More records were broken as the total number of people covered by health insurance increased 4% from 2023 to reach 6.5 million in 2024. Figures show 4.8 million of these people were covered by workplace policies – a second consecutive record in more than 30 years of data collection.
The total number of people who claimed on either individual or workplace health insurance policies reached 1.8 million in 2024, up 10% from 2023. Claimants on workplace schemes continued to be the primary driver of this increase, further emphasising the value of employer-provided health insurance.
Insurers processed a record £2.6 billion in claims for workplace schemes alone in 2024 – a 16% increase when compared to 2023 figures. These claims have helped employees and their families access preventative care and receive timely diagnoses and treatment for acute medical conditions. This also highlights employers’ growing role in supporting a healthy workforce.
The ABI continues to work closely with the Keep Britain Working review team following its final report in November 2025. The trade body remains committed to highlighting the role of employers and health and protection insurers in keeping people well and in work, and helping them back into to work after a period of ill health.
As an employer participating in the Vanguard Phase of the review, the ABI will also support government initiatives to develop a healthy working lifecycle, create a Workplace Health Provision service and establish certified standards that support employee health.
Rebecca Ward, Head of Health and Protection Policy at the ABI, said: "Another record-breaking year for coverage, claims and payouts underscores the vital role of insurers in maintaining a healthy UK population. As a complement to the life-saving work of the NHS, health insurance continues to help individuals and their loved ones access timely medical testing, treatment and care when it matters most.
“Our figures specifically highlight the value of workplace health insurance schemes in supporting employees to stay well and in work – a key aim of Sir Charlie Mayfield’s Keep Britain Working review. Since the launch of the review, we’ve been engaging with members, government and Sir Charlie’s team to outline the role of employers and insurers in reducing health-based economic inactivity and driving a healthy, thriving workforce. We look forward to continuing this work in 2026."
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