What hip surgery at 39 taught me: The crucial role of PMI in employee wellbeing

How private medical insurance helped Emma Machin, senior employee benefits consultant at Verlingue, through the impact of major surgery and recuperation.

I don’t usually share personal stories, but this one matters. This isn’t the kind of post I typically write. I tend to keep personal things private. But given my role, I felt it was important to talk about this experience, because when your health takes a turn, speed and support make all the difference.

September marks one year since I underwent a total hip replacement surgery at just 39. It wasn’t a milestone I ever anticipated before turning 40, but life had other ideas.

After suddenly developing hip pain, I was diagnosed with Perthes disease, a condition usually found in children, not adults. Within a few months, I went from healthy and active to struggling and needing major surgery. Thankfully, I had Bupa private medical insurance (PMI) through my employer Verlingue, which meant fast access to diagnosis, surgery, and, most importantly, ongoing treatment and rehab.

Recovery has not been straightforward. I thought being young and relatively fit meant I would bounce back quickly… I was so wrong. It’s been a long, frustrating, and emotional journey, and I’m still receiving treatment and support 12 months on. That includes regular sessions with my physiotherapist, ongoing care from a specialist, and targeted treatment from a chiropractor - each playing a vital role in helping me rebuild strength and mobility.

Adding to that challenge, I have a young son, and for me, being able to access quick treatment wasn’t just a nice-to-have, it was crucial. Every week spent waiting would have meant more strain at home, more time not being fully present, and more uncertainty for us all.

As part of my role at Verlingue, I advise and consult on PMI. Every day I speak to clients about why giving their employees access to PMI matters, how it gives staff faster access to treatment, the freedom to choose their specialist, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing they’re supported.

It’s not just about healthcare - it’s about helping employees get back to work quicker, feel valued, and know their wellbeing is a priority. But recently, things changed, as I wasn’t just talking about PMI anymore - I was relying on it myself.

Experiencing PMI as a patient gave me a completely different perspective. I wasn’t thinking about policy features or benefit limits; I was thinking about how quickly I could see a specialist, how soon I could start physio, and how I would manage life at home with limited mobility and a young son.

I felt the relief when appointments were booked within days, not weeks, and I saw the impact of having access to a surgeon, a specialist, a physiotherapist, and a chiropractor all working together to support my recovery. It reminded me that PMI isn’t just a product- it’s a lifeline.

When your health takes a hit, it’s not just about getting better, it’s about staying present for your family, keeping your life moving, and knowing you are not facing it alone. That experience has reshaped how I talk about PMI — not just as a professional, but as someone who has lived through the difference it can make.

My key takeaway?

PMI isn’t just for later in life - it’s for the moments that catch you completely off guard. I never imagined needing major surgery in my 30s, especially not just as my little boy was starting his first days of primary school.

I couldn’t walk or lift him, and while I had the support of my family, I still had to make so many adjustments physically, emotionally, and practically. That season was meant to be filled with school runs and proud smiles at the gate, not hospital visits and limited mobility.

Health doesn’t wait for the “right time,” and when it hits, you don’t want to be stuck waiting months or even years for treatment, like so many are on the NHS. You want speed, choice, and support - and my PMI cover gave me that. I totally understand PMI isn’t cheap, and when everything feels fine, it’s easy to push it to the bottom of the list. But when your health suddenly takes a hit, the cost becomes secondary.

If you’ve been putting off looking into cover, this is your little nudge. Being prepared isn’t about being cautious, it’s about making sure you’re ready when life doesn’t go to plan - and from my own experience, that moment can come when you least expect it.