Cigna, a global health services provider with operations in over 200 countries, has officially withdrawn its private health insurance offerings from the UK market. The decision, announced following a strategic business review, marks a significant shift in the company's regional focus and product strategy.
Withdrawal from UK Private Health Market
In September 2022, Cigna ceased selling UK medical and dental products, including popular plans like Health Flex, Company Health, and Your Health. Renewals were honoured through the end of 2022, but no new quotes have been issued since. This move leaves some small businesses and individual policyholders without a direct continuation option. You can read the full announcement on [Clarity Health Insurance](https://clarityhealthinsurance.co.uk/cigna-withdraws-their-private-health-insurance-from-the-uk-market/).
Unlike previous market exits — such as April UK's handover to AXA — Cigna did not arrange for another insurer to take over its UK customer base. This has raised concerns about underwriting continuity, especially for SMEs with fewer than 100 employees. Without a transfer agreement, many policyholders may face exclusions or stricter medical assessments when switching providers.
Global Strategy and International Focus
While Cigna has exited the UK domestic market, it continues to offer international health insurance products for globally mobile employees and expatriates. The company is deepening its strategic focus on global healthcare and health services, including its UK-based international division. More details are available on [Cigna Global](https://www.cignaglobal.com/cignauk).
This pivot aligns with broader industry trends, where insurers are consolidating regional offerings to focus on scalable, cross-border solutions. Cigna's international plans typically include worldwide coverage, digital health access, and multilingual support — features that appeal to multinational corporations and remote-first teams.
Advice for Affected Policyholders
For UK businesses previously insured through Cigna, early review of alternative providers is recommended. Competing insurers may offer continuation of underwriting, but only if medical histories and pricing data are available. Groups with fewer than 10 employees may face the most stringent transfer conditions, including new medical questionnaires and potential exclusions.
Industry experts advise policyholders to act proactively, even if renewal dates are months away. Being caught off-guard by a discontinued plan could result in gaps in coverage or higher premiums. For those seeking guidance, brokers and independent advisors can help navigate the transition and identify suitable replacement policies.
While Cigna's exit from the UK private health insurance market is a loss for some, its continued presence in global health services ensures that international customers still have access to robust, digitally enabled coverage.
