NHS Waiting Lists Hit 7 Million – And a Growing Number of Britons Aren't Waiting Any More

By Paula – Updated 06/2026 | Advertorial

British woman at home receiving good news on the phone

The NHS waiting lists hit 7 million^* in August 2022

4 years later they are still over 7 million.

In addition, 62% of UK workers^** struggle to get a doctor's appointment, often having to resort to self treatment.

It's no wonder many Brits are asking themselves “What would happen if I got seriously ill?”

Unfortunately, national insurance contributions no longer seem to guarantee an effective health service. With hospitals at maximum capacity, some GP's can't even refer patients for specialist care.

The choice is clear – wait and take a chance on a broken health service, or take matters into your own hands.

Many people have seen the writing on the wall and are choosing private health insurance.

Compare policies from the top UK health insurers

Why Private Health Insurance Changes Everything – 7 Things That Actually Matter

It is not just about jumping the queue. It changes what happens to you, and when.

1. No More Waiting Months for Treatment

The median NHS wait is now 11.3 weeks – and 2.47 million people are waiting over 18 weeks. With private cover, most specialist appointments happen within 5–10 working days. In many conditions, that timing changes the outcome entirely.

2. Your Own Private Room – Every Time

No shared wards. No being woken at 3am by someone else's monitor. Private cover means your own room, your own bathroom, and the space to actually recover properly.

3. The Same Consultant at Every Appointment

On the NHS you see whoever is available and explain your symptoms from scratch each time. Private cover means one specialist who knows your history, your concerns, and your case throughout.

4. Treatments the NHS Cannot Always Fund

Some of the most advanced drugs approved in the UK are still rationed based on regional budgets. Private cover gives you access to the full range of licensed treatments – not just what the system can currently afford.

5. Personalised Care With More Time for You

Private doctors and nurses typically have more time per patient. That means better attention, more thorough explanations, and care that actually fits your circumstances rather than a standard protocol.

6. Problems Caught Before They Become Serious

Minor health concerns can escalate quickly without prompt attention. Private cover means you are seen fast enough to act – before a manageable issue becomes something far more difficult to treat.

7. Mental Health Support When You Need It

NHS waiting times for talking therapies regularly exceed 12 months. Private cover typically connects you with a qualified therapist within two weeks. For anxiety or burnout – that speed does not just help. It determines the outcome.

Get started – select your age

18 - 24 years 25 - 34 years 35 - 44 years 45 - 54 years 55 - 64 years 65+ years

Why Does a Healthy Person Need Health Insurance?

None of us know when we, or members of our family will become ill. Simply put, private health insurance protects your future.

If you got seriously ill tomorrow would you be confident that you could be seen quickly on the NHS? Judging by the latest waiting list figures, that seems doubtful.