As a UK resident, you’re entitled to free healthcare via the NHS but you may be wondering whether it’s worth taking out private health insurance. Since the pandemic, the NHS has become overwhelmed with a huge backlog of treatments and surgical procedures. The long waiting times experienced can cause undue stress and prolonged discomfort.
Private health insurance provides a way around this with faster access to diagnosis and treatment. It also offers flexibility with when and where you’re treated. So, with these factors in mind, the question is, do you need private health insurance?
The advantages of having health insurance
Private health insurance is complementary to the NHS, working alongside it to give you more choice when it comes to your healthcare. It offers many benefits, including:
- Faster access to consultations, diagnoses and treatments
- 24/7 access to remote GPs for medical advice
- Specialist referrals
- The ability to choose your preferred specialists, appointment times and treatment locations
- A private room for more comfort and privacy
- Faster access to rehabilitative services, such as physiotherapy
- Access to medications and treatments that aren’t available through the NHS
- Health incentives offered by health insurance providers. For example, discounts on lifestyle products, free access to online well-being programmes or a discounted gym membership.
What are the limitations of private health insurance?
Private health insurance doesn’t usually cover pre-existing conditions, which are illnesses or injuries you have before taking out the policy. Chronic conditions are also not usually covered. These are long-term health issues that require routine treatment, such as asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, arthritis and hypertension. Other exclusions include pregnancy, cosmetic surgery, injuries derived from extreme sports, allergies and food intolerances, outpatient care before treatment and emergency services.
As with any insurance policy, the cost is a consideration but it’s not a limitation. Private health insurance offers flexibility with the plans and cover available. This means that your policy can be specifically tailored to meet your budget as well as your healthcare needs.
What to look for when choosing health insurance
Health insurance providers generally offer similar inclusions for standard policies but can vary widely in the optional cover they offer. When choosing a policy, check the medical services that are included, such as inpatient and outpatient care, preventive care and specialist consultations. Check the approved list of hospitals and surgeons to ensure that they are suitable for your location and other needs.
Compare the additional benefits and services that are offered by different health insurance providers. For example, mental health support, alternative therapies and wellness programmes. When comparing premiums, consider the excess amount and whether a protected no-claims discount is offered. Check whether there is a waiting period before you can claim for specific treatments or if there is a limit to the amount you can claim.
By comparing the types and levels of cover carefully along with the incentives offered by different health insurance providers, you can make an informed decision. This ensures that you take out the right policy at the best price for your needs and budget.
Do you need private health insurance?
Having private health insurance is a personal choice. It was once considered a luxury but nowadays, especially with its tailored affordability, many now think of private health insurance as a necessity. It offers faster access to GP appointments, diagnoses and treatments, giving you peace of mind that you can get on the road to recovery sooner.
Private health insurance offers flexibility with when and where you are treated. This means that you can fit your healthcare conveniently around your schedule without having to travel further afield to receive treatment. You can also benefit from the additional comfort and privacy offered by private hospitals and clinics.
You may already be covered by private health insurance as part of your employee benefits package. This is something that’s increasingly offered by employers as it’s considered a valuable perk. Check the details with your employer of what’s covered as there may not be any need to take out separate private health insurance.
Arrange the right health insurance cover for your needs
Our health is one thing we can’t afford to take for granted. Private health insurance offers speed and flexibility, among other benefits, to give you peace of mind that your health is taken care of exactly when it needs to be.
Our mortgage and protection brokers are here to discuss your needs in detail and compare the options available. They can advise you on the inclusions and exclusions offered by different insurance providers to help you make an informed decision. They can also guide you on ways to keep your premiums lower without compromising on your healthcare needs.
Just give us a call on 01322 907 000 to arrange affordable health insurance cover for you, your partner or your family. With this financial protection in place, you can rest assured that your healthcare isn’t left to chance.