Login
Login

Freedom vs WPA Which PMI Is Best for Freelancers

Freedom vs WPA Which PMI Is Best for Freelancers 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr understands that for UK freelancers, time is money and health is everything. This guide explores which private medical insurance is best for the self-employed, comparing two leading flexible providers: Freedom Health Insurance and WPA.

WeCovr looks at two flexible options for self-employed professionals

When you're self-employed, the safety net of company sick pay and employer-provided health benefits simply doesn't exist. Your ability to earn is directly linked to your ability to work. An unexpected illness or injury doesn't just impact your health; it threatens your livelihood. This is where private medical insurance (PMI) becomes not a luxury, but a crucial business tool.

Among the many providers in the UK market, two names often come up for their flexible and customisable approach: Freedom Health Insurance and WPA (Western Provident Association). Both offer distinct advantages for freelancers, sole traders, and contractors who need high-quality cover that adapts to their unique financial and healthcare needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about these two specialist insurers, helping you decide which might be the perfect partner for your freelance career.

Why Private Medical Insurance is a Game-Changer for UK Freelancers

The traditional 9-to-5 comes with benefits that freelancers go without. The most significant of these is the security of knowing you can take time off for illness without your income grinding to a halt. For the UK's vibrant community of over 4.2 million self-employed professionals (ONS, 2023), health is the ultimate asset.

So, what's the problem PMI solves? In a word: waiting.

While the NHS provides exceptional care, it is under immense pressure. As the UK heads into 2025, the elective care waiting list in England remains a significant concern, with millions of people waiting for routine procedures. For a freelancer, waiting months for a diagnosis or treatment for a painful condition like a bad back or a joint problem can be financially devastating.

Private medical insurance allows you to bypass these queues. It offers:

  • Speedy Diagnosis: Get seen by a specialist quickly, often within days or weeks.
  • Prompt Treatment: Schedule surgery or treatment at a time that suits you and your business.
  • Choice and Comfort: Choose your consultant and hospital, often with the benefit of a private room for recovery.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a plan in place to get you back on your feet fast reduces a major source of stress.

A Critical Point: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand what private medical insurance is for. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

Standard UK private health cover does not cover chronic conditions—illnesses that are long-term and cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). It also does not cover pre-existing conditions that you had before you took out the policy.

A Closer Look at Freedom Health Insurance

Freedom Health Insurance entered the market with a clear mission: to make private healthcare more accessible and flexible. They moved away from the traditional "one-size-fits-all" model, which makes them an excellent fit for freelancers who need to control their budget without compromising on essential cover.

Key Features for Freelancers

  1. Modular Approach: Freedom's greatest strength is its building-block system. You start with a core product and add only the extras you need. For a freelancer watching their outgoings, this is ideal. You don't pay for benefits you're unlikely to use.
  2. Freedom Essentials Plan: This is their flagship flexible product. It covers the big-ticket items—surgery, hospital stays, and cancer care—as standard. You can then choose to add outpatient cover for diagnostics and consultations, or alternative therapies. This is perfect for freelancers who want peace of mind against major medical events but are happy to use the NHS for initial GP visits and diagnostics.
  3. Self-Referral Option: A standout feature. With many Freedom policies, you can choose to see a specialist without needing a GP referral first. For a busy freelancer, this can save valuable time and get you on the path to diagnosis even faster.
  4. UK-Wide Hospital Choices: Freedom offers a broad range of hospitals across the UK, ensuring you can get treated close to home.

Real-Life Freelancer Scenario: Sarah the Graphic Designer

Sarah is a 35-year-old freelance graphic designer. Her income depends on her being able to work at her desk without pain. She's worried about developing a repetitive strain injury or back problems.

She opts for a Freedom Essentials policy. She keeps the core cover for surgery and cancer but decides against full outpatient cover to keep her premium low. She knows she can use her local NHS GP for initial consultations. Six months later, she develops severe wrist pain. Instead of waiting weeks for an NHS physio referral, she uses her policy to see a private specialist, gets a swift diagnosis, and begins treatment immediately, minimising disruption to her client work.

Freedom Health Insurance: At a Glance

FeatureDescriptionIdeal For Freelancers Because...
Policy StructureModular (Core + optional add-ons)You only pay for the cover you actually need, offering excellent budget control.
Key ProductFreedom EssentialsFocuses on essential, high-cost treatments, keeping premiums affordable.
GP ReferralSelf-referral option availableSaves time and hassle, getting you to a specialist faster.
UnderwritingMoratorium & Full Medical UnderwritingOffers choice in how your medical history is assessed.
Overall PhilosophyFlexibility and ChoicePuts you in the driver's seat of your healthcare journey.

A Closer Look at WPA (Western Provident Association)

WPA is one of the UK's most respected health insurers, with a history stretching back over 120 years. As a not-for-profit organisation, their structure is fundamentally different from most commercial insurers. Any surplus they make is reinvested back into the business to improve benefits and services for their members, rather than being paid out to shareholders.

Key Features for Freelancers

  1. Not-for-Profit Ethos: This is a huge trust signal. It means WPA's primary focus is on its members' health outcomes, not on maximising profits. This often translates to a strong customer service culture and a commitment to fair dealing.
  2. Shared Responsibility & Co-payment: This is WPA's unique approach to managing costs. With their "Flexible Health" policies, you agree to pay a percentage of any claim (e.g., 25%) up to an annual limit. In return, your monthly premium is significantly lower. This is a brilliant model for freelancers who can afford a one-off cost but prefer a lower fixed monthly outgoing.
  3. Advanced Cancer Care: WPA is renowned for its comprehensive cancer cover. This often includes access to new and experimental drugs not always available on the NHS, providing immense peace of mind.
  4. Emphasis on Clinical Governance: WPA places a strong emphasis on proven, effective treatments and works with a network of recognised specialists and hospitals, ensuring you receive high-quality care.

Real-Life Freelancer Scenario: Tom the IT Consultant

Tom, a 48-year-old self-employed IT consultant, wants robust health cover but needs to keep his monthly business expenses predictable. He's healthy but wants a safety net for serious issues like cancer or heart problems.

He chooses a WPA Flexible Health policy with a 25% co-payment. His monthly premium is very competitive. A year later, he needs a minor surgical procedure costing £4,000. Under his Shared Responsibility agreement, Tom pays 25% (£1,000) and WPA pays the remaining £3,000. For Tom, this one-off payment was far more manageable than paying a higher premium every single month for years.

WPA: At a Glance

FeatureDescriptionIdeal For Freelancers Because...
Company StructureNot-for-profitFocus is on member benefits, not shareholder profits, fostering trust.
Cost ModelShared Responsibility (Co-payment)Significantly lowers monthly premiums in exchange for sharing claim costs.
Key ProductFlexible HealthHighly customisable policy with the unique co-payment feature.
Cancer CoverComprehensive and often market-leadingProvides exceptional peace of mind for one of life's biggest worries.
Overall PhilosophyPartnership and SustainabilityYou partner with them to manage costs, ensuring long-term affordability.

Freedom vs. WPA: A Head-to-Head Comparison for Freelancers

So, which provider is right for you? The best choice depends entirely on your priorities, budget, and how you prefer to manage your healthcare and finances. Let's compare them directly.

FeatureFreedom Health InsuranceWPA (Western Provident Association)
FlexibilityExcellent. The modular "Essentials" plan allows you to build a policy from the ground up.Excellent. The "Flexible Health" plan offers huge customisation, especially with the Shared Responsibility model.
Cost & AffordabilityPremiums are controlled by adding or removing modules (e.g., outpatient cover). A high excess can also reduce costs.Premiums are significantly reduced by choosing a co-payment percentage. A higher co-payment means a lower monthly cost.
Who It's Best ForThe freelancer who wants total control over their policy components and may want to self-refer to a specialist.The freelancer who prefers a lower fixed monthly cost and is comfortable paying a share of any potential claim.
Core CoverStrong inpatient and day-patient cover for surgery and eligible treatments, including cancer.Robust inpatient and day-patient cover, often with an annual financial limit that can be topped up.
Outpatient OptionsCan be added as a module, with different levels of cover available, from diagnostics only to full specialist consultations.Can be added as an option. The cost of this is also affected by the co-payment you choose.
Cancer CoverComprehensive cover for diagnosis and treatment is standard on their main policies.Market-leading and extensive, often including drugs and treatments not readily available on the NHS.
Mental HealthMental health cover is typically an optional add-on, allowing you to include it if it's a priority.WPA provides access to support lines, and more extensive cover can be added to the policy.
Hospital NetworkOffers a wide choice of UK hospitals, with options to restrict the list to lower the premium.Provides access to a nationwide network of several hundred quality-assessed hospitals.
Unique Selling PointSelf-referral. The ability to bypass the GP for a specialist consultation is a major time-saver.Not-for-profit status & Shared Responsibility. A focus on members and a unique way to make cover affordable.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose Freedom Health Insurance if: You want to build your policy piece by piece, paying only for what you need. The idea of skipping a GP referral and going straight to a specialist is highly appealing to you.
  • Choose WPA if: You prioritise a low, stable monthly premium and are financially comfortable with the idea of sharing the cost if you need to make a claim. Their not-for-profit status and excellent reputation for cancer care are important to you.

Working with an independent PMI broker like WeCovr can help you get detailed quotes for both providers, tailored to your exact circumstances. We can model the costs of different excesses, co-payment levels, and optional extras, giving you a crystal-clear picture of what you'll get for your money.

Understanding the Nitty-Gritty: Underwriting and Excess

When buying private medical insurance in the UK, two terms you'll always encounter are "underwriting" and "excess". Understanding them is key to choosing the right policy.

Underwriting Explained

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses the risk of taking you on as a customer, specifically regarding your past health.

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common and simplest option. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they will automatically exclude any conditions you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy started. However, if you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer assesses your medical history and may place specific, permanent exclusions on your policy for certain conditions. The main advantage is clarity—you know exactly what is and isn't covered from day one.

Both Freedom and WPA offer both types of underwriting, giving you the flexibility to choose.

The Role of Excess

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. It works just like the excess on your car or home insurance.

  • How it works: If your policy has a £250 excess and you have a procedure costing £3,000, you pay the first £250, and your insurer pays the remaining £2,750.
  • Why it's great for freelancers: Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) will significantly reduce your monthly premium. This is one of the most effective ways to make comprehensive private health cover more affordable.

Beyond the Policy: Wellness, Perks, and Added Value

Modern private health cover is about more than just paying for treatment when you're ill. It's about helping you stay well. Many policies now include a fantastic range of value-added benefits at no extra cost:

  • Digital GP: Access to a GP via phone or video call, 24/7. Perfect for getting quick advice or a prescription without leaving your desk.
  • Mental Health Support: Confidential helplines for stress, anxiety, and other mental wellbeing concerns.
  • Wellness Apps and Discounts: Access to gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health apps to support a healthy lifestyle.

At WeCovr, we enhance this value further. When you arrange a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us, we provide:

  • Complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you manage your diet and stay healthy.
  • Exclusive discounts on other types of insurance, such as income protection or critical illness cover, helping you build a complete financial safety net.

How to Choose the Right PMI Policy as a Freelancer

Feeling overwhelmed? Don't be. Follow this simple, five-step process to find the perfect cover.

  1. Assess Your Needs: What's your main priority? Is it covering major surgery (inpatient), or do you also want cover for consultations and tests (outpatient)? Are therapies like physiotherapy important?
  2. Set Your Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford each month. Remember, some cover is better than no cover. A basic plan that covers the big risks is a great start.
  3. Compare Hospital Lists: Check which hospitals are included in the policies you're considering. Make sure they are convenient for you to get to.
  4. Understand the Fine Print: Look at the excess options, any annual limits on cover, and what is explicitly excluded. Pay close attention to the mental health and cancer cover.
  5. Speak to an Expert Broker: This is the most important step. A specialist broker like WeCovr does the hard work for you. We are not tied to any single insurer. Our job is to understand your needs and search the market—including providers like Freedom and WPA—to find the policy that offers the best value and protection for you. Our service is completely free to you.

Common Questions from Freelancers (FAQ Section)

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses that can be managed but not cured, like diabetes or asthma).

Can I claim tax relief on my PMI premiums as a freelancer?

For sole traders, private medical insurance is generally considered a personal expense, and you cannot claim tax relief on the premiums. However, if you operate as a limited company, the company can pay for your PMI policy, and it can usually be treated as an allowable business expense. This can have P11D benefit-in-kind tax implications, so it is always best to speak with your accountant for advice specific to your business structure.

Does PMI cover my income if I'm too ill to work?

No, private medical insurance pays for the costs of your private medical treatment; it does not replace your lost earnings. For that, you need a separate policy called Income Protection Insurance. This type of cover pays you a regular, tax-free monthly sum if you are unable to work due to illness or injury, protecting your financial stability while you recover. Many freelancers hold both types of policy for complete protection.

Your health is your most valuable business asset. Protecting it with the right private health cover isn't an expense—it's an investment in your career's longevity and your own peace of mind. Both Freedom and WPA offer compelling, flexible solutions for the UK's self-employed workforce.

Ready to find out which is the best fit for you?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will compare these providers and many more, ensuring you get the right protection at the best possible price.


Get A Free Quote

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.
Get Quote

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:
Book Call Now

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 750,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection
Find Out More

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.

Book Call With Expert

Learn more


Learn More
...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!