Top myths about private medical insurance
19/09/2009
There are a number of popular misconceptions about health insurance that put people off.
Many of them are worth re-considering or researching in more detail when you're making a decision about insurance.
Myth one: I am a healthy person so I don't need insurance
Nobody wants to dwell on the bad things that could happen and it's not good for us to do so. However, it is worth being realistic about possible risks. If you do get ill, it's a fact that you may have to wait a long time for NHS treatment. If you decided to go private, without insurance you would risk paying a hefty price.
Myth two: It's too expensive
Most of us have to budget and make compromises when it comes to what we spend our money on. However, even if you're on a tight budget, private health insurance is still worth considering as a long-term investment.
Private medical insurance could in fact save you cash, rather than leaving you out of pocket. Consider the longer-term picture. Waiting for a long time to be treated for a condition could mean having recurring problems or having to take a long time off work. Paying a monthly premium is a lot more manageable financially for most people than paying out a lump sum for treatment.
Myth three: I'll get treated anyway
If you become ill or injured, you will be treated on the NHS and the system does its best to meet the needs of patients. However, the strain that the NHS is under is well documented and long waiting times for some treatments are not unusual.
With a private medical policy, your treatment will take place sooner and you'll be able to choose where you have it and even who treats you in many cases. You're also likely to have more privacy and home comforts with private treatment, such as a TV in your room and a room to yourself.
Patient Choice provides easy-to-understand, cost-effective private health plans for individuals and businesses. For more information visit the Patient Choice website.
