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The UK’s independent healthcare sector experienced its busiest year on record in 2024, with both insured and self-pay patients continuing to turn to private hospitals and clinics in significant numbers. According to the latest national data from PHIN (Private Healthcare Information Network), total admissions reached 939,000 last year, up 3 percent on 2023 and marking the fourth consecutive year of growth.
The increase in total private admissions was largely driven by a sharp rise in procedures funded through private medical insurance (PMI). Admissions using PMI rose by 6 percent in 2024 compared to 2023, with particularly strong growth in Northern Ireland, Wales and London.
By contrast, self-pay admissions - although still at their third-highest level on record - fell slightly by 3 percent compared to 2023. This aligns with evidence that the rising cost of living may have begun to temper demand for out-of-pocket spending on private care.
Joe Perry, self-pay specialist at LaingBuisson, commented:
“Self-pay has been a defining feature of the post-pandemic private healthcare market, with many patients willing to fund their own care to avoid waiting lists. While the recent dip suggests some financial pressure on households, the underlying demand remains strong, particularly for quicker access and newer surgical options.”
Patients exploring treatment options can compare costs of private healthcare procedures and get a personalised quote before deciding whether PMI or self-pay is best suited to their circumstances.
Looking at the most common procedures in 2024 reveals important trends. Admissions for chemotherapy rose by 9 percent, reflecting both increasing cancer incidence and more patients choosing private care for timely oncology treatment. Similarly, diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy rose 9 percent.
Interestingly, traditional hip and knee replacements - long a staple of the private sector - saw falls of 7 and 6 percent respectively. However, demand for robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements increased dramatically (44 and 51 percent respectively), suggesting a shift towards newer technologies among private patients.
For patients considering orthopaedic surgery, it is advisable to find a specialist consultant with experience in the specific technique you prefer, whether traditional or robotic-assisted.
The data also showed that PMI-funded admissions rose among both men and women, while self-pay fell slightly in both groups. Notably, the largest absolute increase in admissions was among patients aged 40 to 49, followed by those aged 30 to 39.
Patients of all ages may find it helpful to find a hospital or clinic close to home or work, and to explore the facilities and technologies they offer.
One of the more striking findings in 2024 was the drop in demand for certain self-pay dominated procedures, particularly cosmetic and bariatric surgery. Weight loss gastrectomy fell 21 percent, while breast lifts and tummy tucks declined by between 7 and 15 percent.
According to analysts, this trend may be linked to financial pressures as well as changing attitudes towards body image and cosmetic enhancement.
The continued growth in insured admissions and sustained (if slightly reduced) self-pay numbers underline the resilience of private healthcare in the UK. Patients are clearly willing to fund care privately to avoid long waits, access innovative procedures, and receive treatment at times and locations of their choosing.
Prospective patients should carefully weigh the benefits and costs of private care, consult their insurer where relevant, and use reputable tools to research costs, providers and outcomes.
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