Jersey is a country famed for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and from a business perspective, it’s thriving financial sector.
But many are surprised to discover that its healthcare system doesn’t come under the jurisdiction of the NHS.
With minimal access to free healthcare, it’s perhaps no surprise that an estimated 30% of Jersey islanders have health insurance compared to between 9 and 12% of the UK population (based on data from multiple sources, including Laing Buisson and ABI).
In this blog post, we take a closer look at how Jersey’s healthcare system operates and how you might invest in health insurance for employees living on the island.
Would you like to speak to one of our experts about setting up Business Health Insurance in Jersey? Get free pricing and complimentary advice by contacting 01273 974419 or [email protected].
How does Jersey’s public healthcare system work?
It’s important to note that Jersey is not part of the NHS. It’s a self-governing Crown Dependency, meaning it runs its own healthcare system.
While residents pay into the system via social security and taxes, healthcare in Jersey isn’t free at the point of use like in the UK – except for emergency care. That means GP visits, prescriptions, and routine treatments all come with out-of-pocket costs.
Jersey General Hospital is the island’s main hospital and is open 24/7 for emergency cases. Ambulance services are also free in emergencies.
The six-month rule for post-emergency care
While initial emergency care is free, charges may apply if you need ongoing hospital treatment, unless you’ve been a resident for at least six months and meet certain criteria.
New residents also have to wait six months before they can apply for a health card, which gives access to discounted GP appointments and free prescriptions. Until then, they’re liable for all medical costs, unless they have private health insurance.
What is covered under Jersey’s public health system?
The following are covered for free under Jersey’s public health system:
- Emergency treatment (free for everyone)
- Non-emergency hospital care for those who qualify
- Free prescriptions (with a health card)
The following is not covered in Jersey:
- GP visits (must be paid for, though discounts apply with a health card)
- Dental care (almost entirely private)
- Specialist consultations without a referral
- Certain medications
- Medical evacuations for treatment unavailable in Jersey
How to find an insurer that covers employees in Jersey
The good news is that there are plenty of options when it comes to health insurance in Jersey. When choosing a provider, look for one with experience in the Channel Islands, as they’ll understand the unique aspects of Jersey’s healthcare system.
UK insurers covering Jersey
Examples of UK insurers who extend their coverage to Jersey include:
- AXA: Offers both international and Channel Islands-specific health insurance (annual and short-term cover).
- Bupa: Private health insurance that covers hospital stays for serious conditions in Jersey.
International Health Insurers
If your employees travel regularly or work across multiple countries, an international plan might be a better option for your business. These insurers offer policies that include Jersey as part of a global health plan:
- Allianz: Provides the option to add a repatriation plan to your employees’ health insurance plan.
- Cigna: Provides coverage for up to 99 employees
- April International: Both its long-term and short-term health insurance plans provide coverage for outpatient treatment and consultations.
Impartial brokers
Specialist brokers know the ins and outs of Jersey’s healthcare market and can find the best plan for your business. Engage Health Group’s global broker network covers Jersey so we can help you get competitive pricing and tailored advice.
A good broker or consultant will also talk you through some of the small print that significantly affects the value of a policy – the kind of things an insurer might gloss over!
Would you like FREE advice about setting up a Business Health Insurance policy in Jersey? Our team of consultants has award-winning expertise covering UK and international policies. Contact us on 01273 974419 or [email protected].
Should you go straight to an insurer or enlist a broker?
Contacting an insurer directly might seem simpler, but using a broker like Engage Health Group will also save you time and, moreover, ensure you’re on the best plan.
A good broker will:
- Compare multiple providers: Instead of being stuck with one insurer’s offer, brokers can compare policies from different providers.
- Understand Jersey’s healthcare system: Jersey has a unique healthcare system, and a broker makes sure your employees are covered properly.
- Handle the admin: A good broker will look after the admin, even after your policy has been set-up.
- Coordinate with other global policies: If you have employees in multiple countries, it might be worthwhile placing them under a single international health insurance plan. You can discuss this option with a broker who has international expertise.
Why offer health insurance to your employees in Jersey
Providing private health insurance isn’t legally required in Jersey, but it will be highly sought-after by employees. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Faster access to treatment: As well as avoiding high fees, you can also get seen more quickly.
- Reduced absenteeism: Employees who can access healthcare quickly recover faster and take fewer sick days.
- A competitive employee benefit: Health insurance makes recruitment more attractive, especially in a country where free health services are very limited.
- Potential tax benefits: Depending on your policy, offering health insurance could have tax benefits for your business.
Find the right health insurance policy at the right price
As you can see, Jersey has a rather unique – and limited – free healthcare arrangement. As a result, you’re likely to see a higher percentage of businesses offering health insurance in Jersey than you would expect to see in the UK.
At Engage Health Group, we ensure your team gets the care they need by finding the right policy at the right price. We also support you throughout the life of your policy by giving you a dedicated account manager and ongoing administrative support.
If you need support in Jersey or across multiple countries, it’s worth taking advantage of a free policy analysis and no-obligation fact-finding call.
Simply call 01273 974419 or [email protected].
