FAQ's
What am I covered for?
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is designed to cover treatment for acute illnesses or injuries.
- Generally covers hospital costs including accommodation, nursing care, theatre and treatment costs.
- Included in certain insurance plans are outpatient tests, consultations with a specialist and Private GP services.
What will affect my premiums?
- Medical insurance premiums generally rise above the rate of inflation.
- Premiums are based on age and the number of people being covered, in some cases price can be affected by previous claims.
Will I need to provide details of my health?
- Yes, it is important for Applescott Insurance to understand your complete medical history before we can advise you on your best medical insurance options and the most suitable insurance companies for your specific needs.
How do I make a claim?
- Most insurance companies will start by asking you to obtain a referral by your GP, or a GP provided by the insurer if applicable, to establish the eligibility of the claim. If necessary, a choice of specialists will be provided to you and arrangements for consultancy or treatment can be made accordingly. The majority of insurance companies will settle the hospital and specialist bills directly.
What are the benefits of Private Medical Insurance schemes?
- One of the main benefits of an insurance scheme is to avoid a lengthy wait for non-urgent operations under the NHS.
- Under Private Medical Insurance most operations can be carried out within hours and days of being diagnosed will an illness.
- A private patient has the choice of hospital, consultant and when the treatment is to be carried out; the patient is guaranteed his/her own private room with bathroom in almost all circumstances.
- Private Medical Insurance covers a multiple range of illnesses and injuries, including sports related injuries.
How is the Private Medical Insurance Industry regulated?
- The Code of Practices of the Financial Conduct Authority regulates both the industry and Applesscott Insurance. The Financial Ombudsman Service would handle any complaints.
How easy is it to switch my cover from one insurance provider to another?
- There are a number of options to enable you to switch from one insurer to another however there are a number of issues to consider; it is important for Applescott Medical Insurance to discuss in detail your specific case before we can advise accordingly.
Am I able to switch my cover without losing any benefits?
- It is quite possible to join another insurer without losing any benefits, however it can be a complicated process and it is therefore important for Applescott Insurance to completely understand your specific details and requirements before making recommendations.
Will Applescott Insurance continue to review my policy every year?
- Yes, as part of our ongoing service to our clients we spend a great deal of time researching all our Insurance Company providers to establish the best deals available for our clients on an ongoing basis. We formally help renew our client’s policies year after year.
I have had previously had some difficult medical history; can I still det private medical insurance?
- Yes, we have a great deal of experience working with the underwriting departments of numerous insurers to ensure that our clients get the most suitable cover available
I am concerned about sports related injuries, is it possible to get these covered in the future?
- Yes, although most insurers will cover all of your sporting injuries, providing they are a pastime and do not earn a living from the sport. For professional and semi-professional sports people we are now able to offer you a specialist insurance plan.
I am now retired and lost my company benifits, is it possible for people of retired age to retain their medical insurance cover?
- We are able to deal with your current insurer and discuss your requirements with other insurers, who may well offer similar or more attractive terms for their policies.