Private health insurance

[rxtx]

Hello.

I'm considering getting some private health insurance, there's nothing wrong with me but my father has just had a major operation to remove some cancer (hopefully for good, he's still in Northwick Park) and having seen how good his care has been, and the speed at which things happened, it's made me think that I would like that, should I ever need it.

I'm 41, non (but ex) smoker, no previous or current ills. Before I go getting loads of quotes (they all seem to want to speak to one over the phone), who should I be looking at besides BUPA, and what do I need to look out for? I live in sin so advice for couples is also welcome.

Thanks.

[maxrider1]

I have BUPA 'Select Premier C' through work and it's absolutely brilliant. Had a shoulder op earlier this year and the care couldn't have been better.

ETA: it also covers partners/spouse

Edited by maxrider1 on Thursday 3rd October 09:48

[amancalledrob]

I work for a private medical insurer, but I can't tell you which one and wouldn't dream of telling you we're the best (although I think we are) because 'best' is subjective and will depend on your needs. Here's a list of insurers off the top of my head, though:

Aviva
Pruhealth
AXA PPP Healthcare
Exeter Friendly
CS Healthcare
Health Online
WPA

Be aware that premiums will go up almost every year, and you could see annual increases of 8-15% depending on the insurer. Also if your policy has a no claims discount then a claim could double your premium. Feel free to ask me questions. There's bound to be other people on here with a bit of expertise, too

[trando]

I am with Pru Health who are excellent. They have all sorts of additional benefits through their vitality programme - free cinema tickets, discounts at spa's etc. It's a company scheme so I didn't have any choice in the matter. it used to be BUPA up until a year ago........

[rog007]

I'm 'insured' through the NHS who will respond in line with my clinical need. Staff are heroic and hospitals can cope with unexpected emergencies should one arise. I have also considered paying twice for healthcare but just couldn't justify it.

[AndyBrew]

rog007 said:

I'm 'insured' through the NHS who will respond in line with my clinical need. Staff are heroic and hospitals can cope with unexpected emergencies should one arise. I have also considered paying twice for healthcare but just couldn't justify it.

Mmmm right up to the point you have something go wrong that doesn't involve stopping blood squirt out and then see how useful the NHS are LOL!

[rxtx]

Cheers all, I will have a look and see what fits best.

[carreauchompeur]

I'm with WPA. Haven't been with them long enough to test out the cover but price very competitive when compared with BUPA etc. Also contributes money towards dentist/optician which helps reduce the 'real' cost.

Possibly have bought it just at the right time as I've got a mouth ulcer which has lingered for an alarming time...

[LotusMartin]

my corporate Pru Health has been nothing short of excellent. fast response, always helpful. paid for just about everything.

Wife's Bupa has been painful. Latest is now not covering her Ostiopath as most of them are refusing to deal with Bupa any more.

just my 2p

[RSoovy4]

rog007 said:

I'm 'insured' through the NHS who will respond in line with my clinical need. Staff are heroic and hospitals can cope with unexpected emergencies should one arise. I have also considered paying twice for healthcare but just couldn't justify it.

Wait until you need some care for something other than a bang on the head, or something which requires expensive drugs to treat.

Good luck in the queue behind half of the Third World.

[monthefish]

rxtx said:

Cheers all, I will have a look and see what fits best.

What did you conclude in the end?

[ikarl]

Can anybody give me an idea how much the typical annual policy / monthly payment is?

Might be one of those that if I need to ask, I can't afford it, but it's hard to get an idea of price without talking to someone at one of these companies and I'd rather not at this stage.

TIA

[amancalledrob]

ikarl said:

Can anybody give me an idea how much the typical annual policy / monthly payment is?

Might be one of those that if I need to ask, I can't afford it, but it's hard to get an idea of price without talking to someone at one of these companies and I'd rather not at this stage.

TIA

It'll vary widely depending on level of cover, underwriting, age and even location. Do yourself an online quote and use a fake email address if you want to avoid being pursued as a potential customer