Overview
National Friendly is a Bristol-based mutual founded in 1868. Its My PMI product takes an unusual approach to pricing: premiums follow a five-year contract structure under which your own claims don't push up your renewal price mid-term — increases follow the community of members rather than your personal claims record.
It also has the highest maximum joining age in the market at 85, making it one of very few options for older first-time buyers, and includes 24/7 remote GP access.
Reviews & ratings
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Strengths
- Joiners accepted up to age 85 — the market's highest
- Five-year pricing structure: your own claims don't raise mid-term renewals
- Community-rated pricing smooths increases
- 24/7 remote GP access included
- Mutual society run for members
Things to consider
- Mental health cover is limited (outpatient sessions only, no inpatient)
- Lower NHS cash benefits than rivals
- Fewer options for reducing the premium
Who is National Friendly best for?
Older buyers other insurers turn away, and anyone who values premium stability over rock-bottom starting prices.
What does it cost?
From £67/month. Indicative for a 30-year-old, 2026. Community-rated pricing with a five-year price promise structure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get health insurance in my 70s or 80s?
Yes — National Friendly accepts new joiners up to age 85, the highest limit in the UK market. Premiums at older ages are significant, and pre-existing conditions will be excluded under the underwriting terms, but for many older buyers this is one of the only realistic routes into private cover.
What does 'community-rated pricing' mean?
Instead of repricing you individually based on your claims, National Friendly adjusts premiums across its whole membership. Combined with its five-year contract structure, this means claiming on your policy won't single you out for a steep personal increase at renewal — a genuine difference from most of the market.
What are the limitations of My PMI?
Mental health cover is the main one: you get a limited number of outpatient sessions and no inpatient psychiatric cover, which is weaker than Bupa or Freedom. NHS cash benefits are modest, and there are fewer excess and discount levers than bigger insurers offer. Comparing against your priorities matters.
Other insurer reviews
Understand how health insurance works
- Moratorium vs full medical underwriting
- Pre-existing conditions explained
- Why premiums are rising in 2026
- Insurance Premium Tax explained