How to Find the Best Private Health Insurance in the UK: A Complete Guide

While the NHS provides world-class care free at the point of use, many people in the UK are turning to private health insurance for faster access, shorter waiting times, and more choice over their treatment. But with a growing number of providers and policies on the market, how do you find the best private health insurance for your needs?

This complete guide breaks down everything you need to know — from policy types and pricing to exclusions and hidden costs — so you can make a fully informed decision and secure the best possible value for your money.

What Is Private Health Insurance?

Private health insurance, also known as private medical insurance (PMI), covers some or all of the cost of private healthcare in the UK. It typically gives you access to:

• Faster diagnosis and treatment than on the NHS

• Greater choice of specialists and private hospitals

• A private room during inpatient treatment

• Access to drugs and treatments not always available on the NHS

However, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered — and whether it’s worth it based on your personal health and financial situation.

Do You Really Need Private Health Insurance?

Health insurance is not essential for everyone. The NHS covers all emergency and urgent treatment, and most common conditions are still handled efficiently through public healthcare.

Private cover may be worth considering if:

• You want faster access to consultants or elective surgeries

• You’d prefer to be treated at a private hospital or clinic

• You want access to treatments or medications not routinely offered by the NHS

• You’re self-employed or have limited sick pay benefits and can’t afford long waiting times

Overlooked Insight:

Many health insurance policies now include virtual GP services and mental health support — features that can help you bypass NHS waiting times even for minor concerns.

Types of Private Health Insurance Policies

Not all policies offer the same level of cover. Choosing the right type is crucial to avoid overpaying — or being underinsured.

1. Comprehensive Cover

• Includes both inpatient and outpatient treatment

• Covers tests, consultations, surgery, and follow-up care

• Offers the broadest protection, but usually at the highest cost

2. Inpatient-Only Cover

• Only covers hospital stays, surgeries, and overnight treatment

• Does not include consultations, scans or follow-ups unless part of a hospital admission

• More affordable, suitable for those who want protection against major health issues

3. Modular/Custom Policies

• Allows you to pick and choose cover options (e.g. add mental health or physiotherapy)

• Helps balance budget and protection

• Offered by providers like Bupa, AXA, and Vitality

Read our guide on: Health Insurance Policy Types Explained

What’s Typically Covered (and Not Covered)

Covered (depending on policy):

• Private hospital stays and surgical procedures

• Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans)

• Consultations with specialists

• Cancer care and radiotherapy

• Mental health support (inpatient and sometimes outpatient)

• Access to private GPs and digital health services

Not Typically Covered:

• Pre-existing medical conditions (unless added at extra cost)

• Emergency treatment (NHS still handles A&E)

• Chronic or ongoing conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma)

• Pregnancy, childbirth, and fertility treatments

• Cosmetic surgery

For a full understanding of exclusions, always review the policy documents or speak directly with the provider.

Read our guide on: What Does Private Health Insurance Cover in the UK?

How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost in the UK?

Premiums vary depending on:

• Your age

• Medical history

• Location (London tends to be more expensive)

• Level of cover (comprehensive vs inpatient-only)

• Whether you're a smoker

• Your excess amount (the portion you pay towards a claim)

Average Monthly Premiums (Guide Only):

• Single person in their 30s: £30–£70

• Single person in their 50s: £70–£150

• Couples/families: £100–£250+

Use this as a ballpark — comparison tools will give more accurate quotes based on your personal details.

How to Compare Health Insurance Providers

Use trusted comparison sites to view multiple quotes in one place:

• ActiveQuote

• MoneySuperMarket

• Compare the Market

• GoCompare

When comparing, look beyond price. Focus on:

• What's included vs excluded

• Hospitals and consultants in the network

• Claim limits for different types of treatment

• Whether a no-claims discount applies

• Extras like virtual GPs, dental, optical, or wellbeing services

Top Health Insurance Providers in the UK (Overview)

Here are some of the most established insurers offering individual policies in the UK:

1. Bupa

• Widest hospital network in the UK

• Known for fast access to treatment

• Optional mental health, cancer care and dental modules

2. AXA Health

• Highly rated customer service

• Modular policies with strong outpatient options

• Offers a 24/7 virtual GP service

3. Vitality

• Unique rewards programme (e.g. discounts on Apple Watches, gym memberships)

• Focus on preventative care

• App-based wellness tracking

4. Aviva

• Offers competitive pricing for families

• Good cancer cover and hospital access

• Flexible excess options

How to Lower Your Health Insurance Premium

Want better cover without breaking the bank? These tips help you cut costs:

1. Increase the excess

Higher excess = lower monthly premiums. Just make sure you can afford to pay it if you claim.

2. Choose a guided hospital list

Some insurers let you agree to use a narrower list of hospitals — saving money in return.

3. Opt for outpatient limits

Cap or exclude outpatient treatment to reduce your premium.

4. Consider a six-week NHS wait option

Some policies only kick in if NHS waiting times exceed six weeks — this can slash premiums by up to 30%.

5. Pay annually instead of monthly

Some providers offer a small discount for upfront annual payments.

Unique Tip:

Some employers offer discounted health insurance even if you’re not taking out a workplace scheme. Ask your HR department if any employee perks include access to cheaper PMI.

When to Get Health Insurance (and When to Review It)

Get it when:

• You’re in good health (cheaper and fewer exclusions)

• You’re self-employed and can’t afford to wait for NHS treatment

• You want mental health support without NHS delays

Review it:

• Annually, before renewal

• If your circumstances change (e.g. moving location, family planning)

• If your premium rises significantly — always shop around

Read our article on: Is Private Health Insurance Worth It in the UK?

FAQs: UK Private Health Insurance

Is private health insurance worth it in the UK?

It depends on your health, budget, and priorities. If you want faster access to care and more choice over your treatment, it may be worth the cost — but it's not essential for everyone.

Does health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions unless you’ve had no symptoms or treatment for a set period (typically 5 years). Some providers may offer ‘moratorium underwriting’ with conditions that could eventually be covered.

Can I use both the NHS and private health insurance?

Yes. Many people use the NHS for emergencies or GP services and go private for elective treatments, diagnostics, or second opinions.

What happens if I cancel my policy?

You can cancel at any time. If you do so mid-year, you may be charged pro-rata or for any claims already made. Check cancellation terms with your provider.

Does private health insurance cover mental health?

Some comprehensive or modular policies include mental health support — such as inpatient care or private therapy — but this often costs extra. Always check policy details.ute financial advice. Please seek independent financial advice before making any financial decisions.

Final Thoughts

Private health insurance is not a replacement for the NHS — but it can offer faster treatment, added convenience, and peace of mind when used well. The key is choosing the right level of cover for your needs and budget, while understanding what’s excluded.

Take time to compare providers, read the fine print, and consider future health needs before committing. With the right policy in place, you can reduce waiting times, access more choice, and protect your wellbeing — all while managing costs effectively.

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Please note:  All content on SmartWithMoney.co.uk is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified financial adviser before making any financial decisions.