The good thing is that they are usually in touch with a decision after 2 weeks and first appointment is offered very quickly after receipt of the gp letter.
At a first appt with both knee and later hip I was given an mri and scan straight away. Another time when I saw a consultant neurologist I had a brain scan on the first appt. As much a fan I am of the nhs I know if an mri was needed there would inevitably be another probably lengthy wait.
There are many conditions that are covered but given the low monthly cost it is obvious that not all can be. Its clean, safe, no mrsa or other nasties. When we joined nearly 20 years ago it cost £8.50 pm , it has only increased by £3 I call that good value but its up to everyone to decide fir themselves.
However its not a Bupa et al, we all pay the same however many health problems people may have. It began a couple if hundred years ago as a TB hospital for postal workers and until recently was only open to those working in public service.