Get Health Insurance in the UK for Under £50/Month

Get Health Insurance in the UK Without Breaking the Bank – Plans Under £50/Month

Grisha July 21, 2025 No Comments

Private Health Insurance in the UK Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

While the NHS remains the backbone of healthcare in the UK, more people are turning to private health insurance to avoid long wait times, access private specialists, and get faster treatments. The good news? You don’t need to spend hundreds per month to get covered.

In this guide, we show you how to find reliable, affordable health insurance plans in the UK for under £50/month — including top providers, who qualifies, what to look out for, and how to apply.

Why it matters: Private health cover gives you faster appointments, more choice, and peace of mind — without straining your wallet.

What Does Private Health Insurance in the UK Cover?

While coverage varies by plan, most affordable health insurance policies include:

Outpatient consultations
Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans, bloodwork)
Hospital stays in private rooms
Surgery in private facilities
Cancer care support
Mental health services (limited with basic plans)

Some plans may also include GP video consultations, prescription delivery, and dental/optical add-ons.

📌 Note: Private insurance doesn’t replace the NHS — it supplements it.

Best Health Insurance Plans Under £50/Month (2025)

Provider	Plan Name	Monthly Cost	Key Features
AXA Health	Personal Health Core	From £38/month	Fast-track diagnosis, 24/7 GP, mental health support
Bupa	Comprehensive 6-week Wait	From £42/month	Covers private care if NHS wait > 6 weeks
WPA	Essentials Plan	From £29/month	Great starter plan, includes scans and consultations
Vitality	Select Plus	From £45/month	Rewards program, GP access, virtual physio
Aviva	Healthier Solutions Base	From £40/month	Cancer care, diagnostics, access to private hospitals

💬 Prices depend on age, location, and medical history — these are averages for 25–40-year-old non-smokers.

Who Can Get Private Health Insurance in the UK?

Most UK residents aged 18–70 are eligible. You don’t need to be employed or a homeowner. However:

Pre-existing conditions may be excluded or carry added premiums.
Smokers and individuals with high BMI may face higher rates.
Some insurers offer family discounts or child cover at no extra cost.

Planning to start a family? Many plans include maternity cover options after a waiting perio

How to Choose the Right Low-Cost Health Plan

Before applying, ask:

What do I actually need?
If you only want fast diagnosis and private consultations, go for a core or modular plan.
How long can I wait for NHS treatment?
Some policies (like Bupa’s 6-week wait) only kick in if NHS takes longer.
Do I want extras like dental or optical?
Some providers offer bolt-ons for around £5–£10/month.
Can I afford the excess?
Higher excess = lower monthly premium. £100–£250 excess is typical for budget plans.

How to Apply for Affordable Private Health Insurance

Compare quotes online
Use sites like CompareTheMarket, ActiveQuote, or GoCompare.
Use filters
Sort by “monthly cost,” “core coverage,” or “cancer care included.”
Choose your excess
£100–£250 is the sweet spot for balance between price and payout.
Answer health questions honestly
Most budget policies don’t require a full medical exam, but false info can void claims.
Get covered instantly
Many plans offer instant digital policy activation.

Smart Tips to Save Even More

Use No Claims Discount – Some providers reduce your premium each year you don’t make a claim.
Pay Annually – Paying for 12 months upfront can save you ~5–10%.
Go Modular – Only pay for the parts of health coverage you need.
Track Benefits – With Vitality or WPA, you can earn cashback or perks for staying active.

Sample Quote: 30-Year-Old in Manchester

Plan: AXA Health Personal Core
Monthly Premium: £39
Excess: £200
Includes: Diagnostics, hospital treatment, outpatient care
Add-ons: £6 extra/month for dental + optical

What’s NOT Covered by Budget Health Insurance

Be aware of common exclusions in low-cost plans:

Pre-existing conditions
Pregnancy & childbirth (unless added specifically)
Emergency care (still covered by NHS)
Chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, asthma)
Cosmetic procedures

Always read the Policy Summary Document (IPID) before buying.

Final Thoughts: Is Private Health Insurance Worth It?

If you want faster appointments, access to private hospitals, or more control over your healthcare — yes, it’s worth it, especially when plans start under £50/month.

It’s not about replacing the NHS. It’s about having options when you need care the most.