UK health and life insurer The Exeter has reported a significant uplift in usage across all core services. With a 69% increase in downloads of its health and wellbeing app, HealthWise, highlighting growing member demand for accessible digital healthcare support.
Downloads of the HealthWise app rose significantly in 2025, following an upgrade to the platform. The growth underscores the growing importance of value-added services in supporting member wellbeing and enhancing adviser-led protection conversations. Members also rated HealthWise experts 4.7 out of 5 on average, reflecting the quality and convenience of support across services.
Remote GP demand remains strong
Remote GP appointments remained the most used service on the app, accounting for 76% of total usage in 2025. The number of members accessing a remote GP increased by more than 22% in 2025. More than half (54%) of those using the service were repeat users, signalling sustained demand for convenient access to primary care.
Women accounted for 54% of remote GP users and members aged 41-60 were the most active users (both 20%), followed by those aged 31-40 (18%).
Members turn to physiotherapy for ongoing support
Physiotherapy was the second most used service, representing 11% of overall usage. The number of members accessing physiotherapy increased by 28%, in 2025. Repeat usage stood at 71%, with men accounting for 51% of total physiotherapy users and members aged 51–60 as the most frequent users of physiotherapy support.
Mental health usage remains high
Mental health services were the third most used offering, accounting for 7% of usage. Notably, 90% of members who accessed mental health support were repeat users, demonstrating ongoing engagement with the service. Members aged 31-40 were the most frequent users in this category accounting for 30% of users, with 59% of these being female.
Rising demand drives growth across all app services
The app saw strong, consistent growth across all its core services, reflecting a rising demand for accessible, expert‑led health support. Uptake increased in every category, ranging from dietitian consultations and nutrition and lifestyle guidance to second medical opinion services and comprehensive health check MOTs.
Isobel Langton, CEO at The Exeter, commented:
“Value-added services are becoming a much more visible part of how advisers demonstrate everyday value to their clients. The year-on-year growth in HealthWise downloads shows how much members value having quick access to support as part of insurance products, and the high level of repeat usage tells us they’re building these services into how they are proactively managing their health and wellbeing.
That shift towards more proactive, day-to-day healthcare is something we expect to continue, and I would encourage as many of our members to engage with the benefits available to them as part of their membership with The Exeter.”
Steve Casey, Marketing Director at Square Health, added:
“The continued growth in HealthWise reflects the strength and quality of the proposition. Our focus has been on delivering high-quality clinical services that members trust and can access with ease. Strong repeat usage and consistently high satisfaction scores show that this goes beyond convenience, it’s about providing meaningful, ongoing support that enhances the everyday value of protection. That’s where HealthWise stands out”
ENDS
HealthWise is provided by Square Health
Notes to Editors
PR Contact
Tom Stewart-Walvin, Rostrum
T: +44 (0)7855 689 302
E: theexeter@rostrum.agency
About The Exeter
The Exeter is a leading protection and healthcare insurer who have been supporting UK families in the event of ill health or injury since 1888.
Formerly known as the Exeter Friendly Society and Pioneer Friendly Society, The Exeter is a mutual friendly society. This means it’s owned by members and run for their benefit, rather than shareholders.
The Exeter is a trading name of Exeter Friendly Society Limited, which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Register number 205309) and is incorporated under the Friendly Societies Act 1992 Register No. 91F with its registered office at Lakeside House, Emperor Way, Exeter, England EX1 3FD.