Are health insurance extras worth it?
Extras cover can save you money and boost your healthcare experience - but what are the trade-offs?
Are health insurance extras worth it?
When you're looking for health insurance quotes, optional add-ons often appear - tempting to you to buy more. They can help with things like dental care, physiotherapy, glasses - services that basic health insurance usually doesn't cover. Let's explore what extra cover includes, who benefits most, and how to decide if it's right for you.
What exactly are health insurance extras?
Extras are meant cover everyday treatments that standard policies leave out, such as:
- Dental check-ups, cleanings, and treatments
- Eye care including tests and glasses
- Physiotherapy and chiropractic sessions
- Alternative therapies like acupuncture and osteopathy
- Health and wellness services such as health screenings
Tip: Extras usually come with limits on how much you can claim and sometimes waiting periods.
Weighing up the costs and benefits
Extras add a little to your monthly premium - but that doesn't always mean better value. Here's what to think about before opting in:
- How often? If you regularly need dental work or physiotherapy, extras could be worth it.
- What treatments? Some extras only cover basic treatments or have low claim limits.
- Waiting periods? Most extras require several months of membership before you can claim.
- Pay upfront? Many plans expect you to pay first, then get paid back for claims later.
- Restrictions? Some policies limit the number of treatments or exclude certain therapies.
Tip: If you use these services often, extras could reduce your overall costs and make healthcare more accessible.
Summing up
Extra cover isn't essential for everyone, but it could be useful if you want more than just hospital and specialist cover. Think about your health and lifestyle - if you often need dental care or physio, extras might be a good fit. If not, it might be best to keep your premiums low and pay as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get health insurance extras on their own?
In the UK, extra cover is usually sold alongside hospital or combined health insurance policies, not on its own. Some insurers may offer standalone "extras" policies, but these are less common and might have limited benefits compared to bundles.
Does extra cover have different waiting periods?
Yes, most extras and add-on plans have waiting periods ranging from 2 to 12 months. This means you need to be a member for a set time before you can claim for certain services. Waiting periods help prevent people joining just to claim on expensive treatments straightaway.
Can I pay for cosmetic treatments as an extra?
Generally, no. Extras don't usually pay for cosmetic or elective (optional) care unless it's medically necessary. For example, treatments to improve appearance rather than health are normally excluded. Always check your policy's terms carefully, or speak to your insurer, before assuming something is covered.
How do I make a claim for extras?
Most extras plans require you to pay for the treatment upfront and then submit a claim to get paid back. Some insurers offer direct billing arrangements with certain providers, which means you won't have to pay upfront. Always check how claims work with your provider.
What does "excess" mean in health insurance?
Excess is the amount you agree to pay yourself if you make an insurance claim. It's the part you cover before your insurance starts paying. For example, if your excess is £100 and you have a £500 claim, you pay the first £100, and your insurer pays the remaining £400.
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