Lesson Starter The government should spend much more on the NHS. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Study theme 2A Wealth and Health in the UK Private Health Care V NHS

Develop our understanding of Private Medical Insurance. Develop our understanding of the arguments for and against private medical insurance. In this lesson we will:

The NHS One of the founding principles of the NHS is that every UK citizens has equal access to health care, regardless of income, location or social status. This is not always the case as there are a number of health care inequalities. The gap between the provision of health care for the more well off in society compared to the poorer is increasing, with the increasing waiting lists and closures of NHS hospitals more people are turning to Private Medical Insurance.

How does PMI work? Private Medical Care has been increasing since the 1980’s and in many areas in the UK is seen as the ‘norm’. Traditionally the rich population in the UK would have Private Medical Insurance but with the increasing competition between the various PMI companies – like BUPA, HAS and Pru Health – means that prices decrease as services increase and the increasing number of employers who provide PMI as standard with employment bonuses has meant that all sections in society have access to PMI.

Why have PMI? PMI means that people have the option of hospitals, doctors and even dates – this is the main reason why so many people now use PMI service – no long waiting times like the NHS. All employed people in the UK pay National Insurance Contributions from their salary. Collectively this money pays for the Welfare State i.e. NHS, schools and benefits, therefore people who chose Private Medical Insurance pay twice for their health care.

Controversial issue? By its very nature the NHS is an area of controversy, do we spent too much or too little? Are all areas of the UK equal with the services of the NHS? The vast majority of people believe it is a good and successful British institution. This may be the main reason why PMI is such a controversial issue – will this result in a two tier health service? One health care service for the rich and one health care service for the poorer in society?

From the information in the table write out arguments to support PMI.  I am in no doubt that I'd be better looked after in a private hospital than in a NHS hospital.  One of the selling points of private hospitals is the level of comfort that patients receive.  Private medical insurance is an investment and a sensible way to spend money.  Don ’ t have to wait for treatment- you can get it when the time is right for you.  I have the right to spend my hard earned money in any way I choose and I like to spend mine on my health.

From the information in the table write out arguments to oppose PMI.  The main principle of the NHS is to treat people equally, regardless of their wealth, colour or background  Private health care allows richer people the chance to buy health and this is wrong. Creates an unfair system.  Every day, dedicated nurses and doctors look after NHS patients because they love their job. All good doctors might leave to get better pay in the private sector.  In private health care, money might come before care and attention.  There are many scare stories in the newspapers complaining about the NHS. This is because bad news always sells newspapers. Who's interested in a story about another happy NHS patient? NHS is a very good system.

Describe the arguments for and against private health care. (8)