PruProtect launches new PMI benefit

PruProtect policyholders can add Health Cover to their plan, which pays for the cost of private medical treatment for a wide range of acute conditions including day-to-day treatment, seeing a specialist or having an operation. Instead of having to buy Serious Illness Cover and Health Cover separately, they can now be combined in one efficient package with one application form, one direct debit, one number to call to make a claim and a 5% discount compared to buying the covers separately.

Depending on clients' budgets and concerns there are three levels of cover: Comprehensive Cover, Primary Cover and Heart and Cancer Cover that are supported by award winning PruHealth. These options provide extensive coverage including access to some of the best private hospitals in the UK, as well as access to over 7,000 experienced and skilled medical professionals.

The Health Cover Optimiser enables clients to create a comprehensive package of benefits in one cost efficient vehicle - saving up to 25% compared to buying Health Cover separately from PruHealth.

protection IFA Peter Chadborn of CBK Colchester, said: "Once again PruProtect has pushed the boundaries with this latest innovation. Health Insurance and personal protection do not typically converge during the advice process, which seems wrong. This development goes a long way to removing whatever barriers previously existed and this development is impossible to ignore for any adviser operating in the protection market."

Ben Heffer, insight analyst for independent financial research company Defaqto said: "Pru's holistic approach to protection has been taken to the next level with this development. The plan already covers a wide range of serious illnesses and now it also covers the cost of a range of medical treatments. Increased engagement with policyholders and matching benefits to needs is its hallmark and a positive step forward for the industry and consumers."