Searches for “private medical insurance” see 150% rise year-on-year – The Exeter
Interest in "private health insurance" also increased by 120%, while searches for “private healthcare” rose by 50%.
Search interest in “private medical insurance” (PMI) rose by 150% over the past year compared with the preceding year, Google Trends analysis from The Exeter found.
Interest in “private health insurance” also increased by 120%, while searches for “private healthcare” rose by 50%.
The Exeter said the increases suggested more consumers were exploring private healthcare options amid concerns over access to treatment.
Its Consumer Health and Finance Tracker found 49% of UK adults expected NHS waiting times to increase during the six-month period from March 2026, while 33% were unsure whether the NHS could fully meet their needs if they became ill.
Interest in the cost of accessing private care has also increased substantially, with searches for the “cost of private healthcare” rising by 1,100% compared with the preceding year and searches for “private GP cost” increasing by 150%.
Among those who accessed private healthcare in the six months to March 2026, 40% funded treatment through their income or savings and 21% received financial support from family or friends.
Almost a quarter (24%) accessed treatment through an insurance policy, while 19% used a credit card or personal loan.
The Exeter also found 21% of UK adults typically saved nothing each month and 37% felt less financially secure.
Search interest in “NHS vs private” increased by 200% year-on-year, while searches for “NHS waiting times” rose by 10%.
The insurer’s research found 43% of UK adults had accessed at least one private healthcare service during the six months to March 2026.
Dental care was the most commonly accessed service, used by 20% of adults, followed by mental health support and private GP appointments, both at 10%.
Karen Woodley, head of healthcare distribution at The Exeter, said: “The NHS continues to provide vital care to millions of people across the UK despite significant demand and ongoing pressures.
“However, our Health and Finance Tracker suggests many people are conscious of how they would access treatment and support, particularly where waiting times are an ongoing concern.
“The increase in searches relating to private healthcare and the cost, suggests consumers are becoming more proactive about their healthcare planning, while keeping an eye on affordability.
“This presents advisers with an opportunity to help their clients understand the role health insurance can play in their wider financial and wellbeing plans. Having cover in place can provide real reassurance and help people feel more in control of their health.”
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