Switching Existing Private Health Cover

An existing Private Medical Insurance Policy should still reflect your needs, priorities and budget. If the premium has changed, service has disappointed you or your circumstances are different, it may be worth reviewing the alternatives.

Shield can compare your current arrangement with suitable WPA options and explain important differences before you decide whether changing provider is right for you.

Why Review Your Existing Health Insurance?

People review cover for many reasons: rising premiums, changing family circumstances, different benefit priorities or a desire for more personal support. A review does not assume that switching is the best outcome. If moving would not be in your best interests, Shield will explain why and recommend staying with your current provider.

This can be particularly important where pre-existing conditions or ongoing treatment could be excluded or treated differently under a new Policy. You will have a clearer understanding of your current cover and any suitable alternatives. Have your current Policy schedule and renewal information available where possible. This helps Shield compare your position with suitable Personal Health Insurance options from WPA.

How Switching Private Medical Insurance Works

Step 1

Review Your Current Policy

Discuss your existing insurer, benefits, premium, underwriting and reasons for considering a change.
Step 2

Identify Your Priorities

Confirm which benefits matter, what you want to improve and the budget you wish to consider.
Step 3

Explore Suitable WPA Cover

Receive clear explanations of relevant WPA options and any material differences from your current Policy.
Step 4

Decide With Full Information

Review the recommendation and Policy documents before choosing whether to proceed or remain where you are.

Points to Check Before You Switch

Underwriting

Changing provider can affect how current or previous medical conditions are treated.

Benefit Differences

Limits, exclusions, hospital access and available services may not match your existing Policy.

Waiting or Deferral Periods

Some benefits may only become available after a stated period.

Premium and Excess

Compare the whole arrangement rather than judging the headline premium alone.

Treatment in Progress

Do not cancel existing cover until you understand how ongoing treatment may be affected.

Cancellation Timing

Only end your current Policy after replacement cover is accepted and the start date is confirmed.

Protecting Continuity of Cover

Switching Private Medical Insurance needs particular care where you have recent medical history, treatment underway or a claim in progress. A new insurer may assess those circumstances differently, depending on the underwriting available and agreed.

Shield will explain the information WPA needs and the basis on which cover is offered. WPA decides whether to accept an application and manages any future claims.

Questions About Switching Health Insurance

Can I switch Private Medical Insurance providers?

Will pre-existing conditions remain covered?

Should I cancel my existing Policy first?

Can Shield review my renewal quotation?

Support When Customers Change Provider

Customers value clear comparisons, a smooth transition and having their questions answered before making a decision.

Graham Lilley
5 days ago
Really great product and service from the team. Highly recommended
Graeme Lorimer
2 weeks ago
really fast easy service from Harry transferring from BUPA to Shield all questions answered took time to explain policy and cover excellent service
Chris Duncan
2 weeks ago
★★★★★ Proper service when it counted I wanted health cover I could rely on, and shield has delivered. When I needed treatment, the claim was simple and sorted quickly. The team were helpful, easy to reach, and clear about what was covered, so there were no surprises. I'd recommend sheld to anyone who wants fast access to good care without the hassle
Greg Davie
2 weeks ago
Excellent service from Mark and Lewis at Shield Healthcare Solutions. Professional, knowledgeable and highly responsive throughout the entire process. They made everything straightforward, kept us informed at every stage and were always on hand to answer any questions. A pleasure to deal with and I would happily recommend them to anyone looking for healthcare finance support.
Jaden_ Calder7
2 weeks ago
Great reliable company that is available at any time highly recommend
Ailene Craig
3 weeks ago
Excellent service from start to finish. Process was straightforward yet very thorough. Felt very supported throughout the whole course of our claim
We had some bad news this year but it was made so much easier as a result of our health insurance. Staff were so incredibly supportive and helpful, the service moved with incredible speed and treatment options were all fully covered.
John Mallon
2 months ago
My family's dealings with Mark & Lewis (and Shield overall) have always been friendly, efficient, accurate and helpful. Everyone at Shield is highly competent and easy to contact when needed. Highly recommended!
Mark Farrell
5 months ago
Lewis at Shield Healthcare Service went above and beyond to help me navigate my private healthcare. He made the entire process simple and stress-free, ensuring I got exactly what I needed. His support was invaluable truly exceptional service!
Antonia Coia
5 months ago
Fabulous practice Lewis & Marc are so dedicated to their Business & have a wonderful team around them I would not hesitate to recommend them Understanding their clients is what they excel in Help and advice is always at hand 5 Stars every time Alfredo Coia & Coia’s Restaurant & Cafe
Alexander Thom
5 months ago
Lewis and the team at Shield Healthcare provide and excellent service. Would highly recommend for any health care and physio therapy’s needs. Cebotec. - DL
Dave Williamson
6 months ago
Been with Lewis at Shield Healthcare for just over a year and it is so refreshing to have this level of 1-2-1 friendly, sincere service and so easily reachable by telephone. I have nothing but a positive experience and would highly recommend

Start with a Review of Your Existing Cover

Tell Shield what you currently have and what you would like to change. The initial review and quotation are free.

Prefer to speak to someone?

Personal Enquiry Form