Andover’s Simplyhealth launches new pilot service
Andover-based health solutions provider Simplyhealth has launched a pilot for a new rapid scanning service.
The new service, which is initially launching in London, Birmingham and Manchester before rolling out nationwide in February, will enable its customers to search for MRI, CT, X-ray and Ultrasound scanning nearby and book online in minutes.
Bypassing a GP or consultant referral, customers will have to wait an average of five days for a scan, with costs starting at £295 for an MRI. They will also be able to claim back these costs if they have diagnostic cover within their plan, subject to policy limits.
The scheme has been enabled by a partnership with private medical imaging services network Scan.com, which has more than 150 scanning centres around the UK. The bookings also include clinical consultations before and after the scans and reports delivered in an interactive format.
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Katie Wadey, chief product and commercial officer said: “Our purpose is to improve access to healthcare for everyone in the UK – not just those who can afford to go privately. We agree with Rod Stewart, it’s scandalous that so many people are waiting months for scans while there is unused capacity in the private sector.
“We wanted to do something to help our customers get seen and get diagnosed quickly and our partnership with Scan.com will give more people simple access to the cheapest prices available.”
Dr Lizzie Tuckey, Chief Commercial Officer at Scan.com commented: “Our platform streamlines the process of finding private imaging, and offers a greater choice of locations, appointments and prices, making booking a scan as easy as booking a hotel.
“By partnering with Simplyhealth, we hope to improve access to imaging for their customers, speeding up referrals and providing better patient outcomes.”
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Featured image credit: Simplyhealth
