Private Medical Insurance

Enabling faster access to treatment and greater peace of mind for individuals and families.

No instant quotes — we’ll guide you to the right cover for your needs.

What is

private medical insurance

Private medical insurance gives you faster access to diagnosis and treatment in private hospitals and clinics. It covers eligible medical costs, helping you avoid NHS waiting lists and receive care at a time and place that suits you.

Policies can also include additional benefits such as access to virtual GPs, mental health support, and cancer care.

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Why might you need private medical insurance?

With NHS waiting times at record highs, even routine appointments and operations can be delayed for months.

Private medical insurance gives you faster access to consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment at leading private hospitals. This means less time waiting and more time focusing on your health.

It also gives you choice over when and where you’re treated, helping you recover sooner and with greater peace of mind.

How does Private Medical Insurance work in the UK?

Private health insurance is a policy you pay for with a monthly premium. If you need treatment for a covered condition, you can make a claim through your insurer and receive care in a private hospital instead of waiting on the NHS.

In the UK, there are two main types of health insurance to choose from: treatment-only and comprehensive policies.

Treatment-Only Policies

Treatment-only cover requires you to be diagnosed by the NHS before moving into private care for your treatment.

  • Lower-cost option for those on tighter budgets.
  • Still involves potential NHS delays for scans, tests, and diagnosis.
  • Provides faster private treatment after diagnosis.

Comprehensive Policies

Comprehensive cover typically includes outpatient services, so both your diagnosis and treatment take place privately.

  • You’re referred by your GP, but from then on, scans, tests, and treatment are all private.
  • Higher premiums compared to treatment-only policies.
  • Best for those who want to avoid NHS waiting times entirely.

👉 At Health Cheque, we make it easy to compare private health insurance options in the UK — helping you choose cover that fits your budget, gives you faster access to treatment, and supports your long-term wellbeing.

Benefits of

Private Medical Insurance

Private Medical Insurance gives you access to the best consultants, latest treatments, and private hospitals – without long NHS waiting times. Get back to living life on your terms.

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Holistic Health & Add-On Services

Many plans include extras like physiotherapy, mental health support, dental cover, or virtual GP access.

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Early Diagnosis, Better Outcomes

Immediate access to scans and specialists can detect conditions early, improving your prognosis.

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Flexible Appointments Around Your Schedule

Choose appointment times that suit your work, family, or travel plans.

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Private Hospital Rooms with Premium Comfort

Recover in a private room with hotel-style amenities and minimal interruptions.

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Access to Advanced Treatment Options

Benefit from the latest drugs, technologies and treatments – often unavailable on the NHS.

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Skip NHS Waiting Lists

Get seen by a consultant quickly and start treatment without delays.

What does

Private Medical Insurance

cover?

Understand what’s included and how it protects your health

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is designed to cover the cost of acute medical treatment—that is, health conditions that arise suddenly and require prompt diagnosis and treatment.

It ensures you get fast access to care, helping you avoid long NHS waiting times and receive high-quality medical support in a private setting.

Unlike chronic or pre-existing conditions, PMI focuses on short-term, treatable health issues that improve with clinical intervention.

What Is an Acute Condition?

An acute condition is a medical issue that develops quickly, typically requiring short-term treatment and offering a strong chance of recovery. These conditions are often covered under most private medical insurance policies.

🩺  Examples of acute conditions covered include:

  • Joint pain that requires diagnostic scans or physiotherapy
  • Broken bones or fractures needing surgery or private rehab
  • Hernias requiring non-emergency surgical intervention
  • Cataracts requiring vision-restoring surgery
  • Certain cancers eligible for treatment under private oncology care

Note: Coverage can vary based on your chosen insurer and policy level. Always review the terms carefully or speak to an advisor to understand exactly what's included.

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Compare the UK's leading insurance providers and get free advice from our expert team

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No instant quotes — we’ll guide you to the right cover for your needs.

What isn't covered by

Private Medical Insurance

?

Know the limitations before you commit

Private medical insurance gives you fast access to high-quality care—but like any policy, it comes with certain exclusions. These are conditions or treatments your insurer typically won’t cover under standard plans.

Common Private Health Insurance Exclusions:

  • Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
    Any illnesses or injuries you've had prior to your policy start date may not be covered.
  • Chronic Conditions
    Long-term conditions like asthma, diabetes, or arthritis often fall outside standard cover.
  • Emergency Care or A&E Visits
    Accidents or sudden emergencies are typically handled by the NHS, not private insurance.
  • Fertility Treatment / IVF
    Most policies exclude assisted conception or fertility-related treatments.
  • Cosmetic or Elective Surgery
    Non-essential procedures purely for appearance aren’t covered unless medically required.
  • Mental Health or Substance Abuse (varies by policy)
    Treatment for alcohol or drug addiction is commonly excluded, and mental health coverage may require add-ons.
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    Exclusions vary by insurer, so it’s essential to read the policy details or speak to an advisor for full clarity.

    Got questions? We’re here to help you understand what’s included—and what’s not.

    Looking for

    Private Medical Insurance

    cover here in the UK?

    Finding the right private medical insurance (PMI) can feel overwhelming. At Health Cheque, we’ve been helping individuals, families, and businesses across the UK for over 20 years.

    Our independent advisers compare leading insurers like Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and Vitality to make sure you get the right cover at the right price — wherever you’re based, from London to Manchester, Birmingham to Bristol, and nationwide.

    Why people choose Health Cheque

    • Independent UK advice — we’re not tied to any insurer
    • Over 28 years of experience in private health insurance
    • One dedicated consultant from start to finish
    • Clear comparison reports tailored to your needs and budget
    • No hidden fees — our service is free, with costs built into premiums
    • Help with claims & policy changes for ongoing peace of mind
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    Get in touch with us or Book a consultation to compare policies

    Contact us
    Compare Now
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    Independent expertise in private medical insurance you can rely on

    With nearly two decades of experience, Health Cheque has built a reputation for clear, impartial advice in the private health insurance market. We focus on simplifying the complex, guiding clients through their options with transparency and care. Whether reviewing existing cover or exploring new policies, our priority is helping individuals, families, and businesses make confident, informed choices.

    Shane Saidy
    Director
    Private Medical Insurance