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Echocardiogram Explained

Echocardiogram Explained 2025 | Free Tailored Quotes

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr understands the importance of fast, accurate diagnostics. This guide explains how private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can provide rapid access to vital tests like an echocardiogram, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.

WeCovr explains echocardiograms and PMI cover for quick diagnosis

When your doctor mentions needing a closer look at your heart, it’s natural to feel a sense of urgency. An echocardiogram is one of the most common and important tests for assessing heart health. But facing long NHS waiting lists for diagnostics can add significant stress to an already worrying time.

This is where private medical insurance steps in. It’s designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you the choice to access private specialists and diagnostic tests, like an echocardiogram, quickly. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about this vital heart scan, the difference between the NHS and private routes, and how the right private health cover can make all the difference.

What Exactly is an Echocardiogram?

Think of an echocardiogram—often called an "echo"—as an ultrasound for your heart. It uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to create moving pictures of your heart muscle and valves. It's a completely painless and non-invasive procedure, meaning nothing enters your body, and it doesn't use any radiation.

A trained healthcare professional, called a sonographer, performs the scan. They apply a special gel to your chest and then move a small, handheld device called a transducer across the skin. The transducer sends out sound waves that bounce off your heart, and a computer converts these echoes into detailed images displayed on a monitor.

An echocardiogram can show a cardiologist:

  • The size and shape of your heart: Is it enlarged or thickened?
  • Pumping strength: How well your heart chambers are pumping blood (known as the ejection fraction).
  • Heart muscle damage: It can identify areas of the heart muscle that aren't contracting normally, possibly due to a past heart attack.
  • Valve problems: It can see if your heart valves are opening and closing properly or if they are leaking.
  • Structural abnormalities: It can detect congenital heart defects (problems you were born with) or issues with the outer lining of the heart (the pericardium).

Different Types of Echocardiograms Explained

While the standard echo is the most common, your specialist might recommend a more specific type depending on what they need to investigate.

Type of EchocardiogramWhat It IsWhen It's Used
Transthoracic (TTE)The standard, non-invasive echo. A transducer is moved across your chest wall.This is the first-line test for most heart-related symptoms like murmurs, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Transoesophageal (TOE)A more detailed scan where a flexible tube with a small transducer is passed down your throat into your oesophagus (food pipe), which sits directly behind the heart. You'll be given a sedative and local anaesthetic spray.To get clearer images of the heart valves or the back of the heart, especially when a TTE is unclear. It's often used before heart valve surgery.
Stress EchocardiogramAn echo performed both at rest and immediately after exercise (usually on a treadmill or stationary bike).To see how the heart muscle and blood flow respond to stress. It's excellent for diagnosing coronary artery disease (narrowed arteries).
Doppler EchocardiogramA technique often used during a standard TTE or TOE. It measures the speed and direction of blood flowing through your heart's chambers and valves.To check for leaking valves (regurgitation) or narrowed valves (stenosis), and to assess blood pressure inside the heart.
3D EchocardiogramAn advanced technique that uses TTE or TOE probes to create highly detailed, three-dimensional images of your heart's structure.Provides a more precise assessment of heart function, especially valve problems, before surgery.

Common Reasons Your Doctor Might Recommend an Echocardiogram

A GP or specialist won't request an echo without a good reason. It’s a powerful diagnostic tool used to investigate specific signs and symptoms. You may be referred for one if you experience:

  • A heart murmur: An unusual sound heard through a stethoscope that could indicate a valve problem.
  • Unexplained chest pain: To rule out structural heart problems or damage.
  • Shortness of breath or swelling in the legs: These can be signs of heart failure, where the heart isn't pumping effectively.
  • Palpitations or an irregular heartbeat: To check the heart's structure and function.
  • Suspected damage from a heart attack: To assess how much the heart muscle has been affected.
  • Congenital heart disease: To monitor known conditions or diagnose new ones.
  • High blood pressure: To see if it has caused any thickening of the heart muscle.

Getting an Echocardiogram: The NHS Path vs. The Private Route

The biggest difference between the two pathways is time. While the quality of the scan itself is consistent, the speed at which you get it can vary dramatically.

According to the latest NHS England statistics, the median waiting time for one of the 15 key diagnostic tests (including echocardiography) was approximately 3 to 4 weeks in early 2025. However, this is just the median—many people wait much longer. This wait is after you have already waited to see a GP and then waited again for a specialist cardiology appointment.

Here’s a comparison of the typical patient journey:

StageNHS PathwayPrivate Pathway (with PMI)
Initial ConsultationWait for a GP appointment (days to weeks).Get a GP appointment quickly (often same or next day). Can use a private GP service included in some PMI policies.
Specialist ReferralGP refers you to an NHS cardiologist. You are placed on a waiting list, which can be several months long.GP provides an open referral. You call your PMI provider for authorisation and are given a choice of approved private cardiologists.
Specialist AppointmentWait for the NHS cardiologist appointment.See a private cardiologist, typically within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Diagnostic ScanThe cardiologist refers you for an echo. You join another NHS waiting list for the scan.The private cardiologist books your echo at a private hospital or clinic, often within the same week.
Results & Follow-upAfter the scan, you wait for a follow-up appointment with the NHS cardiologist to discuss results and the next steps. This can take several more weeks.The results are sent quickly to your private cardiologist. Your follow-up appointment is scheduled promptly, often within days of the scan.
Total TimeMonthsDays to a few weeks

This speed is the core benefit of private medical insurance UK. It's not about jumping the queue; it's about opting for a parallel system designed for efficiency, giving you faster answers and a quicker route to treatment if needed.

Understanding Your Private Health Cover for Heart Scans

This is where things can seem complicated, but they don't have to be. A good PMI policy will cover the costs of diagnostic tests like an echocardiogram, provided they are medically necessary to investigate an acute condition that has arisen after your policy began.

The Golden Rule of PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

It is critical to understand that standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • An acute condition is a disease or injury that is new, unexpected, and likely to respond to treatment, leading to a return to your previous state of health. A new chest pain that needs investigating is a perfect example.
  • A chronic condition is one that is long-term, has no known cure, and requires ongoing management, such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

PMI is designed to diagnose and treat the acute phase of an illness. If your echo reveals a new, treatable issue like a valve that can be repaired, PMI will cover it. If it reveals a long-term chronic condition, PMI will cover the initial diagnosis, but you would typically be referred back to the NHS for ongoing management.

How the Claims Process Works:

  1. See your GP: You develop new symptoms and visit your GP.
  2. Get a Referral: Your GP agrees you need to see a specialist and provides a referral letter.
  3. Call Your Insurer: You contact your PMI provider with your referral details. They will check your cover and provide a pre-authorisation number for the specialist consultation.
  4. See the Specialist: You book an appointment with an approved private cardiologist.
  5. Get Authorisation for the Scan: The cardiologist confirms you need an echo. Their secretary contacts your insurer with the procedure code to get authorisation for the scan.
  6. Have the Scan: The private hospital bills your insurer directly. You only pay your chosen policy excess, if any.

Finding the Best PMI Provider for Diagnostic Cover

Not all private health cover is created equal, especially when it comes to diagnostics. Some policies have limits on outpatient cover, which is where consultations and scans fall. A policy with a low outpatient limit (e.g., £500) might not cover the full cost of a specialist consultation and an echocardiogram.

This is why working with an expert PMI broker like WeCovr is so valuable. We compare policies from across the market to find one with the right level of cover for your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

Here's a simplified look at what some of the UK's leading insurers offer:

ProviderKey Features for DiagnosticsTypical Outpatient LimitsUnique Selling Points
AXA HealthStrong core cover. 'Guided' options can reduce premiums by using a curated list of specialists.Options from £0 to unlimited. A £1,000 limit is a popular mid-range choice.Excellent digital GP service and dedicated heart and cancer support teams.
BupaExtensive network of hospitals and specialists. 'Bupa from Home' services provide remote access to care.Often sold with full outpatient cover as standard, but options are available.A trusted brand with a huge network. Offers 'Direct Access' for some conditions, bypassing the GP.
Aviva'Expert Select' option gives access to a high-quality hospital network at a lower price point.Flexible options, including a 'Diagnostics Only' add-on for some plans.Strong digital tools and a reputation for excellent customer service.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks.Cover is often linked to your Vitality status. Higher status can unlock more benefits.Actively encourages and rewards health improvement. A good fit for proactive individuals.

What Does a Private Echocardiogram Cost in the UK?

If you don't have private medical insurance, you can choose to 'self-pay'. While this gives you the same speed as PMI, the costs can mount up quickly. Understanding these costs helps to demonstrate the value of a comprehensive PMI policy.

Procedure / ServiceEstimated Self-Pay Cost Range (UK)
Private GP Appointment£80 – £200
Initial Cardiologist Consultation£250 – £400
Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)£400 – £800
Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TOE)£1,000 – £2,000
Stress Echocardiogram£700 – £1,200
Follow-up Cardiologist Consultation£150 – £250
Total Estimated Cost for TTE Path£880 – £1,650+

Note: Prices are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the hospital, consultant, and location (e.g., London is typically more expensive).

A single claim for a consultation and echo could easily exceed £1,000. For many people, paying a monthly PMI premium is a more manageable and sustainable way to ensure access to this level of care.

Proactive Steps for a Healthier Heart

While PMI provides a safety net, the best strategy is always prevention. Taking proactive steps to manage your cardiovascular health can reduce your risk of needing an echocardiogram in the first place.

  • Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet: Embrace a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, like the Mediterranean diet. Focus on reducing your intake of salt, processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy saturated and trans fats.
  • Stay Active: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or swimming) per week, plus strength exercises on two or more days.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes—all risk factors for heart disease.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to heart problems. Practice stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or simply spending time in nature.
  • Know Your Numbers: Keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. Regular check-ups can spot potential issues early.

To support our clients on their wellness journey, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your health and finances holistically.

The Fine Print: Underwriting, Pre-existing Conditions, and Chronic Illness

Understanding the "rules" of insurance is key to a smooth experience. When you apply for PMI, the insurer needs to understand your medical history. This process is called underwriting.

1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common and straightforward method. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any conditions you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before the policy started. These exclusions are temporary. If you then go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that specific condition, it may become eligible for cover.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your entire medical history. The insurer's underwriters then review it and state upfront what will be permanently excluded from your policy. It takes longer to set up but provides absolute clarity from day one.

No matter the underwriting type, the core principle remains: PMI is for new, acute conditions arising after your policy begins. If you had palpitations a year before taking out a policy, an echocardiogram to investigate them would not be covered. If they started for the first time 6 months after your policy began, it would be.

Our experts at WeCovr can explain the pros and cons of each underwriting method to help you decide which is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Echocardiograms and PMI

Do I need a GP referral for an echocardiogram with private medical insurance?

Yes, in almost all cases. Private medical insurance in the UK operates on a referral-based system. You must first see a GP (either NHS or private) who will then refer you to a private specialist if they deem it medically necessary. The specialist then determines which diagnostic tests, such as an echocardiogram, are required. Your insurer will require this GP referral to authorise the claim.

Will my PMI premium increase if I claim for an echocardiogram?

Making a claim can affect your renewal premium, similar to car insurance. Most insurers offer a No-Claims Discount (NCD) which increases each year you don't claim, up to a maximum level. If you make a claim, you will likely see your NCD reduced or removed at your next renewal, which will increase the premium. However, the peace of mind and financial protection from potentially large medical bills often far outweigh the potential premium increase.

What if the echocardiogram reveals a chronic heart condition?

Your private medical insurance will cover the cost of the initial diagnosis – including the specialist consultations and the echocardiogram itself – because it was investigating an unknown, acute set of symptoms. Once a chronic condition (like coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation) is diagnosed, your policy will not cover the long-term management, medication, or monitoring. At this point, your private specialist would typically write to your GP with the findings, and you would be referred back into the NHS for ongoing care.

Can I get private health cover if I already have a heart condition?

Yes, you can absolutely get private health cover. However, the existing heart condition and any related issues will be excluded from cover as a pre-existing condition. The policy would still provide valuable cover for new, unrelated acute conditions that might arise in the future, from joint problems to cancer. When you apply, it's crucial to be honest about your medical history so the insurer can underwrite the policy correctly.

Take Control of Your Health Journey with WeCovr

An echocardiogram is a window into the health of your heart. When you need one, waiting is the last thing you want to do. Private medical insurance empowers you to bypass lengthy waiting lists, giving you rapid access to leading specialists and diagnostic facilities. This means faster answers, faster treatment plans, and invaluable peace of mind.

Navigating the world of PMI can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. WeCovr's team of FCA-authorised experts, trusted by thousands and with high customer satisfaction ratings, are here to help. We'll listen to your needs, compare leading UK insurers, and explain your options in simple, clear language.

Ready to explore your options for private medical insurance? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and find the right cover to protect you and your family.

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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.

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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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