WeCovr.

Login

Chiropractic Care Is It Covered

Chiropractic Care Is It Covered 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

WeCovr reviews chiropractic care and when PMI covers it

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. A common question we hear is whether chiropractic care is covered. This guide provides a clear, expert answer on how and when your policy can help.

Back pain, neck ache, and persistent headaches can significantly disrupt your daily life. It’s no surprise that millions of people in the UK turn to chiropractic care for relief. But when the NHS waiting lists are long, many wonder if their private medical insurance (PMI) will foot the bill.

The short answer is: yes, many private medical insurance policies in the UK do cover chiropractic care, but it's rarely included as standard. Coverage usually depends on the level of your plan and is almost always for treating new, acute conditions, not long-standing chronic ones.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore:

  • What chiropractic care involves and who it can help.
  • The availability of chiropractic treatment on the NHS.
  • How different PMI providers cover chiropractors.
  • The crucial difference between acute and chronic conditions.
  • Steps to take to get your treatment approved and paid for.

Understanding Chiropractic Care: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Chiropractic is a type of complementary and alternative medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of problems with the muscles, bones, and joints (the musculoskeletal system), particularly the spine.

The core belief of chiropractic is that the body has a powerful ability to heal itself. Chiropractors use their hands to make specific adjustments to the spine and other parts of the body. The goal is to correct alignment problems, ease pain, improve function, and support the body's natural healing processes.

Who regulates chiropractors in the UK? In the UK, chiropractic is a regulated profession. All chiropractors must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). This means they have completed a recognised degree-level qualification and adhere to strict standards of practice and professional conduct. As of early 2025, there are over 3,000 registered chiropractors in the UK.

Common Conditions Treated by Chiropractors:

  • Lower back pain: This is the most common reason people seek chiropractic care.
  • Neck pain: Often caused by poor posture, such as from sitting at a desk all day.
  • Sciatica: Pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve.
  • Headaches and migraines: Particularly those that originate from neck tension.
  • Shoulder, hip, and other joint pain.
  • Minor sports injuries.

A typical session involves a physical assessment, followed by manual therapy, which may include spinal manipulation—the familiar 'cracking' or 'popping' sound, which is simply gas being released from the joint fluid.

Can I Get Chiropractic Treatment on the NHS?

Accessing chiropractic care through the NHS is possible, but it's a postcode lottery. It is not widely available, and provision varies significantly between different NHS trusts across the country.

Where it is offered, you will almost certainly need a referral from your GP. Your GP will first assess your condition to ensure chiropractic treatment is appropriate. If they agree, they may be able to refer you to an NHS-funded service.

However, the reality for many is facing long waiting lists for musculoskeletal (MSK) services. According to NHS England data, the waiting list for trauma and orthopaedic services—which includes many back and joint issues—remains substantial, with many people waiting months for an initial consultation.

This is where private medical insurance becomes a valuable alternative, offering prompt access to the treatment you need to get back on your feet.

Does Private Medical Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care in the UK?

This is the most important question for anyone considering PMI for back-related issues. The answer requires understanding a fundamental principle of private health insurance.

The Golden Rule: PMI Covers Acute Conditions, Not Chronic Ones

UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that begins suddenly, is short-term, and is likely to respond to treatment, leading to a return to your previous state of health.

    • Example: You strain your back while lifting a heavy box. A course of chiropractic sessions helps you recover fully within a few weeks. This is an acute condition and is likely to be covered.

  • A chronic condition is a long-term health problem that has no known cure and requires ongoing management.

    • Example: You have had degenerative disc disease for over ten years, causing persistent back pain. This is a chronic condition and will not be covered by a new PMI policy.

Similarly, PMI policies nearly always exclude pre-existing conditions. This refers to any medical condition for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy start date.

So, if you buy a new policy today because your back has been hurting for the last six months, treatment for that specific issue will not be covered. However, if you have a policy and develop a new back problem in the future, it would be eligible for cover.

How Is Chiropractic Cover Included in a PMI Policy?

Chiropractic care is usually classed as a 'complementary therapy'. On most PMI policies, it is not included in the basic level of cover. You typically need to:

  1. Choose a mid-range or comprehensive policy: More extensive plans often include therapies as standard.
  2. Add an 'Outpatient' or 'Therapies' option: Many insurers offer a bolt-on that covers treatments like chiropractic, physiotherapy, and osteopathy.

These add-ons come with specific limits. It's crucial to check the small print for:

  • Session Limits: The policy might cover a set number of sessions per year (e.g., 8, 10, or 12).
  • Financial Caps: The cover might be limited to a total monetary value per year (e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500 for all therapies).

For example, a £750 therapies limit could cover around 10-15 sessions, depending on the chiropractor's fees.

The Process: How to Claim for Chiropractic Care on Your PMI Policy

Navigating an insurance claim can seem daunting, but it's straightforward if you follow the correct steps.

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming:

  1. Check Your Policy: Before doing anything else, read your policy documents. Confirm that chiropractic care is covered and understand any limits or excess you might have to pay.
  2. Visit Your GP: Most UK insurers require a GP referral for specialist treatment, including chiropractic care. Your GP will assess your condition and provide a referral letter if they believe it's medically necessary. Some modern policies now offer a 'digital GP' service or may not require a referral, but it's always best to check first.
  3. Contact Your Insurer for Pre-Authorisation: This is a vital step. Call your insurer's claims line before you book any appointments. You will need to provide them with:
    • Your policy number.
    • Details of your symptoms.
    • Your GP's referral letter. They will confirm if your condition is covered and provide you with a pre-authorisation number. Without this, your claim may be rejected.
  4. Find a Recognised Chiropractor: Insurers have a network of approved specialists. They will usually provide you with a list of recognised chiropractors in your area. Using a chiropractor from their list ensures the billing process runs smoothly.
  5. Attend Your Sessions: Go to your appointments as planned. The payment process will work in one of two ways:
    • Direct Billing: The most common method. The chiropractor sends the invoice directly to your insurance company. You don't have to handle any payments, apart from any policy excess.
    • Pay and Claim: You pay the chiropractor for your session and then submit the receipt to your insurer for reimbursement.
  6. Keep Track of Your Limits: Be mindful of your session or financial limits. Your insurer should notify you as you approach your limit, but it's wise to keep a record yourself.

Which UK Health Insurance Providers Offer the Best Chiropractic Cover?

All the major UK private medical insurance providers offer cover for chiropractic care, but the specifics vary. As expert PMI brokers, WeCovr can help you compare these options in detail, but here is a general overview as of early 2025.

ProviderType of CoverTypical Benefit DetailsGP Referral Needed?
BupaIncluded on comprehensive plans or as an add-on.Often covers chiropractic, osteopathy, and physiotherapy. Limits may apply (e.g., combined financial cap).Usually required.
AXA HealthIncluded in their 'Therapies' option, which can be added to most plans.Generous limits often available. Covers a range of therapies.Typically required, but some plans have direct access options.
AvivaCovered under the 'Expert Select' and 'Healthier Solutions' outpatient options.Limits are usually financial (e.g., £500 - £1,500). Cover applies to a group of therapies.Yes, a GP referral is standard practice.
VitalityTherapies cover is an optional benefit.Often linked to their wellness programme. May offer a set number of sessions, with more available as a reward for healthy living.Referral usually needed, though their Vitality GP app can facilitate this.
WPAIncluded on more comprehensive policies or as an optional extra.Known for flexible and generous benefits. May offer a shared pot for various therapies.Yes, a referral is typically necessary.

Important Note: This table is a simplified guide. The exact terms of your cover will depend on the specific policy you choose. This is why speaking to an independent broker like WeCovr is so valuable—we can navigate the fine print for you and find a policy that matches your needs and budget at no extra cost to you.

Understanding the Costs: Private Treatment vs. a PMI Policy

To decide if PMI is right for you, it helps to compare the cost of paying for treatment yourself versus the cost of a policy.

Cost of Private Chiropractic Care (Pay-as-you-go):

  • Initial Consultation: £50 – £100
  • Follow-up Sessions: £35 – £80 per session

A typical course of treatment for an acute back injury might involve 6-8 sessions.

  • Total cost without insurance: £260 – £740+

Cost of a Private Medical Insurance Policy: The premium for a PMI policy varies widely based on:

  • Age: Premiums increase with age.
  • Location: Costs are higher in London and the South East.
  • Level of Cover: A basic plan is cheaper than a comprehensive one with therapies.
  • Excess: A higher voluntary excess will lower your monthly premium.

Example Monthly PMI Premiums (with Therapies Cover):

AgeLocationEstimated Monthly Premium
30Manchester£40 - £65
45Bristol£60 - £90
55London£95 - £150+

While the policy costs more per month than a single session, it provides peace of mind. Not only does it cover chiropractic care, but it also gives you access to consultants, diagnostic scans (like MRI, which can cost £400-£800 privately), and hospital treatment for a wide range of other acute conditions.

Proactive Health: Tips for Preventing Back and Neck Pain

The best way to deal with back pain is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Integrating healthy habits into your daily routine can make a huge difference.

  • Stay Active: Regular, low-impact exercise like swimming, walking, and yoga helps strengthen your core and back muscles. The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week.
  • Perfect Your Posture:
    • At your desk: Ensure your screen is at eye level, your chair supports your lower back, and your feet are flat on the floor. Take regular breaks to stand up and stretch.
    • When lifting: Bend your knees and hips, not your back. Keep the object close to your body.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on your spine. A balanced diet is key. To help with this, WeCovr provides all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app.
  • Sleep Smart: A firm mattress that supports your spine's natural curve is essential. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the discs in your spine, which can lead to them degenerating more quickly.

At WeCovr, we believe in a holistic approach to health. That's why we also offer discounts on other types of cover, like life insurance or income protection, when you take out a PMI policy with us, helping you build a complete financial safety net.

Do I need a GP referral for chiropractic treatment on my private health insurance?

Generally, yes. Most private medical insurance providers in the UK require a referral from your GP before they will authorise treatment from a specialist like a chiropractor. This is to ensure the treatment is medically necessary. Some modern policies or digital GP services may offer direct access, but you should always check with your insurer first to avoid having your claim denied.

Is long-term back pain covered by private medical insurance?

No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover chronic conditions, which includes long-term, ongoing back pain. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and can be resolved with treatment. If you have had back pain for many months or years, it will be considered a pre-existing and chronic condition and will be excluded from cover on a new policy.

How many chiropractic sessions will my PMI policy cover?

The number of sessions covered depends entirely on your specific policy. Coverage for therapies like chiropractic is usually defined by either a set number of sessions per policy year (e.g., 8 or 10 sessions) or a total financial limit (e.g., £500 or £1,000). Comprehensive policies tend to offer higher limits. It's essential to read your policy documents or speak to your insurer to understand your exact entitlements.

What is a policy excess and how does it apply to chiropractic care?

A policy excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your course of chiropractic treatment costs £600, you would pay the first £250, and your insurer would pay the remaining £350. Once you have paid the excess for that policy year, you won't have to pay it again for any subsequent claims in the same year. Choosing a higher excess can lower your monthly premium.

Take the Next Step with WeCovr

Navigating the world of private medical insurance to find a policy that includes the right level of chiropractic cover can be complex. The limits, terms, and referral processes differ between insurers, and choosing the wrong plan can lead to disappointment at the point of claim.

As an independent, FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr makes the process simple. Our expert advisors will listen to your needs, compare policies from across the UK's leading providers, and recommend the best options for you—all at no cost.

Ready to find the right private health cover for you?

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation Quote from WeCovr Today]

Get Quote

Related guides

Hospital at Home Are Virtual Wards and Remote Care Covered
Hospital at Home Are Virtual Wards and Remote Care Covered
Read more →
UK Private Health Insurance & Inpatient Mental Health Care Whats Covered
UK Private Health Insurance & Inpatient Mental Health Care Whats Covered
Read more →
UK Private Health Insurance Emergency Care & Private A&E – Whats Covered & When to Use the NHS
UK Private Health Insurance Emergency Care & Private A&E – Whats Covered & When to Use the NHS
Read more →
Chiropractic Treatment and Health Insurance
Chiropractic Treatment and Health Insurance
Read more →
Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, and Chiropractic Coverage Complementary Therapy Guide
Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, and Chiropractic Coverage Complementary Therapy Guide
Read more →
UK Private Health Insurance Direct Access to Physiotherapy & Chiropractic – Insurer Comparisons
UK Private Health Insurance Direct Access to Physiotherapy & Chiropractic – Insurer Comparisons
Read more →

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

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

How It Works

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

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London