WeCovr.

Login

WeCovr.

Login

Aortic Aneurysm Surgery in the UK

Aortic Aneurysm Surgery in the UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr provides insight into aortic aneurysm treatment in the UK and the role private medical insurance plays. Navigating health concerns can be daunting, but understanding your options is the first step towards empowerment and peace of mind.

Understand surgery options for aneurysms and how private care supports rapid access

An aortic aneurysm diagnosis can be worrying, raising immediate questions about treatment, waiting times, and the best path forward. In the UK, patients have access to world-class care through both the NHS and the private sector. The two primary surgical interventions are traditional open surgery and minimally invasive endovascular repair (EVAR).

While the NHS provides excellent care for this condition, the journey from diagnosis to treatment can involve periods of "watchful waiting" that may cause anxiety. This is where private healthcare can offer significant support. Private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to complement the NHS, primarily by providing swift access to specialist consultations and advanced diagnostics for new, acute symptoms. This rapid response can be crucial in getting a clear diagnosis and a consultant-led plan, helping you feel in control of your health journey.

What is an Aortic Aneurysm? A Simple Guide

To understand the treatment, it’s helpful to know what an aortic aneurysm is. Think of the aorta as the body's main motorway for blood. It’s the largest artery, carrying oxygen-rich blood from your heart to the rest of your body.

An aneurysm is a bulge or swelling that develops in a weak spot in the wall of this artery. It's a bit like a weak spot on a bicycle inner tube that starts to bulge under pressure.

There are two main types, named after where they occur:

  1. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): This is the most common type, located in the part of the aorta that passes through the abdomen (your tummy).
  2. Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA): This type occurs in the chest area.

The primary danger of an aortic aneurysm is that it could rupture or burst. A rupture causes massive internal bleeding and is a life-threatening medical emergency. This is why spotting and managing aneurysms early is so vital.

Who is at Risk? Understanding the Causes

While the exact cause isn't always clear, several factors significantly increase your risk of developing an aortic aneurysm.

  • Smoking: This is the single most important risk factor. Chemicals in tobacco can damage the aortic walls, making them more likely to weaken and bulge.
  • Age: The risk increases significantly after the age of 65.
  • Gender: Men are around six times more likely to develop an AAA than women.
  • Family History: Having a close relative (parent or sibling) who has had an aortic aneurysm increases your personal risk.
  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Over time, high pressure can weaken the artery walls.
  • High Cholesterol: This can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which is a major contributor to aneurysm formation.
  • Genetic Conditions: Certain inherited disorders, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, affect the body's connective tissues and can weaken the aorta.

You can't change your age or genetics, but you can take control of lifestyle factors. Quitting smoking is the most effective step you can take. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol through a healthy diet and regular exercise is also crucial.

Wellness Tip: Taking Control of Your Health

Managing your cardiovascular health is key to reducing your risk. A balanced diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, can help control blood pressure and cholesterol. WeCovr customers gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, which makes it easier to build and maintain healthy eating habits.

Symptoms and Diagnosis: The Silent Threat

One of the most challenging aspects of aortic aneurysms is that they are often a "silent" condition, with no symptoms in the early stages. Many are discovered by chance during scans for other medical reasons.

In the UK, the NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme plays a vital role. In England, all men are automatically invited for a simple, painless ultrasound scan during the year they turn 65. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have similar programmes. This screening has been highly effective in reducing deaths from ruptured AAAs.

If an aneurysm grows larger, it might cause symptoms such as:

  • A pulsating sensation in your tummy, similar to a heartbeat
  • Persistent tummy pain
  • A constant ache in your back or side

A ruptured aneurysm is a medical emergency. The symptoms are sudden and severe. If you or someone else experiences the following, call 999 immediately:

  • Sudden, intense pain in the abdomen or back, often described as a "tearing" sensation.
  • Dizziness and light-headedness.
  • A rapid heartbeat, pale and clammy skin.

Diagnosis is typically confirmed using imaging scans:

  • Ultrasound Scan: Used for initial screening and for monitoring the size of a known aneurysm.
  • CT Scan: Provides a detailed 3D image of the aorta, allowing surgeons to assess the aneurysm's exact size and shape to plan for surgery.
  • MRI Scan: Another detailed imaging option, sometimes used as an alternative to a CT scan.

The NHS Pathway for Aortic Aneurysm Treatment

Once an aneurysm is diagnosed, the NHS follows a clear, evidence-based pathway. The course of action depends entirely on the size of the aneurysm, as the risk of rupture increases with size.

1. Monitoring ('Watchful Waiting') If your aneurysm is small, the risks of surgery outweigh the risk of rupture. In this case, you'll be placed under active surveillance.

Aneurysm Size (Diameter)NHS Recommended Action
< 3.0cmNormal - no further action needed.
3.0cm - 4.4cm (Small)Annual ultrasound scans to monitor for growth.
4.5cm - 5.4cm (Medium)3-monthly ultrasound scans to monitor more closely.
≥ 5.5cm (Large)Referral to a vascular surgeon to discuss surgery.

Source: NHS guidance on AAA screening and management.

This period of "watchful waiting" can be a source of significant anxiety for patients and their families. While medically sound, knowing you have a potential risk that is being monitored can be stressful.

2. Referral for Surgery You will be referred for surgery if your aneurysm is large (typically 5.5cm or more), if it's growing quickly (more than 1cm in a year), or if you are experiencing symptoms related to it.

NHS waiting times for elective surgery can vary by region and are influenced by overall demand. While urgent cases are always prioritised, the wait for planned surgery can sometimes be several months.

Surgical Options for Aortic Aneurysms Explained

When surgery is recommended, there are two main techniques. The choice depends on your overall health, fitness, age, and the specific shape and location of the aneurysm. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you.

1. Open Surgical Repair (OSR) This is the traditional method and has been performed successfully for decades.

  • The Procedure: The surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen or chest. The aorta is carefully clamped on either side of the aneurysm, and the bulging section is cut out and replaced with a synthetic tube called a graft.
  • Hospital Stay: Typically 7 to 10 days, including a few days in an intensive care or high-dependency unit.
  • Recovery: Full recovery takes time, usually around 2 to 3 months. It involves significant restrictions on lifting and driving in the initial weeks.
  • Pros: It is a very durable and long-lasting repair.
  • Cons: It is major surgery with a higher immediate risk of complications and a longer, more painful recovery period.

2. Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) This is a less invasive, "keyhole" technique that has become increasingly common over the last 20 years.

  • The Procedure: Instead of a large incision, the surgeon makes two small punctures in the groin area. A compressed stent-graft (a fabric tube supported by a metal mesh) is inserted into the femoral artery through a catheter. It is guided up into the aorta and positioned inside the aneurysm. Once in place, it is expanded, creating a new channel for blood to flow through and sealing off the aneurysm sac from blood pressure.
  • Hospital Stay: Much shorter, usually 2 to 4 days.
  • Recovery: Significantly faster and less painful, with many people back to normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Pros: Lower risk of immediate complications, much faster recovery, and ideal for older or less fit patients.
  • Cons: Not suitable for all aneurysm shapes or locations. It requires lifelong surveillance with regular scans to check the stent-graft is still in the correct position and not leaking (an "endoleak").

Comparison Table: Open Surgery (OSR) vs. EVAR

FeatureOpen Surgical Repair (OSR)Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR)
IncisionLarge incision in abdomen or chest2 small punctures in the groin
ProcedureDamaged aorta is physically replacedStent-graft is placed inside the aorta
Hospital StayApprox. 7-10 daysApprox. 2-4 days
Recovery Time2-3 months2-4 weeks
Ideal CandidateYounger, fitter patients; certain anatomiesOlder or less fit patients; suitable anatomies
Follow-upGenerally less intensive post-recoveryLifelong annual surveillance scans required

The Role of Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in Aortic Aneurysm Care

This is a critical area to understand. Standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. An aortic aneurysm is considered a chronic condition—one that requires long-term management.

What does this mean for you?

  • If you are diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm before you take out a PMI policy, the policy will not cover its monitoring or surgical treatment. It will be listed as a specific exclusion.
  • If you are diagnosed after your policy begins, the situation is more nuanced.

So, where does private health cover provide value?

1. Rapid Diagnosis of New, Acute Symptoms Imagine you have a PMI policy and develop new symptoms like persistent back or abdominal pain. Instead of waiting for a GP appointment and subsequent NHS referral, PMI can give you:

  • Fast access to a consultant: See a specialist, such as a vascular surgeon, within days.
  • Prompt diagnostic scans: Get the necessary CT or MRI scan without delay, often within the same week.

This rapid diagnostic pathway is a core benefit of PMI. It allows you to bypass potential NHS waiting lists for tests and consultations, providing a swift and definitive answer about what is causing your symptoms. Even if the diagnosis is an aneurysm (a chronic condition whose subsequent surgery would be excluded), you have gained valuable time and clarity.

2. Choice of Leading Specialists and Hospitals The private sector gives you the freedom to choose your consultant and the hospital where you receive care. You can research surgeons with world-leading expertise in complex aneurysm repair and select a hospital renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, such as a hybrid operating theatre that combines imaging and surgery in one room.

3. Enhanced Comfort and Recovery Should you have surgery privately (either self-funded or through a specialised insurance plan), you benefit from:

  • A private room with an en-suite bathroom.
  • More flexible visiting hours for family.
  • Better access to post-operative physiotherapy and rehabilitation services to speed up your recovery.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand the fine print of different policies. We help clients navigate the complexities of underwriting and find a plan that best suits their potential future needs, ensuring there are no surprises.

The financial aspect is a major consideration for many families.

AspectNHSPrivate (Self-Funded Estimate)Private (Insurance)
ConsultationFree (waiting list may apply)£250 - £400Usually covered for new, acute conditions.
CT/MRI ScanFree (waiting list may apply)£700 - £1,500Usually covered for new, acute conditions.
SurgeryFree at the point of useOSR: £20,000 - £30,000+
EVAR: £25,000 - £40,000+		Typically excluded as treatment for a chronic condition. Always check your policy documents.
Hospital StayUsually on a shared wardPrivate en-suite roomPrivate en-suite room.
RehabSubject to local NHS availabilityIncluded in package or as extraOften a core benefit for faster recovery.

Note: Private costs are estimates and can vary significantly based on the hospital, surgeon, and complexity of the procedure.

Self-funding surgery is a significant expense. The cost of EVAR is often higher than open surgery due to the high price of the custom-made stent-graft device.

Life and Wellness After Aortic Aneurysm Surgery

A successful surgery is just the first step. A healthy lifestyle is crucial for your long-term wellbeing and to protect the rest of your vascular system.

  • Diet: Adopt a heart-healthy diet low in salt, sugar, and saturated fats. This helps to manage blood pressure and cholesterol.
  • Exercise: Your surgical team will give you specific advice. Start with gentle walking and gradually increase your activity. Avoid heavy lifting for at least 6 weeks after EVAR and 3 months after open surgery.
  • Driving: You must inform the DVLA about your surgery. Generally, you can resume driving 4 weeks after EVAR and around 12 weeks after open surgery, provided your doctor agrees you are safe to do so.
  • Travel: Once recovered, you can travel, but plan ahead. Always declare your condition to your travel insurance provider. Carry a letter from your doctor detailing your surgery and any medication.
  • Follow-up: This is non-negotiable, especially after EVAR. You will need regular scans (usually annually) for the rest of your life to ensure the stent-graft is working correctly.

Finally, managing your financial health is also part of your overall wellbeing. Having the right protection in place, such as life insurance, provides security for your loved ones. At WeCovr, we often provide discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, for clients who purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us.

Can I get private medical insurance if I already have an aortic aneurysm?

Yes, you can still get private medical insurance, but the aortic aneurysm and any related conditions will almost certainly be excluded from cover as a pre-existing condition. Your policy would provide cover for new, unrelated acute conditions that arise after your policy starts.

Does private health cover in the UK pay for the EVAR stent graft?

The cost of the stent-graft is part of the overall surgical procedure cost. Since surgery for a pre-diagnosed or chronic aortic aneurysm is typically excluded from standard UK private health cover, the cost of the graft would not be covered either. The primary benefit of PMI is in rapidly diagnosing the acute symptoms that may lead to the discovery of an aneurysm.

What happens if my aneurysm is discovered during a private health check paid for by my insurance?

Your private medical insurance policy would have successfully covered the cost of the health check itself. Once the aneurysm is diagnosed, it becomes a known chronic condition. The ongoing monitoring and any future surgery for it would then likely be excluded from your policy. You would be referred back to the NHS for management under the 'watchful waiting' pathway or you could choose to self-fund your care privately.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

Navigating the details of aneurysm treatment and the intricacies of private medical insurance can feel overwhelming. You don't have to do it alone. The right advice can make all the difference, providing clarity and peace of mind.

At WeCovr, our friendly, expert advisors are here to help. We offer free, no-obligation advice, comparing policies from the UK's leading insurers to find the one that truly fits your needs and budget.

Get Your Free, Personalised PMI Quote from WeCovr Today and take control of your healthcare journey.

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.
Get Quote

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:
Book Call Now

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 750,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection
Find Out More

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.

Book Call With Expert

Learn more

Learn More
...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!