If you need Cardiac Catheterisation & Angiography, waiting for diagnosis and treatment can be stressful. This guide explains the conditions that commonly lead to it and how private medical insurance can help you get seen and treated sooner.
What conditions lead to Cardiac Catheterisation & Angiography?
Chest Pain Investigation & Suspected Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary angiography is the gold standard test for assessing the coronary arteries. A thin tube is passed through the wrist or groin into the heart's blood vessels, and contrast dye is injected to show any blockages on X-ray. It is performed when non-invasive tests suggest significant coronary artery disease, or following a heart attack to map the extent of damage. The procedure can transition immediately into angioplasty if a treatable blockage is found.
How private health insurance can help with Cardiac Catheterisation & Angiography
Cover provides rapid cardiologist consultation, ECG, echocardiography, and the catheterisation procedure – giving clarity on heart health weeks faster than waiting months for an NHS diagnostic slot.
Depending on your policy, cover can include:
- Faster access to a specialist consultant
- Diagnostic scans such as MRI, CT, ultrasound and X-ray
- A choice of consultant and private hospital from your insurer's list
- Surgery, hospital stay and, where included, post-treatment physiotherapy or rehabilitation
Cover, limits and exclusions vary between insurers and plans. Most policies don't cover pre-existing or chronic conditions, and you'll usually need a GP referral before claiming. Always check what your policy covers before starting treatment.
How it works
- Get a quote – tell us about yourself and what you want covered, using the form on this page.
- Compare policies – an adviser compares plans from leading UK insurers and recommends suitable options.
- Get covered – choose your plan and start cover once your insurer confirms it. Claims are then made through your insurer.
Want to know more? Read our guides to individual health insurance and family health insurance.
