Private Medical Insurance

What is medical insurance (PMI)?

Private medical insurance is an optional form of insurance that individuals can purchase to access private healthcare services. People choose to buy private health insurance to have additional options and benefits beyond what the NHS provides.

Here are key points about private health insurance in the UK

1. Coverage

Private medical insurance in the UK typically covers a range of medical services and treatments, including consultations with specialists, diagnostic tests, surgeries, and hospital stays. It may also cover additional services such as dental and optical care.

2. Costs

Policyholders pay regular premiums to the private health insurance provider directly. These premiums can vary based on factors such as age, health status, coverage level, and the chosen insurance provider. Policyholders may also have to pay excess (a portion of the claim that they are responsible for).

3. Choice and Convenience

One of the main reasons people opt for private health insurance in the UK is to have more control over their healthcare choices. Private insurance offers quicker access to medical treatments, the ability to choose specific healthcare providers, and a more comfortable and private hospital environment.

4. Hospital Networks

Private health plans give you access to hospital networks of healthcare providers. Policyholders may receive full coverage when they use providers within the network, and they may incur additional costs if they choose providers outside the network. This depends on the choice of hospital network chosen at point of inception.

5. NHS Complement

Medical treatment that requires a stay in a hospital, such as surgeries or extended medical care.

6. Pre-existing Conditions

Private medical insurance may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions or impose waiting periods before coverage begins for certain conditions.

7. Additional Benefits

Some policies offer additional benefits such as access to wellness programs, mental health support, and complementary therapies. It's important for individuals considering private health insurance in the UK to carefully review policy details and that’s where we Tessa Alliance come in our expert team of health insurance consultants will guide you through the whole process keeping it clear and simple to enable you to make the choice that suits your needs.

What’s The Difference Between Health Insurance and Private Medical Insurance?

Health Insurance, Medical Insurance, Private Medical Insurance and ‘Private Healthcare’ are all the same product and have an identical meaning.

How does health insurance work?

If you or a member of your family feel unwell or have an untoward symptom your concerned about, the first step would be to visit either a private GP via your insurance or your normal NHS GP whichever you feel more comfortable with, You will then be referred to a consultant this is where your health insurance helps cut those wait times. Once referred your medical consultant will establish what tests are required and once diagnosed a treatment plan is then put in place.

What does my private health insurance (PMI) Consisit of?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policies consist of two main components: core cover, which comes as standard, and add-ons – the extras that cost more, but enhance your cover.

Core Cover Includes:

In-patient Cover:
Cover for when you’re admitted to hospital and stay overnight.
Day-patient Cover:
Covers you when you’re admitted to hospital and discharged the same day.
Out-patient Cover:
Covers you when you visit a hospital for a diagnosis or minor procedure. You can custom tailor part of the out-patient section of your plan to suit your needs and budget.
Hospital lists:
Health insurers will normally give you up to three options of hospital networks to choose from ranging from reduced access to nationwide coverage.
Cancer Cover:
This will cover Cancer treatment from start to finish certain policies will also cover cancer drugs and treatments that may not be available on the NHS.
Optional Add-ons you can choose form:
Travel Cover, Dental/Optical Cover, Mental Health, Therapies (i.e. physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic treatment).

What Conditions Does Private Health Insurance Cover?

Acute Illnesses: Private health insurance often covers the costs associated with acute illnesses that require medical attention.
Injuries and Accidents: Treatment for injuries resulting from accidents, such as fractures, burns, or wounds, is typically covered by private medical insurance.
Hospitalization: Private health insurance comprehensively covers the costs of hospital stays, including room charges, nursing care, and associated medical treatments.
Diagnostic Scans & Tests: Coverage often includes the costs of diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, blood tests, and other procedures necessary for diagnosis.
Surgery: Private Medical insurance policies cover the expenses related to surgeries, medically necessary procedures.
Cancer Treatment: Some policies provide coverage for cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, cancer drugs and surgeries.
Mental Health Services: Some policies provide coverage for cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, cancer drugs and surgeries.

How do i buy health insurance in the UK?

Buying health insurance can be overwhelming due to the number of options there are and the jargon used can sometimes be confusing, You should take the following steps to ensure you’re getting the right plan for you.

Assess Your Needs:
Before buying health insurance, consider your healthcare needs and preferences. Think about the level of coverage you require, the types of treatments and services you want to be covered, and any specific healthcare providers you would like to access.
Compare Plans:
Research different health insurance plans offered by various insurance providers. Compare the coverage options, premiums, exclusions, and additional benefits to find a plan that best suits your needs.
Seek Professional Advice:
If you find the process overwhelming or need assistance in understanding the intricacies of different plans, consider seeking advice from an insurance intermediary. Our team of professionals can help you navigate the options and find a plan that aligns with your requirements.
Review Policy Documents:
Before deciding, carefully review the policy documents provided by the insurance provider. Pay attention to terms and conditions, coverage limits, exclusions, and any waiting periods that may apply.
Make an Informed Decision:
Based on your research and the information gathered, make an informed decision about the health insurance plan that best meets your needs and budget.

We at Tessa Alliance pride ourselves on giving the best and most accurate advice to all our clients. Our team of professionals are ready to take your call today to take you through the journey of finding the right health plan for you.

What are the benefits of health insurance?

Financial Protection

Health insurance helps protect individuals and families from high and unexpected healthcare costs. It can cover a significant portion of medical expenses, reducing the financial burden on policyholders.

Access to a Network of Healthcare Providers

Health insurance plans often have networks of healthcare providers, including hospitals, doctors, specialists, and other professionals.

Timely and Convenient Access to Healthcare

Policyholders can often access medical care a lot quicker, reducing wait times for consultations, diagnostic tests, and procedures.

Coverage for a Range of Medical Services

Health insurance typically covers a broad range of medical services, including hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostic tests, and specialist consultations.

Mental Health Coverage

Mental health services, including therapy and psychiatric treatment, are often covered by health insurance plans. This can contribute to the overall well-being of policyholders.

Choice of Healthcare Providers

Many medical insurance policies allow you to choose healthcare providers, offering flexibility in selecting doctors, specialists, and hospitals.

Wellness Programs and Discounts

Some plans offer wellness programs, discounts on gym memberships, and other incentives to encourage healthy lifestyle choices.

Peace of Mind

Health insurance provides peace of mind by offering a safety net in case of unexpected health issues. Knowing that there is a safety net in place for medical expenses can reduce stress and anxiety.

Do you have more questions? Get in Touch

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