According to PHIN’s national dataset, Scotland saw a 5% increase in private hospital and clinic admissions in January to March (Q1) 2025 compared to Q1 2024, reaching a historic high of 13,195. This marks the highest number of admissions ever recorded in a single quarter in Scotland.

The increase was driven by a 10% rise in private medical insurance-funded admissions, which exceeded 8,000 for the first time. Insurance-funded treatments now account for 62% of all private admissions in Scotland, the highest proportion since the Covid pandemic. In contrast, self-pay admissions declined by 2%, totalling 5,465 cases.

PHIN’s data also highlights demographic shifts, with notable increases in admissions among patients aged 40 to 49 and 60 to 69, each rising by 12%. The number of active consultants in private practice was at a record high of 508 for the second quarter running, with significant growth in general surgery and gynaecology specialties.

Commenting on the findings, Richard Wells, PHIN’s Director of Technology and Insights, said:

“The record levels of insurance-funded admissions in Scotland reflect a shift in how patients are preparing for, and accessing, healthcare for themselves and their families. Our data shows that more people than ever before are turning to the independent sector for timely treatment across a range of medical specialties.

“The continued high levels of admissions emphasise the need for patients to be informed about their healthcare options and the independent, not-for-profit, PHIN website fills that need, with verified details of the hospitals and consultants providing private care, along with a variety of patient guides.”

PHIN is a not-for-profit, independent organisation which is backed by the UK government. Its quarterly updates are based on its unique national dataset, which includes validated hospital activity from private hospitals and clinics across the UK.