Belgravia Intermediary Services

 A health insurance broker acts as an intermediary between clients and insurers. Rather than approaching multiple insurance companies directly for quotes, a broker can review a range of options on your behalf.

Working with a specialist broker offers several benefits:

• Access to choice – brokers can compare policies from different insurers.
• Guidance and support – brokers explain the cover options available, helping you understand which may be most suitable for your needs and circumstances.
• Ongoing assistance – many brokers also provide help with claims, renewals, and policy management.

It’s important to note that brokers do not set the cost of policies; premiums and benefits are determined by the insurer and the terms of the chosen policy.

Private health insurance gives you access to private healthcare, subject to the terms of the policy you choose. You select an insurer and a policy that suits your needs and circumstances, and cover begins once the policy is accepted and premiums are paid.

Policies can often be tailored with different levels of cover and optional benefits. The scope of cover, including what is and is not included, will depend on the insurer and the terms and conditions of the policy.

 Private medical insurance can cover a range of treatments, but the scope of cover will depend on the insurer and the policy you choose. Most policies include in-patient and day-patient care (such as hospital stays and surgery), and many also include cancer treatment and some mental health support.

Insurers may also offer optional extras for an additional premium. These can include out-patient treatment, consultant appointments, diagnostic tests, and therapies such as physiotherapy. The specific benefits and exclusions will be set out in the terms and conditions of the policy.

 Private health insurance is generally intended to cover acute conditions that can be treated and resolved with a course of treatment. It usually does not cover chronic conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or angina) that require ongoing management by a GP.

Every policy also has its own exclusions, which vary by insurer. Common exclusions include routine pregnancy, cosmetic procedures, and treatment for addiction. Pre-existing conditions may also be excluded, particularly if you have had symptoms or treatment in the five years before taking out a policy. In some cases, cover for these conditions may be reconsidered if you remain symptom-free for a set period, depending on the insurer and underwriting terms.

It is important to review the policy documents carefully, as the scope of cover and exclusions will be clearly set out by the insurer. A broker can help explain these details and outline the options available.

 The cost of private health insurance varies and will depend on several factors, including:

• The insurer you choose and the type of policy selected
• The level of cover and any optional benefits you add
• The age of the person (or people) to be insured
• Medical underwriting terms and your personal circumstances
• The size of any excess you agree to pay towards claims

Premiums are set by the insurer, and they can also change at renewal. A broker can help you compare different policies and explain the options available, but the final price and terms will always be determined by the insurer.

 Private health insurance is available to a wide range of people, including individuals, couples, and families. Businesses, SMEs, and larger organisations can also arrange group policies for their employees.

Eligibility criteria and the type of cover available will depend on the insurer, the policy chosen, and the underwriting terms applied. A broker can help explain the options and check which type of policy may be suitable for your circumstances.