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10/11/2008 Unique package for private patients

A new scheme to help cut private medical bills and provide logistical, advisory and care support has been developed for individuals who pay for private medical treatment themselves (self pay market).

'Inclusive Healthcare', launched today by Medical Care Direct (MCD), is a unique package of services aimed specifically at the self pay market where over 250,000 individuals pay upwards of £500 million each year for private medical treatment without using insurance.

The new scheme combines 'treatment sourcing' (locating hospitals, consultants and negotiating treatment costs etc) with a 24/7 GP helpline and access to a care advisory service previously only available through group schemes.

The self pay market includes individuals who elect to fund their own treatment rather than pay insurance premiums as well as those whose treatment is not covered by their insurance policy because of exclusions or high excesses and still prefer to have private treatment rather than use the NHS.

MCD has been providing a 'treatment sourcing' service since 2000 and today is the only company operating in the sector offering this combination of services as a complete package.

The cost of private healthcare can vary dramatically across the country and considerable savings can be made depending on a number of factors including where the treatment takes place and under which consultant.

For example, in the past few months MCD has managed to reduce the quoted cost of a hip replacement by £1500 at one hospital and at another a cataract procedure was reduced by over £1000 simply by using its knowledge and negotiating expertise.

MCD sources the most appropriate hospitals and specialists for each individual's personal circumstances and offers the best alternatives based on price, location and convenience.

But the package is not all about saving money. Peace of mind is important to individuals at a time when they are possibly least able to address their fears and concerns.

The 24/7 GP helpline is staffed by qualified practicing General Practitioners (not nurses as with NHS Direct) who will also return a call when most convenient to the individual and speak with them in complete confidence.

Also built into 'Inclusive Healthcare' is a care advisory service offering practical advice and emotional support in the event of a serious health condition. A diagnosis of something like cancer, heart attack, stroke or MS is inevitably worrying for both the individual and their family.

'Inclusive Healthcare' customers can draw on the support of their own Personal Nurse Adviser at RED ARC Assured Ltd, a sister company of MCD. Their Nurse Adviser will be able to provide information and advice, as well as arranging a specialist nurse home visit, or a course of therapy or counselling.

Malcolm Jones, Managing Director of MCD said, "The cost of private healthcare can vary widely in the UK depending on location, hospital and specialist. But it is not just the cost, it is making sure you get the appropriate specialist to deal with your particular condition. For example not all orthopaedic surgeons deal with knee or hip problems. We identify specialists who concentrate on this area of work before considering them as an option for treating this condition.

"Simply, our package is designed to guide individuals through the maze of treatment options, ensure they receive quality care at a price they consider acceptable and provide unbiased support at every stage."

'Inclusive Healthcare' has a membership fee of £8.75 per month for an individual or £14.00 for a household.

ENDS

Medical Care Direct as part of The Private Health Partnership Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

* The above product or service is not subject to FSA regulations