Private medical insurance can accelerate cancer diagnosis and treatment for residents across Portsmouth; including Southsea, Old Portsmouth, Cosham, Drayton and Eastney. This guide explains how to use insurance to fast track scans, referrals, and therapy without losing NHS support.
Why consider private cancer pathways in Portsmouth
- Faster diagnostics: insured patients can access urgent MRI; CT and biopsy slots within days
- Choice of consultant: pick oncologists and surgeons with sub-specialist expertise
- Comfort and continuity: private suites; flexible scheduling; dedicated nurse lines
Local treatment map
- Queen Alexandra Hospital, Cosham – NHS centre with private patient options for diagnostics and day case
- Spire Portsmouth Hospital, Havant Road – private diagnostics; oncology clinics; surgical specialties
- Southampton centres reachable from Portsmouth Harbour – expanded radiotherapy and complex surgery networks
Insurance features that matter most
- Comprehensive cancer cover – drugs; radiotherapy; immunotherapy; no overall financial cap where possible
- Outpatient diagnostics – high or uncapped limits for scans; bloods; biopsies
- Second opinion service – helpful for complex pathology or rare tumours
- Home chemotherapy options – check if available and in network
Cost control without losing cover
- Choose an annual excess of £250 – £500
- Add a 6 week NHS wait option for non urgent care; cancer usually bypasses this when time critical
- Limit hospital list to Portsmouth; Havant; Southampton to reduce premiums
Checklist before your first appointment
- GP referral letter uploaded to insurer portal
- Authorisation number for scan or biopsy
- Confirm hospital is on your policy list
- Ask for pathology turnaround times and MDT dates
FAQ
Can I mix NHS and private cancer care?
Yes; many patients take private diagnostics and return to NHS for treatment or vice versa.
Are new cancer drugs covered?
Check your policy for lists and compassionate access routes; comprehensive plans cover more therapies.