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Employer-Driven Demand Fuels PMI Market Growth

Employer-Driven Demand Fuels PMI Market Growth 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped over 900,000 clients secure vital cover, WeCovr has a unique view of the UK insurance market. Today, we're seeing a significant shift in private medical insurance, driven by businesses placing employee health at the heart of their corporate strategy.

Survey data shows businesses increasing group health cover investment in response to staff wellbeing concerns

The landscape of employee benefits is changing. Recent industry surveys and market data for 2025 reveal a clear trend: UK businesses are substantially increasing their investment in group private medical insurance (PMI). This surge isn't just about offering a desirable perk; it's a strategic response to growing concerns over employee wellbeing, NHS waiting times, and the fierce competition for talent.

Organisations are recognising that a healthy, supported workforce is a productive and loyal one. In the face of unprecedented pressures on the public health system, companies are taking proactive steps to ensure their staff can access medical care quickly and efficiently. This article explores the drivers behind this trend, what group health cover entails, and how your business can benefit.

Why UK Businesses Are Turning to Private Health Cover

The decision to invest in group PMI is increasingly being driven by a combination of external pressures and internal strategic goals. For many UK companies, it has moved from a 'nice-to-have' to a business necessity.

The NHS is a cherished institution, but it is currently facing immense strain. The latest figures from NHS England paint a challenging picture:

  • Record Waiting Lists: The total waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at over 7.6 million as of early 2025. This means millions are waiting for routine procedures like hip replacements or cataract surgery.
  • Extended Treatment Times: The target for patients to start treatment within 18 weeks of a referral is consistently being missed in many areas. Some patients wait much longer, impacting their quality of life and ability to work.
  • Diagnostic Delays: There are also significant waits for crucial diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans, which can delay diagnoses and subsequent treatment.

For an employer, this translates directly into lost productivity. An employee waiting months for a diagnosis or treatment is likely to be in pain, anxious, and less effective at their job. They may also require extended time off sick. Private health cover offers a solution by providing fast access to consultations, diagnostics, and treatment, often within weeks.

2. The Rise of Employee Wellbeing as a Business Priority

The post-pandemic era has cemented employee wellbeing as a top-tier corporate responsibility. Data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) shows that in 2023/2024, an estimated 875,000 workers suffered from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety, leading to 17.1 million lost working days.

Businesses are now more aware than ever of the costs associated with burnout, presenteeism (working while unwell), and poor mental health. Group PMI schemes are evolving to meet this need, with many now including:

  • Comprehensive Mental Health Support: Access to counsellors, therapists, and psychiatrists.
  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, reducing the need to take time off for appointments.
  • Wellness Programmes and Apps: Resources to help staff manage stress, improve sleep, and adopt healthier lifestyles.

By providing these tools, companies send a powerful message that they genuinely care for their employees' holistic health.

3. Gaining a Competitive Edge in Recruitment and Retention

In a tight labour market, a strong benefits package is a key differentiator. Talented professionals now expect more than just a competitive salary. A comprehensive health insurance plan is consistently ranked as one of the most desired employee benefits.

  • Attracting Top Talent: Offering PMI can make your job offer stand out from the competition.
  • Retaining Key Staff: When employees feel valued and cared for, they are more likely to be loyal. The security of private health cover for themselves and their families is a powerful retention tool.

For a relatively modest per-employee investment, a business can significantly enhance its employer brand and be seen as an employer of choice.

4. Boosting Productivity and Reducing Absenteeism

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), an estimated 185.6 million working days were lost because of sickness or injury in 2022, the highest since records began.

Private medical insurance directly tackles this issue.

How PMI Reduces Absenteeism & Boosts ProductivityExample
Faster DiagnosisAn employee with persistent back pain can see a specialist and get an MRI within a week, rather than waiting months.
Quicker TreatmentA required surgical procedure can be scheduled at a private hospital at a time that suits the employee and business.
Reduced PresenteeismAccess to mental health support can help an employee manage stress before it leads to burnout and reduced performance.
Preventative CareWellness checks and digital GP services empower staff to manage minor health issues before they become major problems.

The return on investment is clear: the cost of a group PMI policy is often far less than the cost of lost productivity from a single employee on long-term sick leave.

What Does a Typical Group PMI Policy Include?

Understanding the components of a private medical insurance UK policy is the first step for any business considering this benefit. Policies are flexible and can be tailored to your budget and the needs of your workforce.

A key principle to understand is that standard PMI is designed for acute conditions — illnesses or injuries that are new, short-term, and likely to respond to treatment. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management rather than a cure).

Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically available.

Core Cover (The Essentials)

This is the foundation of every policy and almost always includes:

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This covers costs when an employee is admitted to hospital for treatment that requires a hospital bed, either overnight (in-patient) or for the day (day-patient). This includes surgery, hospital accommodation, nursing care, specialist fees, and diagnostics during their stay.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a vital component. Most core policies provide extensive cover for cancer diagnosis and treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Some policies offer access to drugs and treatments not yet available on the NHS.

You can enhance your core policy with a range of options to create a more comprehensive plan.

  • Out-patient Cover: This is the most popular add-on. It covers diagnostic tests and consultations with a specialist that do not require a hospital bed. For example, seeing a cardiologist and having an ECG. Without this cover, the employee would need to get their initial diagnosis via the NHS before the PMI could cover any subsequent in-patient treatment.
  • Mental Health Cover: Provides access to a range of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists and therapists. This is increasingly seen as an essential part of a modern benefits package.
  • Therapies Cover: Covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, which are crucial for musculoskeletal issues – a leading cause of sickness absence.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: Helps employees with the costs of routine check-ups, treatments, and new eyewear.
FeatureCore CoverOptional Add-onDescription
In-patient Surgery✅Covers surgery requiring an overnight hospital stay.
Cancer Treatment✅Includes costs for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, etc.
Specialist Consultations✅Covers appointments to diagnose a condition.
Diagnostic Scans (MRI, CT)✅Covers scans done on an out-patient basis.
Physiotherapy✅Covers treatment for muscle and joint issues.
Mental Health Support✅Provides access to counsellors and psychiatrists.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you build the perfect package, ensuring you only pay for the cover your team truly needs.

How Businesses Can Choose the Right Group Health Insurance

Navigating the PMI market can be complex. There are numerous providers, policy options, and pricing structures. Partnering with an experienced broker like WeCovr simplifies the process and ensures you get the best value, at no extra cost to you.

Here are the key factors your business should consider.

1. Define Your Budget

The cost of a group scheme is calculated on a per-employee, per-month basis. This cost is influenced by:

  • The average age of your employees.
  • Your location (e.g., London postcodes are typically more expensive).
  • The level of cover chosen.
  • The underwriting method.

A clear budget will help your broker narrow down the most suitable options.

2. Select the Right Level of Cover

Do you need a basic policy focused on getting staff back to work quickly, or a comprehensive package that covers a wide range of health and wellness needs? Consider your workforce demographics and what they would value most. A younger workforce might prioritise mental health and digital GP services, while an older one might be more focused on comprehensive cancer care and out-patient cover.

3. Understand Underwriting Options

This determines how the insurer treats pre-existing medical conditions. For group schemes, there are typically three main options:

  • Medical History Disregarded (MHD): This is the most comprehensive option, usually available to groups of 15-20+ employees. As the name suggests, the insurer disregards previous medical history, covering eligible acute conditions regardless of whether they existed before. It is the simplest to administer and offers the most inclusive cover.
  • Moratorium Underwriting: With this option, the insurer will not cover conditions that existed in the 5 years prior to the policy start date. However, if an employee goes 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's simpler to set up as it requires no medical questionnaires upfront.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): Each employee completes a full health questionnaire. The insurer then assesses this and may place specific exclusions on the policy for any pre-existing conditions. It provides certainty from day one but involves more administration.

4. Choose an Excess Level

An excess is the amount an employee pays towards a claim in a policy year. A higher excess will lower the overall premium. Common excess levels range from £0 to £500. Offering a choice of excess levels can be a good way to manage costs while still providing a valuable benefit.

5. Review the Hospital List

Insurers use tiered hospital lists to manage costs. A policy with a national list including premium central London hospitals will be more expensive than one with a more restricted local list. It’s important to choose a list that provides good geographical coverage for your employees.

The Tangible Benefits of Group Health Cover

The positive impact of a group PMI scheme is felt by both the business and its employees.

Benefits for Employers

  • Reduced Sickness Absence: Faster treatment means employees return to work sooner.
  • Increased Productivity: A healthier workforce is more focused, motivated, and efficient.
  • Enhanced Employer Brand: Being known as a company that cares for its people is a powerful recruitment tool.
  • Improved Staff Morale and Loyalty: A top-tier health benefit demonstrates a genuine investment in your team's wellbeing, fostering loyalty.
  • A Healthier Company Culture: Promotes a culture where health is prioritised.

Benefits for Employees

  • Peace of Mind: Knowing you and your family can access private care provides immense reassurance.
  • Fast Access to Specialists: Bypass long NHS waits for consultations and diagnostics.
  • Choice and Control: Choose the specialist and hospital for your treatment.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Access to private rooms in comfortable hospital settings.
  • Access to Added-Value Services: Most policies include valuable extras:
    • 24/7 Digital GP: Speak to a doctor anytime, anywhere.
    • Health and Wellness Apps: Support for fitness, nutrition, and mental health.
    • Discounts and Rewards: Many providers offer discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and healthy food.

With WeCovr, clients who purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy not only get expert advice but also receive complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support their wellness journey. Furthermore, clients can benefit from discounts on other insurance products, such as home or travel cover.

Integrating PMI into a Wider Corporate Wellness Strategy

The best PMI provider and policy for your company will be one that integrates into a holistic wellness strategy. PMI is a powerful reactive tool, but a proactive approach to health reaps the greatest rewards.

Consider building a wellness programme around these pillars:

  • Physical Health:
    • Promote healthy eating with fresh fruit in the office.
    • Encourage movement with lunchtime walking clubs or cycle-to-work schemes.
    • Use PMI-linked gym discounts to incentivise fitness.
  • Mental Health:
    • Appoint and train Mental Health First Aiders.
    • Run workshops on stress management and resilience.
    • Foster an open culture where it's okay to talk about mental health.
  • Sleep and Recovery:
    • Educate staff on the importance of good sleep hygiene.
    • Encourage employees to disconnect after work hours to prevent burnout.
  • Financial Wellbeing:
    • Offer access to financial advice, as money worries are a major source of stress.

A comprehensive strategy shows an authentic commitment that goes beyond simply ticking a box.

Frequently Asked Questions about Group Private Medical Insurance

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions, which are any diseases, illnesses, or injuries for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before joining. However, for larger company schemes, a "Medical History Disregarded" underwriting option may be available, which does cover pre-existing conditions.

How much does group health insurance cost per employee?

The cost varies significantly based on several factors: the average age of the employees, the business's location, the level of cover chosen (e.g., inclusion of out-patient or mental health cover), the policy excess, and the underwriting type. A basic policy for a young workforce outside of London could start from as little as £30 per employee per month, while a comprehensive policy for an older workforce in London could be over £100. An expert broker like WeCovr can provide a precise quote based on your specific circumstances.

Is private health insurance a taxable benefit for employees?

Yes. When an employer pays for an employee's private medical insurance premium, it is considered a 'benefit-in-kind'. This means the employee will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium. The employer must report this to HMRC on a P11D form, and the cost of the premiums is also subject to Class 1A National Insurance contributions for the employer.

Can a small business with only a few employees get group health insurance?

Absolutely. Most UK insurers offer group health insurance schemes for businesses with as few as two employees. While they won't have access to Medical History Disregarded underwriting, small businesses can still benefit from the competitive pricing and simpler administration of a group scheme compared to individual policies. It's an excellent way for SMEs to compete with larger corporations for talent.

The evidence is clear: employer-driven demand is reshaping the private health cover market. As businesses continue to prioritise the health of their people, investing in a group PMI scheme is becoming a cornerstone of modern corporate strategy.

Ready to explore how private medical insurance can benefit your business and your team?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice tailored to your company's needs.

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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.

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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