When comparing private medical insurance, follow one possible treatment journey from start to finish. Imagine your GP refers you to a specialist about persistent knee pain. You might need a consultation, a scan and a follow-up visit before anyone discusses surgery. Ask which steps the policy would cover, which need approval and what you would pay yourself.
Can I use a hospital and specialist near me?
Look up the hospitals you could realistically get to from home or work. Then ask whether your chosen consultant is recognised by the insurer and whether their fees fall within its limits. A hospital appearing on the list does not settle every part of the bill. Ask who obtains authorisation before you book a test or appointment.
What costs could I still face?
Check the excess, when it applies and whether several appointments count as one claim. If the policy has an annual outpatient limit, ask whether it applies to consultations, tests or both. For example, with £400 of outpatient allowance remaining, an eligible £550 bill could leave £150 to pay before any applicable excess. The actual calculation depends on the policy.
How will existing symptoms be treated?
Tell the insurer what it requests about previous symptoms, investigations and treatment. Ask for written confirmation of exclusions and how the policy treats ongoing monitoring or recurrent symptoms. If you already have cover through work, check whether dependants are included and what happens when employment ends. MoneyHelper’s private medical insurance guide explains common limits.
Which problem are you trying to solve?
Private medical insurance helps meet eligible treatment costs. If a long absence would make it difficult to pay your mortgage, income protection addresses the loss of earnings. If a lump sum after a covered diagnosis would be more useful, critical illness cover is a separate option.
Before asking for quotes, list your preferred hospitals, your monthly budget and the amount you could pay towards a claim. Speak to Greenacre about private medical insurance to compare the features that matter to you.