Three key issues that needed further investigation:

There is a lack of easily comparable information available to patients, GPs or health insurance providers on the quality and costs of private healthcare services;

There are only a limited number of significant private healthcare providers and of larger health insurance providers at a national level;

A number of features of the private healthcare market combine to create significant barriers to new competitors entering and being able to offer private patients greater choice.

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http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-16082054

A NEW system that is allowing more cancer patients to receive treatment at their local hospitals has been praised by experts.The electronic prescribing system gives patients across the West of Scotland access to tailored chemotherapy close to home. The treatment is prescribed for them by specialists at the Beatson Centre.  Experts say the system also offers significant advantages over written prescriptions in terms of ensuring patient safety.  Special built-in safety features help prevent dosage errors and patient prescription details can be accessed at all hospital sites at any time of the day.

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/cancer-drug-system-wins-expert-praise-1.1138185

Phone for psychological help 'while waiting for a bus'

The service offers same-day advice on the phone for those feeling anxious or depressed.  A phone line for anxious and depressed people in a deprived area of Glasgow is helping overcome the stigma of mental health illness, says the psychologist behind the project.  The 'call-back' service puts individuals in touch with a clinician offering same-day advice on the phone.  It particularly benefits those who want an anonymous alternative to visiting their GP. Callers have sought help during their lunch hour and while waiting for a bus.  Around 2,000 calls have been received since the 'call-back' service was set up in 2008.

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