New research by Howden Life and Health has revealed that the top reason for Private Medical Insurance (PMI) claims in the past five years was for diagnostic tests and scans, with mental health services high on the list for younger claimants.
As part of its Health Gap research, Howden surveyed 2,000 UK adults and found that four in ten (42%) of PMI policyholders made a claim on their insurance in the past five years, with men and younger people the most likely to make a claim.
Howden also discovered that men policyholders are more likely to make a claim (47%) than women (38%) while younger people are almost three and a half times more likely to claim on their PMI than older people; 57% of PMI holders under 24 made at least one claim in the past five years compared with just 17% of those aged 65 and over.
Of those who have made a claim, the most common reason was for diagnostic tests and scans, followed by injuries and rehabilitation and physiotherapy, with optical treatments and eye and ear conditions making up the top five; however, Howden found that the type of claim changes significantly by age.
For those over 65, optical treatment and physiotherapy were the top two types of claims, while mental health services were at number nine. However, mental health services are the second most common for Gen X, with 18% making a claim, and fourth for Gen Z (24%).
"Our research underlines the crucial role Private Medical Insurance plays in helping people access timely diagnosis and treatment - particularly when NHS waiting times for key services are under significant strain," Jon Carroll, executive director at Howden Life & Health, said.
"Against this backdrop, it’s no surprise that diagnostic tests and scans are the most common reason for PMI claims. Quick access to imaging can be vital for spotting issues early, from potential cancers to neurological or musculoskeletal conditions, and private cover helps people avoid prolonged uncertainty.
"What’s also particularly striking is the growing reliance on PMI for mental health support among younger adults. With one in five under-25s making a mental health-related claim, it’s clear that access to prompt, specialist care is becoming increasingly important for this generation. At the same time, older policyholders are using PMI in very different ways, reflecting how healthcare needs evolve over our lifetimes.
"The message for consumers is that PMI isn’t just about covering major illness – it’s about everyday health concerns, early intervention and ongoing wellbeing. Having the right cover in place, and reviewing it regularly with professional advice, can ensure policies continue to meet people’s changing needs and deliver real value when they need it most." Carroll continued.
