How Much Does Private Medical Insurance

Cost in the UK? (And How to Save)

With NHS waiting times on the rise, more people in the UK are turning to private medical insurance (PMI) for quicker access to care and more control over treatment options.

But let’s be honest — the first question most people ask is:

“How much does it actually cost?”

The answer depends on a few key factors, and in this post, we’ll break them down for you. We'll also show you how to save money without sacrificing the cover you need — and why working with a broker can make a big difference.

A person reviews financial documents and uses a calculator, emphasizing detailed attention to budgeting and data analysis. Coins and charts indicate a focus on financial planning and management.

🔍 What Affects the Cost of Private Medical Insurance?

The price you pay for PMI will vary based on your:

• Age – Generally, the older you are, the higher the premium.

• Location – Healthcare costs vary by region.

• Health status – Pre-existing conditions can impact your quote.

• Type of cover – Basic vs comprehensive makes a big difference.

• Hospital access – Choosing premium hospital lists adds cost.

• Policy excess – Higher excess = lower monthly premium.

  
  

💷 Example Prices in 2025

Here’s a rough guide based on recent industry averages:

Age Group	Basic Cover	Comprehensive Cover
20s	£25–£40/month	£45–£70/month
40s	£45–£75/month	£80–£130/month
60+	£100+/month	£150+/month

Note: These are averages. Your premium will vary based on personal circumstances and the provider.

💡 How to Reduce Your Premium

You don’t always have to go for the most expensive option to get quality cover. Here are ways to bring down the cost:

• Increase your excess – Lower monthly costs in exchange for a higher contribution if you claim.

• Limit outpatient cover – If you're mainly concerned about hospital stays or surgeries.

• Use a guided hospital list – Some insurers offer discounts for using preferred networks.

• Opt for a no-claims discount – Save if you haven’t made recent claims.

• Speak to a broker – A good broker like Assure-U International can compare multiple providers, access exclusive rates, and help tailor your cover to your exact needs — not just what’s available on comparison sites.

  
  

🤝 Why Use a Broker?

The private health insurance market can be complex. Every provider uses different pricing models and includes different benefits in their base policy. A broker helps you:

• Compare the whole market (not just 1 or 2 brands)

• Avoid overpaying for unnecessary extras

• Access deals or discounts not listed online

• Get clear explanations without jargon

Frequently Asked Questions About Private Medical Insurance in the UK

1. Is private medical insurance tax deductible in the UK?

Generally, PMI is not tax deductible for individuals. However, businesses may be able to claim it as an allowable expense if it's provided as a benefit to employees. Always check with a qualified accountant or tax advisor to confirm.

2. Can I get cover if I have pre-existing conditions?

It depends on your chosen underwriting. If you choose moratorium underwriting, pre-existing conditions are excluded for a set period (usually two years) and then reviewed. Others may permanently exclude certain conditions. A broker can help you navigate which insurers are more flexible based on your health history.

3. What’s the difference between inpatient and outpatient cover?

• Inpatient cover includes treatments where you're admitted to a hospital — surgeries, overnight stays, scans under anaesthesia, etc.

• Outpatient cover includes consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans where you don’t stay overnight. Outpatient cover usually increases the premium, but may be essential depending on your health needs.

  
  

4. Do I still use the NHS if I have private insurance?

Yes — PMI works alongside the NHS, not instead of it. Many people still use the NHS for GP visits, A&E, or services not covered by their policy. PMI gives you faster access to specialists, treatment choice, and private facilities when needed.

5. Can families get a joint policy?

Absolutely. Many insurers offer family PMI plans, and bundling can be more cost-effective than taking out separate individual policies. You may also benefit from multi-person discounts.

6. What happens if I never claim? Do I get money back?

Typically, no. PMI isn’t a cashback policy — but some insurers offer no-claims discounts to reward you with lower premiums at renewal if you don’t use your cover.

📞 Ready to Explore Your Options?

Whether you’re comparing providers or just want to check if you're overpaying, we're here to help. As independent PMI brokers, we offer free, no-obligation advice — and we work for you, not the insurer.

👉 Contact us today for a personalised quote.