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AXA vs Aviva vs Bupa vs WPA Which Offers the Best Value PMI

AXA vs Aviva vs Bupa vs WPA Which Offers the Best Value PMI

Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel overwhelming. At WeCovr, our FCA-authorised experts help thousands of clients navigate this complex market. This guide cuts through the noise, comparing four of the UK's leading insurers—AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and WPA—to find the best value for you.

Comparing hospital access, claims handling and renewal pricing

When we talk about "value" in private medical insurance (PMI), it's about more than just the monthly premium. True value is a balance of three critical pillars: the quality of hospitals you can access, how smoothly your claims are handled in a time of need, and how fairly your policy is priced at renewal.

Getting this balance right is the secret to a policy that works for you, not just for the first year, but for the long term. This expert comparison will break down exactly how AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and WPA stack up across these key areas.

What 'Value' Really Means in Private Medical Insurance

The cheapest policy is rarely the best. A low initial premium can hide restrictive hospital lists, high excesses, or punitive renewal increases. Understanding the components of a policy is the first step to identifying genuine value.

Key Components of a PMI Policy:

  • Core Cover: This is the foundation of every policy. It typically covers the costs of treatment when you are admitted to hospital as an in-patient (requiring an overnight bed) or a day-patient (admitted for a procedure but not staying overnight).
  • Optional Extras: This is where you tailor the policy. Common options include:
    • Out-patient Cover: For diagnostic tests, consultations, and scans before you are admitted to hospital. This is one of the most important and valuable additions.
    • Therapies Cover: For physiotherapy, osteopathy, and other similar treatments.
    • Mental Health Cover: Support for psychiatric care, therapy, and counselling.
  • Hospital List: The network of private hospitals and facilities you are allowed to use. This is a major factor in determining your premium.
  • Excess: The amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. A higher excess lowers your premium.
  • Underwriting: How the insurer assesses your medical history. The two main types are Moratorium and Full Medical Underwriting.

Crucial Clarification: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure that require ongoing management).

The Contenders: A Snapshot of AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and WPA

These four providers represent a significant portion of the UK's private health cover market. Each has distinct strengths and philosophies.

  • AXA Health: A global insurance giant with a strong focus on digital health tools and comprehensive cover options. They are known for their structured hospital lists and broad range of benefits.
  • Aviva: The UK's largest general insurer, Aviva offers highly flexible and often very competitive PMI policies. They are notable for their "Expert Select" guided hospital option, which can significantly reduce costs.
  • Bupa: Perhaps the most famous name in UK health insurance, Bupa has a vast network and a reputation for comprehensive service. They operate their own facilities and have a strong heritage in healthcare.
  • WPA (Western Provident Association): A not-for-profit organisation with a strong focus on customer service and ethical practices. They are known for their unique "Shared Responsibility" cost-sharing option and a commitment to their members.

Here is a high-level overview of the four insurers:

FeatureAXA HealthAvivaBupaWPA
Market PositionGlobal leader, technology-focusedUK's largest insurer, flexible & competitiveIconic UK brand, extensive networkNot-for-profit, member-focused
Key StrengthComprehensive options, digital GPCost-effective, "Expert Select" optionBrand trust, direct settlement networkExceptional service, shared responsibility
Best ForIndividuals seeking comprehensive cover and digital tools.Price-conscious buyers happy with guided options.Families and those wanting brand reassurance.Those prioritising customer service and ethical approach.
UnderwritingMoratorium & Full Medical UnderwritingMoratorium & Full Medical UnderwritingMoratorium & Full Medical UnderwritingMoratorium & Full Medical Underwriting

Deep Dive 1: Hospital Access and Lists

Where you can be treated is arguably one of the most important aspects of your policy. Insurers control costs by creating tiered hospital lists. Choosing a more restricted list lowers your premium, but it's vital to know what you're giving up.

  1. AXA's Approach (Health for You plan):

    • Guided Option: Their most affordable list, directing you to a specific selection of quality-assessed hospitals.
    • Standard List: A broad national network of private hospitals.
    • Extended Cover: The most comprehensive list, including premium private hospitals in Central London (e.g., The London Clinic, The Lister).
  2. Aviva's Approach (Healthier Solutions plan):

    • Expert Select (Guided): Aviva's "guided" option. You are given a choice of 3-4 specialists and hospitals from a specific network, significantly reducing premiums. This is a popular cost-saving choice.
    • Hospital Options: A traditional list with tiers like "Key" (basic), "Extended" (adds more choice), and the "Trust" network which includes private wings of NHS hospitals.
  3. Bupa's Approach (Bupa By You plan):

    • Essential Access: The most restricted list, focusing on a core network of hospitals.
    • Extended Choice: A wider network including more facilities.
    • Extended Choice with London: Their top-tier list, providing access to Central London's HCA hospitals. Bupa has a very strong relationship with the Cromwell Hospital.
  4. WPA's Approach (Flexible Health plan):

    • WPA has a different philosophy. They offer lists that are generally more inclusive than competitors' entry-level options. Their premium hospital list is one of the most comprehensive on the market, but they also offer regional lists to manage costs. Their focus is on providing access to the best clinical care, not just the cheapest.

Insider Adviser Tip: Don't just tick the "national" box. Many standard "national" lists from major insurers exclude the top-tier, expensive hospitals in Central London. If you live or work in London and want access to these facilities, you must select a plan with an "Extended" or "London" upgrade. A broker like WeCovr can instantly check which hospitals are on which list for you.

Deep Dive 2: The Claims Experience - From First Call to Final Invoice

A smooth claims process is what you pay your premiums for. When you're unwell, the last thing you want is to be fighting with your insurer over paperwork.

InsurerClaims Process & ReputationDigital Tools
AXA HealthGenerally very efficient. Strong digital journey via their app and online portal. Fast pre-authorisation for common procedures.Excellent app for claims submission, virtual GP access, and policy management.
AvivaSolid and reliable. The 'Expert Select' process is well-managed, guiding you through the claim. Good telephone support.Strong online portal ("MyAviva") that integrates health with other insurance products.
BupaHighly regarded. As Bupa runs some of its own facilities, they have "direct settlement" agreements with a vast network, meaning they often pay the hospital directly with no need for you to handle invoices.The Bupa Touch app is comprehensive, offering claims tracking, pre-authorisation, and digital health services.
WPAConsistently wins awards for customer service. As a not-for-profit, their focus is on the member experience. Claims are handled by UK-based teams who are known for being helpful and empathetic.WPA has a simple and effective online portal and app for managing claims and benefits.

Real-Life Scenario: A Member with Knee Pain

Let's imagine you develop persistent knee pain and your GP refers you to an orthopaedic specialist. Here’s how it might play out:

  1. Initial GP Visit: You see your NHS or a private GP. They write a referral letter.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: You call your PMI provider to open a claim.
  3. Authorisation: The insurer checks your policy details and confirms that diagnostics for knee pain are covered. They give you a pre-authorisation number.
  4. Choosing a Specialist (The Key Difference):
    • With AXA, Bupa, or WPA's traditional lists, you'd typically be given a choice of specialists at any hospital on your chosen list.
    • With Aviva's Expert Select, they would provide you with a shortlist of 3-4 approved specialists. You choose from that list. This is the trade-off for the lower premium.
  5. Treatment & Payment: You see the specialist, have an MRI, and are scheduled for keyhole surgery. The hospital and specialist invoice the insurer directly. You only pay your chosen excess.
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Deep Dive 3: Renewal Pricing and No Claims Discounts (NCDs)

This is the number one reason clients contact a PMI broker. Your premium will increase each year due to two main factors:

  1. Age: You move into the next age bracket, which carries a higher risk.
  2. Medical Inflation: The cost of private treatment, drugs, and technology rises much faster than standard inflation, typically by 8-12% per year.

On top of this, any claims you make will likely affect your No Claims Discount (NCD).

InsurerNo Claims Discount StructureRenewal Pricing Reputation
AXA HealthA standard NCD ladder. Making a claim typically drops your discount level by 2-3 levels. Can offer a 10-year protected NCD for an extra premium.Generally fair, but large claims will lead to significant increases, as with all insurers.
AvivaSimilar to AXA, with a scale typically going up to around 75%. Claims cause a drop down the ladder.Their competitive entry-level pricing can sometimes mean steeper increases at renewal, especially after a claim.
BupaHas a "No Claim Discount" or a "Claim Rated" scheme. The NCD operates like car insurance. Large claims will see it drop.Bupa's renewals are generally seen as stable but can be high if you are on an older, less flexible policy.
WPAWPA's "Shared Responsibility" model is different. Instead of an NCD, you agree to pay 25% of every claim, up to a chosen annual limit. This can result in much more stable and predictable renewals, as the risk is shared. They also offer traditional NCD policies.WPA is a not-for-profit, so any surplus is reinvested. This often leads to more sustainable and fairer long-term pricing for its members.

Common Client Mistake: Sticking with the same insurer for years without reviewing the market. Loyalty rarely pays in the insurance world. After a few years, your initial "new customer" discount is gone, and you may be on an outdated plan. An independent review almost always finds better value.

The Underwriting Minefield: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting

This is a technical but vital choice. It determines how the insurer treats your past medical history.

  1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU):

    • How it works: You complete a detailed health questionnaire, disclosing your full medical history. The insurer assesses it and may place specific exclusions on your policy from the start (e.g., "no cover for any treatment related to the right knee").
    • Pros: Certainty. You know exactly what is and isn't covered from day one.
    • Cons: The application process is longer. Conditions you'd forgotten about might be permanently excluded.
  2. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting:

    • How it works: You don't declare your medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before the policy started.
    • The "Rolling" Rule: A pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover, but only after you complete a continuous 2-year period on the policy without experiencing any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition.
    • Pros: Quick and easy to set up.
    • Cons: Lack of certainty. A claim can be delayed or rejected while the insurer investigates if the condition is new or pre-existing. People often misunderstand the 2-year rule.

Adviser Tip: For most healthy individuals with no recent medical issues, Moratorium is fast and convenient. However, if you have a complex medical history, FMU provides valuable clarity, even if it means some exclusions. Discussing this with a WeCovr adviser is crucial to avoid problems at the point of claim.

The WeCovr Verdict: How to Choose the Right Provider for You

There is no single "best" provider. The right choice depends entirely on your priorities: budget, location, family needs, and attitude to risk.

  • Choose AXA if: You want a comprehensive, feature-rich policy from a global brand and value excellent digital tools.
  • Choose Aviva if: Your top priority is managing cost. Their 'Expert Select' guided option offers fantastic value if you are happy to trade some choice for a lower premium.
  • Choose Bupa if: You value the reassurance of the UK's most recognised healthcare brand and want a straightforward, comprehensive claims experience.
  • Choose WPA if: Exceptional customer service, ethical practices, and fair renewal pricing are most important to you. Their member-focused, not-for-profit status sets them apart.

The smartest decision is not to choose one off the shelf, but to have them compared for you. An independent broker works for you, not the insurer.

At WeCovr, we provide a full market analysis based on your specific needs, at no cost to you. We can pinpoint the policy that offers the best combination of hospital access, service, and long-term value. Furthermore, our clients gain complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, and can benefit from discounts when taking out other policies like life insurance.

Ready to find the perfect private health cover? Let our experts do the hard work.

Frequently Asked Questions about UK Private Health Insurance

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you knew about before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses requiring ongoing management, like asthma or diabetes). Some policies may cover a pre-existing condition after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment, but this is not guaranteed.

What is an excess and how does it work?

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment when you make a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you would pay the first £250 and your insurer would pay the remaining £2,750. You typically only pay the excess once per policy year, regardless of how many claims you make. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to lower your monthly premium.

Can I switch my private health insurance provider?

Yes, you can switch PMI providers, and it is often a good way to find better value, especially if your renewal premium has increased significantly. You can switch on what is known as "Continued Medical Exclusions" (CME) underwriting, which allows your new insurer to carry over the terms of your old policy. This means you can continue to be covered for conditions that arose while you were with your previous insurer. A broker can manage this process for you to ensure a seamless transition.

Is private medical insurance worth it in the UK?

Whether PMI is "worth it" is a personal decision. It offers significant benefits, such as faster access to specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment, often bypassing long NHS waiting lists. It also provides more choice over where and when you are treated, and access to a private room. For many, this peace of mind and control over their health is a valuable investment.

Related guides

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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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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