A record 4.4 million people are now covered by health insurance through their employer and 1 million claims have been made over the past year, according to the latest data from the Association of British Insurers (ABI).*
The number of employees benefitting from health insurance has increased by 8%, from 4 million in 2021 to 4.4 million in 2022. Workplace policies also saw a 15% increase in claims, with 1 million made in 2022 compared to 873,000 in 2021.
Following a series of consultations on the role of occupational health, the Government has enhanced its focus on the need to support people to stay healthy and at work.** These record figures demonstrate that insurance needs to be a vital part of this conversation. The value it can add with speedier access to services and treatment, which often prevent health conditions from worsening, must not be overlooked. The access to virtual GPs, more flexible appointment times, and cover for operations can help people get back on their feet and back to their work, family lives and other commitments more quickly.
Our recent research also shows the value that health and protection insurance can have in the workplace. We found that nine in ten (86%) people who were absent from work due to illness or injury, were successfully supported to stay in their employment using services provided by their insurer. Over 42% of those absent were supported back to work in under four weeks and 81% in under six months.***
Ahead of the Autumn Statement, we continue to call on the government to cut the rate of Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) on health insurance to allow more employers and individuals to access it and view this as a key route to improving workplace health.
Health insurance boost overall
The total number of people covered by health insurance – both individual and workplace policies – has increased by 7% to 5.8 million in 2022. This is the highest number we’ve seen since 2008. And payouts for health insurance claims also hit a record high, reaching almost £3 billion overall.
Rebecca Deegan, Head of Health and Protection Policy, ABI, said:
"The value health and protection insurance can provide in keeping people fit, well and in work can’t be overstated. These record figures speak for themselves. By overlooking its potential to boost the health of the nation, the Government is missing an opportunity to better support workers and keep people healthy and in employment"
Notes to Editors
*ABI Private Medical Insurance (2022 figures), October 2023.
**DWP – Occupational Health: Working Better and HMT – Tax incentives for occupational health
***ABI, Closing the evidence gap: how insurance supports good health and productivity
Please contact the Press Office with further queries.