Get health insurance 'early'

Those seeking health insurance ought to consider taking it out as early as possible, according to one expert.Vanessa Bourne, a spokesperson for the Patients Association, said although having a healthy lifestyle may reduce premiums, people cannot "avoid" their genetics."Our advice would be that if you want private coverage, get it early in life when it should be cheaper and try and keep it if you change jobs," Ms Bourne advised.Each time someone takes out a new insurance policy, the "meter stars again", she stated, adding that health changes and age can limit the availability of cover and increase the costs of premiums.Private medical insurance provider Bupa recently said having a healthier lifestyle can help people to save money.The company said cutting out cigarettes , choosing to drink water instead of coffee, favouring the "great outdoors" over the gym and cycling to work can all have financial benefits.