When is the best time to take out a health insurance policy? That is one of the many questions that often go through the mind of someone who is enquiring into a quote for private health cover but now one expert thinks she has the answer. Vanessa Bourne, a spokeswoman for the Patients Association, thinks the earlier the better. Many young people, particularly students, believe that a private health insurance is irrelevant while they are less likely to suffer from severe health conditions, but Ms. Bourne says, "Our advice would be that if you want private coverage, get it early in life when it should be cheaper, and try and keep it if you change jobs." She also described how the “meter starts again” every time somebody embarks on a new policy and each time the cost of premiums can be increased by factors such as age and health changes.

By taking out a student medical insurance policy, it is possible to get access to a wide range of top quality medical services, such as general health checks and treatment at a convenient time and place, whether these services are required at home while at university. In the long term, it can mean a better state of health than for someone who does not have access to these facilities, and could lower insurance premiums later in life. Many students may be put off taking out private health cover, because of a lack of funding, but with policies starting from only £9.99 a month, private health insurance for students can be very affordable, and money well spent.