Best Health Insurance in Great Britain in 2025
- Strong prevention and wellness incentives
- Customisable plans with broad specialist access
- Top-tier cancer and mental health support
- Highly digital, app-integrated experience
- Moderately expensive for full options
- Strong prevention and wellness incentives
- Customisable plans with broad specialist access
- Top-tier cancer and mental health support
- Highly digital, app-integrated experience
Vitality’s Personal Healthcare Plan stands out for its focus on wellness and prevention, offering a comprehensive and highly rated package with notable dental coverage (80% up to £400/year), mental health support, virtual GPs, and full inpatient care. It includes extensive outpatient options and is complemented by a well-developed rewards programme tied to healthy behaviour. Cancer care is covered without limitations, and members can access a wide network of providers. Pricing is not disclosed in the table but the breadth of coverage and perks suggests a premium positioned offer. Compared to the UK market, it offers strong added value especially for users who engage with wellness incentives and digital care.
Best suited for professionals or families with moderate to high healthcare needs who are proactive about prevention and open to digital health tools and reward-based engagement.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance plan from Vitality.
- Comprehensive outpatient and inpatient care, including full cancer coverage
- Wellness rewards and incentives promote engagement and healthy habits
- Strong dental and mental health benefits
- High virtual accessibility and GP responsiveness
- Likely to be among the more expensive plans on the market
- Incentive model may not appeal to users who prefer passive insurance use
- Not-for-profit with patient-first focus
- Flexible and modular extras
- Broad coverage for hospital and therapies
- Fewer incentives or rewards than competitors
- Detailed options require careful planning
- Not-for-profit with patient-first focus
- Flexible and modular extras
- Broad coverage for hospital and therapies
WPA’s Complete Health plan offers a balanced, non-profit insurance solution that emphasizes patient-focused care and flexibility. It includes emergency dental treatment (up to £250) and accidental dental coverage (£1,000), full inpatient and outpatient coverage, and virtual GP access. Its cancer care package is robust, and users benefit from home nursing and optional extras like therapies. The not-for-profit model contributes to better reinvestment into care, and the plan allows some degree of modular customization. Though pricing isn’t specified here, it’s generally seen as competitive for the level of comprehensiveness. Its positioning makes it a strong contender among mid-to-premium health plans in the UK.
Well-suited for individuals or families seeking broad coverage with a human-centred approach, particularly those who value ethical reinvestment and customizable benefits.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance plan from WPA.
- Broad inpatient and outpatient coverage
- Ethical, non-profit provider focused on member needs
- Optional extras and strong cancer support
- Dental emergencies and virtual GP included
- Routine dental and optical not fully covered
- May require careful tailoring to get full value
- Leading brand with strong cancer and outpatient services
- Extensive digital tools and app
- Flexible outpatient limit options
- Premiums may be higher than average
- Less transparent around non-cancer drugs
- Leading brand with strong cancer and outpatient services
- Extensive digital tools and app
- Flexible outpatient limit options
Bupa By You is a popular and established private health plan offering strong brand recognition and reliable coverage, particularly for outpatient and cancer care. The plan includes access to basic dental, with optional add-ons for routine or accidental treatment, and has a wide provider network. Users benefit from high-quality virtual services and comprehensive diagnostics. Although no pricing is listed in the table, Bupa typically positions itself at the mid-to-high range, reflecting its brand strength and network quality. This plan is particularly attractive to those who want peace of mind through a trusted, established insurer with excellent continuity of care.
Ideal for individuals or families seeking reliable, established private care with strong outpatient and cancer coverage, and access to one of the UK’s most trusted healthcare networks.
For all these reasons, we recommend the health insurance plan from Bupa.
- Extensive outpatient care and unlimited cancer coverage
- Optional dental upgrades for flexibility
- Strong provider reputation and service quality
- High availability of diagnostics and virtual care
- Routine dental and optical not included by default
- Premium pricing may not suit budget-conscious users
- Budget-conscious structure
- Tiered outpatient with good mental health support
- Limited alternative medicine access
- Maternity care quite restricted
- Routine optical/dental not included by default
- Budget-conscious structure
- Tiered outpatient with good mental health support
Aviva’s Healthier Solutions plan is designed as a cost-effective private medical insurance option with tiered outpatient care and customizable modules. It includes dental coverage (£250/year for routine and £600 for accidental treatment) and offers cancer care, virtual GP access, and specialist consultations. However, many services—particularly outpatient diagnostics—are limited or optional, meaning the default plan may appear more basic than competitors. Aviva’s approach allows policyholders to control their premiums, but the trade-off is the potential for underinsurance if critical modules are omitted. Its positioning as a value-focused product reflects a middle ground between affordability and core protection.
Appropriate for individuals or families seeking private cover on a budget, willing to tailor their plan carefully and accept limited outpatient support unless extended.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from Aviva.
- Affordable entry point with flexible tiered structure
- Dental benefits included as standard
- Virtual GP and cancer care integrated
- Outpatient and diagnostics may be limited unless upgraded
- Careful configuration needed to ensure adequate coverage
- Good cancer and inpatient cover
- Several add-ons increase flexibility
- No basic dental or optical support
- Confusing tier structure
- Average mental health support
- Good cancer and inpatient cover
- Several add-ons increase flexibility
AXA’s Health Select / Personal Health plan delivers solid inpatient and cancer coverage with access to virtual GPs and a selection of outpatient services. However, basic dental care is not included, and consultations may be subject to restrictions or additional fees. While AXA is a known and reliable brand, the plan’s value depends heavily on the options selected and how actively one uses the service. Compared to other market offers, it appears less comprehensive by default and better suited to users who want to focus on serious medical events rather than everyday care. Its mid-tier rating reflects the trade-off between cost control and coverage depth.
Best for individuals prioritizing core hospital and cancer treatment coverage over routine care, and who are looking for a recognised brand without the need for extensive outpatient services.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from AXA.
- Solid cancer and inpatient coverage
- Access to digital GP and virtual consultations
- Reputable international insurer with broad network
- No dental, optical, or routine consultation cover by default
- Customization required to match other plans’ comprehensiveness
- Transparent fixed options
- Reasonable limits for diagnostics
- Solid mental and cancer coverage
- No online GP or app tools
- Simple but slightly dated interface
- Transparent fixed options
- Reasonable limits for diagnostics
- Solid mental and cancer coverage
Freedom Elite is a straightforward and transparent health plan offering fixed options and reasonable coverage for key services like inpatient treatment and cancer care. Dental cover is optional, with up to £300/year for routine and £600/year for emergencies. It also includes mental health support and virtual GP access, but lacks the modular flexibility seen in other plans. While the limits are clear and the pricing is often attractive, outpatient coverage is minimal unless expanded, and some users may find the offer less comprehensive overall. It suits those who want clarity and simplicity, though it may not compete with premium offerings in service scope.
Ideal for individuals who want transparent coverage with no surprises, and who are primarily concerned with inpatient and major event protection over everyday care.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from Freedom Health.
- Clear fixed coverage options with no hidden complexity
- Optional dental benefits and mental health support
- Virtual GP and cancer treatment included
- Outpatient care limited unless expanded
- Less comprehensive than premium alternatives
- Clear modular pricing
- Excellent cancer support
- Limited outpatient without add-on
- No dental or optical
- Fewer prevention/wellness services
- Clear modular pricing
- Excellent cancer support
The Exeter’s Health+ plan is a modular, build-your-own insurance option aimed at offering clarity and flexibility. While it includes strong inpatient and cancer coverage, outpatient and diagnostic services are limited by default and must be added manually. Dental and optical care are excluded. Virtual GP access is limited, and some consultations have fees (e.g. £50 cap per mental health visit). This structure can suit users with very specific needs, but it may not offer good value unless well-tailored. Positioned at a mid-range level, its transparency is welcome, but it may fall short for users expecting seamless, all-in-one care.
Suitable for users who want precise control over what is and isn’t included in their plan, and who don’t need frequent outpatient or day-to-day care services.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from The Exeter.
- Clear modular pricing and transparency
- Strong inpatient and cancer treatment coverage
- Allows users to customise coverage to their exact needs
- Limited outpatient coverage by default
- No dental, optical or full virtual GP support
- May require complex configuration for full coverage
- Structured in clear tiers (1–4)
- Solid diagnostic access at higher levels
- Limited non-cancer outpatient drug support
- No lifestyle or wellness benefits
- Optical and dental weak unless hospitalised
- Structured in clear tiers (1–4)
- Solid diagnostic access at higher levels
National Friendly’s My PMI plan offers private health cover structured in four tiers, with decent cancer and inpatient care in higher levels, but restricted benefits in its base configurations. Dental is limited to hospital-based procedures only, and outpatient diagnostics and consultations are often capped or excluded. Though the plan has the advantage of clear tiering, lower levels may not provide sufficient protection for most users, and mental health support is notably weak. Positioned at the budget end of the market, it may attract cost-conscious buyers, but the trade-offs in coverage and responsiveness are significant.
Best suited for younger or healthier individuals with minimal care needs who want some protection for major events at a low monthly cost.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from National Friendly.
- Simple tier structure with budget options
- Inpatient and cancer care improve with higher tiers
- Weak outpatient and diagnostic coverage in lower tiers
- No routine dental or optical support
- Limited mental health coverage
- Low-cost cash plan alternative
- Suitable for basic day-to-day health expenses
- No inpatient or surgical cover
- Strict annual limits on categories
- Limited flexibility across tiers
- Low-cost cash plan alternative
- Suitable for basic day-to-day health expenses
Simplyhealth offers a low-cost cash plan rather than traditional private medical insurance, designed to help with everyday health expenses rather than hospital-based treatment. It includes limited dental coverage (up to £200/year depending on plan level), optical support, physiotherapy, and virtual GP access. However, it does not cover inpatient care, major diagnostics, or surgeries, making it unsuitable for serious health conditions. While affordable and useful as a supplement to NHS care, it is not comparable to PMI in protection level. The plan is best considered as a financial buffer for routine care rather than a safety net for critical needs.
Suitable for individuals on a tight budget who only want help with routine healthcare expenses like dental, optical, or basic consultations—not for those seeking full insurance.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from Simplyhealth.
- Affordable and accessible cash plan
- Includes dental, optical, physio, and GP access
- No underwriting or complex eligibility
- No inpatient or serious illness coverage
- Not a replacement for private medical insurance
- Affordable non-profit membership model
- Excellent remote consultation access
- No dental, optical or drug reimbursement
- Limited surgery scope (no critical or chronic conditions)
- Long waiting periods and rigid eligibility rules
- Affordable non-profit membership model
- Excellent remote consultation access
Benenden Health offers a distinctive low-cost, non-profit health plan that includes 24/7 access to a GP helpline, up to £2,500 in diagnostic tests with an NHS referral, and coverage for a limited set of pre-approved surgeries. Its pricing is well below the market average, making it financially accessible, but this affordability comes with significant trade-offs. The plan does not cover dental, optical, or prescription medications, and excludes major surgeries such as cancer treatments or cardiac care. Moreover, all services are subject to eligibility rules and waiting periods, reducing immediate accessibility. While the service is positioned as a supplement to NHS care—particularly by covering some gaps in diagnostic access—it does not offer the level of protection or responsiveness found in private insurance. As such, it should not be seen as a full alternative for those seeking comprehensive health coverage in the UK.
This plan is best suited for healthy working-age adults with minimal medical needs who primarily want easier access to diagnostics and virtual GP consultations, without paying for full private health insurance.
For all these reasons, we do not recommend the health insurance plan from Benenden Health.
- Very low-cost, non-profit membership model
- Access to GP services and diagnostics that can shorten NHS delays
- No coverage for prescriptions, dental, or optical services
- Extremely limited surgical coverage, with strict eligibility and delays
- How does health insurance work in the UK?
- What does health insurance cover?
- What does health insurance not cover?
- How much does health insurance cost in the UK?
- How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
- FAQ
Did you know that a single private knee replacement in the United Kingdom can cost over £12,000, yet NHS waiting times for such procedures often stretch beyond 18 months?
Access to the National Health Service (NHS) is a valued right in the UK, but delays for specialist consultations, elective surgeries, and mental health services are common concerns. Treatments like dental work, optical care, and physiotherapy frequently incur out-of-pocket expenses, and private care enables speedier access, more flexibility, and choice of provider. Comparing private health insurance options can help protect you from waiting lists and high bills for treatments not fully covered by the NHS.
HelloSafe’s experts independently analyse dozens of health insurance plans in the UK, guaranteeing you high-quality comparisons and advice tailored to the local health system.
How does health insurance work in the UK?
Private health insurance is increasingly relevant in the United Kingdom, where public care is provided by the National Health Service (NHS).
The NHS offers free treatment at the point of use, but patients often face long waiting times and limited choices for appointments or specialists.
Private health insurance enables faster access to treatment, direct access to a wider range of specialists, and private hospital rooms.
It also offers broader coverage, including more advanced treatments, higher reimbursement levels, and international protection when travelling or living abroad.
What does health insurance cover?
Basic private health insurance in the United Kingdom typically covers inpatient and outpatient hospitalisation, consultations with specialists, and certain surgeries, complementing what is offered by the National Health Service (NHS).
Optional extras such as dental care, optical services, maternity benefits, mental health support, and alternative therapies can be added to extend coverage and include services not fully provided by the NHS.
Reimbursement for approved treatments usually involves the insurer paying providers directly or reimbursing you after you pay, with some plans applying deductibles, co-payments, or waiting periods for certain benefits.
The main difference compared to the NHS is the broader range of treatments covered, faster access, additional conveniences, and enhanced reimbursement, especially for dental, optical, and private room hospitalisations.
| Type of cover | Reimbursement by NHS | Coverage with basic private insurance | Coverage with premium private insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💊 General care | 100% | Yes | Yes |
| 🏥 Hospitalisation | 100% (in NHS hospitals) | Yes (private hospitals) | Yes (private & some overseas hospitals) |
| 🦷 Dental | Partially (NHS banding, fees apply) | Optional | Yes, often higher limits |
| 👓 Optical | Not covered (except limited cases) | Optional | Yes, with higher annual caps |
| 🍼 Maternity | 100% (NHS hospitals) | Optional | Yes, with private room and elective services |
| 🌿 Alternative medicine | Not covered | Optional | Yes, depending on policy |
| 🛡️ Preventive care | 100% (limited screenings) | Yes (often faster access) | Yes, wider screening tests |
| 💭 Psychological care | Limited (NHS, long waits) | Optional | Yes, including private clinics |
| 👂 Hearing aids | Partially (restricted by NHS) | Optional | Yes, higher reimbursement limits |
| ♨️ Thermal spa treatments | Not covered | No | Optional |
| ⚙️ Medical equipment and devices | Partially, strict criteria | Optional | Yes, with wider selection |
| 🔮 Non-covered alternative treatments (e.g. osteopathy, acupuncture) | Not covered | Optional | Yes, often partial limits |
| ✈️ Medical assistance abroad | Not covered | No | Yes |
| 📞 Teleconsultation | Limited via NHS app | Optional | Yes, 24/7 private access |
What does health insurance not cover?
The most common exclusions in health insurance plans in the United Kingdom are for pre-existing medical conditions, which usually require a waiting period or may not be covered at all.
Cosmetic treatments, such as plastic surgery not considered medically necessary, and experimental or unproven procedures are also typically excluded.
Many policies do not cover routine care relating to chronic conditions, pregnancy-related costs unless privately insured, or treatment sought outside predefined provider networks.
There are often waiting periods for certain benefits, as well as set limits for expenses like dental, optical, or alternative therapies.
| Exclusion type | Example | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Medical | Pre-existing conditions, cosmetic surgery | Usually not covered or require specific waiting periods |
| Medical | Experimental or unproven treatments | Only therapies backed by clinical evidence are eligible |
| Medical | Chronic disease routine management | Long-term medications and monitoring often excluded |
| Administrative | Out-of-network care | Treatment at non-approved clinics may not be reimbursed |
| Administrative | Waiting periods | Certain benefits begin only after a set period |
| Legal | Illegal acts or substance abuse | No cover for injuries from unlawful activities |
| Legal | Fraudulent claims | Insurance is void if false information is provided |
How much does health insurance cost in the UK?
The price of health insurance in the UK depends on several factors, including your age, medical history, the level of cover selected, chosen deductible or excess, and the number of people insured.
Older individuals and those with existing health conditions tend to pay higher premiums because the risk of claim is greater.
Higher levels of cover (such as private hospital rooms, wider networks, and additional extras) and lower deductibles usually lead to increased monthly costs.
Premiums also typically rise over time due to ageing, medical inflation, changes to health status, or after making a significant claim.
| Age group | Cover type | Monthly premium (basic) | Monthly premium (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 years | Basic cover | £35 | £72 |
| 25 years | Premium cover | £55 | £115 |
| 45 years | Basic cover | £59 | £110 |
| 45 years | Premium cover | £90 | £185 |
| 65 years | Basic cover | £110 | £210 |
| 65 years | Premium cover | £185 | £325 |
How to lower the cost of your health insurance?
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Compare offers | Use the HelloSafe comparison tool at the top of the page to easily identify the cheapest coverage that fits your needs. |
| Choose a higher excess | Increasing your policy excess can significantly lower your monthly premium costs. |
| Pay annually | Paying for your policy upfront in a single annual payment often results in a small overall discount from insurers. |
| Skip unneeded extras | Removing options like dental or optical cover can help reduce your overall premium. |
| Stay healthy | Living a healthier lifestyle may allow you to benefit from wellness discounts and lower renewal prices with some insurers. |
| Use NHS treatment when possible | Opting for NHS care where appropriate can allow you to select a more basic plan and keep premiums low. |
| Only cover what you need | Tailor your policy to your personal needs by choosing cover for only those treatments and services most relevant to you. |
| Review your cover every year | Regularly assess your policy to make sure it matches your lifestyle changes and consider switching if you find a better deal. |
FAQ
What does private health insurance cover in the UK?
Private health insurance in the UK typically pays for the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions such as consultations, diagnostics like scans, surgeries, and sometimes therapies or post-hospital care. Most UK policies do not cover pre-existing illnesses, chronic disease management, pregnancy, or cosmetic procedures. Exact details vary by provider and policy, so always check your plan’s specific inclusions.
Is it worth getting private health insurance if I already use the NHS?
Private health insurance is not essential in the UK, since NHS treatment is available to all residents and is funded by public taxation. However, private cover offers faster access to specialists, reduced waiting times for treatment, private rooms, and often more flexibility for choosing when and where you are treated. For those who value speed and comfort, private insurance may be worthwhile alongside NHS coverage.
How much does private health insurance typically cost in the UK?
Premiums vary widely depending on your age, health status, level of cover, and location. For a single adult, basic plans can start at around £30–£40 per month, while comprehensive policies with more extensive benefits can reach £100 or more per month. Family and senior plans will cost higher and prices rise with additional options and lower excess.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by UK health insurance?
Most UK private health insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions that you have had symptoms, consultations, or treatment for in the years before taking out the plan. Some insurers may consider covering certain stable conditions after a moratorium period or upon special underwriting, but exclusions are common and clearly stated during application.
Can I use the NHS if I have private health insurance?
Yes, you can still use all NHS services even if you have private health insurance. Many policyholders opt to use private health insurance for speed, choice, and comfort for some treatments, while still using the NHS for GP visits, emergencies, and care not covered by their insurance plan.
How does the claims process work for private health insurance?
After your GP or specialist recommends private treatment, you would contact your insurer for pre-authorisation. The insurer will confirm whether the treatment is covered under your policy and guide you on approved hospitals or consultants. After treatment, the hospital usually bills the insurer directly, though you may need to settle any excess yourself.
Can I get health insurance just for cancer or major illnesses in the UK?
Several UK providers offer “serious illness” or “critical illness” plans focused solely on cancer or major conditions such as heart attack or stroke. These plans pay out a lump sum on diagnosis or cover treatment costs, and can be purchased separately from standard health insurance. Always review provider definitions and policy terms carefully before purchase.
What does private health insurance cover in the UK?
Private health insurance in the UK typically pays for the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions such as consultations, diagnostics like scans, surgeries, and sometimes therapies or post-hospital care. Most UK policies do not cover pre-existing illnesses, chronic disease management, pregnancy, or cosmetic procedures. Exact details vary by provider and policy, so always check your plan’s specific inclusions.
Is it worth getting private health insurance if I already use the NHS?
Private health insurance is not essential in the UK, since NHS treatment is available to all residents and is funded by public taxation. However, private cover offers faster access to specialists, reduced waiting times for treatment, private rooms, and often more flexibility for choosing when and where you are treated. For those who value speed and comfort, private insurance may be worthwhile alongside NHS coverage.
How much does private health insurance typically cost in the UK?
Premiums vary widely depending on your age, health status, level of cover, and location. For a single adult, basic plans can start at around £30–£40 per month, while comprehensive policies with more extensive benefits can reach £100 or more per month. Family and senior plans will cost higher and prices rise with additional options and lower excess.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by UK health insurance?
Most UK private health insurance policies exclude pre-existing conditions that you have had symptoms, consultations, or treatment for in the years before taking out the plan. Some insurers may consider covering certain stable conditions after a moratorium period or upon special underwriting, but exclusions are common and clearly stated during application.
Can I use the NHS if I have private health insurance?
Yes, you can still use all NHS services even if you have private health insurance. Many policyholders opt to use private health insurance for speed, choice, and comfort for some treatments, while still using the NHS for GP visits, emergencies, and care not covered by their insurance plan.
How does the claims process work for private health insurance?
After your GP or specialist recommends private treatment, you would contact your insurer for pre-authorisation. The insurer will confirm whether the treatment is covered under your policy and guide you on approved hospitals or consultants. After treatment, the hospital usually bills the insurer directly, though you may need to settle any excess yourself.
Can I get health insurance just for cancer or major illnesses in the UK?
Several UK providers offer “serious illness” or “critical illness” plans focused solely on cancer or major conditions such as heart attack or stroke. These plans pay out a lump sum on diagnosis or cover treatment costs, and can be purchased separately from standard health insurance. Always review provider definitions and policy terms carefully before purchase.
