Life insurance and critical illness cover are fundamental financial safety nets. They provide peace of mind in the face of life’s uncertainties, protecting your loved ones financially if you die, become critically ill, or are unable to work due to illness or injury. But did you know these policies often come with valuable added benefits that extend far beyond financial protection?
One such benefit, particularly relevant in today’s climate, is access to virtual GP appointments. With the NHS under immense pressure, securing a timely appointment with your local GP can be challenging. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you need medical advice or a prescription renewal.
Here’s how life and critical illness policies can help:
Virtual GP Appointments: Convenience and Efficiency
Some protection providers now offer policyholders access to a 24/7 virtual GP service. This allows you to consult with a qualified doctor remotely via video call or phone, often within the same day or even outside regular GP surgery hours.
The benefits of virtual consultations are numerous:
- Reduced waiting times: No more waiting weeks for an appointment. Get the medical advice you need quickly and conveniently.
- Improved access: Ideal for those in remote areas or with limited mobility.
- Flexibility: Schedule appointments around your work or childcare commitments.
- Continuity of care: Discuss your health concerns with a doctor familiar with your medical history (if offered by the provider).
Beyond Virtual GPs: Additional Added-Value Services
Virtual GP consultations are just the tip of the iceberg. Many providers offer a range of additional health and wellbeing benefits, including:
- Helplines: Sometimes you don’t whether you should be concerned or not about a health issue. Many providers give you 24/7 access to telephone helplines with qualified nurses.
- Annual health check: free annual ‘health MOTs’ to make sure you’re staying healthy or to spot the early signs of something more serious.
- Mental health support: Access to therapists and counsellors for confidential consultations.
- Physiotherapy consultations: Receive treatment plans and guidance from qualified physiotherapists without the need for a GP referral.
- Health information and resources: Access a wealth of reliable information on various health conditions and preventative measures.
Maximising the Value of Your Policy
Not all life insurance, critical illness and income protection policies offer these added benefits, and some are only available through an adviser.. It’s crucial to check with your provider or adviser to see what’s included in your specific plan.
Here are some tips for getting the most out of your policy’s added benefits:
- Familiarise yourself with the available services: Understand what benefits your policy offers and how to access them.
- Download any relevant apps: Many providers offer apps to facilitate appointment booking, prescription renewals and accessing health information.
- Utilise the resources effectively: Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the virtual consultations, mental health support or other services that can improve your overall well-being.
Check your policy
Life, critical illness and income protection policies offer a vital financial safety net. But the benefits can go beyond simply protecting your income and loved ones financially. By offering access to valuable health and wellbeing services, these policies can help you take a proactive approach to your health.
For a personalised quote on life insurance and critical illness, or to discuss the added benefits available, contact us today.
Approver Quilter Financial Services Limited & Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited. 27/03/2024
