Login
Login

How Lifestyle Changes Can Reduce Your PMI Premium

How Lifestyle Changes Can Reduce Your PMI Premium 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance across the UK. In this guide, we explore the powerful connection between your lifestyle choices and the cost of your health cover, showing you how healthier habits can lead to significant savings.

At its core, insurance is a financial tool based on risk. When you apply for private medical insurance (PMI), the provider assesses how likely you are to make a claim in the future. A person leading a healthy, active lifestyle is statistically less likely to develop certain health problems, and therefore represents a lower risk to the insurer.

Think of it like car insurance. A driver with a long, clean record and no claims pays less than a driver with multiple accidents and points on their licence. In the same way, insurers reward individuals whose lifestyle choices suggest a lower probability of needing medical treatment.

By demonstrating that you are actively managing your health, you can directly influence your insurer's risk calculation, which in turn can lead to a lower, more affordable premium. This isn't just about saving money; it's about investing in your long-term well-being, with financial rewards as a welcome bonus.

Understanding How PMI Premiums are Calculated in the UK

Your final premium is a blend of several factors. While some are beyond your control, others are directly influenced by your choices.

Here are the key components insurers use to calculate your private health cover costs:

  • Age: This is arguably the most significant factor. As we get older, the statistical likelihood of needing medical care increases, so premiums rise accordingly.
  • Location: Where you live in the UK matters. Treatment costs, particularly for private hospitals, are higher in major cities like London and Manchester. A policy with a "London hospitals" option will cost more than one covering hospitals elsewhere.
  • Level of Cover: Policies range from basic cover for inpatient treatment to comprehensive plans that include outpatient consultations, therapies, and mental health support. The more extensive the cover, the higher the premium.
  • Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., ÂŁ500) will lower your monthly or annual premium, whereas a low or zero excess will increase it.
  • Underwriting Method: The way an insurer assesses your medical history affects your premium. The two main types are 'Moratorium' and 'Full Medical Underwriting'.
  • Lifestyle Choices: This is the crucial area you can control. Factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, and Body Mass Index (BMI) are key indicators of your health risk.

This guide will focus on that last point, showing you exactly how your daily habits can translate into real savings.

FactorControllable by You?Impact on Premium
AgeNoHigh
LocationPartiallyMedium
Level of CoverYesHigh
Policy ExcessYesMedium
Lifestyle (Smoking, BMI)YesHigh

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic and Pre-existing Conditions

Before we dive into lifestyle changes, it is vital to understand what private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover. This is one of the most common areas of confusion for consumers.

Standard UK PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken arm, appendicitis, cataracts, or a joint replacement. The goal of the treatment is to return you to your previous state of health.

  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it is long-lasting, has no known cure, requires ongoing management, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any health condition, symptom, or ailment you had before the start date of your policy. These are also excluded from cover, typically for a set period (e.g., two years) under moratorium underwriting.

So, how do lifestyle changes help reduce premiums if PMI doesn't cover chronic conditions like diabetes? The link is that a healthy lifestyle dramatically reduces your risk of developing conditions that could lead to an acute event. For example, managing your weight and blood pressure lowers your risk of a heart attack or stroke—acute events that would require immediate, expensive hospital treatment covered by PMI. Insurers price your policy based on this forward-looking risk.

Lifestyle Factor 1: Smoking and Vaping – The Biggest Premium Hitter

If there is one single lifestyle change that can slash the cost of your private medical insurance, it is quitting smoking. Insurers view smoking as the highest-risk lifestyle factor, and for good reason.

According to the NHS, smoking is the cause of about 76,000 deaths in the UK every year, and many more people live with debilitating smoking-related illnesses. It increases your risk of developing more than 50 serious health conditions, including multiple types of cancer and heart disease—many of which require the very inpatient treatments that PMI is designed to cover.

The Financial Impact of Smoking on PMI

  • Premium Surcharge: Smokers can expect to pay anywhere from 30% to 50% more for an identical private health cover policy compared to a non-smoker.
  • What counts as a "smoker"? Insurers typically define a smoker as anyone who has used any nicotine products—including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and often e-cigarettes or vapes—within the last 12 months. Some insurers may extend this period.
  • The Cost of Dishonesty: It is crucial to be honest on your application. If you claim to be a non-smoker but later make a claim for a smoking-related condition, your insurer could reject the claim and even void your entire policy for non-disclosure.

Example Premium Comparison: Smoker vs. Non-Smoker

This is an illustrative example for a 40-year-old individual seeking comprehensive cover in the Midlands.

StatusEstimated Monthly PremiumAnnual Difference
Non-SmokerÂŁ60N/A
SmokerÂŁ85+ÂŁ300

The Path to Becoming a Non-Smoker

To qualify for non-smoker rates, you typically need to have been completely free of all nicotine and tobacco products for at least 12 consecutive months. If you quit, you can inform your insurer at your next policy renewal to have your premium recalculated. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you manage this process and ensure you get the reduction you've earned.

Lifestyle Factor 2: Body Mass Index (BMI) and Weight Management

Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. While not a perfect diagnostic tool, it's widely used by insurers as a general indicator of health risk.

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the NHS consistently shows that a higher BMI is associated with an increased risk of developing a range of health problems. These include type 2 diabetes, heart and circulatory diseases, and certain types of cancer, all of which can lead to acute medical episodes requiring surgery or specialist care.

How Insurers Use BMI

  1. Application Stage: Many application forms will ask for your height and weight to calculate your BMI.
  2. Premium Loading: If your BMI falls into the 'obese' category (typically a BMI of 30 or above), some insurers may apply a 'loading' or surcharge to your premium. In some cases, for very high BMIs (e.g., over 40), they may decline to offer cover altogether.
  3. Renewal Review: Even if not asked at the start, a history of claims related to weight (such as joint problems) might lead to a review of your health status at renewal.

NHS BMI Categories

BMI RangeClassificationImpact on PMI
Below 18.5UnderweightMay require further questions
18.5 - 24.9Healthy WeightIdeal for standard premiums
25.0 - 29.9OverweightGenerally acceptable, no premium increase
30.0 and aboveObeseLikely to result in higher premiums

Practical Steps for a Healthy BMI

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is about sustainable, long-term habits, not crash diets.

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reduce intake of processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, as recommended by the UK Chief Medical Officers. This could be brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing.
  • Portion Control: Be mindful of serving sizes to avoid over-consumption of calories.

To support our clients on their health journey, WeCovr provides complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This tool makes it easier to monitor your intake, understand your eating patterns, and make informed choices to help manage your weight effectively.

Lifestyle Factor 3: Alcohol Consumption – A Question of Moderation

Insurers will also ask about your weekly alcohol consumption on your application. While enjoying a drink in moderation is unlikely to affect your premium, excessive alcohol intake is a significant red flag.

The NHS low-risk drinking guidelines recommend no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, spread over three or more days. Long-term, heavy drinking is linked to serious health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, pancreatitis, and an increased risk of accidents and injuries—all of which could result in expensive PMI claims.

Be prepared to answer questions about how many units you consume per week. Providing honest answers is essential. A lower, moderate level of consumption helps build a picture of you as a lower-risk individual.

Proactive Health: How Diet, Exercise, and Sleep Impact Your Risk Profile

Beyond the "big three" of smoking, BMI, and alcohol, your overall approach to proactive health plays a subtle but important role. While you might not get a direct discount for eating five-a-day, these habits collectively build a stronger, more resilient body, reducing your long-term risk profile.

1. A Nutrient-Rich Diet A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports every system in your body. It strengthens your immune system, making you less susceptible to infections that could require a GP visit or medication. It also helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the long-term strain on your cardiovascular system.

2. The Power of Regular Exercise Physical activity does more than just help manage weight. It:

  • Strengthens Your Heart: Reducing the risk of heart disease.
  • Improves Musculoskeletal Health: Stronger muscles and bones mean a lower risk of joint problems and injuries from falls.
  • Boosts Mental Well-being: Regular exercise is a proven tool for managing stress and anxiety, reducing the need for mental health support.

3. The Importance of Quality Sleep Chronic sleep deprivation can weaken your immune system, impair cognitive function, and contribute to long-term health issues. The NHS recommends 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night for most adults. Good sleep hygiene demonstrates a commitment to your overall health and well-being.

While these factors don't have a line-item discount on your premium statement, they are the foundation of the good health that keeps claims—and therefore future premiums—low.

The Rise of Wellness Programmes and Integrated Health Apps

One of the most exciting developments in the private medical insurance UK market is the shift from a reactive "fix-it-when-it's-broken" model to a proactive "keep-you-healthy" approach. Many of the best PMI providers now offer integrated wellness and rewards programmes.

These schemes actively encourage and reward you for living a healthy lifestyle. They work by connecting to smartphone apps or fitness trackers to monitor your activity, then offer tangible benefits for hitting certain goals.

This is the most direct way, after quitting smoking, to earn a discount on your premium.

Comparison of Major UK PMI Wellness Programmes

ProviderProgramme NameHow It WorksExample Rewards & Benefits
VitalityVitality ProgrammeEarn activity points for steps, gym visits, and health checks. Status levels from Bronze to Platinum.Premium discounts at renewal, weekly cinema tickets & coffee, discounted Apple Watch, gym memberships.
AvivaAviva Wellbeing AppApp-based goals and resources to improve fitness, nutrition, and mental health.Discounts on health & fitness products, gym memberships. Less focused on direct premium reduction.
BupaBupa Touch / LiveWellFocuses on easy access to care with digital GP access, health information, and symptom checkers. Rewards are less common.Primarily offers convenience and access to health services and information rather than retail discounts.

For many active individuals, a policy with a strong wellness programme like Vitality's can offer significant value, not just through potential premium reductions but also through everyday rewards that offset the cost of the policy.

As an independent PMI broker, WeCovr can provide a detailed comparison of these programmes. We help you look beyond the headline premium to find a policy that truly rewards your personal lifestyle, whether you're a marathon runner or just enjoy a daily walk.

WeCovr's Holistic Approach to Your Health and Finances

At WeCovr, we believe that your health insurance should be part of a wider strategy for your well-being. Our role is to provide the expertise and tools to help you make smarter choices for both your health and your wallet.

We support our clients in several unique ways:

  • Complimentary CalorieHero App: All our health and life insurance clients receive free access to our AI-powered nutrition app, a practical tool to help you achieve your weight management goals.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: We value your loyalty. When you take out a private medical insurance policy with us, we can offer you discounts on other essential cover, such as life insurance or income protection, creating a comprehensive and cost-effective safety net for you and your family.
  • Exceptional Service: Our commitment to our clients is reflected in our high customer satisfaction ratings on major review platforms. We provide clear, jargon-free advice tailored to your individual needs.

Practical Steps to Reduce Your PMI Premium Through Lifestyle

Ready to take control? Here is a summary of the most effective steps you can take to lower your private health cover costs.

  1. Quit Smoking and Vaping: This is the number one action you can take. The savings can be substantial, often hundreds of pounds per year. Ensure you are nicotine-free for at least 12 months before your policy renewal.
  2. Achieve a Healthy BMI: Use a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise to bring your BMI into the healthy range (18.5-24.9). This will remove any potential premium loading for weight.
  3. Moderate Your Alcohol Intake: Stick to the recommended NHS guidelines of no more than 14 units per week.
  4. Choose a Policy That Rewards You: If you are active, specifically look for a policy with an integrated wellness programme. The rewards and discounts can make a significant difference to the overall value.
  5. Review Your Policy Annually with a Broker: Your health, lifestyle, and needs change over time. Don't just let your policy auto-renew. An annual review with an independent broker like WeCovr ensures your cover is still appropriate and competitively priced. We compare the market for you at no extra cost, potentially finding you a better deal with a different provider that better suits your new, healthier lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I lie about being a smoker to get a cheaper PMI premium?

No, you must never do this. Lying on an insurance application is a form of fraud known as 'non-disclosure'. If you make a claim and your insurer discovers you were untruthful, they have the right to reject your claim, cancel your policy back to its start date, and retain any premiums you have paid. You could then find it very difficult to get any type of insurance in the future.

2. Will my PMI premium go down automatically if I lose weight or quit smoking?

No, it won't happen automatically. You need to proactively inform your insurer of the positive change in your lifestyle, usually at your annual renewal date. The best way to do this is to contact your insurer or your broker before your renewal is due. A broker like WeCovr can manage this process for you and ensure the new premium accurately reflects your lower risk profile.

3. Does UK private medical insurance cover gym memberships?

Standard private health cover does not typically pay for your gym membership directly. However, many of the best PMI providers with wellness programmes (like Vitality) offer significant discounts on memberships at major gym chains as a reward for being active. In some cases, these discounts can be up to 50%, making your gym membership far more affordable.

4. What's more important for my premium: my age or my lifestyle?

Both are critically important, but they function differently. Age is a non-negotiable factor that will inevitably cause your premium to increase over time. Lifestyle, however, is the primary area you can actively control to counteract age-related increases. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can keep your premiums significantly lower than someone of the same age with higher-risk habits.


Ready to see how your lifestyle could translate into savings? The best way to find out is to get a personalised quote.

The expert advisors at WeCovr are here to help. We'll compare leading UK providers, explain your options in plain English, and find a policy that fits your health needs and your budget—all at no cost to you.

Contact WeCovr today for your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote.


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!