Private medical health insurance

This type of insurance is very difficult or expensive for people with diabetes to arrange. Often the cost of any treatment relating to diabetes (including complications) will be excluded from the policy. So it's of limited value to people with diabetes. If you are covered by a scheme run by your employer, check the benefits available to you. If you move to another job, check whether you have a 'continuation option' under the scheme. Most private medical insurance schemes offer this option, which allows you to continue with the cover at your own cost.

Hospital cash insurance

This insurance covers funds you may need for certain hospital and outpatient treatment. It can be a very useful way of helping with some of the costs involved with medical treatment. If you are considering such a policy, fully check what treatment it will cover. Diabetes UK Insurance Services has arranged a hospital cash plan insurance that does cover diabetes-related claims (after a qualifying period).