WeCovr.

Login

WeCovr.

Login

General and Local Anaesthesia

General and Local Anaesthesia 2025 | Free Tailored Quotes

WeCovr explains anaesthesia types and PMI coverage

Facing surgery can be daunting, but understanding anaesthesia can ease your concerns. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr is here to demystify anaesthesia types and explain how they are covered by private medical insurance in the UK, ensuring you feel prepared and protected.

Whether it’s a minor procedure or major surgery, anaesthesia is a critical part of modern medicine. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the different types of anaesthetics to how your private health cover can give you peace of mind.

What is Anaesthesia? A Simple Guide for Patients

In the simplest terms, anaesthesia is the use of medicines to prevent you from feeling pain during surgery or other medical procedures. It's a temporary, controlled loss of sensation or awareness.

The professional who administers and manages your anaesthesia is called an anaesthetist. These are highly skilled specialist doctors who have undergone years of extensive training. Their role is to:

  1. Assess your health before the procedure to choose the safest type of anaesthesia for you.
  2. Administer the anaesthetic drugs.
  3. Monitor your vital signs (like your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing) throughout the entire procedure.
  4. Manage your pain and well-being as you wake up and recover.

Think of them as your personal guardian while you're undergoing treatment, ensuring you remain safe, stable, and comfortable from start to finish.

The Main Types of Anaesthesia Explained

Not all procedures require you to be "put to sleep." Anaesthetists have a range of options they can use depending on the type of operation, your overall health, and your preferences. Let's break down the four main categories.

1. Local Anaesthesia

This is the most common type of anaesthetic. It numbs a small, specific area of your body while you remain fully awake, alert, and comfortable. You won't feel pain in the treated area, but you might feel some pressure or movement.

  • How it's given: Usually via an injection, spray, or cream applied directly to the site.
  • When it's used: For minor procedures that are quick and on the surface.
  • Real-life examples:
    • Having a dental filling or a tooth removed.
    • Getting stitches for a deep cut.
    • A skin biopsy to check a mole.
    • Minor eye surgery, like cataract removal.

2. Regional Anaesthesia

Regional anaesthesia numbs a larger section of your body, such as an entire arm, leg, or the lower half of your body. You will be awake during the procedure, but you won't be able to feel the targeted region. It's common for patients to be offered sedation alongside a regional anaesthetic to help them relax.

  • How it's given: An injection of local anaesthetic is made near a cluster of nerves, blocking pain signals from that entire region.
  • When it's used: For more extensive surgery where staying conscious is safe and beneficial for recovery.
  • Real-life examples:
    • Epidural: A common choice for pain relief during childbirth, injected into the back.
    • Spinal Anaesthetic: A single injection into the back that provides a dense block, often used for Caesarean sections, hip replacements, or knee replacements.
    • Nerve Block: Injected around a specific nerve or group of nerves, for example, to numb an entire arm for hand or wrist surgery.

3. General Anaesthesia

This is what most people think of when they hear the word "anaesthesia." A general anaesthetic puts you into a state of controlled unconsciousness, so you are completely unaware of the surgery. You will have no memory of the procedure afterwards.

  • How it's given: Usually starts with an injection into a vein, which makes you fall asleep in seconds. It's then maintained with a mixture of anaesthetic gases that you breathe in through a mask or tube.
  • When it's used: For major, lengthy, or complex operations.
  • Real-life examples:
    • Heart surgery or brain surgery.
    • Major joint replacements (like a hip or shoulder).
    • Abdominal surgery (e.g., gallbladder removal or appendix removal).
    • Any procedure where it's vital for you to be completely still.

4. Sedation (or 'Twilight Anaesthesia')

Sedation uses a small dose of anaesthetic drugs to make you feel drowsy, relaxed, and calm. You might be able to respond to verbal cues, but you may not remember much afterwards. It's often referred to as "conscious sedation" or "twilight sleep."

  • How it's given: Typically through an injection into a vein.
  • When it's used: For procedures that are uncomfortable but don't require a full general anaesthetic.
  • Real-life examples:
    • Endoscopy or Colonoscopy: To look inside your stomach or bowel.
    • Some complex dental work.
    • Cardioversion (a procedure to restore a normal heart rhythm).

Here is a simple table to help you compare the different types:

Anaesthesia TypeWhat It DoesLevel of ConsciousnessCommon Examples
LocalNumbs a small, specific areaFully awake and alertDental fillings, stitches
RegionalNumbs a larger region (e.g., a leg)Awake, but may be sedatedEpidural, hip replacement
GeneralPuts you into controlled unconsciousnessCompletely unconsciousMajor heart or abdominal surgery
SedationMakes you drowsy and relaxedConscious but very sleepyEndoscopy, colonoscopy

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Covers Anaesthesia

This is the crucial question for anyone with or considering private health cover. The good news is that if your surgical procedure is covered by your policy, the associated anaesthetist's fees are almost always covered too.

However, there are some fundamental principles of private medical insurance in the UK that you must understand.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of 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. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, or a broken bone.

Crucially, PMI does not typically cover:

  • Pre-existing conditions: Any medical condition you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before your policy started.
  • Chronic conditions: Conditions that are long-term and cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and most types of arthritis.

This is the single most important exclusion to be aware of. If you need surgery for a pre-existing or chronic condition, it will not be covered by a new PMI policy.

How Anaesthetist Fees are Paid

When you make a claim for eligible surgery, the cost is broken down into several parts:

  • Surgeon's fee: For performing the operation.
  • Anaesthetist's fee: For administering anaesthesia and monitoring you.
  • Hospital costs: Including the operating theatre, nursing care, accommodation, and drugs.

Your PMI provider will cover these fees up to the limits specified in your policy. Most leading UK insurers have agreements with a vast network of specialists, including anaesthetists.

Fee-Assured Specialists: Your Key to No Shortfalls

The best PMI providers work with specialists who are 'fee-assured'. This means the specialist agrees not to charge more than the rate set by the insurance company. By using a fee-assured surgeon and anaesthetist from your insurer's approved list, you can be confident there will be no unexpected bills or shortfalls for you to pay.

If you choose a specialist who is not fee-assured, they may charge more than your insurer is willing to pay. In this case, you would be responsible for paying the difference. This is why it's always best to check with your insurer before confirming your treatment plan. A good PMI broker, like WeCovr, can help guide you through this process.

Understanding Your PMI Policy's Limits and Exclusions

While anaesthesia for eligible procedures is a core benefit, the level of your cover depends on the specific policy you choose. Here are the key factors that can affect your coverage.

Hospital Lists

Insurers group UK private hospitals into tiers or lists. A basic policy might give you access to a local list of hospitals, while a comprehensive policy will offer a nationwide or even a premium London-based list. The anaesthetists and surgeons you can see are often linked to the hospitals you have access to. If you have treatment in a hospital that isn't on your approved list, your claim will not be paid.

Outpatient Cover Limits

Your journey to surgery usually begins with a GP referral to a specialist. This initial consultation, and any diagnostic tests or pre-operative assessments (which may include a meeting with your anaesthetist), fall under your outpatient cover.

Policies come with different outpatient limits:

  • Basic: Some policies have no outpatient cover or a very low limit (e.g., £500).
  • Standard: A limit of £1,000 to £1,500 is common.
  • Comprehensive: Full or unlimited outpatient cover.

If your outpatient costs exceed your policy limit, you will need to pay the remainder yourself.

Your Policy Excess

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your claim each policy year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your covered surgery costs £8,000, you pay the first £250 and your insurer pays the remaining £7,750. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to reduce your monthly premium.

Common Exclusions to Remember

Beyond pre-existing and chronic conditions, most PMI policies will exclude:

  • Cosmetic surgery: Procedures that are purely for aesthetic reasons. However, reconstructive surgery after an accident or for a covered condition (like a mastectomy) is often included.
  • Normal pregnancy and childbirth: Routine check-ups and a standard delivery are not covered. However, many policies will cover complications that arise during pregnancy or birth. Anaesthesia for a medically necessary Caesarean section would likely be covered, but not for an elective one.
  • Routine dental treatment: PMI is for medical, not dental, issues. However, complex surgical procedures like the removal of impacted wisdom teeth are sometimes covered under specific policy options.
  • Emergency treatment: A&E visits are handled by the NHS. PMI is for planned, non-emergency treatment.

The table below illustrates how PMI might apply in different scenarios involving anaesthesia.

ScenarioCovered by NHS?Covered by PMI?Key PMI Consideration
General anaesthesia for a knee replacement due to osteoarthritis (diagnosed 5 years ago)YesNoThis is a pre-existing and chronic condition, which is excluded.
Local anaesthesia for removal of a skin lesion that appeared after the policy startedYesYesThis is an acute condition. The claim is eligible.
Epidural for a planned, elective Caesarean sectionYesNoElective C-sections are considered part of routine childbirth, which is excluded.
General anaesthesia for hernia repair surgery (hernia developed post-policy)YesYesThis is a classic example of an acute condition covered by PMI.
Sedation for a colonoscopy to investigate new symptomsYesYesDiagnostic tests for new, acute symptoms are a core benefit of PMI.

Choosing the Right Private Health Cover with WeCovr

Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can feel complex. With so many providers, policy options, and jargon, how do you find the best PMI provider for your needs?

This is where an expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr makes all the difference. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and our service is provided at no cost to you.

Our specialists will:

  1. Listen to your needs: We take the time to understand your health priorities and budget.
  2. Compare the market: We get quotes from leading UK insurers like Aviva, AXA Health, Bupa, and Vitality to find the most suitable options.
  3. Explain the details: We cut through the jargon to explain excesses, hospital lists, and outpatient limits in plain English, ensuring you know exactly what you're buying.
  4. Provide ongoing support: We're here to help if you ever need to make a claim or review your cover.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your wellness goals. Plus, you can benefit from discounts on other types of cover when you purchase PMI or life insurance through us. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to providing clear, honest, and valuable advice.

Preparing for Anaesthesia: Health & Wellness Tips

Your health and lifestyle choices can have a big impact on how well you handle anaesthesia and how quickly you recover.

Before Your Procedure

  • Be completely honest: Your anaesthetist needs to know everything about your health. This includes any illnesses, allergies, medications you take (including herbal supplements), your smoking habits, and how much alcohol you drink.
  • Follow fasting instructions: You will be told not to eat or drink for a certain number of hours before your procedure. This is vital to prevent stomach contents from entering your lungs while you are under anaesthesia.
  • Quit smoking: Even stopping for a few weeks before surgery can significantly reduce your risk of chest infections and other complications.
  • Arrange support: Organise for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours after a general anaesthetic or sedation.

After Your Procedure

  • Rest: Your body needs time to heal. Don't rush back to your normal routine.
  • Follow advice: For 24-48 hours after a general anaesthetic, you should not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol, or make any important legal or financial decisions.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water unless advised otherwise.
  • Eat well: Start with light, easily digestible foods and build back up to a normal, balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to aid recovery.

Your journey to better health doesn't stop after surgery. Using tools like our CalorieHero app can help you maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet, which is proven to support faster healing and long-term well-being.

Anaesthesia and Surgery in the UK: The Latest Statistics

The demand for both NHS and private healthcare remains incredibly high in the UK. Understanding the current landscape highlights the value of private medical insurance.

  • NHS Waiting Lists: As of early 2025, the challenge of NHS waiting lists continues. Figures from late 2024 showed the elective care waiting list in England remained stubbornly high, with millions of treatments outstanding. The Nuffield Trust and The King's Fund consistently report that waiting times for diagnosis and treatment are a key driver for people seeking private options.
  • Growth in Private Healthcare: The number of people choosing to pay for private treatment, either through insurance or out-of-pocket (self-pay), has seen a significant increase since 2020. According to the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN), the volume of self-pay admissions has grown substantially, demonstrating a clear trend towards seeking faster access to care.
  • PMI Policyholders: The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reports that millions of people in the UK are covered by a private medical insurance policy. This figure has remained stable, indicating that those with PMI value its benefits, particularly for prompt access to specialists and elective surgery. For these policyholders, having the costs of surgeons and anaesthetists covered is a primary benefit.

These trends underscore a simple reality: while the NHS provides excellent emergency and critical care, PMI offers a valuable solution for those who want to bypass long waits for planned procedures, giving them choice, control, and peace of mind.

Does private health insurance cover the anaesthetist's fees separately?

Generally, no. The anaesthetist's fee is considered an integral part of an eligible surgical claim. When your PMI provider approves a surgical procedure, the costs for the surgeon, the anaesthetist, and the hospital are usually bundled together and paid as a single claim, up to the limits of your policy. You will not typically see a separate bill for the anaesthetist.

What happens if my chosen anaesthetist charges more than my PMI provider will pay?

This is known as a 'shortfall'. It can happen if you use a specialist who is not 'fee-assured' with your insurer. To avoid this, you should always use a specialist from your insurer's approved network or get confirmation of coverage before proceeding. An expert broker can help you find specialists who are fully covered by your chosen policy.

Is anaesthesia for dental work covered by PMI?

Standard private medical insurance does not cover routine dentistry. However, some comprehensive policies may offer cover for more complex surgical dental procedures, such as the surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth requiring a general anaesthetic. You must check the specific terms of your policy, as this is a common exclusion.

Will my PMI premium go up after I make a claim for surgery involving anaesthesia?

It is likely that your premium will increase at your next renewal after making a significant claim. All insurance premiums are also affected by your age and medical inflation (the rising cost of healthcare). However, the benefit of receiving prompt, high-quality treatment often far outweighs the potential increase in your premium.

Ready to explore your private medical insurance options and ensure you're covered for whatever comes your way?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly experts will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect cover for you and your family.

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!