Over 70s Health Insurance What Are Your Options
As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can be complex, especially in later life. This guide is designed to provide clarity and confidence for those over 70.
WeCovr reviews the best options for older individuals seeking PMI
Entering your 70s and beyond is a time for enjoying life, whether that means spending more time with family, travelling, or dedicating yourself to hobbies. A key part of that enjoyment is knowing you have access to the best possible healthcare when you need it.
While the UK's National Health Service (NHS) is a world-class institution, it is facing unprecedented pressure. According to the latest NHS England data, the waiting list for routine hospital treatment stood at over 7.5 million in late 2024. For many, waiting months for a diagnosis or procedure can cause significant anxiety and a decline in quality of life.
This is where private medical insurance comes in. It's not a replacement for the NHS—which remains essential for accidents, emergencies, and GP services—but a complementary service. It offers a choice to bypass long waits for eligible, non-emergency conditions, giving you speed, comfort, and control over your healthcare journey.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about securing private health cover over the age of 70.
Why Consider Private Medical Insurance Over 70?
For many older individuals, the decision to invest in PMI is driven by a desire for peace of mind and prompt access to care. Here are the primary benefits:
- Bypass NHS Waiting Lists: The most significant advantage. PMI allows you to be seen by a specialist and receive treatment for eligible conditions within weeks, not months or even years. This is particularly crucial for conditions that affect quality of life, such as joint pain requiring a hip replacement or deteriorating vision needing cataract surgery.
- Choice and Control: With a private policy, you have more say in your treatment. You can often choose the consultant who treats you and the hospital you're treated in, from a list provided by your insurer. Appointments can be scheduled at times that are convenient for you, minimising disruption to your life.
- Comfort and Privacy: Private hospitals typically offer a more comfortable environment. You are far more likely to get a private, en-suite room with amenities like a TV and a flexible menu. Visiting hours are also generally more relaxed, making it easier for family and friends to support you.
- Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: On occasion, some advanced drugs, treatments, or surgical techniques may not be available on the NHS due to cost constraints set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). PMI can sometimes provide access to these options, provided they are approved by your insurer.
- Peace of Mind: Perhaps the most valuable benefit is the reassurance that comes from having a plan in place. Knowing you won't have to endure a long and anxious wait for treatment can significantly reduce stress for you and your loved ones.
The Crucial Point: What PMI Does (and Doesn't) Cover
This is the single most important concept to understand before considering private health cover. UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.
Let’s break down what this means.
What is an Acute Condition? An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions that have a clear start and end point.
Examples of acute conditions typically covered:
- Cataract surgery
- Hernia repair
- Joint replacements (hip, knee)
- Gallbladder removal
- Diagnosis and treatment for a new cancer
- Diagnostic tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and X-rays for a new symptom
What are Chronic and Pre-existing Conditions? (And Why They Aren't Covered) This is a fundamental exclusion in all standard UK PMI policies.
- Chronic Condition: A long-term condition that cannot be cured, only managed. This includes illnesses like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure (hypertension), arthritis, and many heart conditions. The day-to-day management of these conditions will always remain with your NHS GP.
- Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment before you took out the insurance policy.
Insurers exclude these to keep premiums affordable. If they were to cover long-term, ongoing care for conditions people already have, the cost of insurance would become impossibly high for everyone.
Important: Even if your chronic condition (like arthritis) is not covered, you can still be covered for a new, unrelated acute condition (like a hernia).
The table below clarifies this critical distinction:
| Typically Covered (New Acute Conditions) | Typically Not Covered (Chronic & Pre-existing) |
|---|---|
| First-time cancer diagnosis and treatment | Management of Type 2 Diabetes |
| Hip or knee replacement for osteoarthritis | Treatment for high blood pressure |
| Surgery for a newly discovered hernia | Ongoing management of arthritis |
| Diagnostic scans for new, unexplained pain | Any condition you sought advice for in the 5 years before your policy started |
| In-patient psychiatric treatment (if included) | Management of long-term asthma or COPD |
| Physiotherapy after an operation | Emergency treatment (A&E) or routine GP visits |
How Does Underwriting Work for Over 70s?
"Underwriting" is the process an insurer uses to assess your health and medical history to decide what they will and will not cover. For individuals over 70, there are two main types.
1. Moratorium Underwriting
This is the most common and straightforward option.
- How it works: You don't need to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any medical condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment in the five years prior to the policy start date.
- The "Two-Year Rule": An exclusion under a moratorium policy can be lifted. If you go for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that specific condition, it may then become eligible for cover.
- Pros: Quick and easy to set up. You don't have to recall your entire medical history.
- Cons: There can be uncertainty. You might not know for sure if a condition is covered until you make a claim and the insurer investigates your medical history.
Example: David, 72, takes out a policy with moratorium underwriting. Three years ago, he had physiotherapy for a sore shoulder. This shoulder pain is automatically excluded for the first two years of his policy. If his shoulder remains symptom-free for those two years, he could then be covered for it in the future.
2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
This method is more detailed and is often preferred (or required) by insurers for older applicants.
- How it works: You complete a comprehensive health questionnaire, declaring your full medical history. The insurer's underwriting team reviews this information and then offers you a policy with a clear list of specific, named exclusions. These exclusions are usually permanent.
- Pros: Absolute clarity from day one. You know exactly what is and isn't covered, with no grey areas when it comes to making a claim.
- Cons: The application process is longer and more involved. The exclusions are typically for life and cannot be removed.
Choosing the right underwriting method is a key decision. An expert broker like WeCovr can talk you through the pros and cons based on your personal health history to help you decide which is more suitable.
What Are the Key Factors Affecting Your Premium?
The cost of private health insurance for a 70-year-old can vary significantly. Premiums are not "one size fits all" and are calculated based on a range of personal and policy-related factors.
- Age: This is the most significant factor. As we get older, the statistical likelihood of needing medical treatment increases, so premiums rise accordingly.
- Location: Where you live in the UK matters. Private hospital costs are higher in major cities, especially Central London. A policy that includes access to these expensive hospitals will cost more than one with a more localised or limited hospital list.
- Level of Cover: You can tailor your policy by choosing different modules.
- Core Cover: All policies start with core cover for in-patient and day-patient treatment (when you need a hospital bed).
- Out-patient Cover: This is a crucial add-on. It covers diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans) and consultations with specialists before you are admitted to hospital. Policies without out-patient cover are cheaper, but you would need to rely on the NHS for your diagnosis, which could still involve a long wait. You can choose a full out-patient cover or a capped amount (e.g., £1,000 per year).
- Therapies: This add-on covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have an excess of £250 and your procedure costs £5,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £4,750. Choosing a higher excess is a very effective way to reduce your monthly premium.
- Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospital lists. A comprehensive list with every private hospital in the UK will be the most expensive. You can lower your premium by choosing a list that excludes the most expensive facilities, or one that is focused on hospitals in your local area.
- No-Claims Discount (NCD): Similar to car insurance, most PMI providers offer an NCD. For every year you don't make a claim, you receive a discount on your renewal premium, up to a maximum level. Making a claim will typically reduce your NCD level.
Reviewing the Best Health Insurance Options for Over 70s
While we can't name one "best" provider, as the right choice is deeply personal, we can highlight the different types of policies and what to look for from the leading UK insurers like Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, and The Exeter.
Working with an independent PMI broker is the most effective way to compare these providers side-by-side.
Types of Policies to Consider
| Feature | Basic 'Treatment-Only' Policy | Comprehensive Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal For | Those on a tighter budget who are happy to use the NHS for diagnosis. | Those wanting a complete private journey from diagnosis to treatment. |
| In-patient/Day-patient Care | ✅ Yes (Core feature) | ✅ Yes (Core feature) |
| Out-patient Cover | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Full or capped) |
| Cancer Cover | ✅ Yes (Often comprehensive as standard) | ✅ Yes (Often with more options for experimental drugs) |
| Therapies (Physio etc.) | ➕ Optional Add-on | ➕ Often included or a popular add-on |
| Mental Health Cover | ➕ Optional Add-on | ➕ Often included or a popular add-on |
| Monthly Premium | Lower | Higher |
What to Look for in a Provider
- Specialist Insurers: Some providers, like The Exeter, are known as friendly societies and have a strong reputation for offering cover to older applicants, often with no upper age limit for joining.
- Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of most policies. Check the details carefully. Most offer extensive cover for surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Look for extras like cover for wigs, prostheses, and access to specialist cancer support nurses.
- Mental Health Pathways: Support for mental health is increasingly important. Many insurers now offer pathways to talking therapies or psychiatric treatment, often accessible without a GP referral.
- Added Value Benefits: Look beyond the core cover. Many providers include valuable extras such as:
- A 24/7 remote GP service.
- Health and wellbeing support lines.
- Discounts on gym memberships or fitness trackers.
How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Policy
Choosing a private medical insurance policy, especially with the complexities that come with applying over 70, can feel overwhelming. This is where an independent broker like WeCovr adds enormous value.
- We Are Experts: We live and breathe private medical insurance. Our team understands the nuances of each provider's policies and their specific criteria for older applicants.
- We Do the Shopping For You: Instead of you having to contact multiple insurers, we do the legwork. We search the market to find the policies that best match your needs and budget.
- We Provide Tailored, Impartial Advice: Our allegiance is to you, not the insurance company. We'll explain the jargon, compare the key features, and highlight the crucial differences in cancer cover, hospital lists, and underwriting.
- Our Service is Free: We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so our expert advice and support come at no extra cost to you. The premium is the same as if you went direct.
- Exclusive Benefits: As a WeCovr client, you'll also receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Plus, you can benefit from discounts on other insurance products when you take out a health or life insurance policy.
With high customer satisfaction ratings, our goal is to build long-term relationships and ensure you have the right cover not just today, but for years to come.
Top Tips for Staying Healthy Over 70
Insurance is a safety net, but the best approach to health is prevention. Here are some evidence-based tips to help you stay fit, active, and well in your 70s and beyond.
- Keep Moving: The NHS recommends adults aged 65 and over aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, dancing, or swimming. It's also vital to include activities that improve strength and balance, like yoga, pilates or simple chair-based exercises, at least twice a week to reduce the risk of falls.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: A healthy diet is crucial for energy, bone health, and preventing chronic illness. Focus on the principles of the NHS Eatwell Guide: plenty of fruit and vegetables, wholegrain carbohydrates, lean proteins (fish, chicken, beans), and low-fat dairy for calcium. Staying hydrated is also key.
- Stay Socially Connected: According to Age UK, more than a million older people say they go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member. Loneliness can have a serious impact on both mental and physical health. Make an effort to connect with others—join a local club, volunteer, or schedule regular calls and visits with loved ones.
- Prioritise Sleep: Good sleep is essential for cognitive function and physical repair. Aim for 7-8 hours per night. Establish a regular routine, make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet, and avoid caffeine and heavy meals late at night.
- Use NHS Health Checks: Don't forget the excellent preventative services the NHS provides. Attend your free NHS Health Check if invited, and ensure you're up to date with routine screenings for cancer (bowel, breast), diabetic eye screening, and regular eye and hearing tests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is private health insurance worth it for over 70s?
Can I get health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition like arthritis or diabetes?
What is the average cost of private health insurance for a 70-year-old in the UK?
Is there an age limit for taking out private medical insurance?
Ready to explore your options? Finding the right private health cover gives you control and confidence in your future healthcare. The expert, friendly team at WeCovr is here to provide impartial advice and help you compare the leading UK providers.
Get your FREE, no-obligation quote today and take the first step towards faster healthcare.
Related guides
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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