Despite the government’s assurances that NHS waiting lists are on the decrease, it can still seem like you have to wait an age to get any kind of medical assistance. Time is not always on your side when it comes to medical assistance. Time is not always on your side when it comes to medical conditions, so this is why more and more people opt to take out their own private health insurance policy.

With private health insurance, you’re usually covered for the cost of the diagnosis, treatment and aftercare at a hospital of your choice. Naturally, people tend to opt for private hospitals (as opposed to NHS ones) as most boast individual, ensuite rooms, and are comfortable, with a freshly prepared menu.

As with all types of insurance, you can choose the level of your cover, and this will determine the cost of your premiums. There are usually three levels of cover; budget, standard and comprehensive. Budget plans usually limit payouts to a set level as well as the range of hospitals that can be visited. Standard plans often cover limited outpatient treatment and very limited complementary medicines. These policies also limit where treatment takes place. Comprehensive plans pay out for extras such as home nursing, ambulance services, complementary medicine and all treatment costs. You will be able to choose from any hospital, and the policy may well include dental and optician fees.

You will be able to get private health cover even if you do have any pre-existing or recurring conditions. Although this may increase the cost of your premiums, it is important to make your insurance aware of the details otherwise your policy may be invalid.

It is not uncommon for companies to offer private health insurance as a perk of the job.