely, compassionate, and high-quality care for those seeking fast, effective treatment options.

What’s Driving the Rise in Private Healthcare?

1. Long NHS Waiting Lists

One of the most cited reasons for going private is the increasingly long NHS waiting times. The pandemic has only worsened delays in routine care, diagnostics, and specialist appointments — prompting patients to seek faster solutions elsewhere.

2. Faster Access to Treatment

For many, time is of the essence. Whether it’s returning to work, managing ongoing symptoms, or simply reducing anxiety, private healthcare offers quicker access to consultations, tests, and treatment plans.

3. Concerns About NHS Quality

While the NHS remains a cornerstone of UK healthcare, some patients have expressed concern about overstretched services and perceived declines in care quality. As a result, private clinics are increasingly being seen as a more reliable and personalised alternative.

4. Growing Awareness of Private Options

Thanks to social media, online health platforms, and increased word-of-mouth, people are becoming more aware of the range and benefits of self-pay private healthcare — from health checks to advanced treatments.

5. Pandemic-Driven Change

COVID-19 changed many aspects of healthcare delivery. It also shifted public expectations, prompting many individuals to take control of their health by seeking direct, on-demand access to services through private providers.

The Data Behind the Trend

Self-Pay Surge: There’s been a significant increase in the number of people choosing to pay for their own hospital care across the UK.
Record Admissions: Private hospitals have seen unprecedented admissions, including a rise in both private and NHS-funded patients.
Sector Growth: The private healthcare sector continues to grow as patients prioritise timely treatment.
Changing Attitudes: A survey by the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN) revealed that 19% of people are now more likely to consider private care than before the pandemic.
Self-Pay Market Expansion: This growing market is driven by dissatisfaction with delays and a strong demand for flexibility and choice.

What Does This Mean for Patients?

🌍 Health Inequalities

While private care offers real advantages, it also raises concerns about fairness. Not everyone can afford to self-fund treatments, which may widen health inequalities if NHS wait times continue to rise.

🏥 Strain on the NHS

As more patients seek private options, those who remain reliant on the NHS may face even longer delays, highlighting the need for urgent systemic improvements and investment.

💬 Public Support for the NHS

Despite this shift, public support for the NHS remains strong. Most people still believe in the principle of free healthcare at the point of delivery — but also want realistic alternatives when waiting is no longer viable.

Is This a Temporary Trend or Long-Term Shift?

Whether this rise in private healthcare is a short-term response to pandemic pressures or a permanent change in patient behaviour is yet to be fully understood. What is clear, however, is that patients are increasingly looking for choice, speed, and control over their healthcare — and that’s where Ready Health Standish can help.

Private Healthcare with a Personal Touch

At Ready Health Standish, we offer convenient, compassionate, and confidential private healthcare services — including health screenings, weight loss support, private prescriptions, and more. Whether you're seeking peace of mind, faster results, or personalised care, our clinic is here to support you every step of the way.

📞 Ready to take control of your health?
Get in touch today to find out how our private services can work for you.