Buyer's guide · 2026
Best Health & Dental Insurance
Private medical and dental cover gives faster access to treatment and routine care alongside the NHS. Choose based on whether you want full private medical access or only routine and major dental work.
Compare health insurance
| Cover | Best for | Typical UK premium |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance (Private) | Private health insurance giving access to private hospitals, faster diagnosis, and treatment without NHS waiting lists. | £600–£3,000/yr |
| Dental Insurance | Dental insurance covering routine check-ups, fillings, extractions, and major restorative work. | £80–£400/yr |
1. Health Insurance (Private)
£600–£3,000/yrPrivate health insurance giving access to private hospitals, faster diagnosis, and treatment without NHS waiting lists. Available as individual, couple, or family plans.
Covers
- Inpatient hospital treatment
- Outpatient consultations and diagnostic tests
- Cancer cover (diagnosis and treatment)
- Mental health treatment
Excludes
- Pre-existing conditions (unless moratorium or full medical underwriting applied)
- Pregnancy and maternity (check if included)
- Cosmetic treatment
- Experimental treatments
Available in: United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, France, UAE
2. Dental Insurance
£80–£400/yrDental insurance covering routine check-ups, fillings, extractions, and major restorative work. Available as standalone policy or rider on health insurance.
Covers
- Annual check-ups and hygienist appointments
- Fillings and extractions
- Root canal treatment
- Crowns and bridges
Excludes
- Cosmetic procedures (teeth whitening)
- Pre-existing dental conditions (waiting period applies)
- Implants (unless specifically included)
Available in: United Kingdom, Ireland, Armenia, Georgia
Frequently asked questions
What types of health insurance are there?
The main options are Health Insurance (Private), Dental Insurance. Each protects against a different risk, so the right choice depends on your circumstances.
How much does health insurance cost in the UK?
Typical annual premiums in this category range from £80 to £3,000 per year depending on the cover and your circumstances. Get a live quote for an accurate price.
Is private health insurance worth it in the UK?
For elective procedures and specialist consultations, private health insurance can dramatically reduce waiting times from months to days. It is particularly valuable for mental health cover, physiotherapy, and cancer diagnosis speed.
Is dental insurance worth it in the UK?
With NHS dental waiting lists at record lengths, dental insurance that covers private dentists is increasingly valuable. A single crown can cost £600 privately — dental insurance at £10–£30/month pays for itself quickly.
Get the right health insurance
Compare FCA-regulated insurers on GeraSure and only pay for the cover you need.
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GeraSure is a comparison and referral service. Insurance products are provided by FCA-authorised or equivalent regulated insurers in each jurisdiction. GeraSure does not underwrite insurance policies and does not provide financial advice. Always read the policy wording before purchasing.