Diagnosis and treatment for a health problem may often by faster if you go privately than if you are treated on the NHS. Over 50 health insurance products exist to cover the costs of private treatment, relieving many people from unnecessary worries and delays.
As well as Private Medical Insurance (PMI), there are other health insurance products which aim to provide different benefits. Be aware of the distinction between products which are often sold to ensure financial security (health cash plans, mortgage and income protection plans, and critical illness policies), and products which are specifically designed to provide medical cover (PMI).
The Association of British Insurers, or ABI, have produced an informative leaflet describing how Private Medical Insurance, or PMI, works in the United Kingdom. One aim of their brochure is to allow customers to more easily compare policies from different providers.
Always remember that the policies available from different insurers can vary by a considerable amount in the degree of cover offered, so comparison should not just be based on the price.
PMI customers usually have three priorities. Firstly they like to have the reassurance that treatment is available quickly if they suffer an injury or become ill. Although the NHS offers world-class treatment, it is true that there can be long waiting lists for certain types of treatment.
Secondly, PMI customers like to have a choice about when and where they are treated. This is a choice that is rarely if ever available from NHS hospitals. Lastly private hospital patients like to be assured that their in-hospital stay will be in a quiet, private room.
Even if you have PMI you should still stay with your normal NHS General Practitioner (GP). If you become sick and need specialist treatment then your GP can refer you to a private specialist or private hospital. Always check with your insurance company that the treatment which you are having is covered by your policy, and remain in regular contact with your insurer during the treatment.
PMI products are available for people of all ages. There are however a number of specialist policies (and specialist providers) offering over 50 health insurance. Normally there is no need to have a medical before starting the policy, but customers should be aware that conditions which you were already being treated for are not covered. Also be aware that private medical care in the UK complements NHS care rather than replacing it. Some facilities (e. G., Accident and Emergency) are almost entirely provided by the NHS.
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