Health has become more personal than ever. With a growing awareness of chronic illnesses and a shift towards prevention, more people in the UK are taking control of their wellbeing. One clear trend is the increasing number of individuals booking private health assessments.
Health assessments are a proactive approach to detecting medical issues early, rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Whether it’s due to long NHS waiting lists, a desire for reassurance, or an interest in optimising long-term health, private health checks are becoming a normal part of many people’s healthcare routines.
The Rise of Preventative Healthcare
Traditionally, many people only saw a doctor when they felt unwell. But today, there’s a shift towards preventative healthcare with individuals actively monitoring their health before problems arise. Several factors are driving this change.
Awareness of chronic disease risks
Conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer are among the leading causes of illness and death. People want to detect potential risks early so that they can take action.
NHS waiting times and accessibility issues
The waiting list backlog following COVID-19 means that even routine tests and GP appointments can take weeks or months. Private medical screening offers a faster alternative, often at times to fit around your job or lifestyle.
Peace of mind
Many people worry about undiagnosed conditions. A private health assessment can provide reassurance or highlight areas that need attention.
The rise of wellness culture
Wearable devices, personalised nutrition, and biohacking are growing trends. People are increasingly viewing health as something to track, optimise and actively manage.
What is a Private Health Assessment?
A private health assessment is a medical check up designed to evaluate your overall health.
These assessments vary depending on the healthcare provider, package and your requirements, but they may include:
- blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), fat and muscle mass measurements
- blood tests to check cholesterol levels, your diabetes risk, liver and kidney function
- an ECG (electrocardiogram) to assess heart health
- cancer screening (depending on age, gender and risk factors)
Depending on your concerns or symptoms, a variety of different health assessments are available.
- Full body MOTs – a comprehensive check of multiple organs, screening for various health conditions.
- Heart health screening – a focus on cardiovascular health (heart, blood vessels and blood) and associated risk factors.
- Health MOTs for men and women – assessing hormone levels, reproductive health, and specific concerns like prostate health or screening for breast or cervical disease.
The assessments are usually quick, non-invasive, and tailored to your individual needs or concerns.
Why More People Are Choosing Private Providers Over NHS Care
The NHS offers excellent care, but certain benefits of a private health assessment might make it the right choice for you.
Faster access and results
Appointments are often readily available, and results can come back within days rather than weeks.
More comprehensive reports
Private assessments often provide detailed insights, rather than just a simple “normal” or “abnormal” result. A clinician may also have more time to discuss your results with you, answering any questions you might have and giving personalised advice.
Convenience and flexibility
Many private providers offer evening or weekend appointments, with virtual appointments available for initial consultations or when receiving results. You can also choose a clinic location so suit you, making it far easier to fit health checks into a busy schedule.
A perception of higher quality care
Some people feel they receive more time, attention, and detailed advice from private providers.
A desire for control
Rather than waiting for an NHS referral, individuals can choose their own tests and take charge of their health.
Read more: 10 Reasons You Might Choose to Book a Private Health Screening Appointment
Cost vs. Value: Is It Worth Getting a Private Health Check?
The cost of a private health assessment will vary depending on the provider and the type of health screening advised or requested.
Prices can vary from £200 to over £1200 depending on the package, with the cost reflecting the number and complexity of the tests or scans you have. Some premium health screens can be even more costly. While this may seem expensive, many people view it as an investment in their health.
The value of early detection makes the cost worth it for many individuals. Worryingly, in the UK it is estimated that 4 million people under the age of 65 have untreated high blood pressure. Managing high blood pressure is known to reduce the risk of complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and even early death. Early treatment of cancer and diabetes is also known to improve health outcomes.
If you’re unsure, consider the long-term benefits: if you were to have an undetected illness, preventative health screening could help you avoid remaining undiagnosed, untreated, and potentially at risk of complications.
For those given a clean bill of health, the reassurance obtained from health screening often justifies the cost.
How to Choose a Provider
With various options available, the following considerations form an important part of choosing a reliable provider for your private health assessment.
- Type of provider – some people prefer independent clinics, while others opt for well known private hospitals or national chains.
- Reviews and reputation – look for positive feedback from other patients.
- Transparency – make sure the provider clearly states what is included in the assessment.
- Regulation – ensure the clinic is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) or another relevant body.
Conclusion
The rise of private health assessments reflects a growing trend in how people approach healthcare. Rather than acting when symptoms arise, more individuals are choosing proactive and preventative measures to stay healthy.
Booking a private health check is about empowerment – taking control of your own wellbeing and gaining peace of mind. Whether you’re concerned about a specific issue or just want a clearer picture of your overall health, there can be huge value in booking the health MOT that’s right for you.
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skreen is not a medical provider and does not diagnose or treat conditions. Our content is informational and should not replace professional medical advice.
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