The UK medical insurance sector is largely governed by the public healthcare system with noticeable services from private insurers. The public healthcare system in the UK is known as the National Health Service.
National Health Service refers to the consolidated healthcare system in the UK, established in 1948. However, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have set up different regulations in relation to the public healthcare system. Unlike other nations, the public healthcare system in the UK offers comprehensive medical coverage and is mostly free of charge. All regions in the UK have some common medical facilities covered under the National Health Service. These services include:
However, different regions have varying regulations in relation to prescription drugs and polyclinic tests.
Private health insurance UK forms an extended cover over the wide ranging National Health Service. It excludes general treatment facilities covered under the National Health Service. Private UK medical insurance is availed by employers to protect their employees from medical expenses. Private medical policies allow the insured person to secure a private hospital, private ward and private medical practitioners for exclusive treatment. Basic private medical insurance UK covers:
An individual is required to provide a detailed personal and family medical history before buying a policy. Basic private UK medical insurance will not cover pre-existing medical conditions and incurable diseases. However, one can buy specialized and custom-made insurance policies, such as cancer insurance. The scope of health cover and facilities availed decides the premium of a private UK medical insurance policy.