Lateral

Lateral: health insurance for active over-60s

Lateral is a British health insurer that offers the Lateral Health Plan, a product designed specifically for people over 60 who remain active and want to stay that way. The approach combines NHS care with access to private care when necessary, under an approach the company describes as complementary rather than a replacement.

A plan that works alongside the NHS

The Lateral Health Plan is designed to work alongside the UK's public health system. According to the company, the plan helps policyholders access NHS care to which they are entitled more easily and, when the NHS does not perform at the desired level for a specific condition, it explores private options for faster diagnosis or specialist treatment. The company stresses that there are alternatives within the NHS itself that many people are unaware of.

Nurse-led care navigation

One of the distinguishing features Lateral highlights is its care navigation service. Through a helpline, a qualified nurse guides the policyholder on the most suitable and convenient options, combining the best of public and private healthcare to access the right care at the right time. The company insists that its approach focuses on care, not just on managing claims.

Benefits to help you stay healthy

The plan includes an annual health check at no extra cost, valued at £362, with the aim of tracking health over time. It also includes other preventive benefits such as a virtual GP, digital physiotherapy and digital nutrition and lifestyle support, which the policyholder can book as needed.

Pricing and conditions

Lateral states that the plan is aimed exclusively at people over 60 who are fit and active, which allows it to offer lower premiums than traditional health insurance. As an example, the company notes that for a 67-year-old the premium would be £150 per month. The plan comes with a low excess as standard and an approach the company describes as fairer towards pre-existing conditions.

Partners and providers

The Lateral Health Plan is underwritten by HCC International Insurance Company plc, part of Tokio Marine HCC, with an A+ (Strong) rating from S&P Global Ratings. Private GP, digital physiotherapy and digital nutrition and lifestyle services are provided by HealthHero. The annual health check is provided by UK provider Bluecrest, and digital cancer support is offered through Reframe.

A team with clinical experience

Lateral states that its specialist team, led by its own in-house doctor, has designed the product to address the complex challenges of the UK health system. The company emphasises clear policy wording and a smooth digital experience, with customer service based in the UK and a nurse navigation service that seeks the right care at the right time.

The Lateral club

The company runs a free space called the club, aimed at people over 60 with a track record of looking after themselves. It publishes content on healthy ageing, such as the effect of polypharmacy, the impact of alcohol after 60, walking speed as a health indicator, and fracture prevention beyond osteoporosis.