Charity warns 1 in 3 Scots over 50 turning to private heathcare
People from low income backgrounds are investigating alternatives faced with long waits on NHS lists says Age Scotland
Last updated 30th Aug 2023
Around 1 in 3 Scots over the age of 50 are considering, or using private health care as a charity issues a warning about the emergence of a 'two-tier' healthcare system.
Research from Age Scotland found that 30% of older people have either paid for or considered private healthcare after facing difficulties accessing the NHS.
Findings from the charity’s Big Survey revealed that 16% of over 50s had already paid for private treatment, including dentistry, hip and knee operations, cataract surgery, cardiology treatment, mental health assessments and MRI scans, with a further 14% saying they would consider paying for healthcare in the future.
Interim Chief Executive, Katherine Crawford said: “We’ve long been aware of the growing challenges many older people face accessing healthcare and it’s extremely worrying to see increasing evidence of the ‘two-tier’ healthcare system that has emerged in recent years.
"Two-tier system"
“We appreciate the NHS is working tirelessly and to capacity to deal with lengthy backlog.”
“It’s vital that we see continuing efforts to cut waiting lists, as well as investment in healthcare for those in later life which includes swift access to often life-changing treatment such as orthopaedic and eye care procedures.”
30% of people asked said they could not afford to move away from the NHS, and 19% believed they should not have to.
Of those who had paid for healthcare, 18% were in their 80s, 17% in their 70s and 15% in their 60s.
"Vital" people have access to care
The charity believes the use of private healthcare reflects the growing challenges many older people face accessing healthcare.
It also shows people from lower income backgrounds will struggle more to access potentially lifesaving treatments.
Ms Crawford added: “The situation is becoming increasingly desperate for those awaiting life-changing operations and treatment and there is no parity in a system which sees those who can afford to paying to expedite treatment while others have no option but to remain on seemingly endless waiting lists.”