Physiotherapy Insurance: Complete UK Coverage Guide
Private health insurance typically covers physiotherapy with session limits ranging from 6-30 appointments per year depending on policy level. Understanding your coverage, excess requirements, approved provider lists, and claiming process ensures smooth access to physiotherapy treatment. This guide covers major UK insurers including Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva, and Cigna.
Does health insurance cover physiotherapy?
Yes, most UK private health insurance policies cover physiotherapy for musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries, and post-operative rehabilitation. Standard policies cover 10-12 sessions per year with £100-£250 excess. Premium policies offer 20-30 sessions or unlimited treatment. Coverage typically includes sports physiotherapy, MSK treatment, and neurological rehabilitation.
Major UK Insurers - Physiotherapy Coverage
Bupa - 12-20 sessions depending on policy, £100-£250 excess, covers most London physiotherapists, direct billing available, no GP referral required for most policies.
AXA Health - 10-15 sessions standard, 20-30 premium, £100-£200 excess, good London coverage, GP referral required for claims.
Vitality - 6-12 sessions Bronze/Silver, 20 Gold, unlimited Platinum, varies by membership level, wellness programme discounts available.
Aviva - 12 sessions standard, £150-£250 excess, requires GP referral, physiotherapist must be on approved list.
Cigna - 15-20 sessions, £200-£300 excess, premium international coverage, direct billing widely available.
WPA - 10-15 sessions, £150 excess, good provincial coverage, physiotherapist approval required.
Learn about costs: Physiotherapy Costs
Do I need a GP referral for insurance claims?
GP referral requirements vary by insurer. Bupa and Vitality generally don't require GP referrals for physiotherapy claims. AXA Health and Aviva typically require GP referrals. Cigna policies vary. Check your specific policy documents or contact your insurer before booking to confirm requirements.
What is excess and how does it work?
Excess is the amount you pay before insurance coverage begins. If your excess is £200 and physiotherapy costs £75 per session, you pay the first 3 sessions (£225 total) yourself. The insurer then pays for subsequent sessions up to your policy limit. Excess applies per year or per condition depending on policy type.
How do I claim for physiotherapy on insurance?
Claim for physiotherapy by checking approved provider status, obtaining GP referral if required, contacting insurer for pre-authorization, attending physiotherapy sessions, asking clinic for direct billing or paying upfront, and submitting claim form with receipts if self-paying. Most London physiotherapists offer direct billing to major insurers.
Find Insurance-Accepting Physiotherapists
Clinics accepting major insurers:
Westminster - Bupa, AXA, Vitality, Cigna
Canary Wharf - All major insurers
City of London - Corporate insurance specialists
Related guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I exceed my session limit?
If you exceed your annual session limit, you pay the full cost of additional sessions. Some physiotherapists offer discounted rates for patients paying privately after insurance exhaustion.
Does insurance cover sports massage?
Most insurers cover sports massage when provided by a qualified physiotherapist as part of treatment plan. Standalone sports massage for relaxation typically isn't covered.
Can I choose any physiotherapist?
You can generally choose any HCPC-registered physiotherapist, but check your insurer's approved provider list. Out-of-network providers may require upfront payment and reimbursement claims.