What family health cover gives you
Private medical insurance (PMI) means quicker specialist appointments, diagnosis and treatment, often in private facilities. For families, the best policy covers what matters most — fast diagnosis and treatment for everyone — without paying for extras you won't use. Cost is managed through how you structure the policy.
1. Comprehensive family cover
Includes inpatient and outpatient treatment, diagnostics and specialist consultations. Best for families wanting the fullest access and shortest waits. Higher premium, but the most reassurance.
2. Core/inpatient cover with outpatient limits
Covers hospital treatment fully with a capped amount for outpatient care. Best for families wanting strong cover at a lower premium — you still get fast treatment, with some limits on consultations and diagnostics.
3. Adding children
Children can usually be added affordably, and some insurers cover them free or at low cost. Best for ensuring quick access for the whole family — children's referrals and diagnostics can be a key benefit.
4. Managing the premium
Choosing an excess, a guided/limited hospital list, or a six-week NHS wait option (where private cover kicks in only if NHS waits exceed six weeks) can substantially cut the premium. Best for families balancing cost and cover.
5. Optional add-ons
Dental, optical, mental health and therapies can be added. Best chosen selectively — only add what your family will genuinely use to keep the premium sensible.
How to choose
- Fullest access: comprehensive cover
- Balance cost and cover: core cover with outpatient limits
- Lower premium: add an excess or a six-week NHS wait option
- Add only the extras you'll use
How to find the best family health insurance
Cover and pricing vary widely between insurers, so a specialist who compares the market will find the best fit for your family and budget. Find a health insurance specialist through Nesto — free, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Is private health insurance worth it for families?
For many, yes — faster diagnosis and treatment for the whole family. Whether it's worth it depends on your budget and how you value quicker access.
How can I reduce the premium?
Add an excess, choose a guided hospital list, or pick a six-week NHS wait option — all lower the cost while keeping core cover.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Usually not on standard terms, though moratorium underwriting may cover them later if symptom-free for a period. Check carefully.
Can I add my children cheaply?
Often yes — some insurers include children free or at low cost. It varies, so compare.
Does it replace the NHS?
No — it complements it, giving faster access to diagnosis and treatment. You keep full NHS access too.