Long NHS waiting times and delays in procedures are often what prompt people to explore Health Insurance options. However, coverage for existing conditions varies depending on your plan and can be unlikely. If you have a pre-existing condition, it’s best to speak with your policy advisers. They can guide you through the available underwriting options and help find the right solution for your specific needs.

Cancer cover is usually included within the core cover of all policies. Health Insurance gives you the peace of mind that should one of your family be affected by the disease you can have access to some of the best cancer care and superior comfort and choice throughout treatment. It is important to compare cancer cover between policies as what is included within the core cover can vary. 

However, most policies will include the following:  

• radiotherapy  

• chemotherapy   

• surgery   

• consultants’ fees   

• out-patient treatment  

• home nursing   

• cash benefits if treated by the NHS 

Health Insurance is not intended for covering emergencies or chronic conditions. Chronic conditions are long term illnesses which you won’t recover from, such as asthma or arthritis. Typical things which are not regularly covered by a health insurance policy are:   

• Pre-existing conditions 

• Emergency treatment  

• Treatment for Alcoholism or Substance addiction 

• Chronic/long-term conditions 

• Cosmetic surgery 

• Gender reassignment 

• HIV/AIDS 

• Fertility treatment  

• Pregnancy and childbirth costs 

• Organ transplants

Private Medical Insurance is intended to complement the services provided by the NHS, not replace them. The NHS provides a good service for millions of people in the UK today – those who want a faster, more convenient level of treatment for themselves and their families choose health insurance. 

However, some things aren’t covered by Health Insurance and are better taken care of by the NHS – including A&E and maternity services. The NHS handles these elements, while health insurance takes the strain off the system by treating acute conditions quickly and effectively. 

You can during the ‘cooling off period,’ something that all insurers have. This usually lasts between 14 and 30 days, allowing you to cancel your policy and any monies debited will be fully refunded. Should you wish to cancel outside of the 'cooling off period', you will need to notify your insurer.

At Compare Health, we’re all about helping you get the best private health insurance cover at the best possible price. We’ve helped thousands of people, with our partners searching the leading UK providers to find the most comprehensive cover at the most competitive price.

There’s no cost to you for using our service, and you’re under no obligation to take out a policy. Our partners compare the leading UK providers to find the best cover based on your personalised requirements.