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Fibromyalgia Explained

Fibromyalgia Explained 2025 | Free Tailored Quotes

At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, we understand that navigating health concerns alongside private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. This guide explains fibromyalgia and clarifies how private healthcare can work hand-in-hand with the NHS to support your overall wellbeing.

A guide to fibromyalgia symptoms, management strategies, and how private care can complement NHS support

Fibromyalgia is a condition that can touch every aspect of a person's life, from their ability to work and socialise to their simplest daily routines. It's often misunderstood, partly because its symptoms are invisible and can vary so much from person to person.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into what fibromyalgia is, how it's diagnosed and managed, and explore the practical role private medical insurance (PMI) can play. Whilst PMI doesn't cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, it can be an invaluable tool for rapid diagnosis, mental health support, and treating other new health issues that may arise.

What Exactly is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-term (chronic) condition characterised by widespread pain throughout the body, accompanied by severe fatigue and cognitive difficulties, often called "fibro fog." It's not an autoimmune, inflammatory, or joint disease, but rather a condition of the central nervous system, affecting how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.

Think of it like the body's volume control for pain being stuck on high. Sensations that might not be painful for others, such as a light touch, can be excruciating for someone with fibromyalgia.

How common is fibromyalgia in the UK? According to NHS England and the charity Versus Arthritis, fibromyalgia affects an estimated 1 in 20 people in the UK. This translates to potentially 2.7 million individuals living with the condition, making it one of the most common chronic pain disorders. It affects people of all ages, including children, but is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50.

Unpacking the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

The experience of fibromyalgia is unique to each individual, but a collection of core symptoms is common to most. Understanding these is the first step toward diagnosis and management.

The Core Symptom: Widespread Pain

This isn't just a minor ache. The pain associated with fibromyalgia is:

  • Widespread: It occurs on both sides of the body, and both above and below the waist.
  • Persistent: It's a dull, constant ache that lasts for at least three months.
  • Varied: It can also manifest as a deep burning, shooting, or stabbing pain.

Beyond the Pain: Other Common Symptoms

Fibromyalgia is far more than just a pain condition. Its other symptoms can be just as debilitating and have a profound impact on quality of life.

SymptomCommon DescriptionImpact on Daily Life
Chronic FatigueAn overwhelming, flu-like exhaustion that isn't relieved by rest or sleep.Inability to maintain work schedules, social engagements, or even household chores.
"Fibro Fog"Cognitive disturbances, including trouble with concentration, memory loss, and mental slowness.Challenges with complex tasks at work, forgetting appointments, and difficulty with word-finding.
Poor SleepWaking up frequently during the night and feeling unrefreshed, even after a long sleep.Worsens pain, fatigue, and cognitive function, creating a vicious cycle.
Increased SensitivityHeightened sensitivity to pain, light, noise, temperature, and even certain foods.Needing to control one's environment carefully; can lead to social isolation.
HeadachesFrequent tension headaches or migraines are common among sufferers.Adds another layer of chronic pain to manage.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)Symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating constipation and diarrhoea affect over half of people with fibromyalgia.Requires careful dietary management and can cause significant discomfort.

Other symptoms can include stiffness (especially in the morning), painful menstrual periods, and restless legs syndrome.

The Journey to a Fibromyalgia Diagnosis in the UK

One of the most frustrating aspects of fibromyalgia is the often long and winding road to a formal diagnosis. Because there is no single test for it, doctors must first rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This is known as a "diagnosis of exclusion."

The NHS Diagnostic Pathway

  1. Initial GP Visit: Your first port of call is your NHS GP. You'll discuss your symptoms and their impact on your life.
  2. Ruling Out Other Conditions: Your GP will likely order a series of blood tests to check for markers of inflammation, thyroid problems, and vitamin deficiencies that could explain your symptoms.
  3. Physical Examination: The doctor will check for patterns of widespread pain. Previously, a "tender point" exam was used, but diagnosis now relies on the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and Symptom Severity Scale (SSS).
  4. Referral to a Specialist: If your symptoms persist and other conditions are ruled out, you may be referred to a rheumatologist for a specialist opinion.
  5. Diagnosis: A diagnosis is typically made if you have had widespread pain for over three months with no other underlying condition to explain it.

This process can be lengthy. As of early 2025, NHS waiting lists for specialist referrals can exceed 18 weeks, and in some cases, the entire diagnostic journey can take a year or more. This period of uncertainty can be incredibly stressful and delay access to appropriate management strategies.

How Private Medical Insurance Can Speed Up Diagnosis

This is where private health cover can be a game-changer. If you have symptoms but no diagnosis, a PMI policy can significantly shorten the time you spend in medical limbo.

Important Note: This applies to investigating new symptoms that arise after your policy has started.

StepTypical NHS TimelineTypical Private Timeline (with PMI)
GP AppointmentCan take 1-3 weeks for a routine appointment.Many policies offer virtual GP access within 24 hours.
Specialist ReferralOften 18 weeks or longer.Typically within 1-2 weeks.
Diagnostic TestsWaits for blood tests, X-rays, or scans can add weeks.Usually completed within days at a private hospital or clinic.
Diagnosis & PlanCan take months, sometimes over a year.A diagnosis can often be reached within a few months.

By providing fast access to specialists and diagnostic tools, private medical insurance can provide the clarity you need to start managing your condition effectively, months sooner than might otherwise be possible.

The Critical Rule of Private Health Insurance: Chronic vs. Acute Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand when considering private medical insurance in the UK. Insurers draw a clear line between two types of medical conditions.

  1. Acute Condition: An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken arm, appendicitis, or a cataract. Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions.

  2. Chronic Condition: A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics:

    • It needs ongoing or long-term monitoring.
    • It requires management through check-ups, medication, or special diets.
    • It has no known "cure."
    • It is likely to recur.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition. Therefore, the long-term management of fibromyalgia itself—such as ongoing medication, regular specialist consultations for the condition, or a sustained course of physiotherapy—is not covered by standard PMI policies.

Furthermore, if you have already been diagnosed with fibromyalgia before taking out a policy, it will be classed as a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover.

Think of it this way: PMI is like your car insurance. It covers unexpected accidents (acute events), but it doesn't cover the routine MOT, servicing, and tyre replacements needed to keep the car running smoothly (chronic management).

How Private Care Can Complement Your NHS Fibromyalgia Management

Even though PMI doesn't cover the day-to-day management of fibromyalgia, it provides powerful complementary benefits that can significantly improve your quality of life. For someone diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a good PMI policy offers peace of mind and practical support in several key areas.

1. Fast Treatment for New, Unrelated Acute Conditions

Living with fibromyalgia already puts a significant strain on your body and mind. The last thing you need is a long wait for treatment for a new health problem.

  • Real-Life Example: Imagine you have fibromyalgia and then develop painful gallstones requiring surgery. On the NHS, you could face a wait of many months. This extended period of pain and stress would likely cause your fibromyalgia symptoms to flare up badly. With PMI, you could have the surgery within weeks, allowing you to recover faster and minimise the impact on your overall health.

2. Enhanced Mental Health Support

The link between chronic pain and mental health is well-established. Living with fibromyalgia can lead to anxiety and depression. Many of the best PMI providers now include excellent mental health support as a core benefit, often without impacting your main outpatient limits. This can include:

  • Fast access to talking therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
  • Sessions with counsellors or clinical psychologists.
  • Access to mental wellness apps and helplines.

This support can be vital for developing coping strategies and managing the psychological burden of a long-term condition.

3. Access to Complementary Therapies

While long-term physiotherapy for fibromyalgia isn't covered, many policies offer a set number of sessions per year for things like:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Osteopathy
  • Chiropractic care

These can be used to address specific musculoskeletal pain flare-ups, helping you manage your symptoms and maintain mobility.

4. Digital Health and Wellbeing Services

Modern PMI policies come with a suite of digital tools that can be incredibly helpful.

  • Virtual GPs: 24/7 access to a GP by phone or video call for quick advice.
  • Wellness Apps: Tools for tracking sleep, activity, and nutrition. At WeCovr, our customers gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This can be particularly useful for identifying dietary triggers that may worsen fibromyalgia symptoms.

Building Your Fibromyalgia Management Toolkit

Effective management of fibromyalgia relies on a multi-faceted approach, combining medical support with self-care strategies. Your NHS team will guide you on this, but here are some key areas to focus on.

Diet and Nutrition

While there's no specific "fibromyalgia diet," many people find that certain foods can trigger or worsen their symptoms.

  • Focus on: Anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, oily fish (salmon, mackerel), nuts, and berries.
  • Consider avoiding: Processed foods, excessive sugar, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners, which can contribute to inflammation and fatigue.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen fatigue and muscle pain. Aim for 2 litres of water per day.

Movement and Gentle Exercise

When you're in pain and exhausted, exercise can feel impossible. However, gentle, regular movement is one of the most effective treatments. The key is pacing.

  • Start small: Even 5 minutes of walking is a victory.
  • Listen to your body: Don't push through pain. Rest when you need to.
  • Good choices include:
    • Walking: Low-impact and easy to control the intensity.
    • Swimming or Aqua-aerobics: The water supports your joints and reduces impact.
    • Tai Chi and Yoga: These gentle practices combine movement, stretching, and mindfulness.

Sleep Hygiene

Improving sleep quality is crucial for managing fibromyalgia.

  • Create a routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
  • Optimise your bedroom: Make it a dark, quiet, and cool sanctuary for sleep.
  • Limit screen time: Avoid phones, tablets, and TVs for at least an hour before bed, as the blue light can interfere with sleep hormones.

Choosing the Best Private Medical Insurance UK with a Chronic Condition

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be confusing, especially when you have a pre-existing condition. This is where an independent PMI broker becomes an indispensable partner.

A specialist broker like WeCovr can help you:

  1. Understand the Nuances: We live and breathe this market. We can clearly explain what is and isn't covered, helping you set realistic expectations for your policy.
  2. Compare Providers: We have access to policies from across the market and can compare them on the features that matter most to you, such as the quality of mental health support or the number of therapy sessions included.
  3. Explain Underwriting: We can advise on the best type of underwriting for your situation (e.g., 'moratorium' vs. 'full medical underwriting') and what you need to declare.
  4. Save You Money: Our service comes at no extra cost to you. In fact, we often secure better terms than if you went directly to an insurer. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us often qualify for discounts on other types of cover.

WeCovr's expert, friendly team is dedicated to finding the right solution for your unique circumstances, backed by high customer satisfaction ratings and our status as an FCA-authorised firm.

Will private health insurance cover my fibromyalgia?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover the ongoing treatment or management of chronic conditions like fibromyalgia. It is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. However, it can be extremely valuable for a swift diagnosis and for covering other unrelated acute health issues, helping to reduce the overall burden on your health.

Do I need to declare fibromyalgia when applying for private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. You must declare fibromyalgia and any other pre-existing medical conditions during your application. Failing to disclose this information can be considered non-disclosure and could lead to your policy being cancelled or claims being rejected in the future. Honesty is always the best policy.

Can I still get private medical insurance if I already have fibromyalgia?

Yes, you can. You will still be able to get private health cover for new, unforeseen acute conditions that are unrelated to your fibromyalgia. Your fibromyalgia will be listed as a pre-existing exclusion, but you will be covered for a wide range of other medical events, from joint replacements to cancer treatment, according to the terms of your policy.

What is the main benefit of PMI for someone with a long-term condition like fibromyalgia?

The primary benefit is peace of mind. It ensures that if a new, acute health problem arises, you can bypass NHS waiting lists and get treated quickly. This minimises the additional physical and mental stress on your system. Furthermore, many policies include valuable complementary benefits like fast access to mental health support and physiotherapy, which can significantly improve your quality of life while you manage your fibromyalgia through the NHS.

Get Your Personalised Health Insurance Quote

Understanding how private care can fit into your life with fibromyalgia is the first step. The next is finding a policy that offers the right support at the right price.

The team at WeCovr is here to provide clear, independent advice tailored to your needs. Let us help you compare the UK's leading insurers and find a plan that gives you security and control over your health.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how private medical insurance can complement your NHS care.

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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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