Free health assessment for new Bupa IP policies

Bupa is offering a free health assessment to all new income protection customers and their introducing intermediary.

All new income protection polices purchased between 18 August and 17 October 2010 will be eligible for the assessment once the client has gone on risk and it will not affect the underwriting decision.

The assessment includes a series of specific tests which look at key health risk indicators including body mass index (BMI), body fat ratio, blood pressure and cholesterol, and also incorporates a fasting blood glucose test, coronary heart disease and diabetes risk assessment.

It usually costs £149, and can be taken at one of 40 centres around the UK.

Steve Casey, head of sales and marketing at Bupa Individual Protection, says: "At a time when planning for the future is front of mind and people are concerned that their future income will be protected in the event of an illness or accident, we are offering them the opportunity to have a better understanding of their health risks and to give them the tools to make positive lifestyle changes.

"Over three-quarters (78%) of people who have had a Bupa Health Assessment say that they were prompted to make positive changes to their lifestyle."