Private Health Insurance for Over 70s UK
As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the UK private medical insurance market can feel daunting, especially later in life. This guide provides a clear, authoritative look at private health cover for over 70s, demystifying the options available.
Whats available, whats excluded, and what it costs
Navigating private health insurance in your 70s, 80s, and beyond involves understanding three core elements: what treatments you can get covered, what is almost always excluded, and the likely cost. Policies are designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you faster access to treatment for new, eligible medical conditions. However, they are not designed to replace the NHS, especially for managing long-term illnesses or pre-existing conditions. The price you pay will directly reflect your age, your health, and the level of cover you choose.
Why Consider Private Health Insurance Over 70?
While the NHS provides exceptional care, it faces undeniable pressures. For many over 70, the primary motivation for considering private medical insurance (PMI) is to bypass long waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment, ensuring health issues are addressed quickly and efficiently.
According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for elective treatment can be several months, and for some specialities, significantly longer. This delay can impact quality of life, mobility, and overall well-being.
Key Benefits of Private Health Cover:
- Speed of Access: Get prompt appointments with specialists and schedule surgery or treatment at a time that suits you.
- Choice and Control: Select your preferred consultant and hospital from a list provided by your insurer.
- Comfort and Privacy: Benefit from a private room, often with an en-suite bathroom, creating a more comfortable and restful environment for recovery.
- Access to Specialist Care: Some policies offer access to breakthrough drugs or treatments that may not yet be available on the NHS due to funding decisions.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a plan in place to handle unexpected health concerns can significantly reduce anxiety for you and your family.
Crucially, PMI is a partner to the NHS, not a replacement. You will still rely on the NHS for accident and emergency services, GP visits, and the management of any long-term chronic conditions.
Understanding What UK Private Health Insurance Covers
This is the most important concept to grasp. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions that develop after your policy has started.
- 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 like cataracts, joint replacements (hip or knee), or hernias.
- A chronic condition, on the other hand, is an illness that continues indefinitely. It can be managed with treatment and medication but currently has no cure. Examples include diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and high blood pressure.
PMI is for the acute, not the chronic.
What's Typically Covered vs. Excluded
This table gives a general overview. Always check the specific details of your policy document.
| Typically Covered (Acute Conditions) | Typically Excluded |
|---|---|
| In-patient and day-patient surgery | Pre-existing conditions |
| Consultations with specialists | Chronic condition management (e.g., diabetes, asthma) |
| Advanced diagnostic scans (MRI, CT, PET) | Accident & Emergency treatment |
| Cancer treatment (a core benefit) | Routine GP visits |
| Physiotherapy and other therapies (often an add-on) | Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary) |
| Mental health support (level varies by policy) | Normal pregnancy and childbirth |
| Private room in a private or NHS hospital | Mobility aids, organ transplants, and social care |
Real-Life Example: Imagine Mrs. Davies, 72, takes out a new PMI policy. Six months later, her GP suspects she needs a hip replacement. Her PMI policy would likely cover the consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon, the MRI scan to confirm the diagnosis, the surgery itself, and post-operative physiotherapy.
However, the same policy would not cover her routine check-ups for the high blood pressure she was diagnosed with five years before her policy began.
The Critical Exclusions: Pre-Existing and Chronic Conditions
This point cannot be overstated: Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. This is the single biggest source of misunderstanding and disappointment for new policyholders.
- Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before the start date of your policy.
- Chronic Condition: A long-term health issue that requires ongoing management but has no known cure.
Even if a chronic condition like arthritis is diagnosed after you take out a policy, PMI will typically cover the initial diagnosis and treatment to stabilise the condition. However, the long-term, ongoing management would then revert to the NHS.
How Insurers Handle Pre-existing Conditions: Underwriting
When you apply for a policy, the insurer assesses your health history through a process called underwriting. There are two main types:
-
Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common and simplest method. You don't need to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past five years. However, if you remain completely free of symptoms, treatment, and advice for that condition for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts, the exclusion may be lifted, and it could become eligible for cover.
-
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): This involves completing a detailed health questionnaire about your medical history. The insurer reviews your answers and may contact your GP for more information. They then provide you with a policy that explicitly lists any conditions that are permanently excluded from cover. It provides certainty from day one about what is and isn't covered.
| Feature | Moratorium Underwriting | Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Quick and simple, no health forms. | Requires a detailed health questionnaire. |
| Initial Exclusions | Automatically excludes conditions from the last 5 years. | Exclusions are named and listed in your policy documents. |
| Clarity | Less certainty at the start; claims can be slower. | Complete clarity from day one about what's covered. |
| Cover for Past Conditions? | Yes, potentially, after a 2-year trouble-free period. | No, listed exclusions are usually permanent. |
| Best For | People with a clean bill of health seeking a quick start. | People with a complex medical history who want certainty. |
An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can help you decide which type of underwriting is best suited to your personal circumstances.
What Types of Policies Are Available for Over 70s?
Insurers offer a range of plans, allowing you to balance the level of cover with your budget.
Levels of Health Cover
- Basic (or Core) Cover: This is the foundation of any policy. It typically covers the most expensive treatments, including costs for surgery and hospital stays as an in-patient or day-patient. It also includes comprehensive cancer cover as standard.
- Mid-Range Cover: This includes everything in a basic plan but adds a level of out-patient cover. This is for diagnostic tests and consultations needed to find out what's wrong before you are admitted to hospital. It might include a set number of specialist consultations or a financial limit (e.g., up to £1,000 for out-patient care per year).
- Comprehensive Cover: This provides the widest protection. It includes extensive in-patient and out-patient cover, often with higher financial limits or even unlimited cover. It also tends to include more extensive therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic) and enhanced mental health support.
Optional Add-ons
You can tailor your policy further with optional extras, such as:
- Dental and Optical Cover: For routine check-ups, treatments, and eyewear.
- Therapies Cover: Extends cover for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and other complementary therapies.
- Travel Cover: Some insurers offer a travel insurance add-on.
How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost for Over 70s?
Age is the most significant factor determining the cost of private health insurance. As we get older, the statistical likelihood of needing medical treatment increases, and premiums reflect this higher risk.
Several factors influence your final premium:
- Age: The older you are, the higher the cost.
- Location: Treatment costs are higher in some areas, particularly Central London, so premiums are adjusted accordingly.
- Level of Cover: A comprehensive policy will cost more than a basic one.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium.
- Hospital List: Insurers have tiered hospital lists. Choosing a more restricted list that excludes expensive city-centre hospitals can reduce the cost.
- No Claims Discount: Similar to car insurance, you can build up a discount for every year you don't make a claim.
Illustrative Monthly Premiums for Over 70s
These figures are for illustration purposes only. They are based on a non-smoker with a £250 excess. Your actual quote will depend on your individual circumstances.
| Age | Estimated Basic Cover (Monthly) | Estimated Comprehensive Cover (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | £140 – £230 | £240 – £380 |
| 75 | £170 – £280 | £290 – £490 |
| 80 | £210 – £390 | £380 – £650+ |
As you can see, the costs are significant. This makes it all the more important to get expert advice to ensure you are not paying for cover you don't need.
How to Lower Your Private Health Insurance Premiums
While premiums are high for over 70s, there are several effective ways to manage the cost:
- Increase Your Excess: Agreeing to pay the first £250, £500, or even £1,000 of any claim can dramatically reduce your premium.
- Choose the 'Six-Week Option': This is a clever way to save money. If the NHS waiting list for the in-patient treatment you need is less than six weeks, you agree to use the NHS. If it's longer, your private cover kicks in. This can lower premiums by 20-30%.
- Select a Guided Hospital List: Instead of choosing any hospital, you can opt for a policy where the insurer provides a smaller, pre-approved list of high-quality hospitals. This cost-saving measure doesn't compromise on quality.
- Review Your Cover Annually: Don't just let your policy auto-renew. Your needs may change, and new, more competitive products may be available. An annual review with a broker is essential.
- Pay Annually: If you can, paying your premium in one annual lump sum can sometimes be cheaper than paying monthly.
- Use an Expert Broker: A specialist private medical insurance broker like WeCovr does the hard work for you. We compare policies from across the market to find the best provider for your specific needs and budget, all at no extra cost to you. Our expertise often uncovers savings and policy features you wouldn't find on your own.
Major UK Private Health Insurance Providers for Over 70s
Several reputable insurers offer policies to new applicants over 70. Each has its own strengths.
- Bupa: A household name, Bupa has no upper age limit for joining its Bupa By You policy. They are known for their extensive network and strong cancer care.
- Aviva: One of the UK's largest insurers, Aviva also has no upper age limit and is highly regarded for its comprehensive 'Healthier Solutions' policy and strong digital tools.
- AXA Health: With a focus on personal support and wellbeing services, AXA offers its Personal Health plan to older applicants and is known for its excellent customer service.
- The Exeter: A friendly society, The Exeter specialises in providing cover for those who may have more complex health histories and offers community-rated schemes where age is less of a pricing factor within a specific scheme.
- Vitality: Known for its innovative approach, Vitality rewards members for healthy living. While the activity-based rewards may appeal more to younger demographics, its core health cover is robust.
There is no single "best" PMI provider. The right choice depends entirely on your health, your budget, and what you value most in a policy.
Beyond Insurance: A Holistic Approach to Health in Your 70s and 80s
While insurance provides a crucial safety net, proactive health management is the best investment you can make. Staying active and healthy can improve your quality of life and may even help keep insurance premiums more manageable over time.
- Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Staying well-hydrated is essential for energy levels and cognitive function.
- Activity: Gentle, regular exercise like walking, swimming, tai chi, or bowls is fantastic for maintaining muscle strength, bone density, and balance, reducing the risk of falls.
- Social Engagement: Staying connected with friends, family, and community groups is vital for mental health. Loneliness can have a significant negative impact on physical well-being.
- Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular routine and make your bedroom a calm, screen-free environment.
As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you track your diet and make healthier choices. Furthermore, customers who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other products we offer, such as travel or home insurance.
How to Get the Right Private Health Cover with WeCovr
Choosing the right policy at this stage of life is a significant decision. Our friendly, expert team at WeCovr is here to make the process simple and transparent. We enjoy high customer satisfaction ratings because we put our clients' needs first.
Here’s how we help:
- A Simple Conversation: We start by listening. We take the time to understand your health, your concerns, your budget, and what's most important to you.
- Whole-of-Market Research: Our specialists then search the UK's leading insurance providers to find the policies that best match your criteria. We know the market inside-out, including which insurers are most favourable for applicants over 70.
- Clear, Jargon-Free Advice: We present you with a shortlist of the best options, explaining the benefits and limitations of each in plain English. We'll answer all your questions so you can make a confident choice.
- Hassle-Free Application: We'll guide you through the application process from start to finish.
Our service is completely free to you, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose. Our goal is to find you the most suitable cover at the most competitive price.
Can I get private health insurance if I already have a serious illness?
Is there an age limit to get private medical insurance in the UK?
Does private health insurance cover care homes or social care?
What happens if I develop a chronic condition like arthritis after my policy starts?
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Taking control of your future health starts with having the right information. Let our expert team provide you with a free, no-obligation quote and a clear comparison of the UK's leading private medical insurance policies for over 70s.
Contact WeCovr today to speak with a friendly, UK-based advisor and find the peace of mind you deserve.
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:
Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!
We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
How It Works
1. Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Any questions?
Learn more
Who Are WeCovr?
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.
Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!