Chan I switch private medical insurance without losing cover?

[CuriousRunner]

I had BUPA medical insurance in place for me, husband and 2 DCs via my employer for AGES. When I was made redundant in 2018 I was able to take on the cover personally with any conditions found 2018 onwards still covered. (I can't remember how to describe it best. But normally previous conditions aren't always covered with a brand new policy are they )

Anyway, looking at the bank. In 2019 I was paying £167 per month. I am now paying £326 per month! 😱

I get that costs have gone up. But that's crazy surely?! We've used the insurance just ONCE in that time for a single consultant appointment.

Anyway, can I shop around and switch cover without losing cover? Or can I negotiate with BUPA without simply increasing excess? Are BUPA stiffing me just because I've been a loyal and lazy customer?

TIA!

Health insurance has gone up a lot and will go up whether or not you use it. Your increase sounds about right. You could talk to BUPA about increasing your excess. I doubt that you will get any other reduction from them unless you reduce what is covered. I don’t understand what you mean about ‘not losing cover’. Any new provider will want a full medical history for you and your family. Actually £326 for two adults and two children doesn’t sound that bad. You could try contacting a specialist broker and see what they suggest but my experience is that a new company is cheaper in the beginning but will eventually go up.