1. When was the last time you had a health check-up? 2. What can you do to improve your physical fitness? 3. What is your diet like? 4. Do you have a positive attitude towards growing older? 5. What are your plans to keep mentally active? 6. What do you enjoy and value doing now? 7. How do you plan to keep an active social life?

"What stimulates doctors to encourage people to join learning activity rather than giving them a bunch of pills? Perhaps it is the suspicion that learning can keep people healthy." - Professor Alan Tuckett, Director of National Institute for Adult and Continuing Education

Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Our health is our greatest asset, and forms the cornerstone of our everyday lives. It determines our quality of life today and tomorrow.

The excellence of the NHS is not disputed when it comes to areas such as accident and emergency services. However, treatment on the NHS varies dramatically and certain drugs are not universally available. Where treatment is required, a nest-egg or holiday fund could easily be wiped out in one fell swoop, that is, if you are fortunate enough to have one.

NHS waiting lists are a primary reason for opting for PMI. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a benefit that may be called upon to settle medical bills many times in the policyholder’s lifetime. Providing rapid access to expert medical opinion and treatment, it enables you to be treated at a centre of excellence at the time and place of your choosing, avoiding the additional stress and worry of waiting for treatment or an operation.

When considering PMI you should:

• Be aware that prices vary dramatically depending on what you choose, how old you are and other factors.

• Check for exclusions and inclusions.

• Get professional advice from an Independent Financial Adviser, who is, or can put you in touch with, a healthcare specialist.

The Teachers’ Retirement Agency endorses the services of Healthsaver and the scheme EDUHEALTH. This is a private healthcare scheme uniquely costed, and tailored specifically to teachers’ needs. It allows you and your family to choose where and when you want to be treated and even more importantly, by whom.