Britons underestimate the cost of common medical treatments by over a third, according to research f...
Britons underestimate the cost of common medical treatments by over a third, according to research from Legal & General. The finding was revealed by the insurer's Health Uncovered Index, which monitors public attitudes to health issues and medical provision.
Over 5,000 people were asked to estimate the cost of six common medical procedures, with the average estimation 38% lower than the true cost.
Cataract removal was the treatment undervalued most - respondents believed it cost £1,362 when it actually costs more than double that at £3,275. The price tag on varicose vein treatment was underestimated by 43%, heart bypass by 41%, hip replacement by 40%, hernia repair by 24% and knee replacement by 20%.
Tessa Webster, customer services director at Legal & General Healthcare, said the results showed many people would be in for a shock should they need to pay for private treatment.
"Few are aware of the actual costs of treatment should they need an operation, which only the minority could afford if they were expected to pay for it themselves. The NHS and private medical insurance provide invaluable services, which it would appear people may take for granted. However, insurance can provide an affordable way to budget," she said.
