Healthcare insurance and knowing what’s covered
Before you take out any private health insurance policy, or even take on one provided by your employer, it's important that you're clear about what is and what isn't covered.
Do not assume that everything is covered. Make sure that you understand the policy in full and ask about anything you're not sure about. Medical insurance is designed to provide protection for curable, short-term health problems and allow policy holders to be treated more quickly.
Insurance companies will be happy to explain to you exactly what is and isn't covered and deal with any specific concerns you might have. Things such as cosmetic surgery, preventative treatment and pre-existing conditions are not normally covered, for example.
However, remember that while it's important to research what your policy doesn't cover, health insurance policies are still very worthwhile. Many policies will still cover you for over a thousand operations and medical procedures, including those with long waiting lists. Some even provide additional benefits, such as payment for consultations and scans.
There are lots of good reasons to invest in a private healthcare plan for yourself, your family or even your business. These include:
• Reassurance that you'll be able to access treatment quickly if you become ill or injured.
• Peace of mind that you needn't miss excessive days of work due to ongoing or recurring ill health. This is especially important for businesses and the self-employed.
• Knowledge that your family's health is in good hands too.
• Freedom to choose the treatment that suits you.
Patient Choice provides cost-effective private medical insurance policies for individuals and businesses in the UK. For more information visit the Patient Choice website.
This Medical Insurance article was created on 4th August 2009
