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Why do people buy health insurance?

Peace of mind is a key reason many people choose private health insurance. With the NHS facing mounting pressures, including lengthy waiting lists and ongoing staff strikes, the uncertainty of timely care can be a major concern. News reports frequently highlight these challenges, making the appeal of faster access to medical treatment through private healthcare increasingly evident.

A private medical plan ensures that you and your loved ones receive prompt and expert care. Whether facing serious conditions like cancer or heart disease, managing chronic pain, or even navigating pregnancy, private health insurance can offer timely consultations, diagnostics, and treatment. This swift response can significantly reduce the stress and discomfort associated with waiting for care.

Private health insurance policies vary in coverage. Basic plans typically cover in-patient treatments, such as surgery and hospital stays, as well as day-care procedures. More comprehensive policies extend to out-patient treatments, including consultations with specialists and diagnostic tests, providing broader coverage and flexibility depending on your needs. With the right policy, you can access the best possible care without the prolonged waits that are increasingly common within the NHS.

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But shouldn’t I get all the help I need from the NHS?

It's understandable to expect comprehensive care from the NHS, but in 2024, the service has encountered significant hurdles, particularly with waiting times and last-minute cancellations. Over 21,000 operations were cancelled in just the first quarter, leaving many patients without treatment in the 28-day target period†. The waiting list has soared, with over 7.54 million people awaiting care as of March 2024.

Additionally, strikes by junior doctors and consultants have led to over a million more cancellations††, further straining the system. Despite efforts like surgical hubs, the NHS continues to grapple with staff shortages and limited resources, making it difficult to meet patient needs effectively†††.

These ongoing issues highlight why some individuals turn to private health insurance for more reliable and timely care, beyond what the NHS can currently guarantee.

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Can my family avoid waiting in NHS queues?

Yes, private healthcare can significantly reduce the waiting time for medical treatments compared to the NHS. As of 2024, many NHS patients are facing delays of more than 18 weeks or even over a year for some procedures. In contrast, private healthcare providers typically offer much shorter waiting times. For instance, after an initial consultation, many private surgeries can be scheduled within four to six weeks, depending on the type of treatment and location.

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But I'm fit and well, so why would I need private health cover?

Even if you're currently fit and healthy, a private medical insurance (PMI) policy is a wise investment for the future. Insurance is designed to protect you against unforeseen events, and health is no exception. The best time to secure coverage is when you're in good health because waiting until you’re unwell could limit your options. Many PMI policies exclude pre-existing conditions that have occurred in the five years prior to taking out the policy. By obtaining coverage now, you ensure that any future health issues will be addressed without delay, allowing you to maintain your well-being with peace of mind.

I have a healthcare cash plan. Won't that do the same job?

Healthcare cash plans and Private Medical Insurance (PMI) serve different purposes, though they can complement each other. A healthcare cash plan provides cashback for routine healthcare expenses like dental visits, eye tests, and physiotherapy sessions. You pay a monthly premium, cover the upfront costs, and then claim back a portion within the limits set by your plan.

In contrast, PMI offers more comprehensive coverage for major medical events, such as surgeries or specialist consultations, ensuring quicker access to treatment. Cash plans are beneficial for managing regular health costs, but they don't provide the same level of coverage as PMI for more serious conditions. When deciding, consider whether the cash plan’s benefits justify the premiums based on your expected use.

Currently, Our Healthcare does not offer quotes for healthcare cash plans.

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What are the top treatments claimed for?**

According to a recent report published by Bupa, the most frequently claimed for conditions among their customers in the UK were:

1. Musculoskeletal conditions: This includes conditions such as back pain, arthritis, and joint injuries. These were the most commonly claimed for conditions among Bupa customers, accounting for around 24% of all claims.
2. Digestive system conditions: This includes conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroenteritis, and stomach ulcers. Digestive system conditions accounted for around 12% of all claims.
3. Mental health conditions: This includes conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Mental health conditions accounted for around 11% of all claims.
4. Cancer: Cancer accounted for around 9% of all claims among Bupa customers.
5. Respiratory conditions: This includes conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Respiratory conditions accounted for around 7% of all claims.