Private Hospital Cost Calculator

Private hospital costs in the UK vary enormously. A cataract operation costs £2,500-£4,000 per eye. Hip replacement: £12,000-£18,000. MRI scan: £500-£1,000. Outpatient consultation: £150-£300.

Private healthcare is worth it if you need fast treatment, want to choose your consultant, or require procedures with long NHS waiting times. Average NHS wait for elective surgery was 15+ weeks in 2026.

NHS treatment is free at the point of use. Prescriptions cost £9.90 per item. Dental and optical services have standard NHS charges. Most hospital treatment is completely free.

PMI premiums for a 40-year-old cost £80-£200/month. For healthy individuals with no claims, self-pay for occasional private procedures may be cheaper. PMI is better for unpredictable needs.

Major private hospital groups include Bupa, Nuffield Health, Spire Healthcare, BMI Healthcare, and HCA Healthcare. Independent hospitals and NHS private patient units are also available.

Yes. Most private hospitals offer fixed-price packages for common procedures including all fees (surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, outpatient follow-up). Bupa and Nuffield publish fixed-price guides.

Most medical and surgical services are VAT exempt. However, cosmetic surgery, gym membership for rehabilitation, and some non-clinical services may be subject to 20% VAT.

Limited companies can pay for private medical insurance as an employee benefit, but it becomes a P11D taxable benefit. Directors can get PMI through the company but pay income tax on the benefit.

NHS England data for 2026 shows median wait for elective care of 12-18 weeks, with some specialties (orthopaedics, ophthalmology) waiting 6-12 months for routine procedures.

NHS treatment is generally free. Overseas visitors must pay for non-emergency treatment. Cosmetic procedures are not funded unless clinically necessary. Fertility treatment NHS funding is limited by CCG.

Health cash plans cover everyday healthcare (dental, optical, physio). They do not cover major surgery costs. Private medical insurance is required for hospital treatment cover.

Compare prices through NHS Choose and Book private options, hospital group websites, Treatment Abroad platforms, and insurer's approved provider lists. Prices vary significantly between providers.