How to switch HMOs without leaving anyone uncovered
Unhappy with your current HMO? Switching is simpler than it looks, if you plan the dates and look after staff who are in the middle of treatment.
Slow referral codes, hospitals that turn staff away, complaints that never get answered. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to switch. The good news: with a little planning, your staff will hardly notice the change, except that things work better.
When to switch
The easiest time is at renewal, when your current contract ends. Switching mid-year is possible, but check your contract for notice periods and whether any unused premium is refunded.
The switching timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks before | Check your contract for notice terms. Start comparing plans. |
| 6 weeks before | Choose the new plan and confirm the start date. |
| 4–6 weeks before | Give notice to your current HMO, in writing. |
| 4 weeks before | Collect staff and dependant details for the new HMO. |
| 2 weeks before | Staff choose new primary hospitals. Share the new ID cards. |
| Start date | New cover begins the day after the old one ends. |
Look after staff in the middle of treatment
This is the part most companies forget. Before you switch, ask staff (privately) if anyone is:
- Pregnant, and will deliver around the switch date.
- Waiting for surgery or in the middle of a treatment plan.
- Managing a chronic condition with regular medication.
Share this (with consent) with the new HMO, and ask them to waive waiting periods and continue care without interruption. Many will agree for a group that is moving over.
Tell staff early and clearly
- Why you are switching, and what will be better.
- The exact date the new cover starts.
- How to choose a new primary hospital and get the new ID.
- Who to call if something goes wrong in the first weeks.
Action plan
Your switching action plan
- 1
Read your current contract
Note the end date and the notice you must give.
- 2
Compare the market
Use Yousure to shortlist better plans for your team.
- 3
Protect staff in treatment
Ask the new HMO to waive waiting periods and continue care.
- 4
Line up the dates
New cover should start the day after the old one ends.
- 5
Brief your team
Explain the change, the date, and how to choose a new hospital.
