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Affordable, Comprehensive, Trusted WeCovr's Private Medical Insurance Explained

Affordable, Comprehensive, Trusted WeCovr's Private Medical Insurance Explained

Learn how WeCovr offers affordable PMI without compromise — trusted by thousands across the UK

As an FCA-authorised expert insurance broker that has arranged over 750,000 policies of various types via embedded and direct channels, WeCovr provides a clear path to finding the right private medical insurance in the UK. This guide explains how you can secure comprehensive private health cover that is both affordable and perfectly suited to your needs.

Navigating the world of Private Medical Insurance (PMI) can feel complex. With rising NHS waiting times and a growing desire for more control over one's healthcare, many are turning to the private sector. But what does PMI actually cover? How can you find a policy that fits your budget without sacrificing quality? And who can you trust to guide you?

This definitive guide answers these questions and more. We will demystify the options, clarify the costs, and explain how an expert broker can be your most valuable asset in securing peace of mind.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Why Consider It in the UK?

Private Medical Insurance, often called private health cover, is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private healthcare for acute medical conditions that arise after you take out the policy. In essence, you pay a monthly or annual premium, and in return, the insurer covers the expense of eligible private treatment, from diagnosis through to surgery and aftercare.

The primary driver for considering PMI in the UK is to gain faster access to medical care, bypassing potential NHS queues.

The Current UK Healthcare Landscape

The National Health Service (NHS) is a world-class institution, providing exceptional care to millions free at the point of use. However, it is currently facing unprecedented demand.

According to the latest data from NHS England, the number of people on waiting lists for routine hospital treatment remains significantly high. In early 2025, figures showed that millions were waiting to start consultant-led elective care, with a substantial number waiting over a year for treatment (NHS England, 2025).

This situation creates a compelling case for PMI. While the NHS remains the cornerstone of emergency and critical care, a private policy offers a parallel route for planned, non-urgent treatments.

The Core Benefits of Private Health Cover

Opting for private medical insurance UK provides several key advantages that offer comfort, convenience, and control during a stressful time.

  • Speed of Access: This is the most significant benefit. PMI allows you to bypass long waiting lists for consultations with specialists, diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans), and elective surgery.
  • Choice and Control: You have more control over your healthcare journey. You can often choose the specialist who treats you and the hospital where you receive your care from a pre-approved list.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Treatment is typically provided in a private hospital or a private wing of an NHS hospital. This usually means a private, en-suite room, more flexible visiting hours, and a quieter environment for recovery.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some advanced cancer drugs or novel therapies may not be available on the NHS due to cost or NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines. Comprehensive PMI policies can provide funding for these treatments.
  • Mental Health Support: Many modern policies include extensive mental health pathways, offering faster access to therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and psychiatric consultations.

A Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about UK private medical insurance.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repair, and treatment for many types of cancer. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, requires palliative care, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. Standard PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

Similarly, PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions—any ailment you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began. We will explore this in greater detail later.

Introducing WeCovr: Your Trusted Partner in Private Health Cover

Choosing the right PMI policy can be daunting. With dozens of providers and countless policy variations, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This is where an independent, expert PMI broker like WeCovr becomes invaluable.

WeCovr is a leading UK insurance brokerage, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our role is simple: to act on your behalf, not on behalf of the insurance companies. We use our market expertise to find you the best possible private health cover at the most competitive price, with no fee for our service. Our advice is impartial, and our goal is to match your specific needs and budget with the right provider.

With deep experience in the UK insurance market and high customer satisfaction ratings, we provide clarity and confidence, ensuring you understand exactly what you are buying.

How WeCovr Delivers Affordable Private Medical Insurance Without Compromise

The belief that comprehensive private health cover is prohibitively expensive is a common misconception. The key to affordability is not to cut corners on quality but to intelligently tailor the policy to your precise requirements. At WeCovr, we specialise in this process.

Here’s how we help you build a high-quality, cost-effective policy.

The Power of Whole-of-Market Comparison

As an independent broker, we are not tied to any single insurer. We have access to policies from a wide panel of the UK’s leading and most respected private health insurance providers. This allows us to run a comprehensive comparison of the entire market to identify the provider offering the best value and features for your individual circumstances.

This saves you time and, crucially, money. We can often find competitive terms that are not available to individuals going direct.

Tailoring Your Policy to Your Budget

Your PMI premium is determined by a range of factors, including your age, location, and smoking status. However, the most significant control you have over the cost comes from customising the policy itself.

Here are the main levers you can adjust to manage your premium:

1. Your Policy Excess

An excess is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250, and your insurer pays the remaining £2,750.

  • How it affects cost: Choosing a higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  • Common options: Excesses typically range from £0 to £1,000 per claim or per year.
Excess LevelIllustrative Monthly PremiumDescription
£0HighYou pay nothing towards your claim.
£250Medium-HighA popular, balanced option.
£500Medium-LowReduces the premium noticeably.
£1,000LowOffers the greatest premium reduction.

A WeCovr advisor can help you model the financial impact of different excess levels to find your sweet spot.

2. Your Hospital List

Insurers group UK private hospitals into tiers based on their costs, with Central London hospitals being the most expensive. Your choice of hospital list directly impacts your premium.

  • Local/Regional List: Includes a good selection of private hospitals in your area but may exclude major city centres or national specialist centres. This is the most affordable option.
  • National List: A comprehensive list of hundreds of private hospitals across the UK, offering extensive choice. This is the standard, mid-price option.
  • Premium/London List: Includes the top HCA hospitals in Central London. This is the most expensive option, suitable for those who want unrestricted access to these flagship facilities.

Unless you live or work in Central London and are determined to be treated there, a national or even a well-chosen local list can provide excellent care while saving you a significant amount on your premium.

3. Your Level of Out-Patient Cover

PMI is typically split into two parts:

  • In-patient/Day-patient Care: This is core cover for treatment that requires a hospital bed, either overnight (in-patient) or for the day (day-patient). This is included as standard in all policies.
  • Out-patient Care: This covers consultations and diagnostics that do not require a hospital bed, such as seeing a specialist or having an MRI scan.

You can customise your out-patient cover to manage costs:

Out-Patient Cover LevelDescriptionImpact on Premium
Full CoverNo limit on the number or cost of out-patient consultations and diagnostics.Highest Cost
Capped CoverA set monetary limit per policy year (e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500).Medium Cost
No CoverYou pay for out-patient consultations yourself, with PMI only kicking in for in-patient treatment.Lowest Cost

A popular and cost-effective strategy is to choose a capped out-patient limit of around £1,000. This is usually sufficient to cover the initial diagnostic phase for most conditions.

4. The "Six-Week Option"

This is one of the most effective cost-saving features available. If you add the six-week option to your policy, it means that for in-patient or day-patient treatment, if the NHS can treat you within six weeks of when the procedure is recommended, you will use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private medical insurance will kick in to provide the treatment privately.

This single clause can reduce your premium by 20-30%, as it means your policy is a safety net for when the NHS is unable to provide prompt care. Given current waiting times, this option still provides immense value while making the policy much more affordable.

5. Underwriting Options

Underwriting is the process an insurer uses to assess risk and decide what they will and won't cover.

  • Moratorium Underwriting (Most Common): You do not need to disclose your full medical history when you apply. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes treatment for any medical conditions you have had symptoms of, or sought advice for, in the five years before your policy started. However, if you then go two full, consecutive years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed medical questionnaire at the outset. The insurer reviews your history and explicitly lists any conditions that will be permanently excluded from cover. This provides certainty from day one but can be more complex to set up.

A WeCovr advisor can explain the pros and cons of each method based on your personal medical history.

Understanding What WeCovr PMI Policies Typically Cover

While every policy is different, a comprehensive private medical insurance plan sourced through WeCovr will typically include cover for a wide range of treatments and services.

Core Inclusions

  • Hospital Charges: All costs associated with a private room, nursing care, and operating theatre use.
  • Specialist Fees: Fees for the surgeons, anaesthetists, and physicians who treat you.
  • Diagnostic Tests: In-depth tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans, as well as X-rays and blood tests.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of modern PMI. Comprehensive policies will cover the cost of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. They often include access to experimental drugs, targeted therapies, and specialist consultations not routinely funded by the NHS.
  • Mental Health Support: Cover for psychiatric treatment, including consultations and therapy sessions. Many providers now offer digital mental health support as a standard benefit.
  • Therapies: Post-operative physiotherapy, osteopathy, or chiropractic treatment to aid recovery.
  • Ambulance Costs: Private ambulance transport when medically necessary.
  • Home Nursing: Professional nursing at home after in-patient treatment.

Common Add-Ons

For a more comprehensive policy, you can choose to include optional extras:

  • Dental and Optical Cover: Contributes towards the cost of routine check-ups, dental treatments, and prescription eyewear.
  • Travel Cover: Integrates medical travel insurance with your UK health policy.
  • Worldwide Cover: Extends your private medical cover for treatment outside the UK.

The Critical Exclusions: What Private Medical Insurance Does Not Cover

Understanding the exclusions is as important as understanding the benefits. It prevents surprises at the point of claim and ensures your expectations are realistic. As a core principle, UK PMI is for unforeseen, acute conditions.

1. Pre-existing Conditions

This is the most fundamental exclusion. A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice from a medical professional before your policy start date.

Under moratorium underwriting, these are automatically excluded for a set period (usually two years). If you remain symptom-free and treatment-free for that condition for two continuous years after your policy starts, it may then become eligible for cover.

2. Chronic Conditions

As explained earlier, PMI is not designed for the long-term management of incurable conditions. If you have diabetes, for example, your policy will not cover the cost of your insulin, regular GP check-ups, or routine monitoring.

However, if you were to develop an unrelated acute condition (like a hernia), your PMI would cover that. Furthermore, if you suffer a sudden, unexpected flare-up of a chronic condition, some policies may provide cover for stabilising the acute phase.

3. Other Standard Exclusions

Most policies will also exclude:

  • Emergency Services: A&E visits and initial emergency treatment. The NHS provides excellent emergency care, and PMI is not a substitute for dialling 999.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Routine maternity care is not covered, though complications of pregnancy may be.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures chosen for aesthetic reasons are excluded, unless required for reconstructive purposes after an accident or eligible surgery (e.g., breast reconstruction after a mastectomy).
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Including those related to substance abuse.
  • Professional Sports Injuries: Standard policies exclude injuries sustained during professional sport, though cover can sometimes be added for a higher premium.
  • Infertility Treatment: The diagnosis and treatment of infertility are typically excluded.

Real-Life Scenarios: How WeCovr PMI Can Help

To bring the benefits to life, let's look at a couple of hypothetical examples.

Scenario 1: Sarah, a 45-year-old teacher with persistent knee pain.

  • Without PMI: Sarah visits her GP, who refers her to an NHS musculoskeletal service. She faces a wait of several months for a physiotherapy assessment, followed by a further long wait for an MRI scan if required. If surgery is needed, she joins the elective surgery waiting list, which could be over a year.
  • With WeCovr PMI: Sarah gets an open referral from her GP. She calls her insurer, who approves a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist within a week. The specialist recommends an MRI, which is arranged for the following week. The scan reveals a torn meniscus requiring keyhole surgery. The surgery is scheduled and performed in a private hospital three weeks later. She is back on the path to recovery in just over a month.

Scenario 2: David, a 32-year-old graphic designer diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

  • With NHS: David receives excellent standard-of-care treatment, including chemotherapy and surgery, through his local NHS cancer centre. However, his oncologist mentions a new targeted therapy drug that has shown promise but is not yet approved by NICE for routine funding.
  • With Comprehensive WeCovr PMI: David’s policy includes full cancer cover. His insurer not only covers his surgery and standard chemotherapy in a private facility but also agrees to fund the new, non-NICE-approved drug. This gives him access to the very latest treatment options, providing additional hope and potentially better outcomes.

Comparing UK Private Health Insurance Providers with WeCovr

The UK market is home to several major providers, each with its own strengths and unique selling points. Trying to compare them directly can be confusing. An expert broker like WeCovr does this heavy lifting for you, translating the complex policy details into clear, comparable options.

Here are some of the key features WeCovr will help you compare:

FeatureDescriptionHow WeCovr Helps You Compare
No Claims Discount (NCD)A discount on your renewal premium for each year you don't make a claim, similar to car insurance. Can offer significant long-term savings.We analyse the different NCD scales and protection options across providers to find the most favourable for you.
Digital GP Services24/7 access to a virtual GP via phone or video call. Allows for quick consultations and prescriptions without leaving home.We compare the quality and accessibility of each provider's digital GP app and service.
Mental Health PathwayThe process for accessing mental health support. Some insurers allow self-referral, while others require a GP referral.We identify the providers with the most streamlined and comprehensive mental health support, a key priority for many clients.
Added Value BenefitsPerks like gym discounts, wellness rewards, and health screening offers.We highlight these extra benefits, which can provide real financial value and help you stay healthy.
Cancer Cover PromiseThe specifics of the cancer cover, including funding for experimental treatments and aftercare support.We perform a deep-dive comparison of each insurer's cancer pledge to ensure you have the most robust cover available.

The WeCovr Advantage: Added Value for Our Clients

Our commitment to our clients extends beyond simply finding a policy. We believe in providing holistic support for your health and financial wellbeing.

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All WeCovr clients who purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy receive complimentary premium access to CalorieHero, our cutting-edge AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It’s a powerful tool to help you manage your diet and achieve your health goals.
  • Discounts on Other Cover: We value your loyalty. When you take out a private medical insurance policy with us, you become eligible for exclusive discounts on other essential protection products, such as life insurance or income protection. This makes it easier and more affordable to build a comprehensive financial safety net for you and your family.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: We pride ourselves on our client-first approach. Our expert advisors are here to answer your questions and provide support for the lifetime of your policy. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our dedication to providing a transparent, helpful, and trustworthy service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about WeCovr PMI

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about private health cover.

1. Is private medical insurance worth it in the UK? For many, the answer is yes. While the NHS provides excellent care, private medical insurance is worth considering if you value faster access to treatment for non-urgent conditions, greater choice over your specialists and hospitals, and the comfort of a private facility. It acts as a valuable complement to the NHS, offering peace of mind and control over your health journey, particularly in light of current NHS waiting times (NHS England, 2025).

2. How much does private health insurance cost per month? The cost of a private health insurance policy varies widely based on age, location, level of cover, and chosen excess. A basic policy for a young, healthy individual could start from as little as £30-£40 per month. A more comprehensive policy for someone in their 50s might be £80-£120 per month or more. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote, as a broker can tailor the policy elements to fit your specific budget.

3. Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions? No, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions. These are medical issues you had symptoms of or received treatment for before your policy began. Policies are designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you join. Some conditions may become eligible for cover in the future under moratorium underwriting if you remain symptom- and treatment-free for a continuous two-year period.

4. What is the main benefit of using a PMI broker like WeCovr? The main benefit of using a PMI broker like WeCovr is receiving impartial, expert advice across the whole market at no extra cost to you. We are not tied to any single insurer. Our advisors compare policies from all the leading UK providers to find the best cover for your specific needs and budget. This saves you time, prevents you from overpaying, and ensures you get a policy that truly protects you, with all the complex terms and conditions clearly explained.

Ready to take control of your healthcare and explore your options for affordable, comprehensive private medical insurance? The expert team at WeCovr is here to help.

Get your free, no-obligation quote today. Our specialist advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect cover for you, at the right price.

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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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