Benenden Health membership

As a member of Benenden Health, you can access a range of treatments at our CQC ‘Outstanding’ rated Benenden Hospital, nestled in the heart of the Kent countryside.

Is my treatment covered by my Benenden Health membership?

Find out whether the treatment you need is on Benenden Health’s approved list of procedures.

Visit their website

Call Benenden Health

My treatment is covered by my Benenden Health membership

If your treatment is on the approved list of procedures, you can request access by calling Benenden Health on 0300 304 5700 (8am-5pm Monday-Friday, excluding bank holidays).

Call Benenden Health

My treatment isn’t covered by my Benenden Health membership; I'd like to fund my own treatment

If your procedure isn’t covered, and you need help now, paying for your own treatment is a smart way to get back on the road to recovery. Call our Private Patient Team or complete our online enquiry form.

Call us today

Make an enquiry

I have a question about Benenden Hospital

When you visit as a patient, we want your visit to be as stress-free as possible. Read on to find out what to expect at our award-winning hospital. You can find out more in our guide for patients.

Does the hospital have free parking?

Whether you’re visiting as a patient, family member or friend, we want your visit to be as stress-free as possible, including being able to park for free.

Can I bring a friend or family member to my appointment?

Where possible, you should attend your outpatient appointment alone. However, if you are visiting our Eye Unit or you have additional support needs, you can be accompanied.

I want to find out more about Benenden Hospital’s Consultants

Our patients are at the heart of everything we do so, when you come to our hospital, you’ll be treated by specialist, well-respected Consultants who are supported by experienced, compassionate nursing teams.

I’ve had my treatment at Benenden Hospital and need some follow-up support

If you have any worries once you’re home, please don’t hesitate to call us on the number on your discharge letter for help and advice.

I’m a member but haven't visited the hospital before and want to know more about it

The hospital was opened in 1907 by the National Association for the Establishment and Maintenance of Sanatoria, to treat postal workers suffering from tuberculosis (TB). The Association had been founded by a consortium of trade unions and friendly societies, and the Benenden Healthcare Society became a member.

Once the consortium disbanded, the Benenden Healthcare Society took over the sanitorium, expanding treatment to include chest complaints and cancer diagnosis. Soon came an operating theatre, surgical wards and an x-ray department.

Now an independent hospital with charitable status, we provide the best care from our location in the heart of the Kent countryside. Find out more about our hospital.

Can I get treatment through my membership immediately?

After six months

If you're experiencing a wait on the NHS, you can request a range of medical diagnostics.

After six or 24 months

If you're experiencing a wait on the NHS, you can request medical treatment after six months in England, Scotland or Wales or after 24 months in Northern Ireland (timescales may differ for existing members in Northern Ireland).

For more information on how to request these services, please visit the Benenden Health website.

What will my initial appointment at the hospital involve?

Meeting your Consultant is the first step to getting your health back on track. If you’re worried about your condition, or unsure what treatment will involve, they’re here to answer your questions and concerns and guide you to the decision that’s right for you. They’ll also discuss the next steps to booking your treatment.

I’ve had my appointment for treatment or surgery; what happens next?

If you need further treatment, and it’s covered by your Benenden Health membership, you’ll be contacted directly by the Theatre Bookings Team to arrange a convenient date.

What's covered under my Benenden Health membership?

Benenden Health membership gives you access to a whole range of services. To find out more about what’s included in your membership, please visit the Benenden Health website.

I’m experiencing a wait with my local GP surgery; can I book a GP appointment through my Benenden Health membership?

As soon as you join Benenden Health you have access to the 24/7 GP Helpline. For more information on how to access this service, please visit the Benenden Health website.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a face-to-face GP appointment, Benenden Hospital offers a private GP service – which includes a 25-minute appointment for £100. Please note this service is not covered by your Benenden Health membership.

I’m a Benenden Health member and I have a question about my membership

If you have a question about any aspect of your membership, please contact Benenden Health’s Member Services team on 0300 304 5700.

I’m not a Benenden Health member, how do I join?

It’s simple to become a member of Benenden Health. For more information on how to join you can visit their website. Or alternatively you can call 0800 414 8400 to speak to one of their friendly advisors.

Benenden Health is the trading name of The Benenden Healthcare Society Limited, which is an incorporated Friendly Society, registered under the Friendly Societies Act 1992, registered number 480F. The Society’s contractual business (the provision of tuberculosis benefit) is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, (Financial Services Register number 205351). Verify our registration at register.fca.org.uk. The remainder of the Society’s business is undertaken on a discretionary basis. Registered Office: Holgate Park Drive, York, YO26 4GG.