Health & Insurance
Business health insurance and cash plan providers for UK employers
Business health insurance is among the most valued, and most expensive, parts of a UK benefits package. Cover ranges from full private medical insurance (PMI) that funds private treatment, to health cash plans that reimburse everyday costs like dental and optical, to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) for mental health support. Smaller employers often start with company health insurance for a core team, then widen cover as the business grows.
6 UK providersIndependent profilesNo commercial bias
Choosing well means matching the level of cover to your workforce and budget rather than defaulting to the best known name. The providers below span PMI, cash plans and hybrid models. Compare their profiles, then run a free Benefits Healthcheck to see where health cover sits in your overall package.
What to look for in a health and insurance provider
PMI versus cash plan
Private medical insurance funds private treatment and costs more per head. A health cash plan reimburses routine costs and is far cheaper, often a better fit for broad, cost-conscious cover.
Underwriting basis
Moratorium, medical history disregarded and full medical underwriting each treat pre-existing conditions differently, which affects both claims and premiums.
Mental health and virtual GP
Most modern schemes include talking therapies and remote GP access. Check session limits and whether referral is direct or gated through a GP.
Whole-workforce eligibility
Decide whether cover extends to all staff or senior tiers only. Whole-workforce cash plans often deliver more perceived value per pound than tiered PMI.
Popular health and insurance comparisons
Further reading on health and insurance
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between private medical insurance and a health cash plan?
PMI pays for private treatment such as surgery and consultations. A health cash plan reimburses a portion of everyday health costs like dental, optical and physiotherapy, usually for a much lower premium.
Is private medical insurance a taxable benefit?
Yes. Employer-paid PMI is a taxable benefit in kind in the UK, reported on a P11D or through payrolling, and the employer pays Class 1A National Insurance on it.
How much does PMI cost per employee?
Premiums vary by age, cover level and sector, but UK SME PMI commonly ranges from around £500 to £1,500 per employee per year. A formal quote is needed for an accurate figure.
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