Private Health Insurance by Region UK (2026)

The NHS provides free healthcare, but waiting times for non-urgent treatment can be long (18+ weeks in some regions). Private health insurance gives you faster access, choice of specialist, and private hospital rooms.

Premiums vary by age, location, and cover level — typically £40–£120/month for an individual. Older individuals and those in London pay more. Corporate schemes through employers are often significantly cheaper.

Most policies cover consultations, diagnostics, surgery, and hospital stays for acute conditions. They typically don't cover pre-existing conditions, GP visits, dental, optical, pregnancy, or chronic disease management.

Defaqto is an independent financial research company that rates insurance products from 1 to 5 stars based on the comprehensiveness of cover. A 5-star rating means the policy has one of the most comprehensive feature sets on the market.

Yes — most people use both. The NHS handles GP visits, A&E, and ongoing prescriptions, while private insurance is used for specialist referrals, diagnostics, and elective surgery where NHS waiting times are long.

Outpatient treatment involves consultations and procedures where you do not stay overnight in a hospital, while inpatient treatment requires you to be admitted for at least one night. Private health insurance typically covers both, but it's important to check your specific policy details.

Choosing the right excess level depends on your budget and health needs. A higher excess usually leads to lower premiums, but you'll pay more out-of-pocket when claiming. Consider your financial situation and how often you expect to need medical care when making your decision.

Corporate health insurance schemes are policies purchased by employers to provide health cover for their employees. These schemes can offer comprehensive benefits at lower costs due to bulk purchasing. Typically, only employees of the company can access these plans, but family members may be included.

Health cash plans are not insurance policies but savings schemes that help cover everyday health costs like dental and optical care. You pay a monthly premium and can claim back a portion of your expenses, making it a more affordable option for routine healthcare needs.

Some policies include psychiatric and psychological outpatient treatment, but cover varies widely. Many policies cap mental health sessions (e.g. 10–20 per year) or require a GP referral. Corporate schemes often include more generous mental health cover. Demand for mental health coverage has grown significantly — always check this section of the policy wording carefully.