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1 in 4 UK Adults Delaying NHS Care Due to Cost Concerns – PMI Bridging the Gap to Swift Treatment

1 in 4 UK Adults Delaying NHS Care Due to Cost Concerns – PMI Bridging the Gap to Swift Treatment

1 in 4 UK Adults Delaying NHS Care Due to Cost Concerns – PMI Bridging the Gap to Swift Treatment

The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of British life, founded on the principle of being free at the point of use. Yet, a startling and growing trend reveals a worrying paradox. A landmark 2025 survey by the Health Foundation reveals that one in four UK adults (26%) have delayed seeking NHS medical care or prescriptions in the past year due to concerns about the associated costs.

This figure, up from 18% just two years prior, points to a troubling reality. While consultations and treatments are free, the "hidden" costs of being unwell—from lost earnings and travel expenses to prescription fees—are pushing millions to postpone vital care. This delay, compounded by record-high NHS waiting lists, creates a perfect storm where minor health issues can escalate into serious, life-altering conditions.

In this definitive guide, we will dissect the true cost of delaying NHS care, explore why this is happening, and explain how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is increasingly serving as a critical bridge, providing a fast, affordable, and reliable route to treatment for millions of Britons.

The Paradox of "Free" Healthcare: Uncovering the Hidden Costs

When we think of the NHS, we rightly think of world-class care provided without a bill for the surgery or the hospital stay. So, what are these costs that are forcing a quarter of the population to hesitate? They are the indirect but very real financial burdens that accompany any health journey.

These costs often fall into several key categories:

  • Loss of Earnings: For the self-employed, freelancers, or those on zero-hour contracts, a day off for a doctor's appointment is a day without pay. A series of diagnostic tests can mean a significant financial hit before treatment even begins.
  • Prescription Charges (England): While free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions in England cost £9.90 per item as of early 2025. For those with multiple medications, this can quickly add up.
  • Travel and Parking: A trip to a specialist hospital can involve significant fuel costs, train fares, and notoriously expensive hospital parking fees, which can exceed £20 for a single lengthy appointment.
  • Dental and Optical Charges: NHS dental and optical services are subsidised, not free. A course of dental treatment can easily run into the hundreds of pounds, acting as a major deterrent for many.
  • Over-the-Counter Remedies: While waiting weeks for a GP appointment or months for a specialist, many people spend considerable sums on painkillers, supplements, and other temporary solutions to manage their symptoms.

The cumulative effect of these expenses creates a significant barrier to care. A 2025 report from National Debtline found that 35% of their callers cited health-related costs as a contributing factor to their financial difficulties.

A Closer Look at the Financial Burden

Let's illustrate how these "minor" costs can accumulate. Consider the journey of someone needing a diagnosis for persistent joint pain.

Expense CategoryPotential Cost for an IndividualNotes
Lost Earnings£150 - £600+Based on 2-4 days off work for GP, physio, and hospital appointments at the UK average daily wage.
Travel£40 - £120Multiple return trips to a regional specialist hospital.
Hospital Parking£30 - £80Based on 3-4 visits with average parking fees.
Prescriptions£29.70+Initial course of three different prescribed medications in England.
OTC Pain Relief£20 - £50Cost of managing pain while waiting for appointments.
Total Potential Cost£269.70 - £850+This is before any treatment has even been scheduled.

For a family on a tight budget or a self-employed individual, a potential cost of over £800 just for a diagnosis is a powerful reason to delay. This financial anxiety leads to a dangerous cycle of postponement, where individuals wait until symptoms become unbearable, by which point the required treatment is often more complex, more invasive, and requires an even longer recovery period.

The Waiting Game: How Delays Compound Health Risks

The financial barrier to seeking initial care is only half the story. The other, more publicised, challenge is the staggering length of NHS waiting lists. As of mid-2025, the picture remains challenging:

  • The total elective care waiting list in England sits at 7.8 million cases.
  • Over 400,000 people have been waiting for more than a year for routine treatment.
  • The average waiting time for a diagnostic test like an MRI or CT scan is 10-12 weeks in many areas.
  • Securing a routine GP appointment can often take over two weeks, delaying the crucial first step of any healthcare journey.

When you combine the personal decision to delay care due to cost with the systemic delay caused by waiting lists, the consequences can be severe.

The Downward Spiral of Delayed Treatment

  1. Initial Symptom: A person experiences a new, non-emergency symptom (e.g., abdominal pain, a stiff joint, a persistent headache).
  2. Financial Hesitation: Worried about taking unpaid time off work and travel costs, they decide to "wait and see" if it improves on its own. They may spend money on over-the-counter remedies.
  3. Condition Worsens: The symptom persists or worsens. They finally book a GP appointment, facing a two-week wait.
  4. Referral Delay: The GP refers them to a specialist, but the waiting list for this consultation is 4-6 months.
  5. Diagnostic Delay: The specialist requires an MRI scan to confirm a diagnosis. The wait for this is another 3 months.
  6. Treatment Delay: Following the diagnosis, they are placed on the waiting list for surgery, which is currently estimated at 9-12 months.

In this common scenario, a patient can wait well over a year from first symptom to final treatment. During this time, a treatable acute condition can become significantly more complex, recovery can be harder, and the total time off work far greater than it would have been with swift intervention.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Your Fast-Track to Diagnosis and Treatment

This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) enters the picture. It is not a replacement for the NHS but a powerful supplement designed to work alongside it. PMI is an insurance policy you pay for—typically via a monthly premium—that covers the costs of private medical care for eligible conditions.

Its primary purpose is to bypass the long waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions, providing peace of mind and rapid access to care when you need it most.

The core benefits of PMI directly address the dual challenges of cost and delay:

  • Speed of Access: This is the hallmark of PMI. Instead of waiting months for a specialist consultation or a diagnostic scan, you can often be seen within days or weeks.
  • Choice and Control: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare. You can often choose your specialist and the hospital where you receive treatment. Crucially, you can schedule appointments at times that suit you—such as evenings or weekends—minimising disruption to your work and family life.
  • Enhanced Comfort: Treatment is typically provided in a private hospital with amenities like a private en-suite room, better food choices, and more flexible visiting hours, creating a less stressful environment for recovery.
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A Critical Distinction: What PMI Does and Does Not Cover

It is absolutely essential to understand the scope of Private Medical Insurance. Misunderstanding its core purpose is the biggest source of confusion for consumers.

PMI is for Acute Conditions That Arise After Your Policy Begins

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements (knee, hip), cataract surgery, hernia repairs, and treatment for many types of cancer.

PMI Does NOT Cover Pre-existing or Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important rule of standard UK private health insurance.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: These are any illnesses, diseases, or injuries for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before you took out your insurance policy. These are excluded from cover.
  • Chronic Conditions: These are illnesses that cannot be fully cured and require long-term management rather than a short course of treatment. Examples include diabetes, asthma, hypertension (high blood pressure), and arthritis. The NHS remains the primary provider for managing these long-term conditions.

This distinction is fundamental. PMI is your safety net for new, curable health problems, while the NHS remains your partner for ongoing, chronic care and emergencies.

To determine what is pre-existing, insurers use a process called underwriting. The two main types are:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: A simpler process where the insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they will typically exclude any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the last 5 years. However, if you go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer assesses it and lists specific conditions that will be permanently excluded from your policy from day one. This provides more certainty but is a more intensive process.

How PMI Directly Alleviates the "Hidden Costs" of Sickness

By providing rapid access to care, PMI tackles the hidden financial burdens of healthcare head-on. The value isn't just in covering the cost of the operation, but in reducing the collateral financial damage of being unwell.

Let's revisit our earlier example of someone with joint pain, but this time with a PMI policy.

ChallengeNHS Pathway ExperiencePMI Pathway Solution
Lost EarningsMultiple days off for appointments spread over months. Extended time off work waiting for and recovering from surgery.Appointments scheduled outside work hours. Diagnosis in days, treatment in weeks. Drastically reduced time off work and faster return to earning.
Travel CostsPotentially long journeys to the assigned NHS hospital. Multiple trips for diagnostics and consultations.Choice of a local hospital from an approved list, reducing travel time and fuel costs. Fewer appointments needed due to efficient pathway.
Uncertainty & AnxietyMonths or years of living with pain and uncertainty, impacting mental health and productivity.Peace of mind from a clear, fast-track plan. Diagnosis within days removes anxiety. Swift treatment allows you to get back to your life.
Treatment QualityExcellent clinical care, but in a busy ward environment.Excellent clinical care with the added comfort of a private room, aiding a restful and speedy recovery.

This comparison highlights that PMI's true value often lies in time. For a self-employed person, the cost of the monthly premium can be far less than the income lost during a year-long wait for NHS treatment. At WeCovr, we often hear from clients that the ability to schedule care around their lives and get back to work quickly was the single most valuable aspect of their policy.

The Cost of PMI vs. The Cost of Delay: A Financial Breakdown

A common question is: "Can I afford Private Medical Insurance?" The more pertinent question might be: "Can I afford not to have it?"

The cost of a PMI policy is highly variable and depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the level of cover you choose. However, it's often more affordable than people assume.

Sample Monthly PMI Premiums (2025 Estimates)

The table below provides a rough guide to the monthly cost for a non-smoker seeking a mid-level policy with a £250 excess.

AgeLocation: Manchester (Mid-Cost)Location: Central London (High-Cost)
30-year-old£45 - £60£60 - £80
40-year-old£60 - £80£80 - £105
50-year-old£85 - £115£110 - £150

Now, let's compare this predictable monthly expense to the unpredictable and potentially devastating cost of delay or going private without insurance.

  • Cost of Delay: A skilled tradesperson earning £200 a day could lose £10,000 in income if they are unable to work for 10 weeks while waiting for a diagnosis and treatment. This far exceeds the annual cost of a comprehensive PMI policy.
  • Cost of Self-Funding: Faced with an 18-month NHS wait, many people consider paying for private treatment themselves. The costs are astronomical and far beyond the reach of most households.
Common Private ProcedureAverage UK Self-Pay Cost (2025)
MRI Scan (one part)£400 - £750
Cataract Surgery (per eye)£2,500 - £4,000
Hernia Repair£3,000 - £5,000
Knee Replacement£14,000 - £18,000
Hip Replacement£13,000 - £17,000

Viewed through this lens, a monthly PMI premium of £70 is not just an expense; it's a strategic investment in protecting both your health and your financial stability.

Tailoring Your PMI Policy: Making It Affordable for You

You have significant control over the cost of your PMI premium. By adjusting certain elements of your policy, you can tailor it to your budget without sacrificing essential protection. An independent broker is invaluable here, as they can model different scenarios for you.

Here are the key levers you can pull to manage the cost:

  1. The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer pays out. A higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium. You only pay the excess once per policy year, regardless of how many claims you make.

  2. The Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospital lists. A policy that gives you access to every private hospital in the UK, including the high-end Central London clinics, will be the most expensive. Opting for a list that includes quality local hospitals but excludes the premium London ones can reduce your premium by 20-30%.

  3. Outpatient Cover: A major cost driver is the level of outpatient cover. This pays for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests that don't require a hospital bed. You can choose a comprehensive plan that covers this in full, a plan with a financial limit (e.g., £1,000 per year), or a more basic plan that only covers treatment once you have a diagnosis. Limiting outpatient cover can substantially reduce your costs.

  4. The 6-Week Wait Option: This is a very popular and effective cost-saving feature. With this option, if the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks of it being recommended, you will use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private policy kicks in. This single clause can lower your premium by up to 25%, as it ensures PMI is used only when the NHS cannot provide timely care.

Understanding how these options interact is key to building the right plan. This is where speaking to an expert broker like WeCovr can make all the difference. We take the time to understand your unique needs and budget, searching the entire market to find a policy that provides robust protection at a price you can afford.

Real-Life Scenarios: When PMI Proves Invaluable

The true benefit of PMI is best understood through real-world examples.

Scenario 1: David, the Self-Employed Electrician

David, 48, from Birmingham, runs his own electrical business. He develops a severe pain in his shoulder, making it impossible to lift his arms to work on wiring. His GP suspects a rotator cuff tear and refers him to an NHS specialist.

  • The NHS Path: The wait for a specialist is 5 months. The wait for a subsequent MRI scan is 12 weeks. The surgical waiting list is 14 months. David is facing nearly two years of intermittent work and lost income, potentially threatening his business.
  • The PMI Path: David calls his insurer. He sees a private orthopaedic surgeon in four days. He has an MRI scan the following week, which confirms a severe tear. Surgery is scheduled for three weeks later at a private hospital near his home. After a period of recovery and physiotherapy (also covered by his plan), David is back to work full-time within four months of his first symptom. His PMI premium of £95/month saved him tens of thousands in lost earnings.

Scenario 2: Sarah, the Marketing Manager and Mother

Sarah, 39, from Leeds, has two young children and a demanding job. She suffers from increasingly painful gallstones.

  • The NHS Path: Her GP confirms the diagnosis and puts her on the elective surgery list, with a current wait time of 9-12 months. For a year, she lives with the anxiety of a potential emergency attack, juggling her pain with work deadlines and the school run.
  • The PMI Path: Sarah's policy gives her access to a private surgeon of her choice. She schedules the keyhole surgery for the first week of the summer holidays, ensuring her children are cared for by her partner and minimising disruption. She recovers in a private room and is back to her normal routine by September. The control and timing provided by her PMI meant she could manage her health without her family or career suffering.

The Future of UK Healthcare: Embracing a Hybrid Approach

The challenges facing the NHS are complex and not easily solved. In this environment, more and more people are adopting a pragmatic, hybrid approach to their health. They rely on the peerless emergency and chronic care of the NHS while using PMI as a personal tool to manage their own risk and ensure timely treatment for acute conditions.

In 2024, the number of people covered by a private medical insurance policy in the UK grew by 7%, the fastest rate in over two decades. This isn't a vote against the NHS; it's a vote for personal resilience. It's an acknowledgement that in the current climate, having a backup plan is a sensible and proactive choice.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Health, Protect Your Finances

The evidence is clear: delaying healthcare due to concerns about hidden costs and long waits is a growing national problem with serious consequences. It damages our health, our finances, and our peace of mind.

Private Medical Insurance offers a powerful and increasingly affordable solution. It provides a predictable way to manage your healthcare budget, replacing the risk of catastrophic lost earnings or self-funding costs with a manageable monthly premium. It empowers you to bypass waiting lists, choose your specialist, and schedule treatment around your life, not the other way around.

Most importantly, it is a tool for control. It allows you to take swift, decisive action when a new health concern arises, ensuring a small problem doesn't have the chance to become a big one.

If you are one of the millions of Britons concerned about what a long wait for treatment could mean for your family and your livelihood, it's time to explore your options. A well-chosen PMI policy is one of the most effective investments you can make in your future wellbeing.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and a confidential discussion about your needs. Let us help you find the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a plan in place.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
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Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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