Unfortunately, there are quite a lot of problems with BUPA, one of the less well known being that their coverage in the UK is decidedly uneven. Anyone can sign on to BUPA, but if you are unlucky you might be hundreds of miles from the BUPA specialist who can help you.
Maybe, but no-one in the US press or commentators even seem to acknowledge the existence of “extra” insurance in the UK.
They want the “govt. is good” meme to apply...:^)
I also presume the BUPA problem is mainly one of city vs. rural areas, is that the case?