Can I use my private health insurance on physiotherapy or osteopathy?
The short answer is yes. And it is a simple process.
We all know that getting a physiotherapy appointment or osteopathy referral on the NHS can be frustrating. Long waiting lists can mean an injury is exacerbated or can be left untreated for long periods of time.
However, in many cases private medical insurance or private health insurance can shortcut the system and you can be on the road to recovery in days, or sometimes hours.
How to claim on private health insurance
1. Check your policy
Our advice before starting out on the process of claiming is to check:
That your policy covers the treatment you require
If you need a GP/consultant referral or if you can self-refer
For any limitations in terms of value of treatment or number of treatment sessions
For any exclusions, for example pre-existing conditions
For any excess you may need to cover
If your insurer will pay for your cover directly or if you have to pay and be reimbursed
2. Need a referral?
There are two routes to having your physiotherapy costs covered by your private medical insurance or private health insurance.
Get referred by your GP or specialist
If your insurer needs a referral from your doctor, you will need a letter stating your need. This is a relatively fast process once you have seen your doctor. This can be a private GP, an NHS GP or specialist consultant. The rise of virtual GPs can prove an effective way of speeding up how quickly you can be seen by a clinician.
Self-referral
Some private health insurance or private medical insurance companies will allow you to self-refer. Generally, they will gain an understanding of your condition from speaking to you or after you have completed a triage form before approving your treatment.
3. Choose your provider
In most cases you get to choose who will deliver your treatment. Some insurers will provide a list of approved providers, and some may offer treatment through their own teams.
4. Arrange your treatment
You will need your insurance policy details at the time of booking your treatment. Check the terms and conditions of your chosen provider to ensure they are working with your insurer and any cancellation clauses.
5. Make your claim
It may be possible to make your claim online so ensure you have kept accurate records of your payments and documentation. If your practitioner is claiming on your behalf you will to need to cover the cost of any excess. If you need to claim back the costs yourself make sure you keep your receipt and records of your treatment.
Claiming on private medical insurance in the UK involves several steps, but understanding your policy and maintaining good communication with both your insurer and healthcare providers can simplify the process. By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to manage your claim efficiently and focus on what’s most important: your health and recovery.
Technique Health & Fitness work with most major private medical insurers to help keep you fit and healthy so you can live your life to the fullest. Once you know you are covered book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists or osteopaths at one of our Central London clinics.
Click here to book or dop us get in touch info@techniquehealth.org or 0333 358 3534.