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Affordability Concerns Premiums Rise While Insurer Competition Remains Strong

Affordability Concerns Premiums Rise While Insurer...

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. Navigating rising premiums can be daunting, but with the right guidance, securing affordable, high-quality health cover is entirely possible. This guide explains why costs are increasing and what you can do about it.

Despite competitive insurance market conditions, complex claims and inflation are pushing up PMI prices, causing concern for affordability and accessibility in 2025

The UK's private medical insurance (PMI) landscape presents a curious paradox. On one hand, the market is bustling with competition. Major insurers are vying for your business, rolling out innovative wellness programmes and digital health tools. On the other, many policyholders are opening their renewal letters with a sense of dread, facing premium increases that outpace general inflation.

This isn't a simple case of insurers hiking prices for profit. A potent mix of factors is at play: stubborn medical inflation, an increase in the complexity and cost of treatments, and sustained pressure on our beloved NHS. These forces are converging to push premiums upward, raising valid questions about the long-term affordability and accessibility of private healthcare for British families and businesses.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll demystify the price rises, explore the competitive landscape, and provide actionable strategies to ensure you find the best possible value for your private health cover in 2025 and beyond.

What's Fuelling the Rise in PMI Premiums?

Understanding why your premium is increasing is the first step toward managing it. It’s not one single factor but a combination of interconnected pressures. According to recent industry analysis, medical inflation—the rising cost of healthcare services and goods—is projected to hover around 8-10% in the UK, significantly higher than the general Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Let's break down the primary drivers.

1. Medical Inflation: The Core Driver

Unlike the price of a loaf of bread, healthcare costs are influenced by unique factors:

  • Advanced Technology: New diagnostic tools (like advanced MRI scanners) and groundbreaking treatments (such as targeted cancer therapies) offer incredible outcomes but come with a hefty price tag.
  • Specialist Staff Costs: The salaries for top consultants, surgeons, and specialist nurses are continually rising.
  • Pharmaceuticals: The cost of new and more effective drugs often runs into the thousands, or even tens of thousands, of pounds per patient.

2. The Ripple Effect of NHS Waiting Lists

Record-breaking NHS waiting lists are having a direct impact on the private sector. The latest NHS England data shows millions of people are waiting for routine treatment. This has two key effects on PMI:

  • Increased Claims Volume: With longer waits for NHS diagnosis and treatment, more people are turning to their private cover. Insurers are simply paying out more claims, more often.
  • More Complex Claims: Delays in diagnosis can mean that when a patient finally seeks treatment, their condition may have become more advanced and, therefore, more complex and expensive to treat. What might have been a simple procedure a year ago could now require more intensive surgery and a longer hospital stay.

3. An Ageing Population and Changing Lifestyles

As a nation, we are living longer. Whilst this is a testament to medical progress, it also means an older population requires more healthcare over their lifetime. Furthermore, lifestyle-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and certain musculoskeletal issues are becoming more prevalent, leading to a greater need for medical intervention.

4. The Rise of Mental Health Claims

There is a growing, and welcome, recognition of the importance of mental health. Insurers have responded by expanding cover for mental health conditions. This has led to a significant, and necessary, increase in claims for therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and psychiatric consultations, adding to the overall claims cost pool.

The UK Private Health Insurance Market: A Hotbed of Competition

Despite rising costs, the market for private medical insurance in the UK remains fiercely competitive. This is good news for consumers, as it means providers must work hard to attract and retain your custom.

The "big four" major insurers—Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality—dominate the landscape, but other excellent providers like The Exeter and WPA also offer compelling products.

So, how are they competing? It's no longer just about who has the most extensive hospital list. The battleground has shifted to value, wellness, and digital innovation.

InsurerKey Competitive FocusExample of Wellness Offering
BupaComprehensive cover, extensive network, strong brand trust.Bupa Touch app with access to digital GPs, health information, and direct claim submission.
AXA HealthFocus on clinical pathways, mental health support, and digital tools.Strong mental health support, including access to therapists and counsellors via their "Stronger Minds" programme.
AvivaIntegrated health and wellbeing, digital GP services, good value options."Aviva DigiCare+ Workplace" providing access to health checks, nutrition advice, and mental health support.
VitalityUnique "shared value" model, rewarding healthy behaviour with lower premiums and perks.The well-known Vitality Programme, which rewards activity (steps, gym visits) with cinema tickets, coffee, and lower renewal costs.

This competitive tension means that whilst the underlying cost of healthcare is rising, insurers are incentivised to:

  • Innovate: Offering digital GP appointments 24/7, symptom checkers, and prescription services.
  • Promote Wellness: Actively encouraging members to stay healthy to reduce future claims.
  • Provide Flexible Options: Creating modular policies where you can pick and choose the cover you need.

This is where expert advice becomes invaluable. A specialist broker can help you compare not just the price, but the intricate details of each policy's benefits and wellness programmes to find the perfect fit.

Understanding Your PMI Premium: What Are You Actually Paying For?

A private health insurance premium isn't just one number; it's a calculation based on several moving parts. Knowing what these are empowers you to adjust them and control your costs.

Premium FactorDescriptionImpact on Cost
AgeThe single biggest factor. The statistical likelihood of needing medical treatment increases with age.High. Premiums rise significantly as you get older.
LocationYour postcode matters. Hospital costs, particularly in Central London, are much higher than elsewhere in the UK.Medium. Living in or near a major city like London will increase your premium.
Level of CoverThe options you choose, such as outpatient cover, mental health, or therapies.High. A comprehensive policy costs more than a basic inpatient-only plan.
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards the first claim you make in a policy year.High. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly reduce your premium.
Hospital ListThe list of private hospitals you can use. A national list including premium London hospitals is the most expensive.Medium. Choosing a more restricted local or regional list can lower costs.
Underwriting TypeHow the insurer treats your pre-existing conditions (e.g., Moratorium or Full Medical Underwriting).Low-Medium. Can affect the initial price and how claims are handled.
No Claims DiscountA discount applied for every year you don't make a claim, similar to car insurance.High. Can reduce premiums by up to 70% over time with some insurers.

Think of it like building a car online. The basic model is one price, but adding alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a better sound system will increase the final cost. PMI is similar; your "base model" is inpatient cover, and things like outpatient diagnostics and therapies are the optional extras.

Strategies to Manage and Reduce Your PMI Costs in 2025

Faced with rising renewal prices, it's easy to feel powerless. But you have more control than you think. Here are practical, effective strategies to ensure your private health cover remains affordable without sacrificing essential protection.

1. Increase Your Excess

This is one of the most effective ways to lower your premium. An excess is the portion of a claim you pay yourself. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250, and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750. Increasing your excess from £0 or £100 to £500 or even £1,000 can lead to substantial premium savings. It's a trade-off: you're taking on a little more risk in exchange for a lower monthly or annual cost.

2. Introduce a "Six-Week Option"

This is a clever feature that provides a fantastic balance between private care and the NHS. With a six-week option, if the NHS waiting list for the inpatient treatment you need is less than six weeks, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in. As this significantly reduces the risk for the insurer, it can cut your premium by 20-30%. It's a safety net, ensuring you get prompt treatment only when the NHS can't provide it quickly.

3. Review Your Hospital List

Do you really need access to every private hospital in the country, including the high-cost ones in Central London? Many insurers offer different tiers of hospital lists. By switching from a "National" list to a more local or regional one that still includes excellent hospitals near you, you can achieve significant savings.

4. Tailor Your Outpatient Cover

Comprehensive outpatient cover (for consultations and diagnostics before a hospital stay) is valuable but expensive. Consider reducing your level of cover. For example, you could opt for a policy that covers outpatient surgery but limits the financial cover for consultations and diagnostic tests to, say, £1,000 per year.

5. Engage with Wellness Programmes

Providers like Vitality and Aviva actively reward you for being healthy. By tracking your steps, going to the gym, or completing health checks, you can earn points that translate directly into a lower premium at renewal. It's a true win-win: you improve your health, and you save money.

6. Don't Just Auto-Renew: Shop Around with a Broker

Loyalty rarely pays in the insurance world. Your current insurer's renewal price is often not the most competitive rate available. This is where using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr is essential. We can:

  • Scan the entire market in minutes to find the best private medical insurance UK deals.
  • Negotiate on your behalf, sometimes securing better terms than you could get by going direct.
  • Help you switch providers seamlessly, ensuring continuous cover.
  • Provide this service at no cost to you, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

The Critical Role of a PMI Broker in a Rising Market

In a complex and rising market, a specialist broker is not a luxury; they are a necessity for getting the best value. Think of a broker as your expert guide and advocate.

Why use a broker like WeCovr?

  • Whole-of-Market View: We have access to policies and deals from all the UK's leading insurers, not just one or two. This gives you a complete picture of your options.
  • Expert Advice: We are experts in the fine print. We can explain the real-world differences between two seemingly similar policies, ensuring you don't get caught out by hidden clauses.
  • Personalised Recommendations: We take the time to understand your specific needs, budget, and health concerns to recommend a policy that is genuinely right for you, not just the cheapest.
  • Time and Hassle Savings: Comparing multiple providers, getting quotes, and reading policy documents is time-consuming. We do all the legwork for you.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on tailored advice and excellent service has earned us high satisfaction ratings from our clients.

Furthermore, as a WeCovr client, you gain access to additional perks, including complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, and potential discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection cover.

Is Private Medical Insurance Still Worth It in 2025?

With rising costs, it's a fair question to ask. The answer, for many, is a resounding yes. The value of PMI is not just in the treatment itself, but in the peace of mind and control it provides.

Consider the alternative. As of mid-2025, NHS England figures indicate that:

  • The overall waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at over 7.5 million.
  • Hundreds of thousands of patients have been waiting over a year for routine treatment.
  • The median wait time for many common procedures, such as hip or knee replacements, can be many months.

Private medical insurance offers a direct solution to this uncertainty. The key benefits remain as compelling as ever:

  • Speed of Access: Bypass long waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment.
  • Choice and Control: Choose your specialist, consultant, and hospital.
  • Privacy and Comfort: A private room, flexible visiting hours, and en-suite facilities.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Gain access to new treatments that may not yet be available on the NHS due to cost or other restrictions.

For the self-employed, PMI can be a critical business tool, getting you back on your feet and back to work quickly. For families, it's about knowing your loved ones can get the best care, fast.

A Crucial Note: What UK PMI Does Not Cover

It is absolutely vital to understand the fundamental purpose of private medical insurance in the UK. Misunderstanding this can lead to disappointment at the point of claim.

Standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract, a hernia, a broken bone).
  • PMI does not cover chronic conditions. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis). Day-to-day management of chronic conditions remains with the NHS.
  • PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions. These are any medical issues you had, sought advice for, or had symptoms of before your policy started. Most policies operate on a "moratorium" basis, where they may cover a pre-existing condition if you have been completely symptom-free and treatment-free for it for a set period (usually two years) after your policy begins.

This is why PMI is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. The NHS remains there for accidents and emergencies, GP services, and the management of long-term chronic conditions. PMI provides a vital alternative route for eligible, acute conditions.


Will my PMI premium go up every single year?

It is very likely, yes. Premiums are affected by two main factors: your age and medical inflation. As you get older, you move into a higher age bracket, which increases the base cost. On top of that, the general cost of healthcare (medical inflation) also rises each year. However, if you don't claim, your No Claims Discount can help to offset some of this increase. The best strategy is to review your cover with a broker annually to ensure you're still on the best possible deal.

Can I switch my private health cover to a new insurer if I have a new medical condition?

Yes, you can, but it requires careful handling by an expert. If you switch on a new "moratorium" or "full medical underwriting" basis, your new condition would be classed as pre-existing and would not be covered by the new insurer. However, you can ask a broker to arrange a switch on a "Continued Medical Exclusions" (CME) basis. This allows you to carry your original underwriting terms to a new insurer, meaning they will continue to cover anything your old policy covered. This is a specialist process and a key reason to use a broker.

Is it cheaper to get private medical insurance through my employer?

Often, yes. Company health insurance schemes benefit from group discounts and can be a very cost-effective way to get cover. However, the level of cover is chosen by the employer and may not perfectly suit your individual or family needs. It's also a "benefit-in-kind," meaning you will pay tax on the value of the premium. If you leave the company, you may have the option to continue the policy on a personal basis, but the premium will likely increase significantly.

Do I need to declare every single GP visit to my insurer?

Generally, you only need to declare conditions when you first take out the policy (if it's a "Full Medical Underwriting" policy) or when you make a claim. For a "Moratorium" policy, you don't need to declare anything upfront. The insurer will investigate your medical history when you make your first claim to see if the condition is new or pre-existing. It is always best to be completely honest and transparent about your medical history to avoid any issues with future claims.

Take Control of Your Health and Your Premiums

The landscape of private medical insurance in the UK is evolving. While rising costs present a challenge, the market's strong competition and the clear, tangible benefits of private cover mean it remains a valuable investment in your health and wellbeing.

The key is to be proactive. By understanding the factors driving prices, exploring cost-saving options, and leveraging the expert, free advice of a specialist broker, you can navigate the market with confidence.

Don't just accept your renewal price. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation market review and let our experts find the right cover for you at the best possible price.

Get A Free Quote

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.

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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