What happens if I want to have private surgery (outside of the NHS)?

If you are booked to have a procedure in the private sector, the consultant performing the procedure will need to find a haematology consultant who can oversee this in the private sector. Ideally, patients with a bleeding disorder should have surgical procedures completed within the NHS, to ensure they can be adequately supported by a haemophilia comprehensive care team.  

In the UK, the private healthcare sector doesn’t use NHS haematology resources like factor concentrate, tranexamic acid, or DDAVP if needed for private surgeries. This is because NHS supplies are budgeted for NHS patients. It is the responsibility of the private haematology consultant to ensure that any required haematology treatments are sourced and appropriately costed. They must also ensure that someone is available at the time of the procedure to administer the treatment and monitor as required. These cannot be provided by the haemophilia centre. 

Here’s why:

• Separate Systems: The NHS and private healthcare are separate systems with different funding mechanisms. NHS factor concentrate and other haematology treatments are funded by the NHS, so they wouldn’t be readily available for private procedures.
• Factor concentrate: This specialised treatment is often not routinely stocked by private hospitals.
• Cost Implications: Private hospitals will likely source haematology treatments directly from a private supplier. This means you will be charged if you need them.

Costs:

• NHS: The NHS covers the cost of factor concentrate and other haematology treatments for registered patients needing surgery.
• Private: In a private surgery scenario, you’d likely be charged for the factor concentrate and other haematology treatments used during your procedure. For factor concentrate, the cost can vary depending on the type and amount needed.

Recommendation:

• Discuss your situation with your haemophilia centre. They can advise on the best course of action regarding treatment for your bleeding disorder such as factor concentrate for your private surgery.
• Contact your private health insurance provider to understand their coverage for factor concentrate and other treatments.

Remember, this is a general overview and specific policies may vary between hospitals. Discuss your situation with your consultant before scheduling surgery to understand the costs and options available for your surgery.

_{Ref: Barts Health NHS Trust. And BLOOD MATTERS, Oxford Haemophilia Services, Autumn 2022}