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Best Private Health Insurance for Self-Employed Professionals

Best Private Health Insurance for Self-Employed Professionals

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance for the UK's self-employed. This article breaks down how to secure the right cover, protecting both your health and your livelihood when you are your own boss.

WeCovr's expert advice on securing affordable, comprehensive health cover when you work for yourself

When you're self-employed, your health isn't just personal—it's your most critical business asset. An unexpected illness or injury can mean more than just discomfort; it can lead to cancelled projects, lost income, and significant business disruption. While the NHS provides essential care, growing waiting lists for consultations and treatments can pose a serious risk to your financial stability.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful solution, providing you with prompt access to diagnosis, treatment, and specialist care. It's a strategic investment in your continuity, ensuring you can get back to work faster. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the best, most affordable private health insurance policy for your unique needs as a self-employed professional in the UK.

Why Private Health Insurance is a Business Essential for Sole Traders and Freelancers

The number of self-employed workers in the UK remains a significant part of the workforce, with millions of people choosing the flexibility and autonomy of working for themselves (ONS, 2024). However, this freedom comes with a unique set of vulnerabilities. Unlike employees, you have no access to statutory sick pay from an employer, paid medical leave, or a company-sponsored health plan.

The Financial Risk of Ill Health

  • No Sick Pay: Every day you are unable to work is a day of lost income.
  • Business Disruption: Delays can damage client relationships and jeopardise future contracts.
  • NHS Waiting Times: The reality of the current healthcare landscape is significant delays. According to NHS England data, millions of people are on the waiting list for routine consultant-led elective care. A wait of many months for a hip replacement, hernia repair, or even initial diagnostic scans can be devastating for a self-employed individual.

PMI directly mitigates these risks. It's not a replacement for the NHS, which remains the bedrock for emergency and chronic care, but a complementary service designed to bypass the queues for eligible, acute conditions.

A Real-World Example: The Consultant's Dilemma

Imagine you are a self-employed IT consultant earning £400 per day. You develop persistent knee pain that requires an MRI scan and a potential minor surgical procedure.

  • The NHS Route: You see your GP, who refers you to a specialist. The wait for the initial consultation could be several months. After that, there's another wait for the MRI scan, and a further, often longer, wait for the surgery itself. In total, you could be facing 9-12 months of reduced mobility and pain, impacting your ability to travel to clients and work effectively, resulting in tens of thousands of pounds in lost income.
  • The PMI Route: You use your private health cover. You get a GP referral and see a private specialist within a week. The MRI scan is booked for the following week, and the surgery is scheduled shortly after. You are back on your feet and back to work in a fraction of the time, protecting your income and your business.

Understanding the Core Principles of UK Private Medical Insurance

Before you can choose the right policy, it's vital to understand what private health insurance is designed to cover—and, just as importantly, what it is not.

What PMI Covers: Acute Conditions

Private medical insurance in the UK is designed for the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Examples of covered acute conditions:

  • Joint pain requiring replacement surgery (e.g., hip or knee).
  • Cataracts needing removal.
  • Hernias requiring surgical repair.
  • Diagnosis and treatment for specific symptoms (e.g., persistent back pain).
  • Cancer treatment (this is a core feature of all comprehensive PMI policies).

What PMI Does NOT Cover: The Critical Exclusions

This is the most important concept to grasp to avoid future disappointment. Standard UK private health insurance policies do not cover:

  1. Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before you took out the policy. How insurers handle this depends on your choice of underwriting (explained below).
  2. Chronic Conditions: An illness that cannot be cured and requires ongoing, long-term management rather than a short course of treatment. The NHS remains the primary provider for chronic care.
Type of ConditionDescriptionCovered by PMI?
AcuteShort-term, curable. Responds fully to treatment.Yes
ChronicLong-term, incurable. Requires ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma).No
Pre-existingA condition you had before your policy started.No
EmergencyLife-threatening situations (e.g., heart attack, stroke, major accident).No (Handled by NHS A&E)

Key PMI Terminology Explained

Navigating policy documents can be confusing. Here are the key terms you'll encounter:

TermExplanation
Inpatient CoverCovers treatment that requires a hospital bed overnight (e.g., surgery). This is the core of all PMI policies.
Day-patient CoverCovers treatment that requires a hospital bed for the day but not overnight (e.g., an endoscopy). Also included as standard.
Outpatient CoverCovers consultations, diagnostic tests, and therapies that do not require a hospital bed. This is usually an optional add-on that significantly affects the premium.
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. A higher excess (£500, £1000) will lower your monthly premium.
UnderwritingThe method an insurer uses to assess your medical history and decide what they will and won't cover. The two main types are Moratorium and Full Medical Underwriting.
Hospital ListThe network of private hospitals your policy allows you to use. A more limited list typically results in a lower premium.
6-Week Wait OptionA cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the required inpatient treatment within six weeks, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private policy kicks in.

How to Choose the Best Health Insurance: A Step-by-Step Guide for the Self-Employed

Finding the perfect policy is about balancing comprehensive cover with an affordable premium. Here’s how to approach it.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs and Budget

Start by asking yourself two fundamental questions:

  1. "What do I need cover for?" Are you primarily concerned about getting a cancer diagnosis treated quickly? Or is your main worry the long wait for a joint replacement that could stop you from working?
  2. "What can I realistically afford?" Premiums can range from as little as £30 per month for a basic policy to over £150 for a fully comprehensive plan with no excess.

Levels of Cover:

  • Basic/Budget: Covers inpatient and day-patient treatment only. Often includes some cancer cover. Ideal for those wanting protection against major surgical procedures while keeping costs low.
  • Mid-Range: Includes inpatient cover plus a limited amount of outpatient cover (e.g., up to £1,000 for diagnostics and consultations). This is the most popular level of cover, offering a good balance of benefits and cost.
  • Comprehensive: Full inpatient and outpatient cover, often with additional therapies (physiotherapy, mental health support) and dental/optical benefits included. Best for those who want complete peace of mind and are less budget-sensitive.

Step 2: Understand Underwriting Options

This is a crucial decision that determines how the insurer treats your pre-existing conditions.

  1. Moratorium (Most Common): This is the simpler option. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the last five years. However, if you then go two continuous years on the policy without any further symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your complete medical history via a detailed questionnaire. The insurer reviews it and states from the outset exactly what is excluded from your policy. This provides certainty but can be more complex to set up.

For most self-employed people with a relatively clean bill of health, a moratorium policy is often the quickest and most straightforward choice. If you have a complex medical history, FMU provides clarity on what's covered from day one.

Step 3: Compare the Best PMI Providers in the UK

The UK has a mature private health insurance market with several excellent providers. While they all offer core inpatient and cancer cover, they differ in their approach to optional benefits, wellness programmes, and customer service.

Here's a look at what to consider from the leading insurers:

ProviderKey Strengths & Features to Look ForIdeal For...
BupaOne of the UK's most recognised brands. Offers extensive cancer cover and mental health support. Direct access to treatment pathways without needing to see a GP first for certain conditions.Those seeking a trusted brand with comprehensive cancer and mental health benefits.
AvivaKnown for its "Expert Select" hospital list, which can help reduce premiums. Strong digital tools and a straightforward claims process. Often competitive on price for core cover.Budget-conscious individuals who still want quality cover from a major, reputable insurer.
AXAOffers a modular approach, allowing you to build your policy with the benefits you need. Excellent mental health support options and a strong focus on customer service.Professionals who want to tailor their policy precisely to their needs and value strong mental health support.
VitalityUnique in its focus on wellness and prevention. Rewards members with discounts and benefits (e.g., cheaper gym memberships, Apple Watches) for staying active. Premiums can be lower if you engage with the wellness programme.Active, health-conscious individuals who are motivated by rewards and want to proactively manage their wellbeing.
WPAA not-for-profit insurer known for flexible policies and excellent customer service. Often favoured by professionals and offers shared responsibility options to manage costs.Those looking for a highly flexible policy with a strong customer service reputation.

Using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr allows you to compare these providers on a like-for-like basis, ensuring you find the policy that truly matches your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

Step 4: Customise Your Policy to Control Costs

This is where you can make your private medical insurance truly affordable. By adjusting the "levers" of your policy, you can significantly reduce your monthly premium without sacrificing the core protection you need.

Cost-Saving LeverHow It WorksImpact on Premium
Increase Your ExcessYou agree to pay a larger portion of the first claim each year (e.g., £500 instead of £100).High Reduction
Choose a 6-Week WaitYour policy only pays for inpatient care if the NHS wait time is over six weeks.High Reduction
Limit Outpatient CoverOpt for basic diagnostics only, or a financial limit (£500-£1000) instead of full cover.Medium-High Reduction
Select a Guided ListAgree to use a smaller, curated network of hospitals or specialists chosen by the insurer.Medium Reduction
Reduce Hospital AccessChoose a list that excludes expensive central London hospitals if you don't live nearby.Medium Reduction

By combining two or three of these levers—for example, a £500 excess and a 6-week wait option—a self-employed person can often cut the cost of a mid-range policy by 30-50%.

The WeCovr Advantage: Expert Guidance and Added Value

Navigating the complexities of the PMI market alone can be overwhelming. As an independent, FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr provides impartial, expert advice to help you make the right choice.

Why work with us?

  • Whole-of-Market Access: We compare policies from all the UK's leading insurers to find the best fit for you.
  • Expert Advice at No Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price as going direct, but with the added benefit of our expertise.
  • Tailored Recommendations: We take the time to understand your specific needs as a self-employed professional, ensuring your policy provides the right protection.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly for its clarity, efficiency, and helpfulness.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you arrange your PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr, you gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our advanced AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support your health goals. You may also be eligible for discounts on other types of insurance you arrange with us.

Beyond Treatment: Wellness, Mental Health, and Proactive Care

Modern private health insurance is about more than just surgery. The best PMI providers offer a suite of benefits designed to keep you healthy and provide support when you need it most. For a self-employed person juggling multiple responsibilities, these can be invaluable.

Look for policies that include:

  • Digital/Virtual GP Services: Access a GP via your phone or laptop 24/7. This allows you to get a consultation and a referral quickly, without having to take time out of your working day to visit a surgery.
  • Mental Health Support: This is no longer a niche add-on. Most good policies now include access to a mental health helpline, and many comprehensive plans cover sessions with counsellors or therapists. Given the pressures of running a business, this support can be vital.
  • Wellness and Prevention: As pioneered by Vitality, many insurers now offer incentives for healthy living. This can include discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings.
  • Physiotherapy and Musculoskeletal Support: Many policies provide access to physiotherapy without a GP referral, which is perfect for tackling the aches and pains that can come from being hunched over a laptop or on your feet all day.

Simple Health Habits for the Busy Professional

While insurance provides a safety net, prevention is always the best medicine.

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. According to NHS guidance, consistent sleep deprivation can weaken your immune system and impair cognitive function.
  • Stay Active: You don't need to run marathons. Incorporate a 30-minute brisk walk into your daily routine. It boosts cardiovascular health and is a proven stress-reducer.
  • Mindful Eating: Avoid relying on caffeine and sugary snacks. Plan balanced meals rich in whole foods to maintain stable energy levels throughout your working day. Our CalorieHero app can help you track this effortlessly.
  • Ergonomic Workspace: Invest in a good chair and ensure your screen is at eye level to prevent chronic back and neck pain.

Is Private Health Insurance a Tax-Deductible Business Expense?

This is a common and important question for sole traders and limited company directors. The answer is nuanced.

  • For Sole Traders & Partnerships: Generally, HMRC does not consider personal private medical insurance to be an "allowable business expense." It is seen as a personal benefit rather than a cost incurred "wholly and exclusively" for the business.
  • For Limited Company Directors: If your limited company pays for your private health insurance policy, the company can typically claim the premium as an allowable business expense, reducing its Corporation Tax bill. However, it will be treated as a 'benefit in kind' for you personally, meaning you will likely have to pay income tax on the value of the premium, and the company will have to pay National Insurance contributions.

Disclaimer: Tax rules are complex and can change. It is essential to seek advice from a qualified accountant to understand the specific tax implications for your business structure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about PMI for the Self-Employed

Here are answers to some of the most common queries we receive.

Is private health insurance worth it for a sole trader in the UK?

For many sole traders, it is a crucial investment. The primary benefit is minimising downtime and loss of income by providing fast access to diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions. With NHS waiting lists at record levels, PMI can be the difference between a few weeks off work and many months of uncertainty, making it a valuable tool for business continuity.

What are the main things that UK private medical insurance does not cover?

UK private medical insurance is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It explicitly does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already had), chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management), emergency treatment (handled by NHS A&E), cosmetic surgery, or issues related to drug and alcohol abuse.

Can I get immediate cover for a health issue I already have?

No, you cannot get cover for a health issue you currently have or have had in the recent past. All UK PMI policies exclude pre-existing conditions. Insurance is designed to protect against unforeseen future events, not to pay for known, existing problems.

How can I get the most affordable private health insurance policy?

The best way to get an affordable policy is to customise it. You can significantly lower your premium by:

  1. Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £500).
  2. Adding a "6-week wait" option, where you use the NHS if treatment is available within six weeks.
  3. Limiting your outpatient cover to diagnostics only.
  4. Selecting a restricted hospital list that excludes the most expensive facilities. Working with a broker like WeCovr can help you find the perfect balance of these options.

Protecting your health is the smartest business decision you can make. With the right private medical insurance policy, you can gain peace of mind and the security of knowing that if you fall ill, you can get the help you need quickly and get back to doing what you do best.

Ready to find the right cover? Get a free, no-obligation quote from a WeCovr expert today and compare the UK's leading insurers in minutes.


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
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Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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