Bupa self-referral cancer service

Bupa, one of the UK’s leading healthcare specialists, have recently launched the UK’s most comprehensive self-referral cancer service. Cancer Direct Access, which allows its health insurance policyholders to bypass GP appointments when they experience symptoms of cancer.

How does the self-referral cancer service work?

 If a policyholder feels worried about cancer, they pick up the phone and call Bupa right away.

  1. They will speak to a trained adviser who will assess their symptoms over the phone using national clinical guidance to advise them on what to do next.
  2. Depending on the cover and underwriting the policyholder has in place and the nature of their symptoms, this could include a referral to a consultant there and then.
  3. They will receive a follow-up call two weeks after their initial call to see how they’re doing and if they need any further support.

 What does the Direct Access Cancer Service cover?

  • Bladder cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Head and neck cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Oesophageal cancer
  • Oral cancer
  • Pancreatic
  • Renal cancer
  • Skin cancer
  • Stomach cancer
  • Testicular cancer

What happens if the symptoms experienced are not covered by Cancer Direct Access Service?

If you call Bupa with symptoms that are not covered by the Cancer Direct Access Service, you will be advised to see your GP. You will receive on-the-spot clinical advice from a Bupa nurse. The nurse can also provide you with guidance about what you should ask your GP and information about the additional support that Bupa can offer.

Information sourced: https://www.bupa.co.uk/newsroom/ourviews/cancer-self-referral-service

Research shows that early diagnosis and treatment of cancer significantly improves the outcome for patients. SMP Healthcare Ltd are here to help you understand more about the different cancer services and cancer covers provided by private medical insurance policies in the UK.

Whether you have a policy in place or are interested in purchasing a new policy, our trained staff will be happy to help you. Call us on 01245 929 129 or email enquires@smphealthcare.com.