Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for self-employed individuals and sole traders who don't have employer sick pay to fall back on. Fast access to diagnosis and treatment means you can deal with health issues quickly and minimise the impact on your work and income. We'll match you with a specialist adviser.
Why PMI matters when you're self-employed
If you're self-employed, time spent on NHS waiting lists can directly translate to lost earnings. Whether you're a sole trader, freelancer or contractor, private medical insurance gives you faster access to the care you need — so a health issue doesn't become a business crisis.
What self-employed PMI typically covers
- Fast specialist consultations and referrals
- Diagnostic tests and imaging to reach a diagnosis quickly
- In-patient and day-patient treatment
- Surgical procedures
- Cancer treatment (on most comprehensive plans)
- Mental health support (on many modern policies)
Can I claim PMI as a business expense?
If you trade through a limited company, your company may be able to pay for relevant life cover or other protection as a business expense. PMI for a sole director can sometimes be structured as a business expense. We always recommend discussing the tax treatment with your accountant. Your adviser will help you understand the options.
Tailoring cover to your budget
As a self-employed person, budget flexibility matters. Your adviser can help you adjust your hospital list, excess and cover level to find a policy that gives you meaningful protection at a cost that works for your business. Even a basic policy with a higher excess can dramatically reduce the time you spend waiting for important diagnoses.