Self-Employed Health Insurance
If you work for yourself, private health insurance can provide access to eligible private diagnosis and treatment without relying on an employer scheme.
Cover should be chosen around your budget, work commitments and the benefits you are most likely to value.
Why self-employed people consider cover
Reduce disruption
Faster access to eligible diagnosis or treatment may help reduce time away from your business.
More choice
Depending on the policy, you may have a choice of recognised hospitals and consultants.
Flexible benefits
Outpatient limits, hospital lists, excesses and optional benefits can be adjusted to suit different priorities.
Personal support
Covered Today can help you understand suitable options from its panel of insurers.
What to compare
Inpatient and day-patient treatment
Check how inpatient and day-patient treatment is covered, as limits, exclusions and terms vary between policies.
Outpatient consultations and diagnostics
Understand what outpatient consultations and diagnostic tests are included, as limits, exclusions and terms vary and must be checked.
Hospital list
Review which recognised hospitals are included on the list, as limits, exclusions and terms vary and must be checked.
Excess
Consider the excess you would pay towards eligible claims, as limits, exclusions and terms vary and must be checked.
Mental health benefits
Look at how mental health support is covered, as limits, exclusions and terms vary and must be checked.
Cancer cover
Check how cancer diagnosis and treatment are covered, as limits, exclusions and terms vary and must be checked.
Is it a business expense?
Tax treatment depends on how you trade and your circumstances. Sole traders and company directors may be treated differently. Covered Today does not provide tax advice, so check with a qualified accountant before treating premiums as an allowable business expense.
Choosing suitable cover
The lowest premium is not always the best value. Consider the financial impact of time away from work, the treatments and hospitals available, the excess you could comfortably pay, and whether outpatient diagnostics matter to you.
Get personal guidance
Tell us what matters to you and we can help explain suitable private health insurance options from our panel. The service is free and there is no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Can sole traders get private health insurance?
Yes. Individual private health insurance may be available to sole traders, subject to insurer terms and underwriting.
Can a limited company pay the premium?
A company may be able to pay, but tax and benefit-in-kind treatment can apply. Ask a qualified accountant for advice.
Will it cover existing medical conditions?
This depends on the underwriting method and insurer terms. Do not assume an existing condition will be covered.
How much does it cost?
Cost depends on factors including age, location, cover level, hospital choice and excess.