Bupa vs AXA Health Which PMI Is Better
Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel like a monumental task. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the importance of clarity. This guide directly compares two of the UK's leading providers, Bupa and AXA Health, to help you make an informed decision.
Direct comparison of features, pricing, customer service and exclusions
When you're weighing up your options, a side-by-side view is often the most helpful. Bupa and AXA Health are both titans of the UK private health cover market, but they have distinct differences in their approach, offerings, and pricing structure.
Here is a high-level overview to get us started.
| Feature | Bupa | AXA Health | Key Consideration for You |
|---|---|---|---|
| Market Position | UK's largest PMI provider, extensive network. | Global insurance giant, strong UK presence. | Both are stable, reputable choices with vast resources. |
| Core Cover Focus | In-patient and day-patient treatment as standard. | Comprehensive core cover with a high degree of customisation. | Both cover the essentials, the difference is in the detail. |
| Cancer Cover | Extensive cancer cover, no time or financial limits on eligible treatment. | Full cancer cover as standard, including chemotherapy and aftercare. | Both offer excellent cancer care. Check specifics on experimental drugs. |
| Mental Health | Strong focus, often included in core or as a priority upgrade. | Comprehensive mental health options, including therapies. | Your personal priority for mental health support will be key here. |
| Digital GP | 'Babylon' digital GP service available 24/7. | 'Doctor at Hand' service provided by AXA's own company. | Both offer fast, convenient access to a GP. |
| Underwriting | Moratorium, Full Medical Underwriting (FMU). | Moratorium, Full Medical Underwriting (FMU). | Your medical history will determine the best option for you. |
| Wellness App | Bupa Touch app for policy management and health support. | AXA Health app with access to services and support. | Both offer useful digital tools to manage your health and policy. |
| Customer Service | Generally positive, large-scale operation. | Strong reputation for customer service and claims handling. | Personal preference may come down to user reviews and specific experiences. |
This table provides a snapshot, but the best PMI provider for you depends entirely on your personal circumstances, budget, and health priorities. Let's dive deeper.
Who are Bupa and AXA Health? A Look at the Giants
Understanding the heritage and scale of these organisations can provide confidence in their ability to deliver on their promises.
Bupa: A Household Name in UK Healthcare
Bupa (the British United Provident Association) has been a cornerstone of UK healthcare since its formation in 1947, just before the NHS. It was founded with the aim of preventing, relieving, and curing sickness and ill-health.
Unlike many insurers, Bupa has no shareholders. This means it reinvests its profits back into healthcare services, technology, and facilities. It's a vast organisation that not only provides insurance but also operates its own network of hospitals, clinics, and care homes. This integrated approach gives them a unique perspective on healthcare delivery.
- Established: 1947
- Structure: A company limited by guarantee (no shareholders)
- Key Strength: Deeply integrated into UK healthcare with its own facilities and a massive network.
AXA Health: The Global Powerhouse
AXA Health is part of the global AXA Group, one of the world's largest insurance and asset management companies. In the UK, their health insurance arm was significantly bolstered when they acquired Simplyhealth's private medical insurance business and, before that, PPP Healthcare.
This global backing gives AXA Health immense financial stability and access to worldwide health trends and innovations. They are known for their customer-centric approach, clear policy language, and a strong focus on empowering members to take control of their health.
- Established: Roots in the UK as PPP Healthcare from 1940.
- Structure: Part of the publicly-listed global AXA Group.
- Key Strength: Financial might, global expertise, and a strong focus on customer service and technology.
Core Cover: What's Included as Standard?
The foundation of any private medical insurance policy is its 'core cover'. This is the part of the plan that covers the most significant medical costs, primarily related to hospital stays. Both Bupa and AXA Health build their policies around a solid core, but with subtle differences.
A Critical Note on PMI: It's vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure) or pre-existing conditions that you had before you took out the policy.
Here’s how their core offerings typically compare:
| Core Cover Element | Bupa (Comprehensive Policy) | AXA Health (Personal Health Policy) |
|---|---|---|
| In-patient & Day-patient | Covered in full (for eligible conditions). | Covered in full (for eligible conditions). |
| Cancer Cover | Covered in full for eligible treatment, with no time limits. | Full cover for cancer treatment as standard. |
| Surgeon & Anaesthetist Fees | Covered in full when using a Bupa-recognised consultant. | Covered in full for recognised specialists. |
| Hospital Charges | Covered in full at a hospital from your chosen list. | Covered in full at a hospital from your chosen list. |
| Diagnostics (Scans) | MRI, CT, and PET scans covered for in-patient/day-patient care. | MRI, CT, and PET scans covered for in-patient/day-patient care. |
| Virtual GP Access | Yes, 24/7 access via Babylon. | Yes, 24/7 access via Doctor at Hand. |
| Mental Health Support | Some support included as standard, full cover is an add-on. | Focus on wellbeing support, full cover is an add-on. |
Both providers ensure that if you need to be admitted to hospital for surgery or treatment for a new, acute condition, the major costs will be covered. The main differences start to appear when you look at out-patient limits and optional extras.
Optional Extras & Customisation: Tailoring Your Policy
This is where you can truly shape your policy to fit your needs and budget. Adding or removing options is the primary way to control your premium.
Bupa 'By You' Customisation
Bupa's 'By You' product is designed to be flexible. You start with their core 'Comprehensive' cover and can then add or remove benefits.
- Out-patient Cover: This is a crucial option. Without it, you would need to rely on the NHS for consultations and diagnostic tests leading up to a private procedure. Bupa typically offers various levels, such as £500, £750, £1,000, or unlimited.
- Therapies: This covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care. You can add this on, often with limits on the number of sessions.
- Mental Health Cover: While basic support is included, Bupa offers an extensive mental health add-on. This covers consultations with psychiatrists and treatment at specialist mental health facilities.
- Dental and Optical Cover: This can be added to contribute towards routine check-ups, treatments, and prescription eyewear. It operates more like a cashback plan.
- Hospital List Choice: Choosing a more restricted hospital network (e.g., excluding central London hospitals) can significantly reduce your premium.
AXA Health 'Personal Health' Customisation
AXA Health also offers a highly customisable plan, allowing you to build cover that suits you.
- Out-patient Options: AXA often provides different ways to manage out-patient costs. You might choose a set number of consultations or a monetary limit. Their "Standard" out-patient option is a popular middle ground.
- Therapies Cover: Like Bupa, you can add cover for physiotherapy and other complementary treatments. AXA's "First Choice" network provides access to approved therapists.
- Mental Health Options: AXA provides a comprehensive pathway, from initial support via their app to full psychiatric cover if you select this option.
- Dental and Optical: This can be added as a separate module, providing cashback for routine care.
- Travel Cover: AXA sometimes allows you to add a travel insurance option to your health policy, which can be convenient.
- Hospital List: AXA's "Directory of Hospitals" has different tiers. Opting for a more local or limited list will lower your costs.
The best way to navigate these options is to speak with an expert PMI broker like WeCovr. We can model different scenarios for you, showing exactly how adding or removing a benefit impacts your monthly premium at no extra cost to you.
The Crucial Question of Cost: Bupa vs AXA Health Pricing
Price is, for many, the deciding factor. It's impossible to give a definitive "cheaper" verdict, as the cost of private medical insurance UK is highly personal.
Several key factors influence your premium:
- Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
- Location: Living in areas with higher treatment costs (like London and the South East) will result in higher premiums.
- Level of Cover: The more optional extras you add (e.g., unlimited out-patient, full mental health), the more you'll pay.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will lower your monthly premium.
- Underwriting: The type of underwriting you choose will affect your price and what's covered.
Illustrative Price Comparison
To give you a rough idea, here are some example profiles. These are illustrative estimates only and not a quote. Your actual price will vary.
Assumptions: Non-smoker, living in a mid-cost region (e.g., Manchester), £250 excess, standard hospital list, and a mid-range out-patient cover of £1,000.
| Age | Bupa 'By You' (Illustrative Monthly Premium) | AXA 'Personal Health' (Illustrative Monthly Premium) |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | £45 - £60 | £40 - £55 |
| 45 | £70 - £90 | £65 - £85 |
| 60 | £120 - £150 | £110 - £140 |
Observations:
- Historically, AXA Health has often been slightly more competitive on price for younger applicants, while Bupa's pricing can be very competitive for older demographics or those seeking the most comprehensive cover.
- These figures can change based on promotions, underwriting choices, and the specific combination of benefits. The only way to get a true comparison is to get personalised quotes.
Underwriting Explained: Moratorium vs Full Medical Underwriting
This is perhaps the most technical, yet most important, part of applying for PMI.
-
Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes treatment for any medical conditions you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the five years before your policy started. However, if you then go for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's simpler and quicker to set up.
-
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your full medical history. The insurer's underwriting team assesses this and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. Any pre-existing conditions will be explicitly excluded in writing on your policy documents. This provides certainty but takes longer to set up.
Both Bupa and AXA Health offer both types of underwriting. A broker can help you decide which is more suitable for your personal medical history.
Hospital Lists: Where Can You Be Treated?
Your choice of hospital list has a direct impact on your premium. Both insurers have negotiated rates with hospital groups across the UK.
-
Bupa's Hospital Networks: Bupa typically offers three tiers.
- Essential Access: A limited list of hospitals, offering the lowest price.
- Extended Choice: A comprehensive list including private wings of NHS hospitals and most private hospital groups.
- Extended Choice with Central London: The most comprehensive list, including the high-cost private hospitals in central London.
-
AXA's Directory of Hospitals: AXA also has a tiered system.
- Local Hospital Lists: You can sometimes choose a list restricted to specific local hospital groups.
- Standard Directory: A wide-ranging list covering the majority of the UK's private hospitals.
- London Upgrades: A specific add-on is required to access the premium London hospitals.
For most people outside the M25, a standard or extended list without the London upgrade is perfectly adequate and more cost-effective.
Making a Claim: The Customer Journey
The moment of truth for any insurance policy is when you need to use it. Both Bupa and AXA have streamlined their claims processes.
The Typical Claims Process:
- See Your GP: You feel unwell and visit your NHS or private GP.
- Get a Referral: If your GP thinks you need to see a specialist, they will write you an 'open referral' letter.
- Contact Your Insurer: You call Bupa or AXA Health's claims line or log the claim via their app. You'll need your policy number and the details from the referral letter.
- Authorisation: The insurer checks that the condition and proposed treatment are covered by your policy. They will provide you with an authorisation number.
- Book Your Appointment: The insurer will provide you with a list of approved specialists and hospitals. You then book your consultation or treatment.
- Direct Settlement: The hospital and specialist will usually bill the insurer directly. You only need to pay your chosen excess.
Both Bupa and AXA have large, UK-based claims teams. AXA Health, in particular, often receives praise for its clear communication and efficient claims handling.
Customer Service and Reputation: What Do Real Customers Say?
Customer service is subjective, but we can look at public data to get a feel for general satisfaction levels.
- Trustpilot: As of late 2024/early 2025, both companies have thousands of reviews. AXA Health generally holds a slightly higher Trustpilot rating than Bupa UK, often praised for its helpful staff and smooth processes. Bupa, being a larger entity, has a wider range of reviews covering all its services (insurance, dental, care homes), which can sometimes dilute the insurance-specific feedback.
- FCA Complaint Data: The Financial Conduct Authority publishes data on complaints received by financial firms. Historically, both firms have a low complaints-to-policies ratio, reflecting their professionalism. However, it's always worth checking the latest data.
- Industry Awards: Both providers regularly win awards for their products and services at industry events like the Health Insurance & Protection Awards.
Working with an independent broker like WeCovr gives you an extra layer of support. If you ever have an issue with a claim, we can advocate on your behalf, using our expertise and relationship with the insurer to help find a resolution. WeCovr consistently receives high satisfaction ratings from our customers for this very reason.
Digital Tools & Wellness Programmes: Beyond Just Insurance
Modern private health cover is about more than just paying for treatment; it's about helping you stay healthy.
| Feature | Bupa | AXA Health |
|---|---|---|
| Main App | Bupa Touch: Manage policy, make claims, access digital GP, view health information. | AXA Health App: Access Doctor at Hand, find specialists, manage wellbeing. |
| Virtual GP | Babylon: 24/7 video or phone consultations with a GP. | Doctor at Hand: 24/7 video consultations with a GP (an AXA-owned company). |
| Mental Health App | Access to SilverCloud Health for online CBT programmes. | Proactive support through the app and 'Mind Health' service. |
| Other Perks | Member offers including gym discounts and health assessments. | 'ActivePlus' discounts on gym memberships and fitness trackers. |
In addition to these excellent tools, when you arrange your policy through WeCovr, you also get complimentary lifetime access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. This powerful tool can help you manage your diet and achieve your health goals, perfectly complementing the wellness benefits offered by your insurer.
Exclusions: What's NOT Covered?
Understanding exclusions is non-negotiable. As mentioned, PMI is for new, acute conditions. Here are the things that are almost universally not covered by standard Bupa or AXA Health policies:
- Pre-existing conditions (unless you have been symptom-free for the required period under moratorium underwriting).
- Chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, and high blood pressure. PMI may cover an acute flare-up, but not the day-to-day management.
- Emergency services (A&E visits are handled by the NHS).
- Normal pregnancy and childbirth.
- Cosmetic surgery (unless required for reconstructive purposes after an accident or eligible cancer surgery).
- Self-inflicted injuries or conditions arising from substance abuse.
- Infertility treatment.
Always read your policy documents carefully to understand the full list of exclusions.
A Note on Wellness: A Proactive Approach to Your Health
While insurance provides a safety net, the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. Insurers like Bupa and AXA encourage this because a healthier member is less likely to claim.
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables is fundamental. Tools like WeCovr's CalorieHero app can make tracking your intake simple and effective.
- Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be a brisk walk, a bike ride, or a swim.
- Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's as important as diet and exercise for your physical and mental resilience.
- Stress Management: Utilise the mental health resources provided by your insurer. Even a few minutes of mindfulness or a chat with a telephone counsellor can make a huge difference.
Why Use a Broker like WeCovr?
You can go direct to Bupa or AXA, but you might be missing out. Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no cost to you.
- Whole-of-Market Advice: We aren't tied to one insurer. We compare Bupa, AXA Health, and other leading providers like Vitality and Aviva to find the policy that truly fits your needs and budget.
- Expert Guidance: We demystify the jargon. We'll explain underwriting, hospital lists, and benefit options in plain English so you can choose with confidence.
- Price Savings: We have access to the entire market and can quickly identify the best value. Furthermore, if you buy your PMI or life insurance policy through us, we can offer you discounts on other types of cover you might need, such as home or travel insurance.
- Hassle-Free Process: We handle the paperwork and application process for you, saving you time and effort.
- Claims Support: If you need to make a claim, we're here to help. We can provide guidance and liaise with the insurer on your behalf if any issues arise.
Bupa vs AXA Health: The Final Verdict
So, which is better?
- Choose Bupa if you value a deeply integrated healthcare provider with its own facilities and you want arguably the most comprehensive, no-limits cancer cover on the market.
- Choose AXA Health if you prioritise excellent customer service, a highly customisable policy, competitive pricing for younger applicants, and the backing of a global financial giant.
Ultimately, there is no single "best" provider. The best private medical insurance provider is the one that offers the right combination of cover, service, and price for you.
The smartest move is to compare them both, along with other leading insurers.
Do I need a GP referral to use my private medical insurance?
Can I add my family to my Bupa or AXA Health policy?
What happens to my premium every year?
Ready to Find Your Perfect Policy?
Don't navigate the complex world of private medical insurance alone. Let the experts at WeCovr do the hard work for you. Get a free, no-obligation quote today and compare Bupa, AXA Health, and more to find the best cover at the best price.
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.
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