Aviva’s profits rise as demand for UK private health insurance booms

Fears over NHS waiting lists contribute to 41% increase in sales of policies, contributing to 1.5bn operating profit

Booming demand in the UK for private health insurance, as NHS waiting lists remain at near-record levels, has boosted annual profits at Aviva, with more frequent claims and higher medical costs driving up premiums.

Britain's biggest general insurer said sales of health insurance had risen 41% in 2023 compared with the previous year, with strong demand from businesses and individual customers, who were taking out policies as the crisis in the state health service continues.