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Health Insurance for Tradespeople in the UK

Health Insurance for Tradespeople in the UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique challenges facing the UK's tradespeople. This guide breaks down private medical insurance (PMI), helping you protect your health and your livelihood.

WeCovr explains PMI options for plumbers, electricians, and builders

If you work in a trade, your body is your most important tool. An injury or unexpected illness doesn't just affect your health; it directly impacts your ability to earn a living. Whilst the NHS provides incredible care, long waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment can mean months off the tools, causing significant financial strain.

Private medical insurance is a powerful safety net. It's designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you fast access to specialists, diagnostic tests, and private treatment for acute conditions. For a plumber with a bad back, an electrician with a knee injury, or a builder needing hernia surgery, this can be the difference between a few weeks of recovery and a year of uncertainty.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about private health cover for tradespeople in the UK.

Why Tradespeople Urgently Need to Consider Health Insurance

Working in a physically demanding job carries inherent risks. The daily grind of lifting, climbing, kneeling, and operating machinery puts significant stress on your body.

  • Financial Risk: As a sole trader or contractor, you likely don't get sick pay. Every day you're unable to work is a day without income.
  • NHS Waiting Times: The reality of the NHS in 2025 is that waiting lists for routine procedures can be extensive. According to the latest NHS England data, millions of people are waiting for consultant-led elective care. For common trade-related issues like joint replacements or hernia repairs, the wait can stretch over many months.
  • Physical Wear and Tear: Musculoskeletal issues are rife in the trades. Data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) consistently shows that skilled trades occupations have some of the highest rates of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. A sore back or a painful knee can quickly escalate from a minor nuisance to a career-threatening condition if not addressed promptly.
  • Speed of Recovery: PMI isn't just about skipping queues. It's about getting a definitive diagnosis quickly and starting treatment, including crucial physiotherapy, almost immediately. This holistic approach is designed to get you back on your feet and back on site as safely and swiftly as possible.

Think of private medical insurance not as an expense, but as an investment in your most valuable asset: your ability to earn.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)? The Basics Explained

Private Medical Insurance, often called PMI or private health cover, is an insurance policy that pays for the cost of private healthcare for 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. This includes things like joint injuries, hernias, cataracts, and most conditions requiring surgery.

It's crucial to understand what PMI is not:

  • It is not a replacement for the NHS. You will still use the NHS for accidents and emergencies (A&E), GP visits (unless you add a specific benefit), and for the management of chronic conditions.
  • It does not cover chronic conditions. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.
  • It does not cover pre-existing conditions. PMI is designed to cover health problems that arise after you take out the policy. We'll explain this in more detail later.

PMI gives you choice, speed, and comfort, ensuring that if you fall ill or get injured, you can be diagnosed and treated on your terms, minimising disruption to your life and work.

Key Benefits of PMI for Plumbers, Electricians, and Builders

For a hands-on professional, the advantages of private health cover are tangible and immediate.

  1. Speed of Access: This is the number one benefit. Instead of waiting weeks for a specialist referral on the NHS, you could be seen in a matter of days. This means a faster diagnosis and a clear treatment plan, so you know exactly what's happening.
  2. Choice and Control: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare. You can often choose the specialist consultant you see and the hospital where you are treated from a list provided by your insurer.
  3. Comfort and Privacy: Treatment in a private hospital typically means a private, en-suite room with a TV and more flexible visiting hours. This can make a significant difference to your comfort and mental wellbeing during a stressful time.
  4. Access to Specialist Treatments: Some policies provide access to drugs, treatments, or therapies that may not be available on the NHS due to funding restrictions.
  5. Reduced Downtime: By accelerating the entire process from diagnosis to recovery, PMI helps you get back to work faster, protecting your income and your business's reputation.

How Does PMI for Tradespeople Actually Work? A Real-Life Example

Let's imagine a scenario to see how PMI works in practice.

Meet Dave, a 45-year-old self-employed builder.

One day on site, Dave feels a sharp pain in his groin whilst lifting a heavy cement bag. He suspects it's a hernia.

Without PMI:

  1. Dave manages to get a GP appointment a week later.
  2. The GP agrees it looks like a hernia and refers him to an NHS surgical consultant. The waiting list for this non-urgent appointment is currently 18 weeks.
  3. After four months, Dave finally sees the consultant, who confirms he needs hernia repair surgery.
  4. He is placed on the NHS elective surgery waiting list. The current target is 18 weeks from referral to treatment, but in reality, this can be much longer. Let's say it's another 24 weeks.
  5. All this time, Dave is in discomfort. He can't do any heavy lifting, so he's turning down jobs and his income has plummeted.
  6. Almost a year after the initial injury, Dave has his surgery.

Total time from injury to surgery: ~46 weeks.

With PMI:

  1. Dave sees his GP the next day. The GP provides an open referral letter for a specialist.
  2. Dave calls his PMI provider's claims line. They approve the claim and provide a list of recognised local specialists.
  3. Dave books an appointment and sees the private consultant within the same week.
  4. The consultant confirms the hernia and schedules surgery at a local private hospital for two weeks' time.
  5. Dave has the surgery in a private room. His policy also covers post-operative physiotherapy to get him back to full strength.
  6. He is back on site doing light duties within a month and fully recovered shortly after.

Total time from injury to surgery: ~3 weeks.

The difference is stark. For a tradesperson, private medical insurance UK can be the key to business continuity.

What Does Private Health Insurance Typically Cover?

PMI policies are built in layers. You start with a core level of cover and can then add optional extras to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Core Cover (Standard on most policies)

This is the foundation of any PMI policy and primarily covers treatment you receive whilst admitted to hospital.

  • In-patient Treatment: When you are admitted to a hospital bed overnight for surgery or medical care. This covers all costs, including the surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees, hospital accommodation, and nursing care.
  • Day-patient Treatment: When you are admitted to a hospital for a procedure but do not need to stay overnight (e.g., arthroscopy, cataract surgery).
  • Cancer Cover: This is a significant part of modern PMI. Most policies offer extensive cancer cover, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

Optional Add-ons (To create comprehensive cover)

These benefits allow you to build a policy that suits you.

  • Out-patient Cover: This is the most popular add-on. It covers diagnostic tests and consultations that happen before you are admitted to hospital. This includes specialist consultations, MRI/CT scans, X-rays, and blood tests. Without this, you would rely on the NHS for diagnosis.
  • Therapies Cover: Highly recommended for tradespeople. This covers physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment to help with recovery from musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Mental Health Cover: Provides access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists to help with conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression – issues that can be common among self-employed individuals facing business pressures.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: Contributes towards the costs of routine check-ups, dental treatments, and new glasses or contact lenses.

The table below summarises the difference:

FeatureCore CoverComprehensive Cover (with add-ons)
Specialist ConsultationsNot usually coveredCovered
Diagnostic Scans (MRI, CT)Not usually coveredCovered
In-patient SurgeryCoveredCovered
Day-patient ProceduresCoveredCovered
Cancer TreatmentCoveredCovered
PhysiotherapyNot usually coveredCovered
Mental Health SupportNot usually coveredCovered

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these options to find the perfect balance between cover and cost.

What is NOT Covered by Standard PMI?

Understanding the exclusions is just as important as understanding the benefits. This prevents surprises if you need to make a claim. Standard UK private health insurance will not cover:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness, disease, or injury you had symptoms of, or received treatment for, before your policy start date. Insurers use "underwriting" to handle this, usually a 'moratorium' where they won't cover anything you've had issues with in the last 5 years until you've been symptom-free for 2 years on the policy.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term conditions that require ongoing management rather than a cure, such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis, or high blood pressure. The NHS will continue to manage these for you.
  • Emergency Services: A&E visits are handled by the NHS. If you have a heart attack, stroke, or serious accident, you should call 999.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Routine maternity care is provided by the NHS. PMI may cover complications, but not a standard birth.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: This includes issues arising from drug or alcohol misuse.

The golden rule is: PMI is for new, curable (acute) conditions that arise after you join.

Choosing the Right PMI Policy: Key Factors to Consider

With so many options, how do you choose the best PMI provider for you? Here are the key levers that determine the type of cover and its price.

  1. Level of Cover: As discussed, do you want basic core cover or a comprehensive policy with out-patient, therapies, and mental health support?
  2. Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. This exclusion can be lifted if you go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews it and lists specific exclusions on your policy certificate from the start. This provides more certainty but can be more complex.
  3. Hospital List: Insurers have different lists of approved hospitals. A national list gives you the most choice but costs more. Choosing a more restricted local list or one that excludes expensive central London hospitals can significantly reduce your premium.
  4. Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your surgery costs £5,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £4,750. A higher excess leads to a lower monthly premium.
  5. The Six-Week Option: This is a popular cost-saving feature. If you add this, your policy will only pay for treatment if the NHS waiting list for that treatment is longer than six weeks. If you can be treated on the NHS within six weeks, you would use the NHS. This can reduce your premium by 20-30%.

How to Reduce the Cost of Your Private Health Insurance

Being savvy about your policy choices can make PMI surprisingly affordable.

Cost-Saving TacticHow It WorksPotential Saving
Increase Your ExcessYou agree to pay more towards each claim (e.g., £500 instead of £100).High
Choose a Guided Hospital ListYou agree to use a smaller, pre-approved list of hospitals chosen by the insurer.Medium
Add a Six-Week OptionYou use the NHS if treatment is available within 6 weeks.High
Pay AnnuallyPaying your premium in one lump sum avoids monthly administration fees.Low
Review Your Add-onsOnly select the optional extras (like dental) that you genuinely need.Medium
Use a BrokerAn independent broker like WeCovr compares the whole market to find the best value for your specific needs, at no extra cost to you.High

Comparing Top UK PMI Providers for Tradespeople

The UK private medical insurance market is dominated by a few key players, each with its own strengths.

ProviderKnown For / Key StrengthsGood For Tradespeople?
BupaOne of the most recognised brands with a large network of hospitals and facilities. Strong on cancer cover.A solid, reliable choice with extensive options.
AXA HealthExcellent mental health support and a strong focus on digital GP services. Flexible and modern policies.Great for those wanting strong mental health support alongside physical cover.
AvivaA large, trusted insurer with a good reputation for customer service and straightforward claims. Often competitive on price.A strong all-rounder, often providing excellent value.
VitalityUnique approach that rewards healthy living. You earn points for being active, which can reduce premiums and provide other perks.Fantastic for active tradespeople who can benefit from the wellness programme to keep costs down.
The ExeterA friendly society known for its flexible underwriting and consideration for those with some prior medical history.A specialist option that can be great for those who might struggle to get cover elsewhere.

Important Note: This is a general overview. The "best" provider is entirely dependent on your individual circumstances, health, budget, and location. This is why using an impartial broker is so valuable.

The WeCovr Advantage: More Than Just Insurance

At WeCovr, we believe in providing holistic value that goes beyond just finding you a policy. When you arrange your private medical insurance with us, you get more than just cover.

  • Expert, Independent Advice: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our expert advisors are not tied to any single insurer. Our job is to understand your needs as a tradesperson and find the policy that offers the best possible protection for the best price.
  • Market-Leading Comparison: We do the hard work for you, comparing policies and prices from all the leading UK insurers to ensure you don't overpay. This service is completely free for you to use.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly on independent review platforms, praising our clear communication and helpful advisors.
  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: As a WeCovr client, you get free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining energy and strength on the job, and this tool makes it easy.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: When you take out a health or life insurance policy with us, you can often get discounts on other types of cover you might need, such as income protection or public liability insurance, saving you even more money.

Health and Wellness Tips for Tradespeople

Preventing injury and illness is always better than needing to claim. Here are some simple tips to help you stay fit for work:

  1. Protect Your Back: Always use correct lifting techniques. Bend your knees, keep your back straight, and keep the load close to your body. Don't be afraid to ask for help or use mechanical aids for very heavy items.
  2. Stretch Daily: Start your day with 5-10 minutes of gentle stretching, focusing on your back, hamstrings, and shoulders. This can dramatically reduce the risk of strains and sprains.
  3. Fuel Your Body: Your work is physically demanding. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that cause energy crashes. Focus on slow-release carbohydrates (oats, wholemeal bread), lean protein (chicken, eggs), and plenty of vegetables.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and loss of concentration, increasing your risk of accidents. Keep a water bottle with you and sip it throughout the day.
  5. Get Quality Sleep: Sleep is when your body repairs itself. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night to ensure your muscles recover and you're mentally sharp for the day ahead.
  6. Wear Your PPE: It sounds obvious, but always wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment, including safety boots, gloves, eye protection, and a hard hat where necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is private medical insurance tax deductible for a sole trader?

Generally, for sole traders and partners, private medical insurance is considered a personal expense and is not allowable for tax relief. However, if you operate as a limited company, the company can pay for the policy as a business expense. This is then treated as a 'benefit in kind' for the director/employee, and they will need to pay personal tax on the value of the premium. It is always best to seek advice from your accountant on your specific circumstances.

Do I need a GP referral to use my private health insurance?

In most cases, yes. To see a specialist for a new condition, you will typically need to visit your NHS GP first to get a referral letter. This ensures the claim is medically necessary and helps guide you to the right type of specialist. Some modern policies offer digital GP services, which can provide a faster route to a private referral, but the principle of a GP assessment remains.

What is the difference between health insurance and income protection?

This is a very important distinction. Health insurance (PMI) pays the medical bills to get you diagnosed and treated quickly. It pays the hospital and the doctors. Income protection is a different type of policy that pays YOU a regular, tax-free monthly income if you are unable to work due to any illness or injury. The two policies work perfectly together: health insurance helps you get better faster, whilst income protection replaces your lost earnings during your recovery. Many tradespeople choose to have both for complete peace of mind.

Protect Your Health, Protect Your Business

As a plumber, electrician, builder, or any other skilled tradesperson, your physical health is the cornerstone of your financial security. You wouldn't leave your van or tools uninsured, so why leave your most important asset unprotected?

Private medical insurance offers a fast, effective, and affordable way to bypass NHS queues, get the treatment you need, and get back to work sooner.

Let WeCovr help you build the right protection. Our friendly, expert advisors can walk you through your options and provide a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your trade and your budget.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote from WeCovr Today]

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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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