University of Portsmouth students – learn how to add private GP; mental health and diagnostics at low cost; plus how to claim from halls or Southsea.
Do students need private cover
NHS remains your primary care, but private add-ons are useful for fast GP appointments; mental health sessions and scans that reduce downtime during exams.
Essential student-friendly features
- Virtual GP 24/7: Book from halls near Guildhall or shared houses in Southsea.
- Mental health support: Counselling; CBT; app-based programmes; ideal during exam stress.
- Outpatient diagnostics caps: Policies with £500 – £1,000 can be enough on a budget.
- Physio: For gym; rowing and football injuries.
Keep premiums low
- Choose a regional hospital list covering Portsmouth; Havant; Southampton.
- Pick an annual excess of £200 – £350.
- Consider a 6 week NHS wait option to cut costs but keep speed for longer waits.
Dental and optical basics
- Add a cash plan for routine check-ups; hygiene and eye tests. This is cheaper than full dental add-ons for most students.
How to claim from halls or Southsea
- Use your insurer’s app to upload referral letters and receipts.
- Set delivery of e-prescriptions to Southsea or Commercial Road pharmacies.
FAQ
Can parents add me to their family plan
Often yes – it can be cheaper than a solo policy.
Will part-time work affect cover
No; but employer health plans might offer benefits you can use.