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Exeter Health Insurance vs Bupa Which Suits Individuals Better

Exeter Health Insurance vs Bupa Which Suits Individuals Better

WeCovr compares a mutual provider against the UK's biggest PMI brand

Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel like navigating a maze. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr understands the market's complexities. This guide pits two leading names against each other: Bupa, the household name and market titan, and The Exeter, a member-owned mutual insurer with a reputation for a personal touch. We’ll dissect their offerings to help you decide which is the better fit for your individual needs.

Understanding the Players: A Tale of Two Insurers

At first glance, Bupa and The Exeter both offer a path to private healthcare, but their philosophies and structures are fundamentally different. Understanding this difference is key to choosing the right partner for your health.

Bupa: The Market Leader

  • Who they are: Founded in 1947 just before the NHS, Bupa is the UK's largest and most recognised health insurance provider. It has a global presence, serving millions of customers worldwide.
  • How they operate: Bupa is a company limited by guarantee, meaning it has no shareholders. Like a mutual, it reinvests profits back into the business to improve services, products, and its own healthcare facilities (like the Cromwell Hospital).
  • Best known for: Its vast network of hospitals and consultants, comprehensive cover options, and strong brand trust. Bupa is often seen as the "default" choice for private health cover.

The Exeter: The Member-Owned Mutual

  • Who they are: The Exeter has a long history, founded in 1927. It is a friendly society, which means it's a mutual organisation.
  • How they operate: As a mutual, The Exeter is owned by its members—the policyholders. There are no external shareholders to pay dividends to. Any profits are used for the benefit of members, which can translate into better service, more competitive pricing, or enhanced policy features.
  • Best known for: A more personal approach, flexibility in underwriting (especially for those with some prior health conditions), and a strong focus on member value.

This core difference—a global giant versus a member-centric society—shapes everything from their policy design to their customer service ethos.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)? A Quick Refresher

Before we dive into the comparison, let's clarify what private medical insurance is and, crucially, what it is not.

PMI is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair).

The Critical Point: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before taking out the policy. Most policies exclude these for a set period (e.g., two years) or entirely.
  • Chronic Conditions: Illnesses that cannot be cured but can be managed, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These are managed by the NHS.

The primary benefit of PMI is to bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible treatments, giving you faster access to specialist care, a choice of hospitals, and often a private room for your recovery. According to NHS England statistics, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care was 14.5 weeks in April 2024, with hundreds of thousands waiting much longer. PMI offers a direct solution to this uncertainty.

Head-to-Head: Bupa vs The Exeter Key Features

Let's put the core individual policies from Bupa and The Exeter side-by-side. We will compare Bupa's popular 'Bupa By You Comprehensive' plan with The Exeter's 'Health+'.

FeatureBupa By You (Comprehensive)The Exeter (Health+)
Core CoverIn-patient & day-patient treatment, comprehensive cancer cover, some outpatient consultations/therapies post-surgery.In-patient & day-patient treatment, cancer cover (with upgrade options), post-op consultations & therapies.
Hospital NetworkThree tiers: Essential, Extended, and Extended with London. Huge network of private & NHS hospitals.A single, comprehensive list of private hospitals across the UK. Generally very good, but smaller than Bupa's top tier.
Outpatient CoverOptional add-on. Can choose from no cover, a monetary limit (e.g., £500, £750, £1000), or full cover.Optional add-on. Can choose a monetary limit (e.g., £500, £1000) or full cover.
Cancer CoverVery comprehensive as standard. Often covers drugs not available on the NHS. Includes diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and aftercare.Full cancer cover is an optional extra, but it is very robust when added. Includes diagnostics, therapies, and monitoring.
Mental HealthCovers in-patient and day-patient care as standard. Outpatient mental health is an optional extra.Strong focus. Covers in-patient and day-patient care. Unlimited remote diagnostics and up to 8 sessions of talking therapies included in their Healthwise app as standard.
Excess OptionsPer person, per policy year. Ranges from £0 to £1,000. You pay it once per year, no matter how many claims you make.Per person, per policy year. Ranges from £0 to £5,000. It is a fixed excess, which can be simpler to manage.
No Claims DiscountA 13-level NCD scale. You move up for not claiming, but multiple claims in a year can see you drop several levels.A more straightforward 8-level scale called "Protected No Claims." You only ever move one level up or down each year, regardless of the number of claims.
Added BenefitsBabylon Digital GP, Anytime HealthLine (24/7), Bupa Direct Access for certain conditions, member offers.Healthwise App (Remote GP, Second Opinion, Physio, Mental Health Support), member-owned ethos.

This table shows that while both providers cover the essentials, their approach to options, networks, and member benefits differs significantly.

A Deeper Look at Bupa's Health Insurance

Bupa's proposition is built on choice, scale, and comprehensive cover. Their 'Bupa By You' policy is designed to be tailored to your specific needs and budget.

Key Strengths of Bupa

  1. Unrivalled Hospital Network: Bupa's 'Extended' hospital list is one of the most extensive in the UK, giving you maximum choice over where you are treated. Their 'Bupa Select' network offers a slightly smaller list at a lower premium, providing a good balance of choice and cost.
  2. Comprehensive Cancer Care: Bupa's standard cancer cover is exceptional. They often provide access to breakthrough drugs and treatments before they are approved for widespread NHS use, which can be a life-changing benefit.
  3. Direct Access Pathways: For certain conditions like cancer, mental health, and musculoskeletal issues, Bupa allows you to bypass your GP and speak directly to a specialist, speeding up the diagnostic process.
  4. Brand Security: There is immense peace of mind that comes with being insured by a global healthcare leader. Their processes are well-established, and they have direct payment agreements with virtually every private facility in the country.

Who is Bupa Best For?

Bupa is an excellent choice for individuals who:

  • Want the widest possible choice of hospitals and specialists.
  • Prioritise having the most comprehensive cancer cover as standard.
  • Value the security and slick processes of a large, established brand.
  • Live in major cities like London where access to top-tier hospitals is a priority.

Real-life Example: Sarah, a 52-year-old solicitor in London, chooses Bupa. She wants zero compromises on her health. The ability to choose any consultant at any major London hospital is her top priority. She also values Bupa's comprehensive cancer promise, giving her family peace of mind.

A Deeper Look at The Exeter's Health Insurance

The Exeter's 'Health+' policy is built on a foundation of fairness, clarity, and member value. Their mutual status genuinely influences their approach.

Key Strengths of The Exeter

  1. Member-First Ethos: As they are owned by policyholders, their decisions are made for the benefit of members, not shareholders. This often translates to excellent customer service and a more empathetic claims process.
  2. Flexible Underwriting: The Exeter has a reputation for being more flexible and considering applicants who may have been declined elsewhere. They are more likely to apply a specific exclusion for a pre-existing condition rather than a blanket decline, which can be a lifeline for many.
  3. Simpler No Claims Discount: Their "Protected No Claims" system is much easier to understand than many competitors'. You move up or down one level per year, providing more predictable premium changes.
  4. Excellent 'Added Value' Services: The included Healthwise app is a standout feature, offering remote GP access, physiotherapy triage, and mental health support without needing to claim on your main policy or pay an excess.

Who is The Exeter Best For?

The Exeter is a fantastic option for individuals who:

  • Have a minor or historic health condition and are looking for a provider with flexible underwriting.
  • Value a straightforward, transparent policy structure and NCD.
  • Appreciate a customer-centric approach and the principles of a mutual society.
  • Want strong, accessible mental health and physiotherapy support built-in.

Real-life Example: David, a 40-year-old self-employed builder from Bristol, had knee trouble five years ago. Other insurers were hesitant, but The Exeter offered him cover with an exclusion for his right knee, which he was happy with. He likes their clear pricing and the fact he can use the Healthwise app for a quick physio assessment without affecting his no-claims discount.

Cost Comparison: What Can You Expect to Pay?

The cost of private medical insurance UK varies widely based on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Treatment costs are higher in major cities, so postcodes in London or Manchester will attract higher premiums.
  • Level of Cover: Adding full outpatient cover or therapy options will increase the cost.
  • Excess: Choosing a higher excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: A more restricted hospital list costs less than a comprehensive one.

Below are illustrative examples to give you a general idea. Your actual quote will depend on your personal circumstances.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums (2025)

ProfileBupa By You (Comprehensive, £250 Excess)The Exeter Health+ (£250 Excess)
30-year-old, non-smoker, Leeds£55 - £65£50 - £60
45-year-old, non-smoker, London£90 - £110£85 - £100
60-year-old, non-smoker, Cardiff£150 - £180£140 - £170

Note: These are estimates for policies with mid-range outpatient cover. The best way to get an accurate price is to get a tailored quote. A broker like WeCovr can provide this, comparing both providers and others on the market to find the optimal balance of cost and cover for you.

Beyond the Policy: Wellness, Health, and Added Perks

Both Bupa and The Exeter understand that health insurance is about more than just claims. It's about staying well.

Healthy Living Tips: Regardless of your insurer, focusing on preventative health is the best investment you can make.

  • Diet: Aim for a balanced diet rich in whole foods. The NHS 'Eatwell Guide' is an excellent resource.
  • Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
  • Sleep: Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's vital for mental and physical recovery.
  • Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can significantly lower stress levels, which has a direct impact on your physical health.

Provider Perks:

  • Bupa offers a wealth of online resources, health assessments at a discount, and the Bupa Live Well programme with offers on gym memberships and fitness trackers.
  • The Exeter's Healthwise app is its crown jewel, providing practical, immediate health support that can prevent small issues from becoming big problems.

The WeCovr Advantage: When you arrange your policy through WeCovr, we add even more value. All our health and life insurance clients receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support your health goals. You'll also be eligible for discounts on other insurance products, such as travel or home insurance, helping you save money across the board.

Why Use an Independent PMI Broker?

You could go directly to Bupa or The Exeter, but you would only hear one side of the story. Using an expert broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no extra cost to you.

  1. Impartial Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best PMI provider for your specific needs and budget, whether that's Bupa, The Exeter, or another leading name like Aviva or Vitality.
  2. Market Expertise: We live and breathe the private medical insurance UK market. We understand the fine print, the nuances of different No Claims Discounts, and which insurers are best for certain medical histories.
  3. Simplified Process: We handle the paperwork and application process for you, ensuring it's completed correctly to avoid any issues at the point of a claim.
  4. It's Free: Our service is paid for by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, tailored advice without paying a penny extra.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right cover for every client.

Final Verdict: Bupa or The Exeter?

So, which is it to be?

Choose Bupa if: Your priority is maximum choice. You want the largest hospital network, the security of a global brand, and gold-standard cancer cover included as standard. You are comfortable with a more traditional corporate insurer and value its established, direct-access pathways.

Choose The Exeter if: You value a personal, member-focused service. You want a policy that is straightforward, fair, and comes with excellent built-in digital health support. You may have a minor health condition and are looking for an insurer known for its flexible and human approach to underwriting.

Ultimately, the best private health cover is the one that aligns with your personal health needs, your budget, and your values. Both Bupa and The Exeter are excellent providers offering high-quality cover, but they serve different needs. By understanding their unique strengths, you can make an informed choice that gives you true peace of mind.


Does UK private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions—any health issue you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for before joining—are typically excluded. Some insurers, like The Exeter, may be more flexible in how they apply these exclusions, but routine management of long-term or chronic illnesses remains the responsibility of the NHS.

What is the difference between a mutual insurer and a standard one?

A standard insurance company is typically owned by shareholders, and its primary duty is to generate profit for them. A mutual insurer, like The Exeter, is owned by its members (the policyholders). It has no shareholders to pay. Any profits are reinvested into the business to benefit members, potentially through better service, lower premiums, or enhanced benefits. Bupa is a unique case; it's a private company limited by guarantee, so it also has no shareholders and reinvests profits. However, its sheer scale and corporate structure give it a different feel to a smaller, member-centric mutual.

Can I switch my private medical insurance provider easily?

Yes, you can switch providers, and it can be a great way to ensure you have the best cover for your needs at a competitive price. An expert PMI broker can manage this for you. They will help you switch on a 'Continued Medical Exclusions' (CME) basis, which means any conditions already covered by your old policy will continue to be covered by your new one, without the need for new medical underwriting. This ensures continuous, uninterrupted cover.

Ready to find the perfect health insurance policy for you?

Let WeCovr do the hard work. Get a free, no-obligation quote today and our expert advisors will compare Bupa, The Exeter, and other leading UK providers to find a policy that fits you perfectly.

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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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