There are many different private medical insurance policies to choose from, but they all tend to fall into two main categories:
1. Standard
This type of policy gives the most comprehensive cover. There are several of sub-divisions within this category. A basic plan (sometimes termed 'standard plan') within this category may cover hospital or emergency treatment, and will include in-patient and day-care treatment only.
Plans offering a higher level of benefits (often termed 'comprehensive plans') may offer additional coverage to include outpatient treatment. These higher level plans may also include dental treatment, maternity, complementary medicine, travel and personal accident benefits.
2. Budget
This type of policy offers reduced cover in return for cheaper premiums. This style of plan may only cover you if the NHS cannot begin to treat your condition within 6 weeks. Cover may also be restricted to certain types of treatment, and there may be a maximum amount that the policy will pay out each year.
Moratorium Policies
When you take out PMI, the insurance company will usually want to know your previous medical history in detail. Few policies will agree to cover pre-existing conditions, but you can opt for a 'moratorium' policy, which means that if you remain free of symptoms for two years then a pre-existing condition can be added to the policy after that time.
