Member exclusive: get health cover, get a £100 John Lewis gift card
Yours when you choose a health insurance policy via LifeSearch.
Compare and chooseOffer ends 1 April 2026, policy must be active for 90 days before gift card is issued, T&Cs apply.
By clicking a retailer link you consent to third-party cookies that track your onward journey. This enables W? to receive an affiliate commission if you make a purchase, which supports our mission to be the UK's consumer champion.
Is it worth paying for private healthcare?
We weigh up the pros and cons of avoiding the NHS
Having worked at the BBC and in commercial radio before joining Which?, James produces our always-on podcasts, and oversaw the launch of our member-exclusive podcasts in 2025.
Private healthcare has become more and more mainstream since the Covid-19 pandemic. But is it really worth paying extra to skip the NHS queues?
In this episode of our special healthy living series (first published 2 June 2025) Which? Senior Researcher Megan Thomas and doctor and broadcaster Oscar Duke discuss the benefits of going private for your next GP appointment.
Plus we explain what it might cost you, and how you could face delays if you opt to return to the NHS in the future.
To listen to this episode, click play on the player below.
A transcript of this show is also available here.
Eat well, live better and stay healthy. Sign up for our Food & Health newsletter, it's free monthly
Listen to our other health podcast episodes
- How to get a good night's sleep
- What's the best diet to help you lose weight?
- Which supplements do you actually need to take?
- Mr Motivator's tips for exercising as you age
- The secret to healthy skin
More podcasts from Which?
The Which? podcast showcases the best content from across our website and magazine.
Which? Money episodes released on Fridays offer advice to help you get on top of your bills and tackles the issues hitting your pocket, from spiralling energy costs to your weekly food shop.
Which? Shorts episodes offer you a free insight into some of our favourite article from our suite of magazines.
Plus, keep an eye out for bonus episodes that tackle important issues from motoring to tech, health and wellbeing to travel.
How to listen to the Which? podcast
We're always releasing brand new episodes, with the podcast available wherever you usually listen to podcasts.
Subscribe using one of the links below or click this link on your mobile to find us in your favourite podcast app.
