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Abdominal Hernia in Adults

Abdominal Hernia in Adults 2025 | Free Tailored Quotes

Dealing with an abdominal hernia in the UK can be a source of worry and discomfort. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, we explain how private medical insurance can provide swift access to diagnosis and treatment, helping you get back on your feet faster.

Learn about hernias, treatment options, and how PMI helps with surgery access

An abdominal hernia is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Whilst some hernias cause little more than a minor inconvenience, others can lead to significant pain and require urgent surgery.

Navigating your options, from NHS waiting lists to private treatment, can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about abdominal hernias in adults. We’ll cover the different types, the latest treatment methods, and explain the crucial role that private medical insurance (PMI) can play in accelerating your path to recovery.

What Exactly Is an Abdominal Hernia?

In simple terms, an abdominal hernia occurs when an internal part of the body, such as fatty tissue or a section of the intestine, pushes through a weakness or tear in the surrounding muscle or tissue wall. This creates a noticeable bulge or lump, usually in the abdomen or groin area.

Think of it like the inner tube of a bicycle tyre pushing through a weak spot in the outer tyre. The pressure from inside finds the path of least resistance.

Most hernias aren't immediately life-threatening, but they don't go away on their own and tend to worsen over time.

Common Types of Abdominal Hernias

While hernias can occur in various parts of the body, several types are particularly common in the abdominal and groin region.

Hernia TypeLocationMore Common InKey Characteristics
Inguinal HerniaGroinMenThe most common type, accounting for around 75% of all abdominal hernias. A bulge appears in the groin or scrotum.
Femoral HerniaUpper Thigh/GroinWomen, especially older womenLess common than inguinal hernias, but more likely to become strangulated (see below). The bulge is lower down than an inguinal hernia.
Umbilical HerniaAround the navel (belly button)Newborns, and women during/after pregnancyOften painless. Occurs when part of the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall near the navel.
Incisional HerniaAt the site of a previous surgical scarPeople who have had abdominal surgeryThe abdominal wall is weakened by a surgical incision, allowing tissue to push through. Can occur months or years after an operation.
Epigastric HerniaUpper abdomen, between the navel and breastboneMenUsually small and consists of fatty tissue pushing through the abdominal wall.
Hiatal HerniaUpper stomachPeople over 50A different kind of hernia where the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Causes acid reflux and heartburn.

What Causes a Hernia?

Hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. You might be born with a weakness in your abdominal wall, or it can develop later in life.

Common factors that increase pressure on the abdomen and contribute to hernia formation include:

  • Persistent coughing: Conditions like COPD or a smoker's cough put continuous strain on the abdominal wall.
  • Straining on the toilet: Chronic constipation is a major risk factor.
  • Heavy lifting: Incorrect lifting techniques or lifting objects that are too heavy.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight increases intra-abdominal pressure.
  • Pregnancy: The growing uterus puts significant pressure on the abdominal muscles.
  • Previous surgery: As seen with incisional hernias, surgical cuts can create weak points.
  • Age: Muscles naturally weaken as we get older.

Recognising the Symptoms of a Hernia

The most obvious sign of a hernia is a lump or bulge. You might notice it more when you are standing, coughing, or straining. Other common symptoms include:

  • A feeling of heaviness or a dull ache in the affected area.
  • Discomfort or pain, especially when lifting or bending over.
  • For hiatal hernias, symptoms are different and include heartburn, acid reflux, and difficulty swallowing.

In many cases, you can gently push the bulge back in when you're lying down. This is known as a reducible hernia.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention

A hernia becomes a medical emergency if it becomes incarcerated or strangulated.

  1. Incarcerated Hernia: The protruding tissue becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back in.
  2. Strangulated Hernia: This is a life-threatening complication of an incarcerated hernia. The blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, causing it to die.

Seek immediate medical help (call 999 or go to A&E) if you have a hernia and experience:

  • Sudden, severe, and worsening pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • The hernia bulge becomes firm, tender, and cannot be pushed back in
  • The bulge changes colour, becoming red, purple, or dark
  • Fever

Diagnosing a Hernia in the UK

If you suspect you have a hernia, the first step is to see your GP. The diagnostic process is usually straightforward.

  1. Physical Examination: Your GP will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will then examine the area where you've noticed the lump. They may ask you to stand, cough, or strain to make the hernia more prominent. For most common hernias, like inguinal or umbilical, a physical exam is often all that's needed for a diagnosis.

  2. Imaging Scans: If the diagnosis is uncertain, or if a more complex hernia like a hiatal hernia is suspected, your GP may refer you for further tests.

    • Ultrasound Scan: Uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of your body. It's a quick and painless way to confirm the presence of a hernia.
    • CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Provides more detailed cross-sectional images and is particularly useful for identifying incisional hernias or complications.
    • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scan: Can be used to assess soft tissue damage in more complex cases.

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, your GP will discuss the next steps, which typically involve a referral to a general surgeon for a consultation on treatment options. This is where the pathway can diverge significantly between the NHS and private healthcare.

Hernia Treatment: Comparing NHS and Private Pathways

Not all hernias require immediate surgery. The recommended approach depends on the type of hernia, your symptoms, and your overall health. The main options are 'watchful waiting' or surgery.

Watchful Waiting

For small, painless hernias that are easily reducible, your doctor might suggest "watchful waiting." This means monitoring the hernia for any changes, but not performing surgery. This approach is common for umbilical or small inguinal hernias that aren't causing problems.

However, it's important to remember that the hernia will not fix itself. Watchful waiting is about managing the condition until surgery becomes necessary or desired.

Surgical Repair

Surgery is the only way to permanently repair a hernia. The goal is to push the protruding tissue back into place and then strengthen the weakened area of the abdominal wall, usually with a synthetic mesh.

There are two main types of hernia repair surgery:

  1. Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a single, larger incision over the hernia site. The tissue is put back in place, and the muscle wall is repaired. A piece of sterile mesh is often stitched in to reinforce the weak spot, reducing the chance of the hernia returning.

  2. Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Surgery: The surgeon makes several small incisions. A thin tube with a light and camera (laparoscope) is inserted through one incision, allowing the surgeon to see inside your abdomen on a screen. Special surgical tools are inserted through the other incisions to perform the repair, again usually with a mesh.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery:

  • Less pain after the operation
  • Smaller scars
  • Faster recovery time and quicker return to normal activities

Laparoscopic surgery is not suitable for all patients or all types of hernias, particularly very large or complicated ones.

The NHS vs. Private Treatment Divide

This is where having private medical insurance can make a significant difference. While the quality of surgery is excellent on both pathways, access and experience can vary dramatically.

According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for general surgery (which includes hernia repair) was around 15 weeks in early 2025, but many patients wait much longer. This wait is from the point of referral to the start of treatment.

FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Pathway (with PMI)
Initial ConsultationCan take several weeks to months after a GP referral.Typically within a few days or weeks.
Waiting Time for SurgeryMedian wait of 15+ weeks; can extend to over a year in some areas.Usually scheduled within 2-6 weeks of consultation.
Choice of SurgeonYou will be treated by the surgical team on duty. You generally don't get to choose your specific surgeon.You can choose your consultant surgeon based on their experience, specialism, and reputation.
Choice of HospitalYou will be treated at a local NHS hospital.You can choose from a nationwide list of high-quality private hospitals, depending on your policy's hospital list.
Surgical MethodLaparoscopic surgery may be offered, but availability can depend on the hospital and surgeon's schedule. Open surgery is very common.You are more likely to be offered the choice of laparoscopic surgery if it's clinically appropriate for you.
Comfort & PrivacyYou will likely recover on a general ward with several other patients.You will almost always have a private en-suite room with a TV, better food options, and more flexible visiting hours.
CostFree at the point of use.Covered by your private medical insurance policy (subject to your excess).

For many, waiting months for surgery while living with the discomfort and anxiety of a hernia is a major concern. The pain can affect work, social life, and mental well-being. This is the primary reason why many people turn to private health cover.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Helps with Hernia Surgery

Private medical insurance is designed to cover the costs of diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions—and a new hernia that develops after your policy begins is a classic example of an acute condition.

Here’s how a PMI policy can transform your experience:

  1. Speedy Diagnosis: If your GP suspects a hernia but isn't certain, a PMI policy with outpatient cover can get you a private referral for an ultrasound or CT scan within days, not weeks or months. This removes the uncertainty and gets you on the path to treatment faster.

  2. Rapid Access to Surgery: As shown in the table above, this is the single biggest benefit. Instead of joining a long NHS waiting list, you can have your surgery scheduled at your convenience, often within a few weeks of seeing the specialist.

  3. Choice and Control: PMI gives you control over your healthcare. You can research and choose a leading consultant surgeon who specialises in hernia repair. You can also select a modern, comfortable private hospital from your insurer's approved list. This peace of mind is invaluable.

  4. Access to Advanced Techniques: Private hospitals are often at the forefront of adopting new technologies. You may have a greater chance of being offered minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which can significantly speed up your recovery.

An Important Note: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is a critical point to understand. Standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions.

  • What is a pre-existing condition? It is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date.
  • How does this apply to hernias? If you have a lump, have seen a doctor about it, or even just experienced clear symptoms of a hernia before you took out your insurance, it will be classed as pre-existing and will not be covered.

PMI is for new, acute conditions that arise unexpectedly after your cover begins. If you develop a hernia a year into your policy, it will be covered. If you have one before you sign up, it won't be.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand the underwriting process (either 'moratorium' or 'full medical underwriting') and clarify what would and wouldn't be covered based on your medical history. This expert advice costs you nothing and ensures there are no surprises later.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

The UK private medical insurance market is competitive, with excellent providers like Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, and Vitality. When choosing a policy, consider these factors in relation to potential hernia treatment:

  • Outpatient Cover: Will your policy cover the initial consultation with a specialist and any diagnostic scans? Some basic policies only cover treatment once you've been diagnosed on the NHS. A comprehensive policy with full outpatient cover is best.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospital lists. Ensure the policy you choose includes convenient, high-quality private hospitals near you.
  • Excess Level: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium, but you'll have to pay that amount if you need surgery.
  • No-Claims Discount Protection: This feature can protect your discount even if you make a claim, preventing large premium hikes at renewal.

Comparing these options across different providers can be complex. Working with an independent broker like WeCovr simplifies the process. We compare policies from across the market to find the best private health cover for your specific needs and budget, providing impartial advice at no cost to you.

Wellness, Diet, and Recovery Tips

While you can't always prevent a hernia, certain lifestyle choices can lower your risk and aid in your recovery after surgery.

Prevention Strategies

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing excess weight reduces the constant pressure on your abdominal wall. WeCovr customers get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help support their health goals.
  • Adopt a High-Fibre Diet: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains prevents constipation and straining. Drink plenty of water.
  • Lift Safely: When lifting heavy objects, bend at your knees, not your waist. Keep your back straight and use your leg muscles. Avoid lifting anything beyond your capability.
  • Stop Smoking: A chronic cough puts immense strain on the abdomen. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions, but general recovery advice includes:

  • Follow your activity plan: You'll be encouraged to start walking soon after surgery but will need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks.
  • Support the wound: When coughing or sneezing, hold a pillow firmly over your surgical site to provide support and reduce pain.
  • Listen to your body: Pain is a sign that you're overdoing it. Rest when you feel tired.
  • Return to work: For a desk job, you might be back at work in 1-2 weeks. For a manual labour job, you may need to be off for a month or more.

By investing in private medical insurance UK, you can ensure that if a hernia does occur, your recovery journey is as fast, smooth, and comfortable as possible. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through WeCovr often receive discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, providing even greater value.

Is a hernia considered a pre-existing condition for private medical insurance?

Yes, if you had any symptoms, sought advice, or were diagnosed with a hernia *before* your private medical insurance policy began, it will be classified as a pre-existing condition. Standard UK PMI policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. However, if you develop a new hernia after your policy has started, it is considered an acute condition and will be covered according to your policy terms.

How much does private hernia surgery cost in the UK without insurance?

The cost of private hernia surgery in the UK can vary significantly based on the hospital, the surgeon, and the type of surgery. As a general guide for 2025, you can expect to pay between £3,000 and £5,000 for a private inguinal hernia repair. A private medical insurance policy covers these costs, meaning you only have to pay your chosen excess.

Does private health cover pay for the mesh used in hernia surgery?

Yes, private health cover will typically include the full costs of the operation as determined by your consultant. This includes the surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, hospital charges, and any surgical materials like the synthetic mesh used to reinforce the abdominal wall. These items are considered integral to the procedure.

Can I choose between keyhole and open surgery with private medical insurance?

With private medical insurance, you and your chosen consultant surgeon will decide on the most clinically appropriate surgical method for your specific case. Private healthcare often provides greater access to advanced options like laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, which can lead to a faster recovery. The final decision will be based on a medical assessment, but you have more direct input in the private sector.

Don't let the prospect of a long wait for hernia surgery impact your life. Take control of your health and explore your options for fast, high-quality care.

Ready to secure peace of mind? Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and compare leading UK providers in minutes.

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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.

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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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