Despite access to the NHS, there are still many reasons for investing in private health insurance for you and your family.

Perhaps the most powerful reason is that when someone you love needs medical treatment, you don’t want to be hindered by NHS waiting lists and bureaucracy. You may also end up incurring additional expenses by taking time off from work or having to arrange childcare with little notice when your appointment is confirmed.

A good family health insurance policy can put you back in control of your family’s healthcare. With good PMI, your family has access to quality care when it’s needed. With the right policy in place, you’ll be able choose the time and place that’s most convenient for you.

Choosing the right PMI for your family requires some thought and exploration. Among the factors to consider are costs, benefits, coverage and your family’s needs. If you’re looking for quality health insurance for your family, the following advice can help you find the best fit for your needs at the lowest possible cost.

1. Consider how much excess you can pay.
One of the most obvious ways to lower your health insurance premiums is to accept a higher excess amount. Rather than reducing benefits, you can reduce your premium by agreeing to pay more for your share of any medical expenses. If you can afford to pay the first  of necessary care for your family, it can lower your premiums by as much as  a year. Consider your family’s overall health when deciding on how much excess you can afford.

Most policies count your excess per person in your family. That means that if your son breaks his leg, you’ll pay the first , and insurance will cover the rest. If your daughter trips and falls downstairs a few weeks later, you’ll pay another  for her care.

2. Consider your family’s needs.
Limiting options is another way to cut the cost of health insurance. Some companies offer plans that allow you to build a custom plan that’s affordable for you. For instance, why pay for maternity cover if you don’t plan on having more children? If your family is generally healthy, you can also opt for cover for accidents and emergencies, but choose to pay out of pocket for other treatments.

3. Limit your options.
Limiting certain options and treatments can also reduce your costs. Many insurers offer a “restricted hospitaltion that is less expensive than typical PMI. By agreeing to use the hospital specified by the plan, you’ll save the company money d they’ll pass the savings to you.

4. Combining PMI with NHS care can save you money.
One unique plan offered by Norwich Union pays you if you choose to use the NHS. When you choose NU’s Fair+Square plan, you have the choice of getting eligible treatment on the NHS. If you do, you’ll be paid  for your first night in hospital and  for subsequent nights up to a maximum per annum.

Another option is the “six weekan which enables you to agree to take treatment on the NHS if you can get it within six weeks. If you can’t, then your private health insurance will kick in. Choosing the six week option can cut your premiums in half.

To find out more about UK health insurance companies that offer comprehensive benefits and value for money visit http://www.uk-insurance-index.co.uk/health-insurance-1.html