Pruhealth

Avoid at all costs

Like previous reviewer says - these guys are like the Ryanair of Health Insurance. I don't mind it for flights but when it comes to your health, they are really not worth the total hassle. I attempted to make a claim when I injured my shoulder playing football. My GP told me to go and see a physiotherapist immediately so they could stop the swelling and strap it appropriately. So I call up Pru Health for authorization.... then begins my impossible journey. They ask me about 20 questions then finally tell me that I need to fill out a ridiculously long form, give it to my doctor and then get them to fill it out and then FAX it to Pru Health. Then they will 'assess' the claim and get back to me 3 days later. 3 days!!!! I'm in pain, I don't need to wait 3 days while they 'assess' a letter from my GP saying I hurt my shoulder playing football.

I express this and they basically tell me that they need to make sure it's not a pre-existing injury. But I've signed a legal document where there is no mention of any right shoulder injuries (I've never had any problems).

I've been with BUPA and Simply Health for years before and never had any problems (not that I had to claim very regularly). The staff were much better and they didn't give me more hassle than I need when I'm clearly suffering and seeking medical care.

Then, as if it happened every day they offered to send a recording of the call to their complaints department. The complaints department called me later and spouted the same nonsense, adding in that even if they do 'assess' my claim, I'll need to use one of their physios or if I use my own I can only claim £30 per session. I don't know of any decent physios in London who are charging £30 or less.

Overall, as you can probably tell, I'd advise avoiding this company AT ALL COSTS. It's just not worth the low premiums they charge. I'd hate to think how I'd feel if I had a more serious condition.