What's happened
New research reveals that most people in the UK now expect to allocate funds for private healthcare due to long NHS waiting times. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation's study indicates a significant shift in public perception regarding the NHS's ability to provide timely care, with many budgeting £200 annually for private services.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent highlights that the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's research indicates a critical shift in public expectations regarding the NHS, with many now budgeting for private healthcare. According to Denis Campbell in The Guardian, this change reflects a growing frustration with NHS waiting times, which have reached record levels. The Mirror adds that working-age adults are particularly affected, often needing to set aside funds for private treatments due to the NHS's inability to provide timely care. This sentiment is echoed by focus group participants who express the need for immediate access to healthcare services, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
How we got here
The NHS is currently facing unprecedented waiting lists, with 7.62 million patients awaiting treatment. This situation has led to a growing belief among the public that private healthcare is necessary for timely access to services, prompting the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to adjust its Minimum Income Standard to include private health costs.
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Why are UK Citizens Budgeting for Private Healthcare?
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