Your guide to healthcare finance in Aberdeen

Aberdeen provides a broad range of private healthcare services designed to suit different medical needs. These include private GP consultations, specialist referrals, diagnostic services such as blood tests, X-rays, MRI and CT scans, and minor surgical procedures. Many private clinics and hospitals in the city offer services across various medical disciplines, including cardiology, orthopaedics, dermatology, and mental health support such as counselling and psychiatry.

Patients can also access physiotherapy, podiatry, chiropractic care, and nutritional advice. Dental services are widely available, ranging from routine check-ups to advanced cosmetic and restorative treatments.

Preventative care is another key area, with private providers offering health screenings, medicals, vaccinations, and occupational health assessments for individuals and organisations. Appointments are typically available on short notice, with flexible scheduling and a focus on personalised, patient-centred care. Most services can be accessed through self-referral, although some may require a GP recommendation.

Applying for a medical or dental loan in Aberdeen typically begins after you’ve had an initial consultation and received a treatment plan with a cost estimate. Many private healthcare clinics and dental practices partner with third-party finance companies that offer loans specifically for medical or dental procedures. These loans are designed to help patients spread the cost of treatment over a set period, often with the option of interest-free or low-interest payments depending on the loan terms and amount.

To apply, you will usually be directed to complete an application form (either online or written on a physical piece of paper provided by the finance company). You can do this in the clinic or at home at a time that suits you. You’ll need to provide personal and financial details, and a credit check is often required to determine eligibility. Approval decisions are typically made quickly, sometimes within minutes.

Once approved, the loan amount is paid directly to the clinic, and you begin making repayments according to the agreed schedule. It’s important to review the terms carefully and ensure the monthly payments are affordable before committing.

Yes, several dental clinics in Aberdeen offer in-house payment plans to help patients manage the cost of treatment more easily. These plans are typically arranged directly with the dental practice, allowing you to spread the cost of procedures such as check-ups, hygiene visits, fillings, crowns, or cosmetic treatments over a number of months.

Typically, the cost of treatment can be divided into monthly payments over an agreed period, often ranging from three to twelve months. Some clinics may require an upfront deposit at the start of treatment, with the remaining balance paid in equal monthly amounts. This can be especially helpful for treatments such as crowns, bridges, dentures, or cosmetic procedures.

Each clinic sets its own terms for payment plans, including which treatments are eligible and how long the payment period can be. These plans are generally straightforward to set up and do not involve third-party finance providers. To find out more, it’s best to contact the clinic directly to discuss your options and arrange a suitable plan.

The cost of private healthcare in Aberdeen can vary depending on the specific treatment and the clinic or hospital you choose. Generally, private healthcare prices in Aberdeen are similar to those in other major cities in the UK, such as Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Private healthcare in Aberdeen might be slightly more affordable than in cities like London, where the cost of living and demand for services can drive up prices. Additionally, smaller cities like Aberdeen may have fewer patients, which can sometimes lead to more competitive pricing in order to attract clients.

It’s important to note that prices for specific treatments can vary significantly between clinics, even within the same city. Clinics and private practitioners are free to set their own prices based on factors like location, the facility’s reputation, and the availability of specialists. To ensure you get the best value, it’s worth comparing prices across a few different private healthcare providers you are interested in and enquire about any payment plans or financing options that may be available.

Health insurance coverage for medical treatments generally includes essential services such as hospital stays, surgeries, outpatient consultations, diagnostic tests (like X-rays and MRIs), and specialist referrals. Emergency care, cancer treatments, and mental health services are often covered as well. However, most health insurance policies do not cover elective or cosmetic treatments, such as cosmetic surgeries or non-essential procedures.

When it comes to dental care, health insurance typically covers routine services such as check-ups, fillings, and extractions. Preventative care like cleanings may also be included, depending on the plan. However, cosmetic dental procedures, including teeth whitening, veneers, and elective orthodontics (unless medically necessary), are generally excluded from coverage.

It’s important to thoroughly review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is excluded.  For treatments not covered by your health insurance, including elective or cosmetic procedures, you may need to explore alternative financing options like in-house payment plans, personal loans, or credit options to help cover the cost of treatments not included in your standard coverage.

Yes, you can use both NHS and private healthcare services in Aberdeen at the same time, and many people do. This is commonly referred to as “dual healthcare” and allows you to access NHS services for certain treatments while using private healthcare for others.

For example, you might use the NHS for routine GP visits, emergency care, or specialist referrals, while seeking private care for non-urgent treatments, quicker access to specialists, or more advanced procedures. Many patients choose private healthcare for faster appointments, reduced waiting times, or for treatments not available through the NHS.

It’s important to note that if you choose private care for a specific treatment, you will not lose your entitlement to NHS services for other conditions. However, if you decide to switch from NHS care to private for ongoing treatment, you may need to inform your NHS provider. Ensure that any private treatments do not interfere with NHS referrals or medications.