Thursday
Tips on Choosing Private Medical Insurance
When you're looking for a private medical insurance policy, it's important that you know what to look for and understand the information that you're presented with. These are some of the areas you'll probably want to consider.
Private medical plan coverage
Look closely at what any health insurance policy actually covers before you sign on the dotted line. Not all policies cover the same things. For example, some cover hospital treatments and procedures, while others will also cover consultations and out-patient treatments. Look for which conditions are and are not covered too.
Think about what matters to you and choose a policy which fits in with that.
Flexibility
Some private medical plans have a pool of treatment providers that you can choose from, whereas others give you complete freedom to choose your own hospital. Weigh this issue up, alongside what else the policy offers to choose what's best for you.
Quotes
Always get more than one private medical insurance quote before making a final decision on your private medical plan. Don't automatically just go for the cheapest plan though - you have to assess the package as a whole.
Small print
Make sure you read and understand the small print of any private medical plan before you sign up. Don't be afraid to ask for any clarifications if necessary.
Help and support
Consider what kind of advice and support private medical plan providers offer. You want to be able to ask questions and get an answer quickly and have guidance on hand if you need it. Some providers have an enquiry hotline and some also offer a service where they can arrange treatment on your behalf if you require it.
Payment options
Find out about how you will be expected to pay your insurance premiums. Will you have to pay everything upfront or can you negotiate monthly payments to suit your budget?
Ask about payments for treatment as well. What if you decide to have treatment on the NHS? Will you still receive a cash payout? How do you arrange for treatment payment? How do you know your insurance will cover the cost of any treatment?
Doing your research
Obviously with so many things to consider when you're looking for a private medical plan, it's important that you do your research thoroughly. Write down what's important to you and some sample questions that you want to ask. Use the internet, telephone and possibly face-to-face meetings for your research. Compare the quotes and plans on offer.
Remember, though, that although value for money is important, the very cheapest private health plan might not be the best one for you.
There are many issues to consider when choosing health insurance. Shop around and don't be afraid to ask questions to make sure you get a policy that suits you.
Sarah_Cornish
