Health Insurance – Getting the most for your money

Many people are choosing to buy additional private health insurance to support the health provision they already get from the NHS. In most cases this is so that you have an alternative to NHS treatment should you want one. Whether it’s a minor operation that you want to schedule in at your own convenience, or regular treatment that you want in more comfortable surroundings, health insurance gives you a choice.

The right health insurance for you

How do you know which health insurance policy is right for you? If you are offered health insurance as part of a company benefit, check it out first to make sure that it’s worth your while taking out. Not all corporate health policies are the same, so if you’re moving from one company to another, don’t assume that the health insurance benefits will be the same – even if they are with the same provider.

If you’re taking out a policy independently of your company, it makes sense to talk to someone who knows the health insurance market well. Just like applying for a pension or a mortgage, there are certain things that you will need to consider in order to make sure you’re getting the best value health insurance you can:

• Budget – it’s important that you work out what you can afford to pay each month. This is particularly true if finances are already tight, or you’re anticipating problems in the future because of the rising cost of living and the effects of the credit crunch. Don’t take out a policy that costs more than you can afford – missed payments will mean that the cover won’t be there when you need it.
• Who to cover – do you just want the health insurance to cover you, or do you need to include your whole family? More people on the policy obviously means more expense, but you can look at family-friendly policies that may give you a good level of cover for the money you have. NHS hospitals usually have very good care, services and facilities for children, so you might consider just insuring the adults for now until you have some extra cash.
• What the health insurance includes – this is one of the most important things. Think about what you want from a health insurance policy and make sure that you choose one that has everything you need. If you’re very fit and healthy, you might opt for a policy that has lower coverage, which will cost less. If you’re prone to illness or you have an existing condition, you need to check that your condition is covered and that the health insurance provides for the type of treatment you need.
• Exclusions – like all insurance policies, health insurance products carry some exclusions. Before you commit to a particular policy, make sure you know what’s covered and what isn’t – this will save you hassle and heartache in the long term.

The best way to find out everything you need to about your health insurance is to talk to someone with expert market knowledge, who can give you the objective advice you need to choose wisely.

Looking for Private Health Insurance? Speak to Right to Health

Right to Health is a leading UK health insurance intermediary, helping individuals and corporations find the best private health insurance cover. With access to the UK’s top health insurance companies, Right to Health has advised thousands of clients and can help you to get great health coverage for a competitive premium. Right to Health is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, which means that you can be confident that the recommendations you are given really are in your best interests. To find out more or to get a review of your current health insurance, call 08000 753 999 or click the Free Online Quote button at the top of the page.