The National Health Service (NHS) is a vital part of life in the United Kingdom. It provides free healthcare to all UK citizens and is something that we all rely on.
However, it is seriously underfunded and Sometimes, the NHS simply doesn’t have the resources to provide the level of care that we need. When this happens, private mental health services can step in to fill the gap.
What Are Private Mental Health Services?
Private Mental Health Services (PMHS) are defined as “any psychological therapies or counseling provided by an individual who is not employed by the NHS.” In other words, PMHS are services that you have to pay for out of pocket.
So why would someone choose to pay for private mental health services when there are free options available through the National Health Service (NHS)? Well, there are actually a few reasons.
Benefits of Private Mental Health Services:
1. You Have More Treatment Options:
When you go through the NHS, you’re limited to the treatments that they offer. If they don’t offer the treatment you’re looking for, you’re out of luck.
With private mental health services, however, you have a lot more treatment options available to you. This is because private providers can offer treatments that are not yet available on the NHS or that are not approved by the NHS.
2. You Have More Control Over Your Treatment
When you go through the NHS, you’re at the mercy of their schedule.
If they can’t see you for weeks or even months, then that’s just how it is.
With private mental health services, however, you have a lot more control over your treatment. This is because private providers can usually offer appointments outside of normal working hours and can often see patients much sooner than the NHS can.
3. You Don’t Have to Wait as Long for Treatment
As we mentioned before, one of the biggest advantages of private mental health services is that you don’t have to wait as long for treatment. The waiting list for some treatments on the NHS can be years long. With private mental health services, however, you can usually get started with treatment right away.
So if you’re feeling like you’re not getting what you need from traditional mental health care options or if you want more control over your care, then private mental health services may be a good option for you.
What Private Mental Health Services Can Offer:
Private mental health services can offer a range of different treatments and therapies that are not always available on the NHS.
For example, private providers may be able to offer longer-term therapy, which can be vital for people with complex mental health needs. They may also be able to offer more specialist therapies, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) or eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR).
Of course, private mental health services come at a cost. However, there are a number of ways to access funding for these services.
For example, some employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide free or discounted counselling services for employees. Similarly, some healthcare providers offer insurance plans that cover the cost of private mental health services.
How Do I Get Enrolled In a Private Health Care Plan?
Living with mental illness is tough enough as it is, without having to worry about how you’re going to pay for treatment. If you’re looking for a private mental health care service in the United Kingdom, here’s what you need to know about getting enrolled.
Eligibility Requirements:
In order to be eligible for a private mental health care service in the United Kingdom, you must first be referred by your GP. Once you have been referred, you will be assessed by a team of mental health professionals who will determine whether or not you are suitable for the service.
If you are determined to be eligible for the service, you will be given a care plan which will outline the treatments and support that you will receive. The care plan will also include an estimate of the costs of the services which you will be responsible for paying.
Types of Services Available:
The type of services that are available to you will depend on the specific needs outlined in your care plan. Some of the most common types of services offered by private mental health care providers include individual and group therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention.
Payment Options:
Private mental health care services in the United Kingdom are not free – you will be responsible for paying for the services that you receive. Most private providers accept payment via major credit cards, debit cards, or bank transfers. Some providers may also offer payment plans which can help make the cost of treatment more manageable.
All In All…
There are a number of different providers offering a range of different treatments and therapies, so you should be able to find something that meets your needs. And if you’re worried about the cost, there are a number of ways to access funding for private mental health services, so don’t let that stop you from getting the help you need.
If you are struggling with your mental health and you feel like the NHS is not providing you with the level of care that you need, don’t despair—private mental health services are here to help. Orchestrate Health is a private community mental health service, committed to joining the dots in the provision of care, we contacted by contacted on 0800 193 3277 or [email protected].
Resources:
https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/insurance/do-you-need-private-medical-insurance
