What is private health insurance?
Private health insurance pays for private medical treatment so you are not reliant on NHS waiting lists. It covers things like specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, surgery and hospital stays. You choose the level of cover and which conditions and treatments are included.
What does private health insurance cover?
Most policies cover inpatient treatment, outpatient consultations and diagnostics, and mental health support. Some also include private GP access, physiotherapy and cancer care. What is included varies significantly by insurer and policy level. An independent broker can explain the key differences in plain English.
Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Generally, private health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded unless the insurer offers medical history disregarded (MHD) underwriting, which some do. An independent broker can advise which insurers and underwriting options give you the best chance of meaningful cover.
How much does private health insurance cost in the UK?
Costs vary depending on your age, location, the level of cover you choose and whether you smoke. As a rough guide, individuals in their 30s typically pay from £55-£85 per month for mid-level cover through a broker. Families and older applicants pay more. Independent broker advice is free and provides an accurate comparison for your specific circumstances.
Is it worth switching health insurance?
It depends on your circumstances. If your renewal has increased significantly, or if your cover no longer matches your needs, switching can save money and improve your protection. However, switching is not always the right answer. A structured independent review gives you clarity either way.
Will I lose cover if I switch health insurance provider?
Not necessarily. Many insurers offer continued medical history or medical history disregarded terms when switching. However, this is not automatic and depends on the insurer and your medical history. Switching without proper advice can result in restrictions on cover, which is why independent guidance matters.
Can I switch health insurance after making a claim?
Yes, you can switch at any time, including after a claim. However, the condition you claimed for may be treated differently by a new insurer depending on the underwriting method. An independent broker will assess this before recommending any move.
What happens to my health insurance when company cover ends?
When you leave an employer, your group health insurance typically ends. You may be offered a group leaver policy or you can arrange individual cover. Acting before your employer scheme ends protects your medical history and avoids gaps in cover.
Is mental health cover included?
Most plans now offer mental health cover as a standard part of the plan or as an optional extra. The level of support varies by insurer, so it is worth comparing what is included.
Why does your location in the UK matter?
Insurers look at the cost of private hospitals in your area when setting premiums. A plan in London often costs more than one in Wales because hospital costs are higher in the capital. As insurance specialists, we check which insurers have the best hospital networks for your postcode.
How does making a claim work?
If you have a new medical condition, we guide you through the claims process. We help you understand the referral, pre-authorisation, and the difference between chronic and acute conditions. Having a professional to call when a claim is confusing is a major benefit of using a broker.
How much does a health insurance broker cost?
Nothing. We do not charge you a separate broker fee for our advice or comparison service. If you take out a policy through us, the insurer pays us a commission.
Using a broker does not mean we add a markup to your premium. In many cases the price is the same as going direct. In some cases, we may be able to secure a better deal or preferential offer depending on the insurer and policy available.
Do I need a health insurance broker or can I go direct?
You can go direct, but you will only see that one insurer's options. A broker vs going direct comparison usually favours using a broker because we compare leading UK health insurers, explain the differences in plain English and manage your policy year after year with no separate broker fee.
