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.