Private Medical Insurance at Any Age: 7 Myths Busted

Private Medical Insurance at Any Age: 7 Myths We Hear Every Day

Many people assume private medical insurance becomes out of reach as they get older, whether due to age, health history, or cost. At The PHC, a private medical insurance broker with nearly 30 years of experience, we hear these concerns every day and we’re here to set the record straight.

If any of the following thoughts have stopped you from picking up the phone, read on.

---

1. “I’m too old for private medical insurance”

Can you get private medical insurance over 70 or over 80?

Not at all. Our clients have grown with us over the years, and we’re proud of that. Age is simply not the barrier many people assume it to be.

Insurers have adapted the care they offer older clients, with services like Digital GP consultations available from the comfort of your own home. No waiting rooms, no travelling, just straightforward access to care when you need it. A Digital GP appointment is often the starting point for your wider care journey, and it’s included as standard across most policies.

Under 80? You’ll have the widest choice of private medical insurance plans, including couple, family and long-term loyalty discounts. Over 80? Bupa, AXA and Aviva all still welcome new customers. In fact, Bupa removes age-related premium increases entirely once you turn 80, which is well worth knowing.

---

2. “Nobody will insure me — I have pre-existing health conditions”

Can you get private health insurance with pre-existing conditions?

This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and one of the most important to address.

Private medical insurance is not reserved for people in perfect health. When we ask about your medical history, we’re not looking for reasons to turn you away. We’re building a picture so we can find you the best possible terms. In most cases, we only need to look back five years.

Our team handles these conversations with care and without judgement. Whatever you’ve been through, there are options, and we’ll make it our job to find the right one for you.

---

3. “Private health insurance will become unaffordable in my 70s”

How does age affect private medical insurance premiums?

Premiums do increase with age, but not in one sudden jump when you reach a milestone birthday. Increases are applied gradually each year, in line with how your cover is being used and how the market moves. There is no penalty simply for getting older.

We work on your behalf at every renewal to make sure your private medical insurance remains competitively priced. Cover should be something you can sustain for the long term, and insurers understand that too.

---

4. “I can’t switch private health insurance — I’ll lose my existing cover terms”

Can you switch private medical insurance without losing your medical history cover?

This is a concern we hear often, and it’s completely understandable. The reassuring news is that in the vast majority of cases, we can arrange a switch to comparable cover, meaning your new insurer accepts the same terms and conditions as your current one.

All you need is a copy of your most recent insurance certificate, the document your insurer sends at renewal each year. That is your proof of existing terms, and it is what we use to negotiate the transfer. We handle the rest.

---

5. “I should stay loyal — I’ve been with the same health insurer for years”

Is staying with the same private medical insurance provider costing you more?

Loyalty is admirable, but unfortunately it doesn’t always pay in the private health insurance market. Research by the Financial Conduct Authority found that customers who stay with the same insurer for more than two years are often paying more than they should for equivalent cover. The FCA now requires insurers to make this clear in your policy documents.

We carry out private medical insurance market reviews free of charge and with no obligation. If your current insurer is offering you genuine value, we’ll tell you. If they’re not, we’ll show you what else is available.

---

6. “I can’t leave my private health insurance until renewal”

Can you cancel private medical insurance before your renewal date?

You’re not locked in. As part of the FCA’s treating customers fairly rules, insurers cannot unreasonably tie you to a policy. If your circumstances have changed, your budget has shifted, or you simply want to explore your options sooner, you’re entitled to do so.

Give us a call whenever it suits you. We’re here to talk, with no pressure and no commitment required.

---

7. “I probably can’t afford private medical insurance”

How much does private medical insurance cost in the UK?

Private medical insurance is more flexible than most people realise. Premiums vary depending on your age, where you live, the level of cover you choose and the excess you’re comfortable with, which is exactly why speaking to an expert is far more useful than getting a quote online.

We’ll explain the costs in plain English, without jargon, and help you find something that fits your budget.

---

Speak to a Private Medical Insurance Broker Today

We’re real people, not automated services. Whatever your age, health history or budget, we’d love to have a conversation. There is no obligation, just honest and straightforward guidance from a team that has been helping people find the right private medical insurance for nearly 30 years.

Call us today or get in touch online — we’re here whenever you’re ready.