Health Insurance & COVID-19

The UK is currently following a tiered system, which has been set and implemented by the Government. These measures have been put in place to try and reduce the pressure on the NHS and ensure there are enough services for COVID-19 patients.

In addition to this, during the pandemic – some treatments and services have been put on hold or reduced to ensure there is enough resource to support COVID-19 plans and patients. To help, we have put together this article to answer frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and health insurance.

Can I still use my health insurance?

Some private healthcare services have been reduced so private hospitals can provide resources to the NHS. If you have a health insurance policy, we advise you contact your provider to understand if this has affected your scheduled appointments, treatments or operations.

Can I use private health insurance services in lockdown?

During lockdown non-urgent treatments and surgeries have been put on hold – but many other services remained accessible.

Many insurers provide their policyholders with access to digital services – such as digital GP appointments and mental health support. In addition to this, many health insurance providers supply free phone lines and apps which policyholders can use to stay up to date with COVID-19 changes and news.

Will I receive health insurance cashback benefits if I am admitted to hospital because of COVID-19?

Many health insurers are still offering their policyholders with cash back benefits if they are hospitalised because of coronavirus.

  • Bupa is providing its members with NHS cash back benefits when this is included in policies.
  • If Vitality health insurance policyholders are hospitalised due to COVID-19 they can claim £250 per day, for the first 8 days – and then £500 per day from day 9 onwards (with a maximum of £5,000 in total).
  • Aviva’s NHS cash benefit is still valid if this is part of a policyholder’s cover.

If you have any questions about how COVID-19 has affected health insurance cover, contact us to find out more.