Top 10 Questions About Health Cash Plans Answered Today
When it comes to managing the rising cost of everyday healthcare, more people in the UK are turning to health cash plans. But confusion still lingers around what these plans cover, how they differ from private health insurance, and whether they’re worth the monthly cost.
We’ve rounded up the top 10 most likely asked questions about health cash plans giving you a clear, jargon-free guide to help you make the right decision.
1. What is a health cash plan?
A health cash plan is a low-cost monthly plan that helps you claim back money on everyday health costs like eye tests, dental care, physiotherapy and more. Unlike private medical insurance, which usually covers large or emergency treatment, cash plans are designed to support routine care, the things that keep you well day to day.
In short, you pay in a little each month, and you get money back on health expenses.
2. What does a health cash plan typically cover?
Most health cash plans in the UK include cover for:
- Dental check-ups and treatments
- Eye tests, glasses, contact lenses
- Physiotherapy and osteopathy
- Specialist consultations and diagnostics
- Health and wellbeing services like chiropody or acupuncture
Some plans even include extras like inpatient hospital stay and personal accident cover, benefits that WHA offers.
Did you know? In 2024, UK households spent around £46 billion out-of-pocket on healthcare, accounting for 14.6% of the country’s total health expenditure, as part of an overall £317 billion spent on healthcare across the UK.
3. Who can apply for a health cash plan?
Almost anyone can. Health cash plans are generally open to UK residents aged 18 and over, with no medical exams or health questionnaires needed. Some plans let you cover your children or partner too, making them ideal for families.
They’re increasingly used by employers too, not just large firms, but also SMEs who appreciate their simplicity and cost effectiveness. In fact, more than 200,000 new employee customers were added to health cash plans last year (a 14.8% increase), bringing total coverage to over 1.6 million UK employees.
4. How much does a health cash plan cost?
Plans usually start from around £6.28 per month, depending on the level of cover. That makes health cash plans one of the most affordable ways to protect your health, especially compared to private medical insurance, which can run into hundreds of pounds a year.
Many not-for-profit providers, like WHA Healthcare, keep costs low while offering generous benefits and fast claims.
5. How do I claim money back?
Claiming is easy. After you’ve paid for your treatment, for example a dental check-up or new pair of glasses, you simply:
- Fill in our online form
- Upload a copy of the receipt to the website
- Submit the claim
- Receive the money back, usually within 48 working hours
You’re in full control, no need for GP referrals or jumping through hoops.
6. Can I use it with NHS services?
Yes, and this is what makes cash plans especially popular in the UK. You can use our cash plan to claim back costs from NHS providers, such as NHS dentist, opticians, and counsellors.
As of 1 April 2024, the Band 1 charge for a basic NHS dental examination in Wales is £20 covering check-up, X‑rays, scale and polish, and preventive care. By multiplying that cost across a family, claims from a health cash plan can quickly offset monthly premiums, making routine care budget-friendly and straightforward.
7. Are there limits to how much I can claim?
Yes, each benefit area has a claim limit over 2 years, clearly listed when you sign up. For example, your plan might allow:
- Up to £240 for dental
- Up to £240 for optical
- Up to £320 for physiotherapy
You’ll never be left wondering what’s covered, it’s all transparent. And some providers let you carry unused allowance into the next year or upgrade as needed.
8. How do health cash plans compare to private health insurance?
Here’s a simple comparison:
| Feature | Health Cash Plan | Private Medical Insurance |
| Covers routine care | Yes | Rarely |
| Claims process | Simple & fast | Often complex |
| Monthly cost | Low (£5–£10) | High (£40+ avg) |
| Works with NHS | Yes | Limited |
Cash plans are not a replacement for private insurance, but they are a powerful way to stay on top of everyday health costs, with much less financial commitment.
9. Can businesses offer cash plans to staff?
Yes, and it’s becoming more common. Many UK employers, especially small and medium-sized enterprises are offering health cash plans as part of their well-being package.
Unlike most private medical insurances, cash plans are affordable, easy to administer, and offer practical benefits that employees can actually use, like claiming back for eye tests, dental check-ups, and physiotherapy.
For employers, they’re a meaningful perk that supports everyday health, boosts morale, and can help reduce absenteeism. For staff, it’s reassurance that their routine health needs are covered without having to dip into their salary.
10. Are health cash plans worth it?
If you or your family regularly go to the dentist, wear glasses, or see a physio now and again, then yes, a health cash plan can pay for itself many times over.
With most people spending hundreds per year on basic health needs, the ability to reclaim those costs can make a real difference, especially during times when things can be a little tough financially.
Quick Recap
- Health cash plans help you reclaim money on everyday healthcare
- Affordable, starting from £6.28/month
- No medical checks required
- Works alongside NHS services
- Claims are fast and easy
- Ideal for individuals, families, and businesses
Below are frequently asked questions are also designed to work with voice search, so whether you’re asking Google or Alexa, here’s what you need to know.
FAQs
Is a health cash plan worth it in the UK?
Yes. If you use NHS dentists or buy glasses regularly, you’ll recoup more than your monthly premiums.
Can I use a health cash plan with NHS services?
Absolutely. Most cash plans are designed to work alongside NHS dental, optical, and other healthcare services.
What’s the difference between a cash plan and private health insurance?
Cash plans cover routine care like dental or eye checks. Private insurance covers serious illness and private hospital stays.
Health doesn’t wait for payday, and neither should you. A health cash plan offers simple, everyday peace of mind that’s budget-friendly and easy to use.
Need help choosing the right plan?
Contact us to explore your options or get in touch with our friendly team today.
