Do you have private health insurance, but you’re not quite sure how to use it? Don’t worry, we’re here to help connect you with expert care without a wait. Our preregistration team is here to guide you and answer any questions you may have.
You can use your private medical insurance to cover many different conditions. Hernias, heart disease, cancer surgery, endometriosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are just a few examples.
How Private Medical Insurance Works
Policies vary, but you’ll usually need to get a general practitioner (GP) referral and authorisation from your insurance company to get started.
Here’s how it works:
- Get a referral from your NHS GP or a private GP.
- Contact your insurance company for authorisation.
- Choose a Cleveland Clinic London consultant.
- Book an appointment by filling out an appointment request or calling us on +44 20 3423 7500.
How private medical insurance billing works
Depending on your policy, insurance may cover some or all your costs. You may be asked to pay part of the cost upfront when you come in for care. We’ll explain your invoice clearly and we offer convenient online payment options.
After your appointment:
- We submit an invoice to your insurance company detailing the services provided.
- The insurance company processes the invoice and sends reimbursement to Cleveland Clinic London.
- Your insurer may inform you of your contribution and we’ll bill you for anything that’s not covered.
Accepted Insurance Providers
Cleveland Clinic London works with most major insurers, including:
- Bupa Insurance Services Limited.
- AXA PPP Healthcare Limited.
- Aviva Health UK Limited.
- Vitality Corporate Services Limited.
- Western Provident Association (WPA) Ltd.
- CIGNA European Services (UK) Ltd.
- Healix Health Services Limited.
- General and Medical Healthcare (a division of General and Medical Finance).
- Health Partners Europe Limited.
- GMMI, Inc. (Global Medical Management Inc.).
- American Foreign Service Protective Association Inc. (AFSPA).
- Aetna Global Benefits (UK) Limited.
- Allianz Partners SAS, Société par Actions Simplifiée (AzP).
- International SOS (Medical Services) UK Limited.
- Worldwide Insurance Services, LLC, traded as GeoBlue.
Please note: We accept policies from not only the insurance providers listed above, but also those offered by their U.K. and international affiliates and partners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Private Insurance
How does private insurance work?
Private insurance gives you more choices in the types of care you can access and where you can receive it. Depending on your policy, insurance may cover some or all of the costs. Any service that is not covered (in part or full) will be your financial responsibility.
What is important to know about using private insurance?
Before booking your appointment, talk to your insurance company about your desire to receive services at Cleveland Clinic London. They will let you know whether the services are covered.
What services are covered under private insurance?
The services available depend on the type of insurance policy you have. They often cover consultations, assessments and hospitalisations at private hospitals, such as Cleveland Clinic London. Contact your insurance company to find out whether:
- Your policy covers the services you need.
- Cleveland Clinic London is a part of your insurance provider’s network.
Do all Cleveland Clinic London consultants take private insurance?
Almost all our consultants are contracted with insurance companies. Cleveland Clinic London supports our consultants’ relationship with insurance companies. To confirm if your consultant is covered, ask your insurance company or check their website.
How can I determine whether Cleveland Clinic London accepts my insurance?
We work across all major medical insurance companies. To learn more, see the types of insurance we accept.
What if Cleveland Clinic London or my preferred consultant does not take my insurance?
In some instances, you may be able to contact your insurance company to have an exception granted. Your insurance company may reimburse you a portion of your costs if you provide documentation. Contact us for more information.
Cleveland Clinic London also offers self-pay services, where you pay directly for all your care. We provide transparent pricing for a range of specialties, including heart and vascular, neurosciences, imaging and orthopaedics. Get more information about self-pay services.
Will I need additional authorisations?
Changes to your plan of care may require additional authorisation. Check with your insurance company periodically to determine whether you need additional approval. Cleveland Clinic London may assist with additional authorisations when you are undergoing treatment with us.
How soon can I get an appointment?
Same-day and next-day appointments are often available. Some departments offer weekend services for urgent needs. Contact us to book an appointment.
What can I expect during my first visit?
This will depend on the reason for your visit. All our consultants take the time to understand your concerns for a proper evaluation. Your first visit may involve testing and a physical exam. We discuss findings with you, including the specific diagnosis and provide a personalised treatment plan.
How can I access information about my care between appointments?
Information is easily accessible through MyChart, our electronic health information system for patients. It is available anytime, day or night, through a secure login.
How do I pay my invoice?
There are many ways to pay for your care:
- Online: Log in to your MyChart account to make a payment or pay as a guest.
- In-person: Visit a registration desk at our facilities to make a payment.
- By phone: Call +44 20 3423 7200.
- By mail: Post payments to Collections at 40 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7AW.
