Private Medical Insurance/Business PMI

    Business PMI — private healthcare as an employee benefit

    Attract and retain top talent by offering fast access to private diagnosis and treatment. Group PMI is one of the most valued employee benefits you can provide.

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    Business private medical insurance (group PMI) provides private healthcare cover for your employees as a workplace benefit. Staff get faster access to diagnosis and specialist treatment, reducing sickness absence and improving morale. We'll match you with a specialist adviser who can arrange group cover for teams of any size.

    What business PMI typically covers

    • Specialist consultations and referrals for all covered employees
    • Diagnostic tests, MRI and CT scans
    • In-patient and day-patient treatment
    • Surgical procedures
    • Cancer treatment and care
    • Mental health support (on many modern policies)

    Benefits for employers

    • Reduced employee absenteeism — faster treatment means staff return to work sooner
    • Enhanced recruitment and retention — PMI is highly valued by employees
    • Potential tax efficiencies when structured correctly
    • Demonstrated commitment to employee wellbeing

    How group PMI works

    A single group policy covers all enrolled employees. Premiums are typically based on the size and age profile of the group, the level of cover chosen, and the claims history of the scheme. Most insurers cover groups from a minimum of two employees upwards. Your adviser will handle the scheme design and annual renewal.

    What you might need to hand

    • Number of employees to be covered
    • Age profile of the workforce
    • Any existing group health or employee benefit schemes
    • Budget guidelines and any specific benefit objectives

    Frequently asked questions

    How does group PMI handle pre-existing conditions?

    Most group PMI schemes use moratorium underwriting, meaning pre-existing conditions are initially excluded but may become covered after a period without symptoms or treatment. For larger groups, insurers may offer full medical underwriting or continuing personal medical exclusions (CPME) underwriting. Your adviser will explain what's best for your team.

    What does business PMI typically cover for employees?

    Most group schemes cover specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, in-patient and day-patient treatment, surgical procedures and cancer care. Mental health support and out-patient treatment are increasingly included. The exact cover depends on the policy level you choose.

    Can we cover just some employees, or must it be everyone?

    Group PMI can be structured to cover all employees, or restricted to specific categories such as management or full-time staff. Your adviser will help you design a scheme structure that meets your objectives and complies with fair employment practices.

    How is group PMI taxed?

    Group PMI is generally treated as a P11D benefit, meaning employees pay income tax on the notional value of the benefit. However, the employer's premium payments are typically an allowable business expense. Your adviser can work with your accountant to structure the benefit efficiently.

    What's the minimum group size?

    Many insurers cover groups from as few as two employees. Premium terms and available cover improve with group size. Your adviser can access specialist small-business schemes if your team is small.

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