Let’s talk about Outpatient cover on your IPMI policy — in plain English
Most clients nod along when we mention “inpatient” and “outpatient”…
But let’s be honest — how many of us actually understand the difference?
Here’s the simple version:
If you’re not staying overnight in hospital but still receive medical treatment — that’s almost always considered outpatient.
And it’s not just “a GP visit”. In fact, most of what you’ll actually use on private health insurance falls under outpatient care.
Typical examples? Think:
• Consultations with private GPs, dermatologists, neurologists, etc.
• Blood tests, urine, stool, hormones — all your diagnostics
• Ultrasound, MRI, CT, PET scans
• Prescriptions and any follow-up to collect them
• Physiotherapy
• Psychiatrist or psychologist visits
• Gynaecology checks
• Biopsies — even if done under light sedation
Then there’s the less obvious but still outpatient category:
• Genetic testing for cancer risk (like BRCA1/2)
• Chinese medicine (covered on some policies)
• Osteopathy, manual therapy, acupuncture (usually when referred)
• Vitamins/minerals — only if prescribed based on test results
• HRT (unless it’s menopause-related, then it's often excluded)
• Video or telephone consultations (telemedicine)
• Mental health support — from anxiety to full-blown panic attacks
• Post-op follow-up appointments
• Ongoing management of chronic conditions (this varies by insurer)
• Child wellness checks (usually up to age 5 if your plan includes it)
• Home nurse visits (but only when medically recommended post-hospitalisation)
“Can’t I just skip outpatient cover to save money?”
You can — but here’s what you’re looking at paying out of pocket in places like London, Dubai, or Paris:
• MRI / CT / PET scans: £850 – £2,500
• Private specialist consultation: £250 – £350
• Lymph node biopsy: £800 – £1,500
• Physio: £60 per half-hour session (you’ll likely need at least 10)
• Psychotherapy: from £150 per session
• Comprehensive blood panels: £300 – £1,500
None of that’s covered without outpatient. You’re footing the bill.
Inpatient vs Outpatient: The key difference
Inpatient = you’re admitted and stay in hospital.
Outpatient = you walk in, get treated, walk out.
Simple as that.
The honest truth? You’re not having surgery every week. Around 80% of the claims we see fall under outpatient treatment.
So if you’re unsure what’s included in your policy — or what’s not — let’s go through it together. I’ll walk you through your cover, clause by clause. The first consultation is completely free, so you’ve got nothing to lose.
Message me directly, and I’ll set up a time that works for you.