Gay couples miss health insurance

Same-sex couples may be missing out on medical insurance

More than half of all employers' medical plans make no provision for same-sex couples, a survey has found.

The research by the consultancy William H Mercer also found only 48% allowed membership by common-law spouses.

The firm claimed many plans were "out of tune" with current social trends.

As things stand, many employers could be accused of acting unjustly

Steve Clement, William H Mercer

Steve Clement, a spokesman for William H Mercer, said: "As things stand, many employers could be accused of acting unjustly, as a large proportion of partners are not allowed membership.

"However, with the increasing emphasis on equal treatment and inclusiveness, there are signs that more companies are looking to address this issue."

Four out of 10 offer full health cover for all employees - although restrictions often apply for mental or stress-related illnesses.

Of the 527 company sponsored plans, 44% allow the inclusion of same-sex partners.

Health promotion

Many more employers are now introducing health-promotion within the workplace.

Non-smoking policies have been brought in by 95% of employers - 58% of these did this in the last five years.

Well over half offer some sort of health screening to their workers, but only 18% offered this to all their staff.

A third offer medical staff on-hand in the workplace, with a quarter having stress management in the workplace.

Employers are free to decide if they wish to provide this benefit,and if so,on what basis

Spokesman, Association of British Insurers

A spokesman for the Association of British Insurers said that it was up to companies to decide who they wanted to include in their medical plans.

He said: "We are not aware of particular problems in the scope of cover provided by private medical insurance providers under group arrangements.

"Employers are free to decide if they wish to provide this benefit, and if so,on what basis."

"For example some policies may cover private medical treatment for employees only, while others may cover the employee and their immediate family."