One in eight Britons pay for private health services, survey shows

Campaigners say underinvestment in NHS is forcing patients to seek private treatment if they can afford it

One in eight Britons have paid for private health services in the last year, amid frustration with delays in getting NHS treatment and a growing willingness to buy care using salary or savings.

New research by YouGov found that another 27% of people had considered going private, for themselves or a loved one, but decided against it, often because they couldn't afford it.

33% of those who had used private healthcare instead of the NHS had done so for the first time.

53% went private so I could be seen more quickly".

most (48%) paid for non-urgent care, such as a diagnostic test or operation.