Private hospital and clinic admissions in Wales remained stable in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, although the type of patients and payment methods have evolved.
New data from the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN) shows that private medical insurance-funded admissions rose by 1% on Q1 of 2024 to reach their highest level since before the Covid-19 pandemic, totalling 3,520 cases. In contrast, self-pay admissions declined by 2%, falling to 4,540 and reducing their share of total admissions from 63% to 56%.
The data also reveals a record number of consultants active in private practice in Wales, reaching 357 in Q1 – a 4.4% increase year-on-year. Growth was particularly strong in general surgery and gynaecology, with consultant numbers rising by 17% and 20% respectively.
Demographic analysis reveals a shift in gender-based payment preferences. Female insured admissions increased by 4.6%, while male insured admissions dipped slightly. Conversely, male self-pay admissions rose by 7.4%, while female self-pay admissions dropped by 9.2%. Overall, male patient admissions were up 3.2%, while female admissions declined by 4.1%.
Richard Wells, PHIN’s director of technology and Insights, said:“The Welsh private healthcare market is showing signs of rebalancing. While self-pay remains a dominant funding method, the resurgence of insurance-funded admissions signals better availability, understanding of, and renewed confidence in, private medical cover. The increase in consultant activity and evolving patient demographics reflect a sector that is adapting to meet changing needs and expectations.”
HIN is a not-for-profit, independent organisation which is backed by the 海角视频 government. Its quarterly updates are based on its national dataset, which includes validated hospital activity from private hospitals and clinics across the 海角视频.