Jan 24, 2012

UK - Hospital patients 'overtreated and overcharged’



Hospital fraud is becoming a serious concern in Britain, but expats need to be even more careful

Suspicions that five private hospital groups in Britain are operating a money-spinning cartel have prompted an investigation by the Competition Commission.

The inquiry follows a damning report last month by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) that accused hospitals and surgeons of not publishing meaningful data as to their success rates.

It explained that without information such as infection rates it was impossible for patients and GPs to assess quality – a clear suppression of competition.

The OFT also alleged that the hospital groups made inflexible pricing arrangements with insurers. The aim of this was to exclude new hospital groups from breaking in to local provision.

Private medical insurers have long claimed that some private consultants routinely put their bank balances before their patients’ needs. They welcomed the decision of the OFT, following a year-long inquiry, to refer its findings to the watchdog.

By Peter Pallot
The Telegraph



Business & Investment Opportunities
YourVietnamExpert is a division of Saigon Business Corporation Pte Ltd, Incorporated in Singapore since 1994. As Your Business Companion, we propose a range of services in Consulting, Investment and Management, focusing three main economic sectors: International PR; Healthcare & Wellness;and Tourism & Hospitality. We also propose Higher Education, as a bridge between educational structures and industries, by supporting international programs. Sign up with twitter to get news updates with @SaigonBusinessC. Thanks.

No comments:

Post a Comment