UK Health Insurance Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The UK Health Insurance Market, Encompassing Public and Private Hospitals, is Expected To Grow Due To Increased NHS Waiting Times and Private Sector Referrals, Making Healthcare Insurance A Key Public Issue. Despite Economic Instability, the Demand for Affordable Health Policies and Employer-Sponsored Health Plans Has Surged, With A Shift in Consumer Attitudes Towards Private Medical Insurance. However, the Lack of Competition Among Private Hospitals Has Led To Increased Claims Costs and Premium Growth. Key Players Include AXA, BUPA, WPA, Simply Health, and Freedom Health Insurance.

United Kingdom Health and Medical Insurance Market Size

UK Health And Medical Insurance Market Summary
Study Period 2020 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 8.54 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 10.68 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 4.56 %
Market Concentration Medium

Major Players

UK Health Insurance Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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UK Health Insurance Market Analysis

The UK Health And Medical Insurance Market size in terms of premium value is expected to grow from USD 8.54 billion in 2025 to USD 10.68 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.56% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The UK health insurance and medical insurance landscape operates within a sophisticated healthcare ecosystem characterized by a unique public-private partnership model. The industry currently demonstrates robust economic activity with a total annual turnover exceeding USD 85.77 billion, of which USD 36.76 billion comprises exports, highlighting the sector's significant international presence. This dual-system approach has created a dynamic market where private health insurance providers complement the National Health Service (NHS), offering consumers additional healthcare options and specialized services. The coexistence of public hospitals, private non-profit hospitals, and private for-profit hospitals has fostered a competitive environment that drives innovation and service quality improvements across the sector.


The private healthcare segment has emerged as a crucial component of the UK's healthcare delivery system, with projections indicating the private healthcare services market will reach USD 13.8 billion by 2025. This growth is primarily attributed to increasing NHS waiting times and subsequent referrals to the private sector. The market has witnessed a significant transformation in service delivery models, with providers introducing innovative solutions such as on-demand remote GP consultations and comprehensive workplace wellbeing programs. These developments have particularly resonated with corporate clients, who increasingly view health insurance as a strategic tool for employee retention and productivity enhancement.


Consumer behavior in the health insurance market reflects evolving healthcare needs and preferences, with approximately 1.7 million people in the United Kingdom holding private medical insurance (PMI). The industry has responded by developing more flexible and personalized insurance products, including healthcare cash plans, dental insurance plans, and comprehensive medical coverage options. Insurance providers have recognized the need to tailor their offerings to different demographic segments, with particular attention to the growing demand for preventive care and wellness services. This shift has led to the introduction of integrated health management platforms and digital health solutions that complement traditional healthcare insurance coverage.


The life sciences sector plays a pivotal role in shaping the health insurance market's future trajectory, with substantial investment opportunities emerging across various healthcare segments. Insurance providers are increasingly partnering with healthcare technology companies to enhance service delivery and improve patient outcomes. The industry's strong export performance indicates robust international demand for UK healthcare products and services, positioning the sector for sustained growth. This convergence of insurance, healthcare delivery, and life sciences has created a dynamic ecosystem that continues to attract venture capital investment and drive innovation in healthcare financing and delivery models, including managed care and medical benefit solutions.

Segment Analysis: By Product Type

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Segment in UK Health and Medical Insurance Market

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) continues to dominate the UK health insurance market, commanding approximately 80% of the total market share in 2024. The segment's strong performance is primarily driven by the development of 'on-demand' remote GP consultations and a progressive corporate focus on workplace well-being, which has generated a considerably large market for private health insurance in the United Kingdom. The segment's growth is further supported by comprehensive coverage options, including both individual and group health insurance policy coverage, with group policies accounting for a larger portion of the segment. The increasing adoption of digital healthcare solutions and the integration of telehealth services have further strengthened PMI's market position, making it an attractive option for both individuals and corporations seeking comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Market Analysis of UK Health And Medical Insurance Market: Chart for By Product Type

Healthcare Cash Plans Segment in UK Health and Medical Insurance Market

The Healthcare Cash Plans segment has emerged as the fastest-growing segment in the UK health insurance market, with projections indicating robust growth through 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is attributed to the segment's ability to provide flexible and affordable healthcare solutions that help cover routine healthcare expenses such as dental check-ups, prescription glasses, chiropody, and physiotherapy. The segment's success is further bolstered by its innovative approach to healthcare financing, offering both individual and group policy coverage options that cater to diverse customer needs. The increasing focus on preventive healthcare and wellness programs has also contributed to the segment's growth, as more consumers seek cost-effective ways to manage their everyday healthcare expenses.

Remaining Segments in UK Health and Medical Insurance Market

The dental insurance plans segment plays a crucial role in the UK health and medical insurance market, offering specialized coverage through NHS-backed capitation plans and private capitation plans. This segment addresses the specific needs of consumers seeking dedicated dental insurance coverage, complementing the broader health insurance offerings. The segment's importance is underscored by its comprehensive coverage options, including routine check-ups, major dental procedures, and emergency dental care. The availability of both NHS-backed and private plans provides consumers with flexible options to manage their dental healthcare needs, contributing to the overall diversity and completeness of the UK health insurance market.

Segment Analysis: By Procurement Type

Employee Sponsored Health Coverage Segment in UK Health and Medical Insurance Market

Employee Sponsored Health Coverage dominates the UK health and medical insurance market, holding approximately 67% market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is driven by corporate entities increasingly recognizing private healthcare as a valuable employee benefit. The segment's strength is reinforced by comprehensive coverage offerings, including inpatient and outpatient services, tests and scans, consultations, surgeries, hospital stays, and various therapies. Corporate health insurance providers have enhanced their offerings with additional benefits such as flexible visiting hours, shorter waiting times, and appointment scheduling that accommodates employee schedules. The segment's robust performance is further supported by employers' recognition of health insurance as a tool for attracting talent, improving employee retention, reducing stress, and maintaining workforce productivity.

Self-Pay Health Coverage Segment in UK Health and Medical Insurance Market

The Self-Pay Health Coverage segment is experiencing significant growth momentum, projected to grow at approximately 7% during the forecast period 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer preference for private healthcare options and shorter waiting times compared to NHS services. The segment's expansion is further supported by the development of more flexible payment options and tailored healthcare packages that make private medical services more accessible to individual consumers. Healthcare providers are increasingly focusing on improving their self-pay platforms and staff training to better support patients in their self-pay journey. The segment's growth is also bolstered by rising awareness about preventive healthcare and the desire for more personalized medical attention among UK residents.

UK Health Insurance Industry Overview

Top Companies in UK Health and Medical Insurance Market

The UK health and medical insurance market is characterized by continuous product innovation and digital transformation initiatives among leading players. Insurance providers are increasingly focusing on developing comprehensive wellness programs, preventive care solutions, and value-added services such as virtual GP consultations and mental health support. Companies are demonstrating operational agility through the integration of advanced technologies, including AI-driven chatbots and digital claims processing systems. Strategic partnerships with healthcare providers, technology companies, and wellness platforms have become a common trend to enhance service offerings and market reach. Major insurers are expanding their presence through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, while simultaneously investing in customer-centric digital platforms and mobile applications to improve accessibility and user experience.

Consolidated Market Led By Established Players

The UK health insurance landscape is dominated by large, well-established insurance conglomerates with significant financial backing and extensive distribution networks. These major players, including both global insurance giants and specialized healthcare insurance providers, have built strong market positions through decades of operation and a deep understanding of local healthcare dynamics. The market exhibits a high level of consolidation, with the top players controlling a substantial portion of the market share through their diverse product portfolios and strong brand recognition.


The competitive environment is characterized by frequent strategic partnerships and selective merger and acquisition activities aimed at strengthening market positions and expanding service capabilities. Insurance providers are increasingly focusing on vertical integration through partnerships with healthcare providers and technology companies to create comprehensive healthcare ecosystems. The market also sees occasional entry of specialized insurers focusing on niche segments or innovative delivery models, though they face significant barriers in competing with established players due to the latter's extensive resources and established customer relationships.

Innovation and Adaptability Drive Market Success

For incumbent players to maintain and expand their market share, the focus needs to be on continuous innovation in product design and service delivery while maintaining cost efficiency. Success factors include developing personalized insurance solutions, integrating digital health technologies, and building strong partnerships with healthcare providers. Insurance companies must also invest in data analytics capabilities to better understand customer needs and risk profiles, while simultaneously strengthening their distribution networks through both traditional and digital channels.


New entrants and smaller players can gain ground by focusing on underserved market segments and leveraging technology to create differentiated value propositions. The key to success lies in developing specialized products for specific customer segments, building efficient digital-first operations, and establishing strategic partnerships to overcome scale limitations. Companies must also carefully navigate regulatory requirements while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and customer preferences. The ability to offer innovative solutions while maintaining competitive pricing and service quality will be crucial for long-term success in this evolving market landscape. Additionally, the rise of insurance for telemedicine and insurance for behavioral health presents new opportunities for differentiation and growth.

UK Health Insurance Market Leaders

  1. AXA

  2. BUPA

  3. WPA

  4. Simply Health

  5. Freedom Health Insurance

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

UK Health Insurance Market  Concentration
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UK Health Insurance Market News

  • On November 2022, in partnership with online platform JAAQ in a six-month trial for boosting access to personalised expert-led health advice online. This adds to Bupa's mental health support which provides ongoing, around-the-clock support for a wealth of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression and addiction.
  • On February 2022, AXA UK&I acquired renewable rights to Ageas UK's commercial business at an initial consideration of 47.5 million GBP. This acquisition will strengthen AXA's growth strategy and commitment to its commercial business customers and broker partnerships, particularly in the SME and Schemes market segments. As part of the agreement, around 100 Ageas UK employees will move to AXA Commercial to provide ongoing support and service delivery.

UK Health Insurance Market Report - Table of Contents

  1. 1. INTRODUCTION

    1. 1.1 Study Deliverables

    2. 1.2 Study Assumptions

    3. 1.3 Scope of the Study

  2. 2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

  3. 3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

  4. 4. MARKET DYNAMICS

    1. 4.1 Market Overview

    2. 4.2 Market Drivers

    3. 4.3 Market Restraints

    4. 4.4 Porters 5 Force Analysis

      1. 4.4.1 Threat of New Entrants

      2. 4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers

      3. 4.4.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

      4. 4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products

      5. 4.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

    5. 4.5 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

  5. 5. MARKET SEGMENTATION

    1. 5.1 By Product Type

      1. 5.1.1 Private Medical Insurance

        1. 5.1.1.1 Individual Policy Coverage

        2. 5.1.1.2 Group Policy Coverage

      2. 5.1.2 Healthcare Cash Plans

        1. 5.1.2.1 Individual Policy Coverage

        2. 5.1.2.2 Group Policy Coverage

      3. 5.1.3 Dental Insurance Plans

        1. 5.1.3.1 Individual Policy Coverage

        2. 5.1.3.2 Group Policy Coverage

    2. 5.2 By Procurement type

      1. 5.2.1 Self-pay Health Coverage

      2. 5.2.2 Employee Sponsored Health Coverage

  6. 6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

    1. 6.1 Overview (Market Concentration and Major Players)

    2. 6.2 Company Profiles

      1. 6.2.1 BUPA

      2. 6.2.2 AXA PPP

      3. 6.2.3 PT Astra Aviva Life

      4. 6.2.4 Freedom Health Insurance

      5. 6.2.5 Cigna Life Insurance Company of Europe SA NV

      6. 6.2.6 Simplyhealth Group Ltd

      7. 6.2.7 WPA - Western Provident Association

      8. 6.2.8 Vitality Health

      9. 6.2.9 Aviva

      10. 6.2.10 SAGA*

    3. *List Not Exhaustive
  7. 7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE GROWTH PROSPECTS OF THE MARKET

  8. 8. DISCLAIMER

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UK Health Insurance Industry Segmentation

The United Kingdom Health and Medical Insurance Market is segmented by Product Type (Private Medical Insurance, Healthcare Cash Plans, and Dental Insurance Plans) and Procurement Type (Self-pay Health Coverage and Employee Sponsored Health Coverage). A complete background analysis of the UK health insurance industry, including an assessment of the national health accounts, economy, and emerging market trends by segments, significant changes in market dynamics, and market overview, is covered in the report.

The report offers market size and forecasts for the United Kingdom health and medical insurance market in revenue (USD) for all the above segments.

By Product Type
Private Medical Insurance
Individual Policy Coverage
Group Policy Coverage
Healthcare Cash Plans
Individual Policy Coverage
Group Policy Coverage
Dental Insurance Plans
Individual Policy Coverage
Group Policy Coverage
By Procurement type
Self-pay Health Coverage
Employee Sponsored Health Coverage
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UK Health Insurance Market Research FAQs

The UK Health And Medical Insurance Market size is expected to reach USD 8.54 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 4.56% to reach USD 10.68 billion by 2030.

In 2025, the UK Health And Medical Insurance Market size is expected to reach USD 8.54 billion.

AXA, BUPA, WPA, Simply Health and Freedom Health Insurance are the major companies operating in the UK Health And Medical Insurance Market.

In 2024, the UK Health And Medical Insurance Market size was estimated at USD 8.15 billion. The report covers the UK Health And Medical Insurance Market historical market size for years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the UK Health And Medical Insurance Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

UK Health And Medical Insurance Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the health insurance and medical insurance landscape in the UK. We leverage decades of healthcare consulting expertise to deliver this insight. Our detailed report, available as an easy-to-download PDF, covers the complete spectrum of insurance types. This includes private health insurance, public health insurance, and universal healthcare systems. The analysis also encompasses medicare and medicaid equivalents, as well as dental insurance, vision insurance, and disability insurance markets. It provides stakeholders with crucial insights into managed care systems and emerging telemedicine insurance trends.

Industry participants benefit from our thorough examination of individual health insurance and group health insurance dynamics. We also provide a detailed analysis of critical illness insurance, accident insurance, and supplemental health insurance segments. The report explores preventive care insurance initiatives and behavioral health insurance developments. Additionally, it covers innovative medical cost sharing models. Our research particularly emphasizes commercial health insurance trends, prescription drug insurance coverage, and catastrophic health insurance provisions. This enables stakeholders to make informed decisions based on a comprehensive market understanding and future growth opportunities in the healthcare insurance sector.

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UK Health Insurance Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)