How to choose health insurance
Choosing health insurance may seem daunting, which is why knowing what to look for in a policy can make all the difference. That’s where we can help.
Which health insurance is right for you?
Before you compare health insurance, it’s worth thinking about what you want from your policy. As with any insurance, picking the right cover depends entirely on your personal circumstances.
You may want to do your own research and learn about the different policy options available. Not only can it help you to make your health insurance more affordable but also help you to understand and choose the right policy for you.
To pick the right health insurance for you, it’s worth considering the following:
The treatments you want to cover
It's important to think about what illnesses or treatments you want to cover on your health insurance policy. Are you looking for comprehensive cancer cover? Or are you looking for cover for specific treatments such as physiotherapy?
The level of cover you want could also affect how much you pay. Some companies offer a cheaper option if you’re happy to be diagnosed by the NHS or pay for some treatments privately.
If you have any pre-existing conditions
The type of policy you’d be happy with
With so many policies to choose from, it’s important to choose health insurance that suits you. If you’re looking for all-round cover, a comprehensive policy may be what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a lower cost option, some companies offer policies where only the treatment is covered – ideal if you're happy to be diagnosed by the NHS or to self pay diagnosis.
You may also be able to get extra value by looking into types of policies that cover multiple people such as family health insurance and couples health insurance policies.
The benefit limits you want on your policy
It’s important to choose benefit limits that suit your needs. For example, if you think you’ll need physiotherapy or diagnostic tests, you may need to choose a higher out-patient benefit limit. Some providers may apply a limit to out-patient cover on their policies, meaning you’re only covered up to a chosen amount per year. For example, if the cost of an initial out-patient consultation is between £150 and £250, and you’ve chosen an out-patient benefit limit of £500, had a consultation, X-ray and diagnostic tests, you could quickly reach that limit.
What perks are included
The level of excess you want to pay
See our other guides on health insurance
How does private medical insurance work?
See answers to some common questions about how health insurance works.
Health insurance cost
Find out how much health insurance costs and what you get for your money.
Health insurance: what is covered?
See what is and isn't usually covered by health insurance policies.
Call us
01134950976^
^ We may record or monitor our calls. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm.
^ We may record or monitor our calls. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm.
Bupa health insurance is provided by Bupa Insurance Limited. Registered in England and Wales No. 3956433. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Arranged and administered by Bupa Insurance Services Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales No. 3829851. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London, EC2R 7HJ.
