Medical Care Direct

Freqently Asked Questions

I already have medical insurance or a cash plan, can I still join?

Yes. Many of our Members have high excess policies that do not cover an initial level of cost and it is therefore important to ensure this cost is controlled to save personal expense. Some Members have cash plans which also have limits for reimbursement. Our service suits these plans perfectly. 

How does the Treatment Sourcing Service (TSS) work?

Having built our own extensive in-house database covering all 450 UK private hospital and NHS Private Patient Units (PPUs) we have access to over 20,000 consultants in all major specialties and  place thousands of procedures with hundreds of hospitals each year across all specialties.
Once registered as an MCD Member you have access to this information through the experience and support of one of our case handlers who will guide you through the process of treatment, advise you of the options available and arrange the necessary treatment as appropriate.

What treatments can you arrange?

We arrange all types of treatment ranging from out patient consultations, diagnostics (MRIs/XRays) up to major heart surgery.

Do you arrange cosmetic surgery, IVF?

Yes.

Can you arrange MRI scans, X Rays and other O/P diagnostics?

We have an extensive network of over 350 MRI scanners throughout the UK with fast access, competitive prices and professional reporting services. While many of the scanners are based in hospitals, some are in local clinics to reduce travel times for added convenience. As well as MRIs we are able to arrange CT scans, X-Rays and many other types of diagnostic tests.

Can you source treatment overseas?

We have developed partnerships with overseas hospitals for specific treatments including cancer treatments that up until recently were not available in the UK.

Who do I pay for the treatment?

Medical Care Direct negotiates rates for treatment and to access these rates members need to pay us directly. We then pay the provider the pre agreed figures once we have confirmed that all invoices have been reviewed and verified as correct.
All payments are held in a separate client bank account.

When do I have to pay for treatment?

It is a requirement with all private hospitals that payment is made in advance of any treatment being given. For MCD to secure fixed cost procedures or confirm costs it is necessary for us to receive payment in advance of any treatment. If payment is made by bank transfer or cheque the funds must be cleared prior to admission.

What does Membership cost?

Our membership fees are listed on this page.

What is the typical cost for a procedure?

See Treatment Guide Prices for a selection of the most common procedures.
Out Patient initial consultation: £180/ £230

Do I need a doctor's referral letter before treatment can commence?

It is possible to arrange some minor investigations and treatment without a doctor's letter. However anything more serious will require a referral from your GP or another specialist. We would strongly advise that you keep your GP informed of all proposed treatment.

How quickly can you arrange my consultation and/or operation?

Dependant on the specialist, consultations are usually available within a few days. Treatment times vary depending on the hospital selected, consultant availability and your convenience, but is normally within 1 to 4 weeks.

How do I know the consultant will be good?

We do not recommend consultants. All consultants are GMC registered and carry appropriate insurance cover. Consultants are reviewed by the hospital Medical Committee on a regular basis.

What happens if my NHS appointment comes up before my private treatment?

You are free to cancel your procedure and have the NHS treatment and provided no treatment cost has been incurred through MCD there will be no charge to you other than the annual Membership fee.

Who selects the hospital and specialist?

We do not recommend providers or facilities. We will provide a number of options based on your criteria and you then select the most suitable. We would recommend that you speak with your GP prior to making your selection.

How do I know the hospital is free from infection?

Most private hospitals publish their infection rates which are consistently below the national average.

How do I know the hospital is safe?

All hospitals we use are regularly inspected by the Health Commission and have to be registered with their local health authority. Many have additional quality accreditations.

Do private hospitals have the back up facilities of an NHS hospital e.g. ITU?

Not all private hospitals have Intensive Care Units (ITUs) but many have High Dependency Units (HDUs) and the vast majority have a Resident Medical Officer based at the hospital 24 hours a day.

Will I have to deal with any paperwork?

We handle the paperwork. We confirm all your details with the hospital and specialist in writing prior to your attendance. You will however be expected to register at the hospital whether you are an In Patient or Out Patient. In some hospitals you will also be asked to provide credit card details for any costs incurred that are not part of your treatment e.g. Newspapers, wine, additional food for guests etc.

Are there other benefits to becoming an MCD Member?

Yes, we can arrange a variety of health screens at over 400 locations across the UK.

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