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Chronic Conditions and Health Insurance

Chronic Conditions and Health Insurance 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr offers expert guidance on private medical insurance in the UK. This article clarifies the relationship between PMI and chronic conditions, helping you understand what is covered, what is excluded, and what your options are.

WeCovr clarifies what PMI excludes and what long-term cover exists

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel complex, especially when you or a loved one lives with a long-term health issue. A common question we hear is: "Will private health insurance cover my chronic condition?"

The short answer, for standard UK policies, is no. Private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.

But this isn't the whole story. Understanding the "why" behind this rule and knowing what alternatives and supplementary benefits exist is crucial for making informed decisions about your health and finances. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about PMI, chronic conditions, and the pathways to getting the care you need.

First, What Exactly is a Chronic Condition?

To understand why insurers make a distinction, we first need a clear definition.

The NHS defines a long-term or chronic condition as a health issue that cannot currently be cured but can be controlled with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. These conditions require ongoing management over a period of years or even decades.

According to the latest data from NHS England, it's estimated that around 1 in 4 adults in England live with two or more long-term health conditions, a figure projected to rise.

Common examples of chronic conditions include:

  • Asthma
  • Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
  • Arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
  • Eczema and psoriasis
  • Epilepsy

The key feature of these conditions is that they require continuous, long-term management rather than a short-term, curative treatment.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to grasp when it comes to private medical insurance in the UK. Insurers build their policies around the difference between acute and chronic health problems.

FeatureAcute ConditionChronic Condition
DefinitionA disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment.A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: needs ongoing monitoring, requires long-term management, has no known cure, or is likely to recur.
DurationShort-term.Long-term, often lifelong.
Treatment GoalTo return you to your previous state of health.To manage symptoms, slow progression, and maintain quality of life.
PMI CoverageGenerally covered (if it's a new condition post-policy start).Generally excluded from standard UK PMI policies.
ExamplesCataracts, appendicitis, joint sprain, hernia, most bacterial infections.Diabetes, asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure.

Real-World Example:

  • Acute: You fall while running and tear a ligament in your knee. PMI can cover the diagnostic scans (MRI), consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon, and the surgery to repair it. The goal is to fix the problem.
  • Chronic: You are diagnosed with osteoarthritis in your knee. This is a long-term, degenerative condition. While PMI might cover the initial diagnosis to determine what the problem is, it will not cover the ongoing management, such as long-term physiotherapy, pain management clinics, or an eventual joint replacement if the condition was known before you took out the policy.

Why Doesn't Standard UK PMI Cover Chronic Conditions?

This exclusion isn't arbitrary; it's fundamental to how the insurance model works in the UK and its relationship with the National Health Service (NHS).

  1. The Role of the NHS: The UK has a comprehensive, taxpayer-funded healthcare system designed to provide care for all citizens, particularly for long-term and chronic disease management. The NHS is the primary provider for this type of ongoing care.
  2. The Purpose of PMI: Private medical insurance was created to complement the NHS, not replace it. Its purpose is to offer faster access to diagnosis and treatment for new, curable (acute) conditions, helping you bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible treatments.
  3. The Principle of Insurability and Cost: Insurance works by pooling the risk of unforeseen events. Covering the guaranteed, long-term costs of managing a chronic condition for millions of people would make premiums unaffordably expensive for everyone. By focusing on acute conditions, insurers can keep private health cover accessible to more people.

If PMI were to cover chronic conditions, the cost of an average policy would likely increase tenfold or more, defeating its purpose as an affordable alternative for elective care.

Understanding Pre-existing Conditions and Underwriting

Closely related to chronic conditions is the concept of pre-existing conditions. This refers to any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before the start date of your PMI policy.

When you apply for private health cover, the insurer will use one of two main methods to assess your health history and determine what they will exclude. This process is called underwriting.

1. Moratorium Underwriting (The "Wait and See" Approach)

This is the most common type of underwriting in the UK because it's simpler and quicker.

  • How it works: You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a general exclusion for any condition you've had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the last 5 years.
  • The "rolling" part: If you then go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts without having any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that specific condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Best for: People with minor past health issues who are generally healthy and want a quick application process.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) (The "Declare Everything" Approach)

This method requires more effort at the start but provides more certainty.

  • How it works: You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring all your past medical conditions. The insurer's underwriting team reviews this and tells you exactly what is excluded from your policy from day one.
  • The benefit: You know precisely where you stand. There are no grey areas about what is and isn't covered.
  • Best for: People who want absolute clarity on their cover, or those who may have had a condition more than 5 years ago and want it covered from the start (if the insurer agrees).

Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Application ProcessQuick and simple. No initial health forms.Longer. Requires a detailed medical questionnaire.
Clarity of CoverLess certainty initially. Claims can be delayed while your history is checked.Complete clarity from day one. You receive a list of personal exclusions.
Covering Past ConditionsA condition may become eligible after a 2-year trouble-free period.Exclusions are typically permanent but are clearly defined.
Claim SpeedPotentially slower, as the insurer may need to investigate your medical history.Generally faster, as the insurer already knows what is excluded.

An expert PMI broker, like our team at WeCovr, can talk you through the pros and cons of each underwriting method based on your personal circumstances, helping you find the best PMI provider for your needs.

How PMI Can Still Be Incredibly Valuable, Even with a Chronic Condition

Just because PMI doesn't cover the management of a chronic condition doesn't mean it's without value. In fact, it can be a vital tool. Here's how:

1. Swift Diagnosis of New Symptoms

Imagine you have well-managed asthma (a chronic condition) but you start experiencing persistent stomach pains. Is it a minor issue, or something more serious?

  • With the NHS: You'd see your GP, who might refer you to a gastroenterologist. This could involve a waiting list of several months.
  • With PMI: Your policy's private GP service could get you a referral to a private specialist in a matter of days. Your PMI would cover the consultation and any diagnostic tests (like an endoscopy or ultrasound) needed to find out what's wrong.

If the diagnosis is an acute condition (e.g., gallstones, a hernia, or a treatable ulcer), your PMI will cover the treatment.

If the diagnosis is a new chronic condition (e.g., Crohn's disease), your PMI will have paid for the speedy diagnosis, but the long-term management would then typically transfer to the NHS. Getting that fast, definitive diagnosis can provide immense peace of mind and allows your NHS treatment plan to start sooner.

2. Covering Unrelated Acute Conditions

Having a chronic condition doesn't stop you from developing new, unrelated acute problems. If you have diabetes but need a hip replacement due to a fall, your PMI policy would cover the surgery, physiotherapy, and hospital stay, allowing you to bypass long waiting lists and get back on your feet faster.

3. Value-Added Benefits and Wellness Support

Modern private health cover is about more than just hospital treatment. The best PMI providers now include a wealth of benefits designed to keep you healthy, which can be particularly useful for managing a long-term condition.

These often include:

  • 24/7 Digital GP Access: Get medical advice from the comfort of your home without waiting for an appointment.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling or therapy sessions, which is vital as living with a chronic illness can take a toll on mental wellbeing.
  • Health and Wellness Apps: Many insurers offer subscriptions to services for mindfulness, fitness, and nutrition.
  • Discounts on Gym Memberships and Health Screenings: Proactive support to help you manage your overall health.

At WeCovr, we provide all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This can be an excellent tool for managing conditions like diabetes or hypertension, where diet plays a critical role.

Exploring Alternatives and Complementary Cover

If you're looking for financial support specifically for the costs associated with a long-term condition, it's worth exploring other types of insurance that work alongside or instead of PMI.

  • Health Cash Plans: These are not insurance in the same way as PMI. You pay a monthly premium and can then claim cash back on routine healthcare expenses, such as dental check-ups, optician fees, physiotherapy, and specialist consultations. They pay out a set amount per year, regardless of whether the condition is acute or chronic. They can be a great way to budget for the predictable costs of managing a condition.
  • Critical Illness Cover: This is a different product entirely. It pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific, serious illnesses (e.g., some types of cancer, heart attack, stroke). This money is yours to use as you wish – for private treatment, to adapt your home, or to replace lost income. It is not designed for ongoing medical treatment.
  • Income Protection Insurance: This policy provides a regular monthly income if you are unable to work due to any illness or injury (after a pre-agreed waiting period). It's designed to protect your lifestyle and cover your bills, which can be a lifeline if a chronic condition affects your ability to earn a living.

When you purchase a private medical insurance policy through WeCovr, you can often benefit from discounts on these other essential types of cover, creating a more holistic safety net for your health and finances.

Proactive Health Management: Tips for Living Well

Insurance is one part of the puzzle. Proactive self-care is another, especially when managing a long-term condition.

  • Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet is fundamental. For conditions like diabetes or heart disease, what you eat is a form of medicine. Using a tool like CalorieHero can help you track your intake and make healthier choices.
  • Physical Activity: Regular, gentle exercise approved by your doctor can improve mobility for arthritis, strengthen your cardiovascular system, and boost your mental health. Even a short daily walk makes a difference.
  • Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for immune function, hormone regulation, and mental resilience. Aim for 7-9 hours per night and practice good sleep hygiene.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can worsen symptoms of many long-term conditions. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or simply making time for hobbies can have a powerful positive impact.
  • Travelling with a Chronic Condition:
    1. Plan Ahead: Speak to your GP or specialist nurse at least 6-8 weeks before you travel.
    2. Medication: Carry enough medication for your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep it in your hand luggage with a copy of your prescription.
    3. Insurance: Standard travel insurance is essential. You must declare all pre-existing conditions. Failure to do so could invalidate your policy.
    4. Know Your Destination: Research the location of pharmacies and hospitals near where you're staying.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Path for You

The UK's healthcare landscape offers a dual approach: the NHS provides a comprehensive safety net for all, especially for long-term chronic care, while private medical insurance UK offers a valuable, complementary service for accelerated access to acute care.

While standard PMI policies do not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions, they play a vital role in providing rapid diagnosis for new symptoms and swift treatment for unrelated acute issues. The included wellness benefits can also provide significant support in managing your overall health.

The key is to have a clear understanding of what you are buying. By being realistic about the scope of private health cover, you can use it effectively to supplement the excellent care provided by the NHS.

Navigating the market to find the best policy for your specific needs can be daunting. As an independent and FCA-authorised PMI broker, WeCovr is here to provide clear, impartial advice. We compare policies from leading UK insurers to find the right fit for your budget and healthcare needs, all at no extra cost to you.


Do I need to declare a chronic condition when applying for private medical insurance?

Yes, absolutely. You must be honest and transparent. If you choose 'Full Medical Underwriting', you will declare it on a health questionnaire. If you choose 'Moratorium' underwriting, the condition will be automatically excluded if you've had symptoms or treatment for it in the last five years. Hiding a condition can lead to your policy being cancelled and claims being denied.

What happens if I develop a chronic condition after my PMI policy has started?

This is a common scenario. Typically, your private medical insurance will cover the initial consultations and diagnostic tests required to determine the nature of your illness. Once it is diagnosed as a chronic condition requiring long-term management, the insurer's liability for that specific condition usually ends, and your ongoing care will be managed by the NHS. You will have benefited from a much faster diagnosis process.

Can I get private health cover if I already have multiple chronic conditions?

Yes, you can still get a policy. The private medical insurance will simply exclude cover for your known chronic conditions and any related issues. It will, however, still provide valuable cover for new, unrelated acute conditions that you might develop in the future, such as the need for hernia repair, cataract surgery, or joint treatment following an accident.

Are there any specialist health insurance policies that do cover chronic conditions?

Within the standard UK domestic market, it is extremely rare. Some high-end international private medical insurance (IPMI) policies, designed for expatriates, may offer some level of chronic condition management, but these come at a significantly higher cost. For most UK residents, the most effective approach is to use the NHS for chronic care and a standard PMI policy for acute conditions.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts help you find the right private health cover for your peace of mind.

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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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