Private Health Insurance for Over 50s, 60s and 70s in the UK
As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr specialises in helping you navigate the UK private medical insurance market. This guide provides clear, expert advice for those over 50, 60, and 70 considering their health cover options.
Costs, cover, and what older adults need to know about private health insurance
Navigating the world of private health insurance can feel complex, especially as we get older. Health naturally becomes a greater priority, and understanding your options for care is a vital part of planning for a vibrant future.
While the NHS provides an essential service to the nation, many people in their 50s, 60s, and 70s look to private medical insurance (PMI) for faster access to treatment, greater choice, and enhanced comfort.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the typical costs and levels of cover to the crucial details about pre-existing conditions. We'll demystify the jargon and provide practical steps to help you find the right policy for your needs and budget.
Why Consider Private Health Insurance in Your 50s, 60s, and 70s?
As we age, the likelihood of needing medical treatment increases. This reality, combined with evolving pressures on the NHS, leads many to explore private options.
Key reasons for considering PMI in later life include:
- Bypassing Waiting Lists: This is often the primary driver. According to recent NHS England data, the waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at several million people. For common procedures needed by older adults, such as hip or knee replacements and cataract surgery, waiting times can be extensive. PMI allows you to bypass these queues and receive treatment promptly.
- Rapid Access to Diagnostics: Getting a swift and accurate diagnosis is the first step to recovery. PMI can provide fast access to MRI, CT, and PET scans, often within days of a GP referral, helping to reduce anxiety and start treatment sooner.
- Choice and Control: Private health cover gives you more control over your care. You can often choose the specialist or surgeon who treats you and select a hospital from an approved list, including those with renowned centres of excellence.
- Comfort and Privacy: Recovering from treatment is easier in a comfortable environment. A significant benefit of private care is the high likelihood of having a private, en-suite room with more flexible visiting hours, a TV, and a choice of food.
- Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some advanced cancer drugs and therapies, while approved for use, may not be available on the NHS due to funding decisions. Comprehensive PMI policies can provide access to these treatments, offering another line of defence.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), while life expectancy is increasing, 'healthy life expectancy' (the number of years we can expect to live in good health) is not keeping pace. This gap highlights the importance of having a plan for managing health conditions that may arise in our later years.
The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions
This is the single most important concept to understand about private medical insurance in the UK. Failure to grasp this distinction is the source of most confusion and disappointment.
PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that begin after your policy starts.
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An Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. It's a short-term, curable issue.
- Examples: Cataracts, joint replacements (hip, knee), hernia repair, gallstones, most infections, and bone fractures.
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A Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics:
- It needs long-term monitoring and management.
- It has no known cure.
- It is likely to recur.
- It requires ongoing medication or special diets.
- Examples: Diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), asthma, arthritis, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
Standard private health insurance policies do NOT cover the routine management of chronic conditions. They also do not cover pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy. For example, if you already have arthritis, your PMI policy will not pay for your regular rheumatologist appointments or medication. However, if you later develop an unrelated acute condition, like a hernia, your policy would cover the surgery for that.
How Does Underwriting Affect Cover for Over 50s?
'Underwriting' is the process an insurer uses to assess your health and medical history to decide what they will and won't cover. For older applicants, understanding the two main types is key to avoiding surprises later.
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Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting
- How it works: You don't have to fill out a detailed medical questionnaire when you apply. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or medical advice in the 5 years before your policy began.
- The '2-Year Rule': An exclusion on a pre-existing condition may be lifted if you go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy start date without experiencing any symptoms, or seeking advice or treatment for it.
- Pros: Quick and easy to set up.
- Cons: There can be uncertainty. When you make a claim, the insurer will investigate your medical history to see if it was a pre-existing condition, which can sometimes lead to delays or denied claims.
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Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
- How it works: You complete a comprehensive health questionnaire as part of your application, declaring your full medical history.
- Clarity from Day One: The insurer assesses your answers and provides you with a policy document that clearly states any specific exclusions from the outset. There are no grey areas.
- Pros: You know exactly what is and isn't covered from the start. The claims process is often smoother as the underwriting work has already been done.
- Cons: The application process takes longer.
For many people over 50, particularly those with a known medical history, Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) often provides greater peace of mind and certainty. An expert PMI broker can help you decide which underwriting method is best for your personal circumstances.
What Does Private Health Insurance Typically Cover for Older Adults?
While policies vary, most are built around a core foundation with optional extras. This allows you to tailor the cover to your needs and budget.
Core Cover (Usually included as standard)
- In-patient & Day-patient Treatment: This covers costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed for treatment, either overnight (in-patient) or just for the day (day-patient). This includes surgery, hospital accommodation, and nursing care.
- Comprehensive Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of most PMI policies. It typically covers diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies. Many policies also offer access to breakthrough drugs not yet available on the NHS.
Optional Add-ons (Customise your policy)
- Out-patient Cover: This is one of the most important options to consider. It covers costs for treatment where you aren't admitted to a hospital bed. This includes:
- Specialist consultations.
- Diagnostic tests and scans (MRI, CT, X-rays).
- Minor procedures. You can usually choose a level of out-patient cover, from a set financial limit (e.g., £1,000 per year) to fully comprehensive cover. Limiting this is a key way to manage your premium.
- Therapies Cover: This provides cover for treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, which are vital for recovery from surgery or musculoskeletal injuries.
- Mental Health Cover: Support for mental wellbeing is increasingly a focus. This can range from access to telephone counselling lines to cover for psychiatric treatment.
- Dental and Optical Cover: This is less common and usually a separate add-on for routine check-ups and treatments.
Added Value Benefits
Modern insurers compete by offering a host of valuable extras, often included at no additional cost:
- Digital/Virtual GP: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, allowing you to get medical advice and prescriptions quickly without leaving home.
- Health and Wellness Support: Many providers offer discounted gym memberships, health screenings, and access to wellness apps. For example, WeCovr provides complimentary access to its AI-powered CalorieHero app to help clients manage their nutrition and health goals.
- Second Medical Opinion Services: If you are diagnosed with a serious condition, this service allows you to have your case reviewed by a leading world expert.
What is Typically Excluded from a PMI Policy?
Understanding the exclusions is just as important as knowing what's covered.
- Pre-existing Conditions: As explained, any condition you had before the policy started.
- Chronic Conditions: Ongoing management of long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma.
- Emergency Services: A&E visits are handled by the NHS. PMI is for planned, elective treatment.
- Routine Pregnancy and Childbirth: Normal pregnancies are not covered, though some complications might be.
- Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures done purely for aesthetic reasons are excluded.
- Self-inflicted Injuries: This includes issues arising from drug or alcohol misuse.
Understanding the Cost of PMI for Over 50s, 60s, and 70s
There is no "one-size-fits-all" price for private health insurance. Your premium is calculated based on a range of personal and policy-related factors.
Key Factors Influencing Your Premium:
| Factor | How it Affects Your Premium |
|---|---|
| Age | This is the most significant factor. The older you are, the higher the statistical likelihood of claiming, so premiums increase with age. |
| Location | Where you live matters. Premiums are highest in Central London and the South East due to the higher cost of private hospitals there. |
| Level of Cover | A comprehensive policy with full out-patient and therapies cover will cost more than a basic policy covering only in-patient treatment. |
| Excess | This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your first claim each year. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium. |
| Hospital List | Insurers offer different lists of hospitals. A policy with a limited local list will be cheaper than one with a nationwide list including premium London hospitals. |
| Underwriting Type | Moratorium policies can sometimes be slightly cheaper initially than FMU policies. |
| Lifestyle | Your smoking status will have a direct impact on your premium. |
Illustrative Monthly Premiums for Older Adults
The table below provides example costs to give you a general idea. These are for non-smokers living outside London. Your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances and choices.
| Age | Basic Policy (Core cover, £500 excess, limited hospital list) | Comprehensive Policy (Full out-patient, therapies, nationwide hospitals, £250 excess) |
|---|---|---|
| 55 | £80 - £120 | £150 - £220 |
| 65 | £140 - £200 | £250 - £350 |
| 75 | £250 - £380 | £450 - £600+ |
Disclaimer: These prices are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a quote. For an accurate price, it's essential to speak to an adviser.
How to Reduce the Cost of Your Private Health Insurance Policy
While premiums for older adults are higher, there are several effective strategies to make your private health cover more affordable without sacrificing essential protection.
- Increase Your Excess: Opting for a higher excess (e.g., £250, £500, or even £1,000) is one of the simplest ways to significantly reduce your monthly payments. You only pay this amount if you make a claim.
- Choose a "6-Week Option": This is a brilliant cost-saving feature. If the NHS waiting list for your required in-patient procedure is less than six weeks, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private policy kicks in. As many routine NHS waits are now much longer than this, it offers a great balance of savings and security.
- Tailor Your Hospital List: If you don't live near London, choosing a hospital list that excludes the most expensive city-centre facilities can lead to substantial savings.
- Manage Your Out-patient Cover: Instead of unlimited out-patient cover, consider a policy with a set annual limit (e.g., £1,000). This covers the most likely costs of consultations and a scan, while keeping premiums manageable.
- Review Your Policy Annually: The health insurance market is competitive. Don't simply let your policy auto-renew. Each year, your circumstances may change. Using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr allows you to compare the latest policies and prices from across the market, ensuring you always have the best value.
- Look for Bundled Discounts: When you purchase PMI or life insurance through WeCovr, you may be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, adding further value.
Choosing the Best PMI Provider in the UK for Older Adults
The "best" provider is the one that offers the right combination of cover, service, and price for you. The leading private medical insurance providers in the UK each have their own strengths:
- Bupa: One of the most recognised names, with a strong reputation and a wide network of hospitals.
- AXA Health: Known for its comprehensive cover options and strong focus on mental health support and wellbeing services.
- Aviva: A major UK insurer offering a wide range of customisable policies and excellent digital tools.
- Vitality: Unique in its focus on rewarding healthy living. Members can earn discounts and rewards for staying active.
- WPA: A not-for-profit provider often praised for its excellent customer service and flexible policies.
Navigating the subtle differences between these providers can be challenging. This is where an expert broker adds immense value. An independent adviser at WeCovr will take the time to understand your personal health needs, priorities, and budget. They can then impartially compare policies from these leading insurers to find the perfect match, saving you time and money.
Staying Healthy in Your Later Years: Beyond Insurance
Private health insurance is a safety net for when things go wrong, but the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. A healthy lifestyle in your 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond can significantly improve your quality of life.
- Nourish Your Body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Ensure adequate intake of calcium and Vitamin D for bone health. Tools like the CalorieHero app can help you track your nutrition effectively.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity is crucial. Aim for a mix of:
- Cardio: Brisk walking, swimming, or cycling to keep your heart healthy.
- Strength: Resistance training (using weights or bodyweight) to maintain muscle mass and bone density.
- Flexibility and Balance: Yoga or tai chi to help prevent falls.
- Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate mood, improve cognitive function, and support your immune system.
- Stay Socially Connected: Maintaining strong social ties with friends, family, and your community is a powerful buffer against loneliness and is linked to better mental and physical health outcomes.
- Attend Health Screenings: Take advantage of the free NHS Health Check offered to adults in England aged 40-74. Regular blood pressure, cholesterol, and other checks can catch potential issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get private health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?
Is there an age limit for taking out a new private health insurance policy?
What is the difference between using a broker like WeCovr and going direct to an insurer?
Do I still need to pay National Insurance and use the NHS if I have private health insurance?
Ready to explore your options? Taking the first step towards the peace of mind that private health cover can bring is simple. The expert, friendly advisors at WeCovr are here to help. We compare leading UK insurers to find a policy that fits your personal needs and budget, all at no cost to you.
Get your free, no-obligation quote today and take control of your health journey.
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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