BUPA Acquires the Cromwell Hospital

BUPA acquires the Cromwell Hospital

BUPA has acquired the Cromwell Hospital in London for £90m as part of its plan to create a flagship private hospital in the capital.

The 128 bed Cromwell Hospital is renowned for being the first to invest in some of the UK's leading edge equipment and cancer services. It also has expertise in neurosciences and paediatrics.

It admits self-pay and embassy sponsored patients and those funded by medical insurance.

Outpatient services include private GPs, health screening and a walk-in family medicine and diagnostic centre.

Fergus Kee, managing director of BUPA UK Health Insurance, said BUPA originally entered the private hospital market because of a shortage of private beds in the 1970s. He said this is no longer the case outside London and was of the reasons for selling BUPA's hospital division last year.

"For many years, BUPA has been looking for the right opportunity to have a flagship hospital in London," said Kee. "Until now, that opportunity has not arisen."

Kee added that BUPA will invest a further £30m in the Cromwell Hospital over the next two years to create a centre of excellence for private patients.

Health Insurance & Protection - 17th March 2008