--- title: Cancer Cover Compared | Morehealth Limited description: According to Cancer Research UK, more than a third of people in the UK fear cancer more than any other life-threatening condition. Learn more. --- - [0800 028 5540](tel:08000285540) - [info@more-health.co.uk](mailto:info@more-health.co.uk) [![logo-morehealth-1](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/logo-morehealth-1.webp?width=222&height=70&name=logo-morehealth-1.webp "logo-morehealth-1")](https://www.more-health.co.uk/) [![logo-morehealth-1](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/logo-morehealth-1.webp?width=159&height=50&name=logo-morehealth-1.webp "logo-morehealth-1")](https://www.more-health.co.uk/) - [Home](https://www.more-health.co.uk) - Health Insurance - [Individual Health Insurance](https://www.more-health.co.uk/individual-health-insurance) - [New Policy](https://www.more-health.co.uk/new-private-health-insurance) - [Review or Switch Policy](https://www.more-health.co.uk/review-or-switch-existing-policy) - [Business Health Insurance](https://www.more-health.co.uk/business-health-insurance) - [Health Insurance Providers](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-providers) - [About Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/about) - Advice - [NHS Waiting Times](https://www.more-health.co.uk/nhs-waiting-times) - [Health Insurance Options](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-product-options) - [Cancer Cover](https://www.more-health.co.uk/cancer-cover-compared) - [Underwriting](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-underwriting) - [Chronic Conditions](https://www.more-health.co.uk/chronic-conditions-explained) - [Health Insurance Costs](https://www.more-health.co.uk/how-much-does-private-medical-insurance-cost) - Resources - [Find Private Hospitals](https://www.more-health.co.uk/find-a-hospital-near-me) - [Health Insurance Guides](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-guides) - [Health Insurance FAQ's](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-faqs) - [Blog](https://www.more-health.co.uk/blog) - [Glossary](https://www.more-health.co.uk/glossary) [Contact Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/contact-us) [Request A Quote](https://www.more-health.co.uk/get-a-quote) [Contact Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/contact-us) [Request A Quote](https://www.more-health.co.uk/get-a-quote) More results - [Home](https://www.more-health.co.uk) - Health Insurance - [Individual Health Insurance](https://www.more-health.co.uk/individual-health-insurance) - [New Policy](https://www.more-health.co.uk/new-private-health-insurance) - [Review or Switch Policy](https://www.more-health.co.uk/review-or-switch-existing-policy) - [Business Health Insurance](https://www.more-health.co.uk/business-health-insurance) - [Health Insurance Providers](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-providers) - [About Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/about) - Advice - [NHS Waiting Times](https://www.more-health.co.uk/nhs-waiting-times) - [Health Insurance Options](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-product-options) - [Cancer Cover](https://www.more-health.co.uk/cancer-cover-compared) - [Underwriting](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-underwriting) - [Chronic Conditions](https://www.more-health.co.uk/chronic-conditions-explained) - [Health Insurance Costs](https://www.more-health.co.uk/how-much-does-private-medical-insurance-cost) - Resources - [Find Private Hospitals](https://www.more-health.co.uk/find-a-hospital-near-me) - [Health Insurance Guides](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-guides) - [Health Insurance FAQ's](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-faqs) - [Blog](https://www.more-health.co.uk/blog) - [Glossary](https://www.more-health.co.uk/glossary) - [0800 028 5540](tel:08000285540) - [info@more-health.co.uk](mailto:info@more-health.co.uk) [Contact Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/contact-us)[Request A Quote](https://www.more-health.co.uk/get-a-quote) # Cancer Cover Compared [Contact Us](https://cta-eu1.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLg3kaLLooMHvFDAkO5urVT70R4TohgH30tnVOoHKul%2FSkf6x9lo0nvks69gDF4zpxaG29v8dZYaNfMtJ71hegJgACU0sTAiYFsZzQr6T0jHLkl7KiWJ0SpuU9Zdsbu7DSw7RTQiO24ZmbTGYjG06CRx6NvTsMOwcOwYzxMQ76jwgDIOL7r5DhRpPuRsGQJIg%3D%3D&portalId=147592284) ![2](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/2.webp?width=1563&height=1094&name=2.webp) - ### FCA Regulated - ### Independent Broker - ### 15+ Years Experience - ### UK-Based Advisers - ### FCA Regulated - ### Independent Broker - ### 15+ Years Experience - ### UK-Based Advisers ![national-friendly-review-image](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/national-friendly-review-image.webp?width=727&height=737&name=national-friendly-review-image.webp) ## Why Many People Choose Private Health Insurance for Cancer Cover According to Cancer Research UK, more than a third of people in the UK fear cancer more than any other life-threatening condition. This is understandable as the latest figures state that one in two people will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Having access to private cancer treatment is one of the main reasons people choose to have private health insurance. There is no doubt that treatment for cancer on the NHS is excellent. However, a health insurance policy can give you access to treatment that is not covered on the NHS. You will have access to the latest cancer drugs and treatment, your choice of cancer specialist and treatment in a private hospital. ## Cancer Statistics The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on NHS cancer care. The average waiting time for 4.2 million people on NHS waiting lists for cancer diagnosis went up to 37 weeks in 2021, nearly double the pre-pandemic figure of 22 weeks. According to latest research by Macmillan Cancer Support in their report ‘The Forgotten C, the impact of COVID-19 on cancer care’ (October 2020) the estimates are: - across the UK there are currently around 50,000 ‘missing diagnoses’, meaning that compared to a similar timeframe in 2019, 50,000 fewer people have been diagnosed with cancer. - thousands fewer people in 2020 have started treatment after a cancer diagnosis than in 2019. In England alone, between March and August 2020, around 30,000 Being worried about a potential cancer symptom or having cancer diagnosed is devastating but when you are waiting a long time to be seen it can add to the stress, and in some cases change outcomes. A private [health insurance policy](https://www.more-health.co.uk/individual-health-insurance) gives you immediate access to cancer diagnostics and treatment. Below we provide more information on how a health insurance policy can give you reassurance on cancer should it affect you. [Free Health Insurance Check](https://cta-eu1.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLIkiGv5e1ajjS8u2KDFlfCVKogA3Hy1FyPZnAlM%2FBGEpv6mWPzzQnmRtOU%2B5rGw5fJdT6jd9YaGJ1YcvXIj9p24t94540egmU7UbZnO%2BL8Q5n586Zj4WKp8BTMuXB7HWAL7CWTtr91Rf1%2BguPwuhmOZKa65QLDf7NyzZVFAC2R9uMBHMxBmR%2B6P%2FLhCrgveozwL5epl4SDgrsKvzFQIOktU&portalId=147592284) ## Prevention According to Cancer Research UK, around four in ten UK cancer cases each year could be prevented, that is more than 135,000 preventable deaths every year. Many leading UK insurers have increased their focus on the prevention of illnesses and promotion of good health and wellbeing, they encourage and reward you for living healthier lives. Health insurance policies offer heavily discounted gym membership and fitness equipment along with support for stopping smoking and choosing healthier foods. Some insurers now pay for procedures to prevent a further cancer developing. For example, if you have had breast cancer before and have a strong family history of cancer or have taken a test for breast or ovarian cancer and the results put you at high risk, an elective mastectomy or oophorectomy (removal of your ovaries) may be covered. ![7](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/7.webp?width=1563&height=1094&name=7.webp) ## Diagnosis Early detection is the single most important goal in beating cancer and reducing the number of avoidable deaths from cancer. Early diagnosis gives patients the best chance of a cure or long-term survival. Once a cancer has spread or grown too large treatment becomes more difficult. If cancers such as breast, bowel and ovarian cancer are caught at the earliest stage, the survival rate (people living for five years or more) significantly increases. Health insurance speeds up your access to diagnosis, and should it turn out to not be cancer, gives you quicker reassurance, and less time to worry. With the enhancements to insurers digital GP services, it is even possible to have an appointment by video or telephone within the hour. Should you be concerned about skin cancer both VitalityHealth and Bupa offer a ‘remote skin assessment’ by video consultation. VitalityHealth offer a ‘cancer direct access service’ where you can call and speak to a trained advisor about your symptoms without the need for a GP referral. They can refer you to a consultant right there and then should it be necessary. Private health insurance provides prompt diagnosis with cover for MRI, PET and CT scans, blood tests, X-ray’s, and camera-based investigations. Consultations and diagnostic tests relating to cancer are usually covered under the core cover of your health insurance policy. Should the diagnosis turn out not to be cancer the diagnostics and consultations will be paid for out of your chosen out-patient limit. Most insurers cover MRI, PET and CT scans as part of the core cover regardless of the diagnosis. [Get A Quote](https://cta-eu1.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLA7ZSKHLIUA140vpEWV7e604y2ckmOzwpHSVPj%2BJvHMpYYlNdQnmSRX%2BXswDZYIwg9qUb5iRO4TnTNy9dE9Mn1nvhCWUoCVvKKSkc85N5DZMT0Xz1Lq2W9TDqk1k6Odk1%2B2mRZiHIDNrG0WP%2BTmoe7N6oZXhakQKEbsEvYT6bMGgeJa06jE8E%2B30IbaOqvF8s%3D&portalId=147592284) ## We Compare Leading UK Providers  We work with all major health insurance providers to find your perfect match  ![10 (1)](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/10%20(1).webp?width=120&height=75&name=10%20(1).webp) ![Vitality](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/9%20(1).webp?width=120&height=75&name=9%20(1).webp) ![Aviva](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/8%20(1).webp?width=120&height=75&name=8%20(1).webp) ![The Exeter](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/13.webp?width=120&height=75&name=13.webp) ![WPA](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/12%20(1).webp?width=120&height=75&name=12%20(1).webp) ![National Friendly](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/14.webp?width=120&height=75&name=14.webp) ![AXA](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/11%20(1).webp?width=120&height=75&name=11%20(1).webp) Stop paying too much for health insurance ## Check If You Could Save Already have health insurance? We’ll review your current policy and help you understand whether it’s still right for you. **Request a Free Health Insurance Check** ## Treatment Once you have received a cancer diagnosis, getting treatment quicky will not only improve your chances of survival but also avoid any additional worry caused by delays. The NHS target for starting cancer treatment from the point of diagnosis is 62 days. As of July 2019, this target has been missed for three and a half consecutive years. With the impact of COVID-19 it has made this target even harder to reach. A health insurance policy will give you immediate access to private cancer treatment should you be diagnosed. It gives you access to specialist cancer centres and the ability to choose your own cancer specialist. Should you require it, chemotherapy can even be delivered in your own home. Another benefit of health insurance is having access to breakthrough cancer drugs and treatments that are not available on the NHS. Some insurers will also pay for experimental treatment subject to proven effectiveness and on a case-by-case basis. All [leading UK health insurers](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-providers) cover your cancer journey no matter what path it takes, including cover for palliative care. [Free Health Insurance Check](https://cta-eu1.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLIkiGv5e1ajjS8u2KDFlfCVKogA3Hy1FyPZnAlM%2FBGEpv6mWPzzQnmRtOU%2B5rGw5fJdT6jd9YaGJ1YcvXIj9p24t94540egmU7UbZnO%2BL8Q5n586Zj4WKp8BTMuXB7HWAL7CWTtr91Rf1%2BguPwuhmOZKa65QLDf7NyzZVFAC2R9uMBHMxBmR%2B6P%2FLhCrgveozwL5epl4SDgrsKvzFQIOktU&portalId=147592284) ## Comparing the providers Most leading UK health insurers include comprehensive cancer cover as a core benefit in their policies. However, there are differences in the specific benefits each insurer offers and therefore it is important to compare the options available. We have summarised the main cancer benefits included for each of the leading UK health insurance providers below. | | ![AXA logo](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/11%20(1).webp?width=68&height=61&name=11%20(1).webp) | ![Aviva logo](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/8%20(1).webp?width=115&height=69&name=8%20(1).webp) | ![Bupa logo](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/10%20(1).webp?width=119&height=50&name=10%20(1).webp) | ![Vitality logo](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/9%20(1).webp?width=103&height=57&name=9%20(1).webp) | ![The Exeter logo](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/13.webp?width=102&height=39&name=13.webp) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Diagnostics including surgery, MRI, PET and CT scans | In full | In full | In full | In full | In full | | Hospital charges for surgery and admissions | In full | In full | In full | In full | In full | | Out-patient consultations relating to cancer | | | | | | | Dedicated healthcare support throughout treatment | Nurse | Case manager | Oncology nurse | Personal case manager | Case manager | | Chemotherapy and radiotherapy | In full | In full | In full | In full | In full | | Licensed cancer drugs not available on the NHS | | | | | Only NICE approved | | \*Experimental treatment and drugs | EMA approved and on a case-by-case basis | NICE approved and on a case-by-case basis | EMA approved and on a case-by-case basis | Decided case-by-case | | | Biological therapies such as Herceptin and Avastin | | | | | Only NICE approved | | Home strengthening drugs, bisphosphonates | | | | | | | Proton beam therapy | | Decided case-by-case | | | | | Molecular radiotherapy | | | | | | | Hospice donation | £100 per day | Up to £100/day | £200 per day | £75 per day | £250 one-off | | NHS cancer cash benefit | £50 per day up to £2,000 | £100 per day | £100 per day | £100 per day Up to £10,000 | £150 per day up to 30 days | | Chemotherapy drugs given at home | | | | | | | Stem cell and bone marrow transplants | | | | | | | External prosthesis | £5,000 | £5,000 | No overall limit | £5,000 | No overall limit | | Wigs and head coverings | £100 | £100 | £100 | £100 | No overall limit | | Palliative care | | | | | | | Preventative mastectomy following breast cancer | With a BRCA positive result | | | | | | Ongoing check-ups relating to the cancer | | | | | | ![icon-settings](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/icon-settings.webp?width=75&height=75&name=icon-settings.webp) #### Our service is free Our service is free ![icon-bulb](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/icon-bulb.webp?width=75&height=75&name=icon-bulb.webp) #### Knowledge is our strength Knowledge is our strength ![icon-savings](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/icon-savings.webp?width=75&height=75&name=icon-savings.webp) #### We will save you money We will save you money ![icon-support](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/icon-support.webp?width=75&height=75&name=icon-support.webp) #### Ongoing support and savings Ongoing support and savings ## Frequently Asked Questions   Can I still use the NHS for cancer treatment if I have private health cover? Yes, you can have your treatment under the NHS if you prefer. Most insurers offer an NHS cancer cash back which re-imburses you if you have your treatment on the NHS instead of privately. In addition, AXA Health and Bupa allow you to remove the cancer cover on the policy and will reduce your premium for doing so. Will my treatment be different to the NHS treatment? All cancer treatment pathways are specific to the type of cancer diagnosed. Private health insurance can give you access to drugs that are not available on the NHS and sometimes experimental drugs and treatments. These breakthrough drugs and treatments are given where clinical efficacy and safety is proven. Eligibility is on a case-by-case basis.  Will I need to take out additional cover on my policy to include cancer treatment? No, all leading UK health insurers include comprehensive cancer cover as a core benefit in their policies. Consultations and diagnostic tests relating to cancer are usually covered under the core cover of your health insurance policy. Should the diagnosis turn out not to be cancer the diagnostics and consultations will be paid for out of your chosen out-patient limit. Can I be covered for cancer if I have received treatment for cancer in the past? Yes, in some cases. It depends on when you were last treated for cancer, and usually you would need to be signed off by your consultant and no longer having check-ups or medication. In this situation you would be better speaking to one of our advisors as all insurers have different criteria.  #### [![logo-morehealth-1](https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/logo-morehealth-1.png?width=444&height=140&name=logo-morehealth-1.png)](https://www.more-health.co.uk/) Independent health insurance advisers helping you find the right cover with expert guidance. [Join us on Slack](tel:08000285540)[Browse our GitHub projects](https://wa.me/447833883247)[Browse our GitHub projects](mailto:info@more-health.co.uk) Quick Links - [About Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/about) - [NHS Waiting Times](https://www.more-health.co.uk/nhs-waiting-times) - Hospital Finder - [Contact Us](https://www.more-health.co.uk/contact-us) Health Insurance - [Health Insurance Providers](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-providers) - [Individual Health Insurance](https://www.more-health.co.uk/individual-health-insurance) - [Business Health Insurance](https://www.more-health.co.uk/business-health-insurance) Resources - [Guides](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-guides) - [FAQs](https://www.more-health.co.uk/health-insurance-faqs) - [Blog](https://www.more-health.co.uk/blog) - [Glossary](https://www.more-health.co.uk/glossary) Copyright © 2026 Morehealth Limited - [Terms](https://www.more-health.co.uk/website-tcs) - [Privacy](https://www.more-health.co.uk/privacy-policy) - [Cookies](https://www.more-health.co.uk/cookie-policy) Morehealth Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority: 815733 and registered in England and Wales: 07613132 ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "LocalBusiness", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "UK", "addressLocality" : "Rugby", "addressRegion" : "Warwickshire", "postalCode" : "CV23 0UY", "streetAddress" : "4 Mitchell Court" }, "alternateName" : "Morehealth Limited", "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "GB", "availableLanguage" : "en", "contactType" : "customer service", "telephone" : "0800 028 5540" }, "geo" : { "@type" : "GeoCoordinates", "latitude" : 52.404033, "longitude" : -1.245169 }, "image" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Morehealth.webp", "logo" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/logo-morehealth-1.webp", "name" : "Morehealth Limited", "openingHours" : [ "Mo-Th 09:00-18:30", "Fr 09:00-17:00", "Sa Closed", "Su Closed" ], "priceRange" : "£", "sameAs" : [ "https://uk.linkedin.com/company/morehealth-limited" ], "telephone" : "0800 028 5540", "url" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes, you can have your treatment under the NHS if you prefer. Most insurers offer an NHS cancer cash back which re-imburses you if you have your treatment on the NHS instead of privately. In addition, AXA Health and Bupa allow you to remove the cancer cover on the policy and will reduce your premium for doing so." }, "name" : "Can I still use the NHS for cancer treatment if I have private health cover?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "All cancer treatment pathways are specific to the type of cancer diagnosed. Private health insurance can give you access to drugs that are not available on the NHS and sometimes experimental drugs and treatments. These breakthrough drugs and treatments are given where clinical efficacy and safety is proven. Eligibility is on a case-by-case basis." }, "name" : "Will my treatment be different to the NHS treatment?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "No, all leading UK health insurers include comprehensive cancer cover as a core benefit in their policies. Consultations and diagnostic tests relating to cancer are usually covered under the core cover of your health insurance policy. Should the diagnosis turn out not to be cancer the diagnostics and consultations will be paid for out of your chosen out-patient limit." }, "name" : "Will I need to take out additional cover on my policy to include cancer treatment?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Yes, in some cases. It depends on when you were last treated for cancer, and usually you would need to be signed off by your consultant and no longer having check-ups or medication. In this situation you would be better speaking to one of our advisors as all insurers have different criteria." }, "name" : "Can I be covered for cancer if I have received treatment for cancer in the past?" } ] } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "WebPage", "description" : "According to Cancer Research UK, more than a third of people in the UK fear cancer more than any other life-threatening condition. Learn more.", "inLanguage" : "en-GB", "name" : "Cancer Cover Compared | Morehealth Limited", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/logo-morehealth-1.webp" }, "name" : "Morehealth Limited", "url" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/" }, "url" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/cancer-cover-compared" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://www.more-health.co.uk/cancer-cover-compared", "name" : "Cancer Cover Compared", "position" : 2 } ] } ```