Private medical insurance is very helpful, but because there are so many different kinds, you need to make sure that the terms and conditions fit your needs.
Private health insurance has been around for a long time before the NHS was made. Before the NHS, people gave money to "friendly societies," which gave people money when they were in need. Some private health insurance companies, like BUPA, are still not-for-profit, but there are also many commercial insurance companies that offer private health insurance these days. AXA PPP healthcare (http://www.axappphealthcare.co.uk/) is one of the most well-known names in private medical insurance. It was created in 1938 as a health insurance plan for middle-income Londoners.
Which? says that the main goal of private medical insurance is to cover treatment for "acute illness." As "conditions that treatment can cure or significantly improve." Chronic diseases like multiple sclerosis or arthritis may not be covered by private health insurance. Critical illness insurance may be a better choice in this case. Your critical insurance coverage will be based on your own needs, so shop around for the right policy and be honest with your insurance company at all times. If you don't, you could hurt your chances of making a claim in the future.
Other treatments that are usually not covered by private health insurance are cosmetic surgery, treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, and treatment for infertility. Most standard policies don't cover private visits to a doctor, regular check-ups, or dental work that isn't done in a hospital. But you should always check your private health insurance plan because some will cover more than others.
Private health insurance can be a good way to make sure that your family can get medical care quickly. Just keep in mind that insurance policies are based on your specific situation, so don't assume that one size fits all.
For more information about private health insurance and insurance for serious illnesses:
http://www.axappphealthcare.co.uk/body/html/consumer/products/uk/pmi.jhtml The UK has private health care
