Сost of Private Cancer Treatment in the UK in 2024 Basic and Additional Payments

How much does private cancer diagnosis cost?

Private cancer diagnosis costs can vary depending on several factors, including the type of cancer, the diagnostic tests required, and the specific clinic chosen. Here’s a brief comparison of the cost of CT and MRI scans for cancer diagnosis at some popular clinics in London:

The cost of a private cancer diagnosis can vary due to several factors:

What is included in the cost of a typical cancer treatment

In the UK, cancer treatment options vary between the National Health Service and private care, often supported by health insurance. Here’s an overview of what each option typically encompasses:

NHS:

Private (Optional with Health Insurance):

Health insurance plays a pivotal role in financing the treatment, covering various aspects of care. The choice between public and private care, with health insurance, hinges on individual preferences, treatment urgency, and financial considerations. Many individuals opt for a combination of both, utilising health insurance to manage costs while enjoying the benefits of private healthcare.

What affects the cost of a cancer treatment?

It’s important to note that cancer treatment is primarily funded by the NHS, which provides healthcare services free at the point of use. Patients typically do not have to pay for the full cost. However, private healthcare options and certain out-of-pocket expenses may still apply. 

Here are some of the key factors that can affect the cost:

Medical care can result in various extra costs for patients and their families. Some of these potential expenses include:

• Travel to specialist hospitals: Patients may need to travel long distances to access specialised cancer centres.
• Hospital car parking: The fees for parking at hospitals during treatment can add up.
• Wigs: Some treatments may cause hair loss, necessitating the purchase of wigs.
• Clothing costs: Changes in body size or temperature sensitivity may require new clothing.
• Childcare: Parents undergoing treatment may need to arrange childcare services.
• Overnight accommodation for family members: Loved ones might need to stay near the hospital during extended treatments.
• Reduced income: Illness may result in reduced work hours or job loss.
• Higher day-to-day living costs: Expenses like medication, dietary needs, and additional heating or cooling costs can increase.

What is the best private cancer hospital in the UK?

Cancer hospitals in the UK are known for their excellence in diagnosing cancer at an early stage, providing comprehensive and personalised treatments, and offering exceptional aftercare and support services. Their commitment to ongoing research and innovation ensures that patients receive the best possible care and access to emerging therapies.

The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Marsden Foundation Trust is a leading cancer centre. While all patients typically receive free care, private options are available. Pros include world-class expertise, pioneering research, comprehensive multidisciplinary care, extensive patient support services, and access to clinical trials. However, high demand may lead to wait times, and non-local patients might need to travel. The institution prioritises individualised patient care, and research-driven advancements and offers facilities for both patients. 

Located at Fulham Road, Chelsea, London SW3 6JJ

The Christie NHS Trust

The Christie Trust is a prestigious cancer hub in Manchester. It provides comprehensive cancer care services, often funded by the NHS. Notable for its strong reputation, The Christie offers multidisciplinary care, including access to clinical trials and research initiatives. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities and extensive support services for patients and their families. However, private treatment costs may vary, and depending on the case, waiting times could be a concern.

Located at Wilmslow Rd, Manchester M20 4BX

Guys & Saint Thomas NHS Foundation Trust

Guy’s & St. Thomas Foundation Trust is a renowned healthcare institution offering comprehensive medical services, including cancer care. The NHS typically covers treatment costs, but private options are available. Pros include a stellar reputation, multidisciplinary cancer care, clinical trial access, and a central London location for easy accessibility. However, private treatment costs can vary, and there may be waiting times for non-urgent cases. The institution emphasises patient-centred care and boasts modern facilities. 

Located at Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7EH

University College London Hospital NHS Trust

University College London Hospital Trust (UCLH) is a renowned healthcare institution offering comprehensive medical services, including cancer care. Generally, the NHS covers treatment costs, although private options vary. Notable for its stellar reputation, UCLH provides multidisciplinary cancer care, clinical trial access, and a strategically central London location for convenience. However, private treatment costs can fluctuate, and waiting times may apply to non-urgent cases. The institution emphasises patient-centred care and boasts modern facilities. 

Located at 235 Euston Rd, London NW1 2BU

Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust

Oxford University Hospitals Trust (OUH) is a prominent healthcare institution. Typically, healthcare costs are covered by the NHS, with private options available. OUH boasts a strong academic affiliation with Oxford University, offering comprehensive medical services and specialised care. Multidisciplinary teams ensure top-quality treatment, while the institution’s commitment to cutting-edge research and clinical trials advances patient care. It prioritises patient-centred care but acknowledges that private treatment costs can vary. Depending on the case, waiting times for non-urgent cases might be a consideration. 

Located at Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX3 9DU​​

Is it worth going private for cancer treatment?

Going private can be worth it if you have health insurance. Private facilities often offer quicker access to specialists, advanced treatments, and a more personalised experience. Our experts can guide you through the process, helping you navigate insurance coverage and choose the best options for your specific needs. Prioritising your health is essential, and private care can provide added benefits in the fight against cancer.  Weigh these benefits against the costs to decide what’s best for your situation.

How Much Does Private Cancer Treatment Cost UK?

Going private can be worth it if you have health insurance. Private facilities often offer quicker access to specialists, advanced treatments, and a more personalised experience. Our experts can guide you through the process, helping you navigate insurance coverage and choose the best options for your specific needs. Prioritising your health is essential, and private care can provide added benefits in the fight against cancer.  Weigh these benefits against the costs to decide what’s best for your situation.

Typical Costs for Private Cancer Treatments

Private Chemotherapy Costs

If you are looking to self-fund your chemotherapy treatments, it can be costly. Here are approximate price ranges for different types of cancer:

Breast Cancer £3,000 – £7,000 per cycle.
Prostate Cancer £3,500 – £6,500 per cycle.
Lung Cancer £4,000 – £8,000 per cycle.
Colorectal Cancer £3,500 – £7,000 per cycle.
Ovarian Cancer £3,500 – £7,500 per cycle.
Leukaemia £5,000 – £10,000 per cycle.
Lymphoma £4,000 – £8,000 per cycle.

These prices usually cover the cost of the drugs and the treatment itself. Additional expenses for consultations with specialists, tests and other necessary scans might apply. For precise costs, it’s best to contact private clinics directly.

Private Breast Cancer Treatment Costs

We have researched the cost of private breast cancer treatments from five well-known clinics. These are rough estimates, so we suggest contacting the clinics directly for the most accurate information. It’s important to research each clinic’s facilities, consultants and success rates to make an informed decision for yourself. Here are the estimated costs:

The Harley Street Clinic
First Consultation £250 – £300
Mastectomy (surgery) £10,000 – £15,000
Chemotherapy (per session) £1,500 – £4,000
Radiotherapy (per course) £3,000 – £5,000

The London Clinic
First Consultation £300 – £350
Mastectomy £12,000 – £18,000
Chemotherapy £2,000 – £5,000
Radiotherapy £3,500 – £6,000

Bupa Cromwell Hospital
First Consultation £200 – £250
Mastectomy £9,000 – £14,000
Chemotherapy £1,800 – £4,500
Radiotherapy £3,000 – £5,500

King’s College Hospital:
First Consultation £250 – £300
Mastectomy £11,000 – £16,000
Chemotherapy £2,000 – £4,000
Radiotherapy £3,200 – £5,800

The Wellington Hospital

First Consultation £300 – £350
Mastectomy £10,500 – £17,000
Chemotherapy £2,500 – £4,500
Radiotherapy £3,500 – £6,000

*These prices are for private cancer treatment in London.

Advantages of Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance offers several benefits for you. It usually means faster access to treatments and shorter waiting times compared to the NHS. You get a wider choice of hospitals and specialists and might have access to advanced or experimental treatments not available publicly. Private facilities often provide better amenities and more personalized care. While you’ll pay monthly premiums, this insurance can sometimes be more cost-effective by helping you avoid delays and complications. Just be aware that pre-existing conditions might not be covered, so it’s important for you to carefully review your policy details.

Can You Get Cancer Treatment Privately?

You can get cancer treatment privately in the UK. Choosing private care often means you’ll have faster access to treatment and shorter waiting times compared to the NHS. This can be really important if you have a serious diagnosis and want to begin treatment right away. Private healthcare facilities may offer more immediate appointments and access to the latest treatments and technologies. This quicker service can help you start your treatment as soon as possible, which might improve your chances of a successful outcome. However, it’s important to note that private cancer treatment can be costly. The expenses can add up, so it’s a good idea to consider your financial situation and insurance cover before deciding on private care.

Stuart Hendy, Senior PMI Advisor &Editor

Stuart Hendy is a highly experienced health insurance broker with extensive knowledge of private medical insurance and private treatment. His expertise is frequently sought by industry professionals and his insights have been featured in leading financial publications. Stuart is committed to providing his clients with the best possible healthcare solutions and empowering them to make informed decisions.

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