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Cancer The UK's Race Against Time

Cancer The UK's Race Against Time 2025

With 1 in 2 Britons Facing a Cancer Diagnosis, Every Day Matters. Discover How Private Medical Insurance Provides Rapid Access to Early Detection, Advanced Diagnostics, and Cutting-Edge Treatments, Offering You the Best Chance for Swift Recovery and Lifelong Health

The statistics are sobering and impossible to ignore. According to projections from Cancer Research UK, a staggering 1 in 2 people in the UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. It’s a reality that touches every family, every community, and every individual.

When faced with a potential cancer diagnosis, one variable matters more than any other: time. Every day that passes can impact the stage of diagnosis, the range of treatment options available, and ultimately, the prognosis. The race against time begins the moment a worrying symptom appears.

While our National Health Service (NHS) provides exceptional care, it is a system facing unprecedented strain. Waiting lists for specialist appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatment commencement are a well-documented reality. For anyone navigating the fear and uncertainty of a possible cancer diagnosis, these delays can be agonising.

This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) emerges not as a luxury, but as a crucial tool for taking control of your health. It offers a parallel pathway to the UK's leading cancer specialists and facilities, dramatically reducing waiting times and unlocking access to treatments that may not be available on the NHS.

This comprehensive guide will explore the landscape of cancer care in the UK, the challenges within the current system, and how a robust private health insurance policy can provide the speed, choice, and advanced care necessary to give you and your loved ones peace of mind and the best possible chance of a full and swift recovery.

The Stark Reality: Cancer in the UK in 2025

Understanding the scale of the challenge is the first step. The "1 in 2" figure is not just a headline; it's a demographic reality driven by people living longer lives, as the risk of most cancers increases with age. As we look at the UK in 2025, the picture is one of increasing pressure and urgency.

Key Statistics Shaping the UK Cancer Landscape:

  • Incidence: There are around 393,000 new cancer cases in the UK every year – that's more than 1,000 every single day.
  • Prevalence: An estimated 3 million people were living with cancer in the UK at the end of 2020, with projections suggesting this will rise to 4 million by 2030.
  • Most Common Cancers: The four most common cancers continue to be breast, prostate, lung, and bowel cancer, accounting for over half (53%) of all new cases in the UK.
  • Survival: The good news is that cancer survival has doubled in the last 50 years. Today, half of people diagnosed with cancer in the UK survive their disease for ten years or more. This progress is a testament to research, but early diagnosis is the cornerstone of this success.

This progress, however, is threatened by the single biggest bottleneck in the system: waiting times.

The Critical Impact of Waiting Times

For cancer, time is tissue. Delays in diagnosis can allow a cancer to grow or spread, potentially moving it from an early, more treatable stage to an advanced one.

  • One Month Delay: Research published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that even a one-month delay in starting treatment can raise the risk of death by around 10%.
  • NHS Performance: Despite the heroic efforts of NHS staff, performance against key cancer waiting time targets has been consistently challenged. As of early 2025, a significant number of patients are waiting longer than the benchmark for diagnosis and treatment.
NHS Cancer Waiting Time Target (England)The TargetRecent Performance (Q1 2025 Estimate)
Urgent Referral (2-Week Wait)93% of patients to see a specialist within 2 weeks of GP referral.Target not met consistently since 2018.
Diagnosis (28-Day Faster Diagnosis Standard)75% of patients to have cancer ruled out or diagnosed within 28 days.Consistently below the 75% target.
Treatment (62-Day Referral to Treatment)85% of patients to start first treatment within 62 days of urgent GP referral.Significantly below target; a major area of concern.

Source: Adapted from NHS England data and trend analysis.

These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet. Each percentage point represents thousands of individuals and their families waiting in a state of profound anxiety. This is the gap that Private Medical Insurance is designed to bridge.

The NHS Cancer Pathway: A System Under Strain

The NHS provides a structured and defined pathway for cancer care, which, when it works to its targets, is world-class. It's important to understand this process to see where delays can occur and how PMI offers an alternative route.

The Standard NHS Journey:

  1. GP Visit: You notice a symptom and visit your GP. They assess you and, if they suspect cancer, make an 'urgent referral' to a specialist. The target is for this appointment to happen within two weeks.
  2. Specialist Consultation: You meet with a consultant (e.g., an oncologist, a gastroenterologist) at an NHS hospital.
  3. Diagnostic Tests: The specialist will order necessary tests to investigate. This could include blood tests, X-rays, and more advanced imaging like MRI, CT, or PET scans. There can be significant waits for these scan appointments.
  4. Diagnosis & Staging: Following the tests, a multidisciplinary team (MDT) reviews your case to confirm a diagnosis and determine the cancer's stage and characteristics.
  5. Treatment Plan: The MDT recommends a treatment plan, which is discussed with you. This could involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other therapies.
  6. Treatment Commencement: You begin your first definitive treatment. The target from the initial urgent referral to this point is 62 days.

The NHS itself is the first to acknowledge the immense pressure it is under. A combination of factors, including funding constraints, persistent staffing shortages, an ageing infrastructure, and the long-tail effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on backlogs, all contribute to the system operating well beyond its ideal capacity.

This is the context in which thousands of Britons are now considering private healthcare—not to replace the NHS, but to gain rapid access when it matters most.

Private Medical Insurance: Your Fast-Track to World-Class Cancer Care

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a policy you pay for that covers the cost of private medical treatment for acute conditions. It works alongside the NHS, giving you a choice in how, where, and when you are treated.

For cancer, its primary benefit is speed. A PMI policy allows you to bypass NHS waiting lists at every single stage of the cancer pathway.

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A Critical Clarification: Pre-Existing and Chronic Conditions

Before we delve into the benefits, it is absolutely essential to understand a fundamental rule of UK private medical insurance.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint replacements, hernias, and, crucially, new cancer diagnoses).
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured but can be managed through medication and therapy (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). These are not covered by PMI and remain under the care of the NHS.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness or symptom you had before you took out the policy. Standard PMI policies will not cover you for these conditions, typically for a set period (e.g., two years) or indefinitely, depending on the type of underwriting you choose.

Therefore, you cannot buy a PMI policy to cover a cancer you have already been diagnosed with. The value of PMI lies in having it in place before you need it, as a safety net for future, unforeseen diagnoses.

The Core Benefits of PMI for Cancer Care

With that crucial point understood, let's explore how PMI transforms the cancer journey for policyholders.

  • Rapid GP & Specialist Access: Many policies offer access to a 24/7 digital GP service, allowing you to get a referral in hours. Once you have that referral, you can typically see a leading specialist of your choice within days. This condenses a process that can take weeks on the NHS into a matter of 72 hours.
  • Advanced Diagnostics on Demand: The wait for an MRI or PET-CT scan is a major source of delay and anxiety. With PMI, these scans are often arranged within 48-72 hours at a state-of-the-art private facility, giving your consultant the information they need to make a swift and accurate diagnosis.
  • Choice and Comfort: PMI gives you control. You can choose your oncologist or surgeon from a network of leading experts. You can choose the hospital where you receive your treatment, often with the benefit of a private, en-suite room for a more comfortable and dignified experience during a difficult time.
  • Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments: This is one of the most powerful benefits of comprehensive cancer cover. You can gain access to the very latest drugs, therapies, and treatments—some of which may not yet be approved by NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for use on the NHS, or are only available through the limited Cancer Drugs Fund.

Unpacking Cancer Cover: What Do PMI Policies Actually Include?

Not all PMI policies are created equal, and the level of cancer cover is one of the most significant differentiators. When you buy a policy, cancer cover is often structured in tiers.

Basic Cover: Some entry-level policies may have limits on cancer care. They might cover the initial diagnosis and surgery but could have financial or time limits on treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. These are less common but it's vital to check.

Comprehensive Cancer Cover (The Gold Standard): This is the option most people seek and is included as standard in most mid-to-high-tier policies. It is designed to cover your cancer journey from diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, without placing financial or time limits on your care, as long as you keep your policy active.

Here’s what you can typically expect from a comprehensive cancer plan:

FeatureDescriptionWhy It Matters
Initial DiagnosticsCovers consultations and tests to diagnose cancer.Bypasses NHS waits for scans, leading to faster diagnosis.
SurgeryIncludes tumour removal and reconstructive surgery (e.g., post-mastectomy).Access to leading surgeons and choice of hospital.
ChemotherapyCovers the cost of chemotherapy drugs and their administration.Can be administered at home for comfort or in a private hospital.
RadiotherapyCovers standard and advanced radiotherapy, like IMRT.Access to the latest technology to target tumours precisely.
Advanced TherapiesIncludes targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and biological therapies.Access to cutting-edge treatments not always on the NHS.
Proton Beam TherapyA highly targeted radiotherapy, often included for specific clinical needs.Reduces damage to surrounding tissue; a vital option for certain tumours.
Ongoing MonitoringCovers check-ups and scans after your initial treatment is complete.Ensures any recurrence is caught early.
Palliative CareCovers care focused on symptom control and quality of life if cancer is incurable.Provides dignity and comfort, often including hospice care or at-home nursing.
Support ServicesIncludes dedicated nurse support lines, mental health counselling, and wig provision.Holistic support for the emotional and physical toll of cancer.

The Power of Experimental and Unlicensed Drugs

One of the most compelling reasons to opt for comprehensive cancer cover is the potential to access drugs that are yet to receive NICE approval. The UK's drug approval process is rigorous and can be slow. A new, promising cancer drug might be licensed for use in Europe or the US but still be months or even years away from routine NHS availability.

Many top-tier PMI policies will cover a drug provided it is licensed by the relevant authorities, even if it's not yet NICE-approved. For some patients, this can open the door to a life-extending or life-saving treatment that would otherwise be out of reach.

The Journey with PMI: A Tale of Two Timelines

To illustrate the profound difference PMI can make, let’s consider a hypothetical but realistic scenario of two 50-year-old men, David and Mark, who both discover a worrying lump.

David's Journey (Relying solely on the NHS)

  • Week 1: David sees his GP. The GP is concerned and makes an urgent two-week wait referral.
  • Week 3: David sees a specialist at his local NHS hospital. The specialist recommends a biopsy and a CT scan to investigate.
  • Week 6: David has his CT scan. The waiting list was four weeks, but he got a cancellation.
  • Week 7: He has his biopsy.
  • Week 8: A multidisciplinary team reviews the results. David gets a call to come in.
  • Week 9: David is diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer. His team recommends surgery.
  • Week 12: David has his surgery. The total time from GP visit to treatment is around 84 days, exceeding the 62-day target. He is grateful for the excellent care but found the 12-week wait incredibly stressful.

Mark's Journey (With a Comprehensive PMI Policy)

  • Day 1: Mark sees a private GP via his insurer's app. The GP gives him an open referral to a gastroenterologist.
  • Day 3: Mark sees a leading consultant of his choice at a private hospital. The consultant arranges an urgent CT scan and colonoscopy with biopsy.
  • Day 5: Mark has his CT scan and colonoscopy.
  • Day 8: The consultant calls Mark with the results. It's stage 1 bowel cancer, caught very early.
  • Day 14: Mark has keyhole surgery with a top surgeon. The total time from symptom to treatment is two weeks. He is back at his desk, recovering, before David has even had his first scan.

This is a simplified example, but it powerfully illustrates the core value proposition of PMI: it buys you time. In Mark's case, this not only reduced anxiety but led to the cancer being caught at an earlier stage, improving his long-term prognosis.

Demystifying the Costs: Is Private Cancer Care Affordable?

The cost of a PMI policy is a primary consideration for most people. Premiums are highly individual and depend on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Costs can be higher in central London and other major cities due to higher hospital charges.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with full cancer cover will cost more than a basic one.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Choosing a policy with a more restricted list of hospitals (e.g., excluding the most expensive central London facilities) can also reduce costs.

To provide a sense of the potential costs, here are some illustrative examples for a comprehensive policy with full cancer cover and a £250 excess.

ProfileEstimated Monthly Premium
30-year-old non-smoker£45 - £65
45-year-old non-smoker£70 - £95
60-year-old non-smoker£120 - £180

Disclaimer: These are illustrative estimates only. Your actual premium will depend on your specific circumstances and the insurer you choose.

While these costs are not insignificant, many people view them as a worthwhile investment in their health and peace of mind, often comparing the monthly cost to a gym membership or mobile phone contract.

Navigating the dozens of policies and providers can be overwhelming. This is where an expert broker becomes invaluable. At WeCovr, we specialise in helping individuals and families compare plans from every major UK insurer, including Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality. We take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to find the policy that offers the right protection at the right price.

Furthermore, we believe in proactive health. That’s why all WeCovr customers gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered nutrition and calorie tracking app. It’s our way of going above and beyond the policy, helping you manage your health day-to-day.

Choosing the Right Policy: Key Questions to Ask

When you are ready to explore your options, it's crucial to ask the right questions to ensure the policy you choose provides the robust cancer protection you expect.

Here is a checklist to guide your conversation with an adviser:

  1. What is the overall philosophy on cancer care? Ask for the "full cancer cover" or "comprehensive cancer care" option.
  2. Are there any limits? Check if there are any financial caps (£) or time limits on any part of the cancer treatment. The best policies have no limits.
  3. How are advanced treatments handled? Specifically ask about drugs that are not yet NICE-approved, as well as targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
  4. Is palliative care included? Understand what cover is provided for end-of-life care if the cancer becomes terminal.
  5. What support services are built-in? Look for features like a dedicated cancer nurse helpline, mental health support, and other practical benefits like wig provision or home nursing.
  6. Does the cover continue if my cancer becomes chronic? This is a key question. You want a policy that promises to continue covering your cancer care, even if it is no longer deemed 'curable' but requires ongoing management.
  7. What are the outpatient limits? Ensure your pre-diagnostic consultations and tests are fully covered to avoid unexpected shortfalls.

You can buy PMI direct from an insurer, but you will only be told about their own products. An independent health insurance broker works for you, not the insurance company.

The benefits of using a broker like WeCovr are clear:

  • Whole-of-Market View: We compare policies and prices from across the entire market, ensuring you see all the best options.
  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We demystify the jargon and explain the subtle but crucial differences between policies, helping you understand exactly what you are buying.
  • Tailored Recommendations: We don't do "one-size-fits-all." We provide a recommendation based on your unique health needs, family situation, and budget.
  • Support for Life: Our service doesn't stop once you've bought the policy. We are here to help you at renewal and, most importantly, provide guidance if you ever need to make a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. I've already had cancer. Can I get PMI to cover it? No. Cancer would be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from a new policy. The time to get health insurance is when you are healthy.

2. Will my premium go up if I claim for cancer treatment? Yes, it is very likely your premium will increase at your next renewal following a significant claim for cancer. A broker can help you review options at renewal if the increase is too high.

3. Can I mix and match PMI and the NHS? Absolutely. This is very common. For example, you might use your PMI for a rapid diagnosis and surgery, then opt to have your chemotherapy on the NHS closer to home. The choice is yours.

4. What happens if my cancer is diagnosed as terminal? Does the cover stop? No. Most comprehensive policies include palliative care. This means the insurer will continue to fund treatment focused on managing symptoms and improving your quality of life, which can include hospice care or specialist nurses at home.

5. Does PMI cover routine cancer screening like mammograms or smear tests? Generally, no. PMI is for investigating symptoms. Routine, asymptomatic screening is typically done via the NHS national screening programmes. However, if a screening test reveals an issue, PMI would then kick in for the subsequent diagnostic tests and treatment.

6. Are all types of cancer covered? Yes, provided the cancer is an acute condition that first occurs after you have taken out your policy, it will be covered. This includes rare cancers as well as the more common types.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Health Future

The prospect of a 1 in 2 lifetime risk of cancer is daunting. But in the face of this challenge, knowledge and preparation are your greatest allies. While we are fortunate to have the NHS, its structural pressures mean that waiting for care is an undeniable part of the patient experience for many.

Private Medical Insurance offers a powerful and proven solution. It is a strategic investment in speed, choice, and access to the very best that modern medicine can offer. It's about removing the agonising uncertainty of a waiting list and replacing it with the reassurance of a clear, swift plan of action.

By understanding your options, asking the right questions, and seeking expert advice, you can put a plan in place that gives you and your family the ultimate peace of mind—the knowledge that if the worst should happen, you have a fast track to the care you need, when you need it most. Don't wait. The race against time is one you can prepare for today.

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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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