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Age Limits for Private Health Insurance in the UK (2026)

Age Limits for Private Health Insurance in the UK (2026)

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK’s private medical insurance market inside and out. In this guide, we explore a common question: are there age limits for getting cover, and what are the best options for older applicants in 2026?

WeCovr reviews typical age limits and options for older applicants

Thinking about private health insurance in your later years is a sensible step. It offers peace of mind, faster access to specialists, and more choice over your treatment. But many people worry that they might be "too old" to get a policy or that the cost will be out of reach.

The good news is that the UK private medical insurance market is more accessible than you might think. While age is a significant factor in how insurers calculate your premium, there is often no strict upper age limit for taking out a new policy.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through:

  • Whether insurers impose upper age limits.
  • Why age affects your policy's cost.
  • The key features to look for in a policy for older adults.
  • Practical ways to make your private health cover more affordable.
  • Your options if you have pre-existing conditions.

Is There an Upper Age Limit for Private Health Insurance?

This is the most common question we hear, and the answer is refreshingly straightforward: most major UK health insurers do not have a maximum age limit for new applicants.

You can, in theory, apply for a new private medical insurance policy in your 60s, 70s, 80s, or even older. Insurers assess each application on an individual basis, focusing more on your current health and medical history than just your date of birth.

However, there are some important points to understand:

  • Premiums Increase with Age: Your monthly or annual premium will be significantly higher as an older applicant compared to a 30-year-old. This is because, statistically, the likelihood of needing medical treatment increases with age.
  • Underwriting is Key: The insurer will need to understand your medical history. This process, known as underwriting, determines what they will and won't cover.
  • Some Niche Policies Have Limits: While the main providers are flexible, some specific products (perhaps from smaller, specialist insurers or certain corporate schemes) might have an upper joining age, such as 65 or 75.

The key takeaway is that you shouldn't assume you're ineligible based on age alone. The market is competitive, and providers are keen to offer cover to a wide range of individuals.

Why Age Is a Major Factor for Health Insurance Premiums

Private health insurance is based on risk. Insurers use vast amounts of data to predict how likely a person is to make a claim. Age is one of the most reliable predictors of future health needs.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), people in the UK are living longer than ever before. While this is fantastic news, it also means more of us will experience age-related health issues. An older person is statistically more likely to develop conditions that require specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and hospital treatment.

Insurers reflect this increased risk in their pricing. A policy is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and expected to respond to treatment—that arise after you join.

A Critical Point: It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy starts (usually the last 5 years).
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured and needs long-term management, such as diabetes, arthritis, or high blood pressure. PMI may cover the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition, but not the ongoing management.

The table below gives a simplified illustration of how premiums can change across different age brackets. These are not real quotes but demonstrate the general trend.

Age BracketExample Monthly PremiumWhy the Change?
30–39£50Low statistical risk of major health issues.
40–49£75Risk begins to increase; more likely to need diagnostics.
50–59£110Significant increase as age-related conditions become more common.
60–69£180Higher likelihood of needing surgery or extensive treatment like cancer care.
70+£250+Highest risk bracket; premiums reflect the increased probability of claims.

How Insurers Assess Older Applicants: Underwriting Explained

When you apply for health insurance, the insurer needs to understand your health history to decide what they can cover. This process is called underwriting. For older applicants, understanding your options here is crucial. There are two main types for individual policies.

1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire as part of your application. You'll be asked about your past medical conditions, treatments, and any symptoms you've experienced. The insurer might also ask for your permission to contact your GP for more information.

  • Pros: The main advantage is clarity. From day one, you know exactly what is and isn't covered. Any conditions you declare will be explicitly excluded in your policy documents. This avoids any nasty surprises if you need to claim.
  • Cons: The application process is longer and more intrusive. It requires you to remember and declare your medical history accurately.

For many older applicants, FMU is the recommended route. It provides certainty and ensures you fully understand the limitations of your cover before you start paying.

2. Moratorium Underwriting (MORI)

Moratorium underwriting is a quicker, more automatic way to get cover. You don't have to fill out a health questionnaire. Instead, the insurer applies a general clause to your policy.

This clause typically states that they will not cover any medical condition (or related conditions) for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before your policy started.

However, if you then go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts without any treatment, advice, or symptoms for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. This is often called the "rolling moratorium."

  • Pros: The application is fast and simple. You can get cover in place very quickly.
  • Cons: There is a lack of certainty. You may not be sure if a particular condition is covered until you make a claim, at which point the insurer will investigate your medical history. This can lead to disappointment and rejected claims.

An expert PMI broker, like the team at WeCovr, can talk you through which underwriting option is best for your specific circumstances, ensuring you make an informed choice.

Comparing Private Health Insurance Options for Older Adults

While most major insurers will consider older applicants, some have developed offerings that are particularly well-suited to the needs of the over-60s. Below is a comparison of what the leading providers offer. Remember, the "best" provider depends entirely on your personal needs and budget.

ProviderTypical Joining Age PolicyKey Features for Older AdultsConsiderations
BupaNo upper age limit.Strong cancer cover, extensive hospital network, focus on preventative health checks.Tends to be a premium-priced option, but a very comprehensive offering.
AXA HealthNo upper age limit.Excellent mental health support, dedicated heart and cancer care pathways, 'Guided Option' to reduce costs.Hospital list choices can significantly impact the premium.
AvivaNo upper age limit.Good value for money, strong core hospital cover, 'Expert Select' option directs care to reduce costs.Some advanced cancer drugs may not be covered on lower-tier plans.
VitalityNo upper age limit, but actively encourages wellness.Unique wellness programme that rewards healthy living (walking, etc.) with premium discounts and other perks.You have to be willing to engage with the wellness programme to get the best value.
The ExeterNo upper age limit.Known for considering applicants with some pre-existing conditions (on a case-by-case basis) and a community-rated scheme for older ages.May have more limited hospital lists compared to larger providers.

Key Policy Features for Older Applicants to Consider

When you're comparing policies, the details matter. Here are the most important elements to look at:

  1. Inpatient and Day-Patient Cover: This is the absolute core of any policy. It covers the costs of treatment when you are admitted to a hospital bed, either overnight (inpatient) or for the day (day-patient). All credible policies include this as standard.

  2. Outpatient Cover: This covers costs for treatment where you aren't admitted to hospital. It's one of the most important and flexible parts of a policy. This includes:

    • Specialist consultations (e.g., seeing a cardiologist or dermatologist).
    • Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans, blood tests).
    • Therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy).

    Outpatient cover is often sold with a financial limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, £1,500 per year). Choosing a lower limit is a good way to reduce your premium, but be aware that a single MRI scan can cost over £500.

  3. Cancer Cover: This is a major reason many people, especially those in later life, take out private health insurance. Comprehensive cancer cover gives you access to specialists, treatments, and breakthrough drugs that may not be available on the NHS or may have long waiting lists. Check the policy details for what's included, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and end-of-life care.

  4. Therapies: As we get older, access to physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment becomes more important for maintaining mobility and recovering from injuries or operations. Check the limits on the number of sessions covered per year.

  5. Mental Health Cover: The link between physical and mental well-being is undeniable. Most modern policies now offer some level of cover for mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, covering psychiatrist consultations and therapy sessions.

Strategies to Make Private Health Insurance More Affordable

High premiums can be a barrier for many older applicants, but there are several effective ways to manage the cost without sacrificing essential cover.

  1. Increase Your Excess: An excess is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the rest. Choosing a higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly reduce your monthly premium.

  2. Opt for the '6-Week Wait' Option: This is a popular and very effective cost-saving feature. With this option, if the NHS waiting list for the inpatient treatment you need is six weeks or less, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in. As this reduces the number of claims insurers pay, they pass the saving on to you.

  3. Choose a 'Guided' Hospital List: Most insurers offer different tiers of hospital lists. A comprehensive national list gives you the most choice but costs more. A 'guided' or 'expert select' option restricts you to a smaller network of high-quality, cost-effective hospitals and consultants chosen by the insurer. This can lead to premium savings of 20% or more.

  4. Limit Outpatient Cover: As mentioned earlier, reducing your outpatient financial limit is a direct way to lower your premium. You might decide to pay for initial consultations yourself and keep the insurance for more expensive diagnostics and inpatient treatment.

  5. Review Your Policy Annually: Don't just let your policy auto-renew. The market changes, new products appear, and your needs may have altered. Using a broker like WeCovr at renewal allows you to re-evaluate the market and switch to a better-value policy at no extra cost.

Beyond Insurance: Proactive Steps for a Healthier Later Life

While insurance provides a safety net, the best strategy is to stay as healthy as possible. Many insurers, like Vitality, actively reward members for healthy habits. Here are some evidence-based tips for well-being in your 60s, 70s, and beyond.

  • Stay Active: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or even dancing. Strength exercises, like yoga or tai chi, are also vital for maintaining muscle mass and balance.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is consistently linked to better health outcomes in older age. Ensure you get enough protein to protect against muscle loss and calcium for bone health.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. A regular sleep schedule helps regulate mood, improve memory, and allows your body to repair itself.
  • Stay Socially Connected: Loneliness can have a significant negative impact on both mental and physical health. Make time for friends, family, and community groups.

To help our members on their wellness journey, WeCovr provides complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered app for tracking calories and nutrition. Furthermore, clients who purchase private health or life insurance through us are often eligible for discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance.

What Are Your Alternatives to Private Health Insurance?

If you find that private medical insurance is not the right fit for you, either due to cost or exclusions, it's important to know your other options.

  1. Self-Funding: This means paying for private treatment out of your own pocket as and when you need it. This gives you the same benefits of speed and choice but can be extremely expensive. A private hip replacement, for example, can cost upwards of £15,000, and complex cancer care can run into tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds.
  2. Health Cash Plans: These are not insurance but are a very affordable way to manage routine healthcare costs. For a small monthly fee, you can claim back cash towards dental check-ups, eye tests, glasses, physiotherapy, and more, up to an annual limit. They are an excellent supplement to relying on the NHS.
  3. Relying on the NHS: It's crucial to remember that the UK is home to the National Health Service, a world-class healthcare system that is free at the point of use. While it faces challenges with waiting lists, the quality of care is excellent. Private health insurance is not a replacement for the NHS; it's a way to supplement it, offering you more choice and control over when and where you are treated for non-emergency conditions.

Final Thoughts: Is Private Health Insurance Worth It in Later Life?

For many people, the answer is a resounding yes. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you can bypass long waiting lists and get prompt access to the best possible care is invaluable.

While there is no upper age limit for applying, the key is to be realistic. Premiums will be higher, and pre-existing conditions will be excluded. However, by being smart about your policy choices—selecting the right excess, hospital list, and level of outpatient cover—you can create an affordable and highly valuable policy.

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex, especially with the added considerations of age. This is where an independent, expert broker can make all the difference.


Can I get private health insurance with pre-existing conditions?

Generally, standard UK private health insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any medical issue you had symptoms of or treatment for in the five years before your policy began. The purpose of PMI is to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your cover starts, not to manage long-term or historic illnesses. Some specialist insurers may consider covering certain minor conditions, but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis during underwriting.

Do private health insurance premiums go up every year?

Yes, you should expect your premiums to increase each year for two main reasons. The first is your age; as you get older, you move into a higher-risk age bracket, and your base premium increases. The second is medical inflation, which is the rising cost of medical treatments, new technologies, and drugs, which typically runs much higher than standard inflation. This is why it is essential to review your cover annually with a broker to ensure it still offers good value.

What is the best PMI provider in the UK for older people?

There is no single "best" provider, as the ideal policy depends entirely on your individual needs, health, and budget. Providers like Bupa and AXA offer very comprehensive cover with extensive hospital networks, while Aviva is often seen as providing excellent value. Vitality is unique for its wellness-based rewards. The best approach is to speak to an independent broker who can compare the whole market and recommend the provider and policy that is the right fit for you.

Ready to explore your options?

Navigating the world of private health insurance for older applicants doesn't have to be complicated. Get a free, no-obligation quote from our friendly, FCA-authorised experts at WeCovr today. We'll help you compare policies from across the market to find the right cover for your needs and budget.

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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.

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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