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Bowel Cancer in the UK A Complete Guide

Bowel Cancer in the UK A Complete Guide 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 750,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr provides this guide to bowel cancer and the role of private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the risks, symptoms, and crucial benefits of PMI for faster access to diagnosis and cutting-edge treatment.

Learn about bowel cancer risks, symptoms, and how PMI helps with faster screening and treatment

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, but it's highly treatable if caught early. Understanding the signs, knowing your personal risk, and exploring your healthcare options are the most powerful steps you can take. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times for diagnostics and treatment can be a source of significant anxiety.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) can provide invaluable peace of mind, offering a faster, more flexible route to specialist care. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about bowel cancer in the UK and how private health cover can support you when you need it most.

What is Bowel Cancer? A Simple Explanation

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a cancer that starts in the large bowel (the colon) or the back passage (the rectum). It typically develops from small, non-cancerous growths called polyps. If not removed, some polyps can turn into cancer over several years.

Catching these polyps or the cancer in its early stages is the key to successful treatment.

Bowel Cancer in the UK: The Latest Statistics

To understand the importance of awareness and early detection, it helps to look at the figures.

  • Prevalence: According to recent data from Cancer Research UK, there are around 42,900 new bowel cancer cases in the UK each year. That's nearly 120 new cases every single day.
  • Who it Affects: It can affect anyone, but it's more common in people over 50. Over 94% of new cases are diagnosed in this age group.
  • Survival Rates: The outlook is positive when bowel cancer is diagnosed early. Almost everyone (over 90%) will survive for five years or more if it's caught at stage 1, the earliest stage. This highlights why quick access to diagnostic tests is so critical.

Recognising the Symptoms of Bowel Cancer

The symptoms of bowel cancer can be subtle and are often mistaken for less serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or haemorrhoids. It is vital not to ignore persistent symptoms.

The most common signs to watch out for include:

  • A Persistent Change in Bowel Habit: This means pooing more often, having looser, runnier stools, or experiencing constipation for more than three weeks.
  • Blood in Your Poo (Stool): This can happen for no obvious reason or might be associated with a change in bowel habit. While often caused by piles (haemorrhoids), it should never be ignored.
  • Unexplained Abdominal Pain or a Lump: A persistent pain, discomfort, or bloating in your tummy, especially after eating. Sometimes you might feel a lump in your abdomen.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without dieting or changing your lifestyle.
  • Extreme Tiredness for No Reason: Feeling exhausted and lacking energy, which may be a sign of anaemia (a lack of iron) caused by bleeding from the bowel.

If you experience one or more of these symptoms for three weeks or longer, it is essential to see your GP. Don't feel embarrassed; doctors are used to discussing these issues, and an early check-up could save your life.

Who is Most at Risk? Understanding Bowel Cancer Risk Factors

While anyone can develop bowel cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. Some of these you can't change (non-modifiable), but many are linked to lifestyle (modifiable) and can be improved.

Risk Factor CategorySpecific Risk FactorHow it Increases Risk
Non-ModifiableAgeOver 9 in 10 cases occur in people aged 50 and over.
Family HistoryHaving a close relative (parent, sibling, child) diagnosed under 50 significantly increases your risk.
Inherited ConditionsRare genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) greatly raise the risk.
Medical HistoryA history of non-cancerous polyps in your bowel, or long-term inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis.
Modifiable (Lifestyle)DietA diet high in red and processed meat (sausages, bacon, ham) and low in fibre (fruit, vegetables, wholegrains).
WeightBeing overweight or obese is a major risk factor, second only to smoking for many cancers.
Physical InactivityLiving a sedentary lifestyle without regular exercise.
AlcoholRegularly drinking alcohol increases the risk, with the risk rising with the amount consumed.
SmokingTobacco smoke contains chemicals that can damage the DNA in our cells, leading to cancer.

Understanding these risks empowers you to have informed conversations with your doctor and make positive lifestyle changes.

The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme Explained

The NHS has a fantastic screening programme designed to detect bowel cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms even develop.

  1. The FIT Kit: In England, Scotland, and Wales, people in the eligible age group are automatically sent a Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kit through the post every two years. In Northern Ireland, this is offered to people aged 60 to 74.
  2. How it Works: The FIT kit is a simple test you do at home. It requires a tiny sample of your poo, which you post to a lab in a hygienic, pre-paid envelope. The test looks for hidden traces of blood, which could be an early sign of cancer.
  3. Age Groups:
    • England: Currently offered to men and women aged 60 to 74. This is gradually being expanded to include everyone from the age of 50.
    • Scotland: Offered from age 50 to 74.
    • Wales: Offered from age 58 to 74.
  4. What Happens Next? If the test finds anything unusual, you will be invited for further tests, usually a colonoscopy, to look at the inside of your bowel.

While the NHS aims to see patients with suspected cancer referrals within two weeks, the subsequent wait for diagnostic tests like a colonoscopy can sometimes stretch for many weeks or even months due to high demand. This waiting period is often a time of great stress and uncertainty, which is a primary reason many people turn to private medical insurance in the UK.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Speeds Up Diagnosis and Treatment

Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you more choice and faster access to private healthcare for eligible conditions.

Crucial Point: Standard PMI policies are for acute conditions—illnesses that are curable and arise after you take out your policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions (symptoms or diagnoses you've had in the last 5 years) or chronic conditions like Crohn's disease.

Here’s how the PMI pathway typically works if you develop symptoms that could be bowel cancer:

  1. See Your GP: Your journey usually starts with your GP. Some PMI policies include a digital GP service, allowing you to get a consultation within hours.
  2. Open Referral to a Specialist: Your GP agrees you need to see a specialist (a gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon). Instead of joining a long NHS waiting list, your PMI provider will approve the referral.
  3. Fast-Track Consultation: You can often see a private specialist within days.
  4. Rapid Diagnostics: If the specialist recommends a colonoscopy, MRI, or CT scan, your PMI will cover the cost. These tests can be arranged in a private hospital or clinic, often within a week. This speed is the single biggest benefit of PMI, reducing anxiety and leading to a faster diagnosis.
  5. Choice and Comfort: With PMI, you can often choose the specialist and hospital you want to be treated at. You'll also typically get a private, en-suite room if you need to stay overnight.
  6. Access to Advanced Treatment: If you are diagnosed with cancer, a comprehensive PMI policy will cover the costs of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies. Some policies also provide access to new, specialist drugs or treatments that may not yet be available on the NHS.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate the options and find a policy that provides robust cancer cover, ensuring you're protected should you need it.

Understanding Cancer Cover in a PMI Policy

Not all private health cover is the same, especially when it comes to cancer. Policies typically offer different levels of cover, so it's vital to understand what you're buying.

Level of Cancer CoverWhat It Typically IncludesBest For
Basic CoverOften included as standard. Covers initial diagnosis and surgery. May have limits on outpatient consultations and tests.Those on a tight budget who want cover for the most expensive part of treatment (surgery).
Comprehensive CoverCovers diagnosis, surgery, and ongoing treatment like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies. This is the most common level of cover.The majority of people looking for complete peace of mind and end-to-end care.
Advanced/Full CoverIncludes everything in comprehensive cover, plus palliative care, monitoring, and sometimes experimental or "off-label" drug use.Those who want the highest possible level of assurance, with no financial or time limits on their care.

Key Terminology:

  • Moratorium Underwriting: The most common type. You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer will not cover any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy started, until you have been clear for 2 continuous years after joining.
  • NHS Cancer Cover Promise: Many leading insurers promise that if you use up your cancer cover benefits or choose to use the NHS, they will facilitate a smooth transfer back into the NHS system for continued treatment.

Comparing Top UK Private Health Insurance Providers for Cancer Care

Several excellent providers offer private medical insurance in the UK. While costs vary based on age, location, and level of cover, here's a general comparison of what the leading names offer for cancer care.

ProviderKey Cancer Cover Features & BenefitsUnique Selling Point
BupaExtensive cancer cover with no time limits on chemotherapy/radiotherapy on comprehensive policies. Access to specialist cancer centres and support nurses.Long-established reputation and a large, directly managed network of hospitals and clinics.
AXA HealthComprehensive cancer cover as standard. Strong focus on mental health support through their "Stronger Minds" service during treatment. Access to the latest licensed cancer drugs.Excellent clinical support and a strong focus on holistic wellbeing during a difficult time.
Aviva"Cancer Care Promise" offers extensive cover, including for bone marrow transplants and stem cell treatment. Expert Select feature helps guide you to the best specialists.Often highly competitive on price and offers a "no claims discount" to keep future premiums down.
Vitality"Advanced Cancer Cover" provides full cover for diagnostics and treatment. Unique cashback and rewards for staying healthy can reduce premiums.Focus on preventative health. Their wellness programme rewards you for healthy living, which can lower your cancer risk.

Choosing the best PMI provider depends on your individual circumstances. A specialist broker like WeCovr compares the entire market for you at no cost, explaining the pros and cons of each policy to help you find the perfect fit.

Lifestyle Changes to Lower Your Bowel Cancer Risk

While you can't change your age or genes, you have significant control over your lifestyle. Making small, sustainable changes can meaningfully lower your risk of developing bowel cancer.

1. Eat a High-Fibre Diet

Aim for at least 30g of fibre a day. This helps move waste through your bowel more quickly.

  • Swap white bread, pasta, and rice for wholegrain versions.
  • Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and pulses like beans, peas, and lentils.
  • Snack on nuts, seeds, and oatcakes.

2. Reduce Red and Processed Meat

Limit red meat (beef, lamb, pork) to no more than 70g (cooked weight) per day and avoid processed meats (bacon, sausages, salami) as much as possible.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best ways to manage your weight. To help with this, WeCovr provides all its health and life insurance customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app.

4. Be More Active

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or team sports) each week.

5. Cut Down on Alcohol and Stop Smoking

Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking are two of the most impactful things you can do for your overall health, including reducing your cancer risk.

As a WeCovr customer, when you take out private medical insurance or life insurance, you can also access discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a complete financial safety net for you and your family.

Real-Life Scenarios: How PMI Can Make a Difference

Let's look at two examples of how having private health cover can dramatically change someone's experience.

Scenario 1: Sarah, 52 - The Power of Speed Sarah started experiencing persistent bloating and a change in her bowel habits. Her GP suspected IBS but, due to her age, made an urgent referral for a colonoscopy on the NHS. The waiting list in her area was 14 weeks. Worried, Sarah remembered she had PMI through her employer. She called her insurer, got approval for a private referral, and saw a gastroenterologist in just five days. The colonoscopy was performed the following week. It revealed a large pre-cancerous polyp, which was removed there and then. The specialist told her that if it had been left for a few more months, it would likely have turned into stage 1 cancer. The speed of her PMI meant the problem was solved before it became life-threatening.

Scenario 2: David, 65 - The Power of Choice David was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer through the NHS. The care was excellent, but his oncologist mentioned a new form of targeted therapy that was showing great results but was only available privately or through a clinical trial. David's comprehensive PMI policy with advanced cancer cover included access to licensed drugs not yet routinely funded by the NHS. His insurer approved the treatment, giving him access to a cutting-edge therapy that offered a better prognosis and fewer side effects than the standard chemotherapy. This choice gave David hope and a greater sense of control over his treatment journey.

If I have bowel cancer symptoms now, can I buy PMI to cover the tests?

Unfortunately, no. Private medical insurance is designed to cover unforeseen medical conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. Any symptoms you currently have would be classed as a "pre-existing condition" and would be excluded from cover. It is vital to see your GP immediately if you have symptoms.

Does private health cover pay for routine bowel cancer screening?

Generally, standard PMI policies do not cover routine or preventative screening, as this is provided by the NHS. Private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of symptoms when they arise. However, some higher-end policies or corporate schemes may offer wellness benefits that include certain health screenings.

What happens if my PMI cancer treatment limit is reached?

Most major UK insurers offer a "Cancer Cover Promise" or similar benefit. This means that if you reach the financial or time limits on your policy's cancer cover, or if you decide to switch back to the NHS for any reason, the insurer guarantees a smooth and seamless transfer of your care back to the NHS system. You will never be left without a treatment option.

How can a broker like WeCovr help me choose the right PMI policy?

An expert, independent broker like WeCovr provides an invaluable service at no cost to you. We compare policies from across the market to find the best private medical insurance for your specific needs and budget. We explain the complex terminology in plain English and highlight the key differences in cancer cover, ensuring you make an informed choice. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right cover for our clients.

Your Health is Your Wealth: Take the Next Step

Understanding the risks of bowel cancer and the signs to look for is your first line of defence. Your second is having a plan in place for swift action if you ever need it.

Private medical insurance provides the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can bypass waiting lists and get access to leading specialists and treatments without delay.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and gain the peace of mind that comes with quality private health cover.

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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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