21 August 2002

BUPA announces changes to cash plan

Moratoria on BUPA's cash plan scheme are being lifted orreduced. From September 1st, people on company cash plan schemes will becovered with immediate effect and, for individuals, the qualifying period willgo down from 26 weeks to 13 weeks. An additional single level will also beintroduced making three levels available to individuals. This will giveindividuals the option for a higher level of cover.

There will be a number of other improvements to benefits,including cover for:

disposable contact lenses and routine eye tests even whenspectacles are not prescribed

specialist consultations, including x-rays and relatedhospital expenses

the repair of hearing aids

dental claims will no longer have to be over the value of10

the amount you can claim for dental has been increased

Cathy Gilbert, cash plan sales and marketing manager,said, "Following research amongst our customers, we have listened to whatthey want and which benefits they value most. BUPA cash plan is now morecompetitive than ever in its benefits, as well as being more straightforward,flexible and offering better customer choice".

BUPA has also reviewed its pricing for the first time inthree years, making only a five per cent increase to ensure that the schemeremains both competitive and attractive.