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Private health insurance provides individuals and families with access to private health care services, which are usually treated more quickly, have greater flexibility, and have more decisions as to where and how one is treated. However, with so many policies and providers available, it may seem difficult to make the right plan choice. We make this process at Tessa Alliance simple, transparent and custom-made to your needs.
This guide will answer the question of what private health insurance is, how it operates in the UK, and what to beware of when selecting a plan.
Medical insurance (or private health insurance plan) is a form of insurance that can assist in meeting the health care expenses that are not incurred in the NHS, or even access treatment at a faster pace. It may include hospitalisation, tests, and specialist visits, operations, and even preventive care like examinations and check-ups, depending on your policy.
Simply, it is peace of mind in case something occurs, you and your family are not left to wait months for treatment, and you have a choice of being treated elsewhere in a comfortable, private environment. In the UK, Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, The Exeter, WPA Health Insurance, and Vitality Health Insurance are very popular, with the option to customise your health insurance policy according to your needs.
The most basic common characteristics of policies in terms of privatised health insurance are:
Majority of the plans include hospitalisation, surgery, visits, diagnostic procedures (MRIs and blood tests), and cancer care. Other more extensive plans may include outpatient treatment, physiotherapy, dental, optical and mental health.
Your premium is the regular amount you pay (monthly, quarterly, or annually) to keep your health insurance active. Premiums vary based on age, lifestyle, medical history, and level of cover chosen. For example, someone over 50 will usually pay more than a young adult, as health risks increase with age.
It is what you agree to pay before your insurance benefit towards a claim. The more excess there is, the lower the premium and the other way around. For example, you would pay the first £500 of your treatment expenses if your excess is £500.
Choice has been cited to be one of the key benefits of privately based health insurance. You also have access to a large list of private hospitals and consultants with which you can choose your location and provider.
Probably the most significant attraction of private health insurance is shorter waiting times. Insurance also has the advantage of being able to receive treatment months earlier than you would otherwise on the NHS.
Plans can be either simple or elaborate. There are those policies that will cover inpatient only (when you have to stay overnight in the hospital), and others will cover outpatient treatment, therapies and preventive services.
Not everything is covered. The majority of policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic treatments, and long-term care. This is why it is important to look at the fine print.
At Tessa Alliance, we know that health requirements vary according to your age, family and financial situation. The following are the primary forms of private health insurance in the UK:
Best for individuals or couples that would like to have a cover. This ensures that you will have access to private treatment, including consultations, tests, and hospitalisation, without waiting long.
Family plans are designed to cover several people who are loved ones and are under the same policy. They are able to cover all aspects, such as GP visits, specialist referrals, and hospital admissions, which makes the parents feel safe about their children's health.
These policies are child-friendly and offer children access to pediatric services, specialist visits, routine examinations, and immunisations. It is all about giving the child the best start in life.
Established with the older demographic, 50 years or older, in mind, these plans are aimed at older adults in terms of their healthcare needs. They can include age-related conditions, wellness screening, and decrease the waiting time for necessary treatment.
So why are individuals using private health insurance as opposed to using the NHS? Here are the main benefits:
Increased treatment speed - there will be no more queues to see the doctor, have a diagnostic test, or for surgery.
Flexibility and choice - you have the choice on which specialist, hospital or clinic to utilise.
Comfort - most of the private hospitals provide personal rooms and additional facilities in your stay.
Access to other treatments- some policies cover treatments or drugs that are not always available on the NHS.
Life tranquility- that you and your family are insured against unforeseen health expenses.
Personal health care insurance is not a one-size-fits-all. The following are some of the questions to be asked before one makes a decision:
1. To what extent do I need to cover inpatient and outpatient?
2. Am I seeking shelter only for myself, or for my entire family?
3. What is the maximum I can spend every month or year?
4. Would I like to add extras such as dental, optical or mental health?
5. Which providers will be the most cost-effective and beneficial?
It is at this point that an intermediary such as Tessa Alliance can become the difference. We sift through the terminologies, set up the plans of the top UK insurers and advise the plans that are actually best suited to your needs and budget.
Tessa Alliance specialises in the comparison of the UK's leading health insurance plans in the private sector. We are an independent, FCA-regulated intermediary, which means we are always unbiased, as we will only provide you with the best advice.
The UK health insurance in the private sector may appear to be a complex affair, yet it does not necessarily have to be so. With a bit of knowledge in the foundations of insurance, such as what is covered, the various premiums and excess, and the various types of insurance plans available, you will be able to make a wise choice to have peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Our mission is straightforward at Tessa Alliance, which is to simplify, demystify, and personalise health insurance to you. You need to secure your own cover; you need to secure your family cover; you need to compare your current health insurance renewal. We will be there to help you make the right decision.
Your health is essential to you. Why wait? Make the smart move now, compare the health insurance plans in the market and get the cover that suits you. Call us to get a quote today!
The NHS is superb, though the privatised health insurance is much faster, more selective, and provides services not necessarily present in the NHS. Most individuals consider it a method of adding value to their NHS services.
It depends on the policy. Some providers do not cover them and can be covered by some with a waiting period. Given the terms of the policies, always read them or seek the advice of an advisor.
Consider your needs, budget and priorities. Does the plan only cover major treatment or would you want everyday care as well? Not sure which one fits well, our advisors can take you through the choices and guide you to the one that suits you well.
