Over-70s health insurance
A guide to private health coverage in later life, with options designed for peace of mind as your health needs change.
Why is health insurance important for over-70s?
Health insurance can help cover a variety of treatments in your 70s, from routine appointments to more serious surgeries. It can also provide faster access to care and private treatment options that might not be available through the NHS or might come with longer waiting times.
If you need cataract surgery, for example, it may take time to reach the top of the list for NHS care, but with private health insurance, you could have the procedure done sooner and in a private hospital. This means less time waiting and more time enjoying life.
Insurance can also help with costs for things that aren't always covered by the NHS, like certain dental work, ongoing physiotherapy, or home care services. These can be particularly important as you age and need extra support.
What types of health insurance are available?
There are several types of health insurance to choose from - here are the main types of policies available to over-70s:
Private health insurance: This is the most common type of health insurance, with coverage for treatments that aren't readily available through the NHS. Private health insurance typically covers hospital stays, specialist treatments, and quicker access to healthcare. For many over 70, private insurance helps reduce waiting times and bring more comfort, such as private rooms in hospitals.
Top-up insurance: If you're already getting NHS care but want extra coverage, you could consider top-up insurance. This is designed to fill in the gaps that the NHS might not cover, such as private consultations, quicker treatments, or add-on therapies.
Critical illness cover: This type of insurance offers a lump sum payment if you come down with a serious illness, such as cancer or stroke. While it doesn't directly cover ongoing medical treatments, it gives you much-needed financial support during challenging times, and can be used for anything from paying bills to extra care at home.
What to consider when choosing an over-70s plan
When selecting health insurance, it's important to think about what's right for you. Here are some factors to consider:
Premium costs and excess: Health insurance premiums for people over 70 can be more expensive due to the increasing need for medical treatment. But you can control how much you pay by adjusting your premium and excess. The excess is the amount you pay toward treatment costs before the insurance kicks in. If you prefer to keep the excess low for peace of mind, your premium might be higher.
Health conditions: When you apply for health insurance, providers usually take your medical history into account. Pre-existing medical conditions might be covered or excluded, depending on the insurer. It's important to find out what's included in the policy and whether any pre-existing conditions will be covered.
Level of coverage: The level of coverage you choose will depend on what you need. Some policies offer comprehensive cover, including everything from hospital stays to mental health support, while others are more basic and cover only essential treatments.
Additional benefits: Some health insurance policies offer extra benefits such as access to wellness programmes, discounts on health services, or annual health checks. These extras can be invaluable as you age, giving you peace of mind and helping you catch any potential health issues early, so you can keep on top of your health.
Summing up
Health insurance for over-70s can be invaluable in later life. Whether you're looking for private treatment, extra coverage alongside the NHS, or financial protection for serious illnesses, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.
Be sure to compare health insurance policies, consider your health, and choose the coverage that provides the best value for your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mental health conditions included in over-70s plans?
Private medical insurance often includes coverage for mental health, depending on the plan and the extras available. Health insurers understand that depression and anxiety are not uncommon for older people and build their policies to reflect this. Always compare providers to find the support that suits you.
Is private health insurance worth it for people over 70?
For many people over 70, private health insurance cover is worth it if you want quicker access to healthcare, more comfort in treatment, and coverage for things not available on the NHS. It can reduce waiting times and give you more flexibility in choosing your private healthcare providers.
How much does private health insurance cost in later life?
The cost of health insurance can vary depending on your age, health, and the level of coverage you choose. The cheapest health insurance for those over 70 can start from around £50 and rise to a few hundred, depending on your requirement. It's always best to shop around and compare quotes to find a policy that suits you.
About the author
Lawrence Howlett
Lawrence Howlett brings a results-driven mindset to his writing, shaped by over a decade of experience across finance, legal, and energy sectors. As the founder of Moneysavingadvisors, he’s built a reputation for turning complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights for consumers. His writing stands out for its clarity, structure, and focus on delivering value.
Articles that might interest you
Health Insurance for Students and Young Adults
Making smart choices about young people's health, so they're protected as they navigate studies, work, and early adulthood.
Health insurance for seniors
Understanding your health insurance options in later life, so that you have the coverage you need as time goes on.
Health insurance when working abroad
How to get your health cover in the bag, no matter where your career takes you.
