If someone has an existing condition, for instance a heart condition or diabetes, would they be able to get a medical insurance policy, or have to pay more for it?
We will provide a policy, and the rates would be the same as for everyone. But we would not be able to include cover for the existing condition or conditions that arise from it.
I've held a PMI plan with my current insurer for eight years. I claimed six years ago, and it's all finished with no on-going illness, will the claim affect my premiums?
When you switch to our Primecare range we will automatically reward you by giving a starter no-claims discount that reflects your low claims record. It is therefore likely that your premiums will be reduced despite your having claimed six years ago.
When you say I can switch to you and bring my underwriting terms with me, does that mean my cover will be the same as with my current insurer?
Switching and bringing your current underwriting terms means that if you can answer 'no' to both questions on the application form you can have the same medical underwriting terms with us as those that appear on your certificate of insurance with your current insurer.
The benefits we provide may not be identical to those of your current insurer. Our plans are considered among the best in the market, so check which one offers the benefits you need.
I?ve held a PMI plan with my current insurer for eight years. I claimed six years ago, and it?s all finished with no on-going illness, will the claim affect my premiums?
When you switch to our Primecare range we will automatically reward you by giving a starter no-claims discount that reflects your low claims record. It is therefore likely that your premiums will be reduced despite your having claimed six years ago.
When you say I can switch to you and bring my underwriting terms with me, does that mean my cover will be the same as with my current insurer?
Switching and bringing your current underwriting terms means that if you can answer `no? to both questions on the application form you can have the same medical underwriting terms with us as those that appear on your certificate of insurance with your current insurer.
The benefits we provide may not be identical to those of your current insurer. Our plans are considered among the best in the market, so check which one offers the benefits you need.
What are the age bands you use when you calculate premiums?
Our age bands for new policyholders are 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59,60-64, 65-69 and 70-74. When the eldest person on your policy moves up an age band your premium will be changed at the renewal date following their relevant birthday.
What excess levels do you offer?
All plans in the Primecare range offer an excess option. Primecare, Primecare Plus, Primecare Gold and Primecare Saver offer £100 and £250 excess levels which can reduce premiums by 10% and 25% respectively. Primecare SuperSaver offers a £250 excess which can reduce premiums by 20%. Primecare has £100 and £250 excess options for people over 60.
Will my premiums change after I take out my plan, and if so, when?
We review your premium once a year when your policy is due to be renewed. You will be notified of your new premium at least six weeks before your annual renewal date.
Several factors affect premiums. Like all insurers, our premiums are set to reflect the overall level of claims we experience and the effects of medical inflation. As science and medicine is moving forward very quickly the cost of medical treatment generally rises faster than inflation and our premiums need to reflect this.
Premiums also rise when the eldest person covered by your plan moves into the next age band.
You can also influence your premiums by opting to pay an excess. And, if you have a year without claiming, our generous
no-claims discount scale will reward you in the coming year.
How do I make a claim?
Our claims process is very simple and a step-by-step guide will be included in your membership pack. There are a few special points to remember:
- For your own peace of mind and to help us control costs, you must get your claim authorised by us before treatment begins.
- Tell your GP you have a policy with us and show them your hospital list, so they can refer you for treatment at an appropriate facility without delay.
What if I choose to be treated in an NHS hospital?
If you are eligible for private hospital treatment for a condition covered under a Primecare plan, but choose instead to stay as an NHS patient, we will pay a cash sum of £250 for each night you spend as an in-patient, up to a total of £2,000.
What if I am unhappy with my cover?
With our no-quibble, money-back guarantee you have 14 days to look through your policy documents when you first receive them. If you are not completely satisfied, you are free to cancel your policy and receive a full refund of any premiums you have paid, provided you have not made a claim in the meantime.
Should you have any complaints during the course of your policy we will do our utmost to put things right. In the unlikely event that we cannot resolve the issue, you have the reassurance that Standard Life Healthcare is covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service.
