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Mental Health Cover How PMI Compares

Mental Health Cover How PMI Compares 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the growing importance of mental health support within private medical insurance in the UK. Navigating the options can be complex, but getting the right cover provides invaluable peace of mind and, crucially, rapid access to care when you need it most.

Coverage for mental health is improving but still varies; check each providers limits. Look out for enhanced mental health packages—theyre not standard. — NimbleFinsWeCovr reviews

Private medical insurance (PMI) has traditionally focused on physical ailments, often treating mental health as a secondary concern or excluding it altogether. Thankfully, this is changing. UK insurers now recognise that mental and physical health are intrinsically linked, and consumer demand for robust mental health support has pushed the market to evolve.

However, this evolution has created a varied and often confusing landscape. What one insurer includes as 'standard' mental health cover, another might only offer as a premium, optional add-on. Financial limits, the number of therapy sessions, and the types of conditions covered can differ dramatically between providers. It's essential to look beyond the headline promises and scrutinise the policy details to ensure the cover meets your potential needs. Enhanced packages offer more comprehensive support, but they come at a higher cost and are by no means a standard feature.

The State of Mental Health in the UK: A Sobering Reality

Understanding the need for private mental health cover starts with acknowledging the challenges within the current system. The statistics paint a clear picture of a nation grappling with significant mental health pressures.

According to the NHS, around 1 in 4 adults in the UK experience at least one diagnosable mental health problem each year. The pressure on public services is immense.

  • NHS Waiting Lists: In mid-2024, NHS England data showed that while many people are seen within the target times for psychological therapies (IAPT), hundreds of thousands are still on waiting lists. For more specialist psychiatric care, waits can extend for many months, a critical delay when someone is in distress.
  • Workforce Impact: The Centre for Mental Health estimates that mental ill-health costs UK employers up to £56 billion a year through absenteeism, presenteeism (working while unwell), and staff turnover.
  • Young People's Mental Health: Data from the ONS suggests a rise in depressive symptoms among young adults, highlighting the need for early and accessible intervention.

While the NHS provides essential, life-saving care, these figures show why many people are now looking to private medical insurance in the UK for faster access to consultations, therapy, and specialist treatment.

What Does Standard PMI Cover for Mental Health?

When you buy a private health insurance policy, it will typically come with a 'core' level of cover. For mental health, this standard offering is designed to treat acute conditions – illnesses that are short-term and have a clear path to recovery.

Crucial Point: Private medical insurance is not designed for chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A condition that is expected to respond quickly to treatment, such as a specific bout of anxiety triggered by a stressful life event or a single depressive episode.
  • Chronic Condition: A long-term condition that requires ongoing management rather than a cure, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or recurrent major depression. These are nearly always excluded from standard PMI cover.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any mental health condition for which you sought advice, diagnosis, or treatment before your policy began. This will be excluded, typically for a set period or permanently.

So, what can you expect from a typical standard mental health package?

FeatureTypical Standard PMI Coverage
Initial ConsultationUsually covers a consultation with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Therapy SessionsA limited number of sessions, often between 8 and 10 per policy year.
Common TherapiesPrimarily focuses on evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Out-patient CoverA financial cap is common, for example, up to £1,000-£1,500 for consultations and therapy.
In-patient/Day-patientMay offer limited cover, such as up to 28 days for hospital stays for psychiatric treatment.

This level of cover can be a lifeline for someone needing prompt support for a condition like stress, anxiety, or mild depression, helping them get back on their feet without a long wait.

Enhanced Mental Health Cover: A Deeper Level of Support

For those who want more comprehensive protection, most insurers offer an 'enhanced' or 'upgraded' mental health option at an additional cost. This add-on significantly expands the scope and limits of the cover.

Choosing an enhanced package is a personal decision based on your priorities and budget. It provides a much stronger safety net, particularly if you are concerned about the potential for more serious mental health challenges.

Here’s how standard and enhanced options typically compare:

FeatureStandard Mental Health CoverEnhanced Mental Health Cover
Financial LimitsCapped (e.g., £1,500 out-patient)Often 'Full Cover' (up to your overall policy limit)
Therapy SessionsLimited (e.g., 8-10 sessions)Often unlimited sessions (subject to clinical need)
In-patient StaysLimited (e.g., 28-45 days)Often extended or unlimited cover
Range of TherapiesMainly CBTWider range, may include psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, family therapy etc.
Condition ScopeStrictly acute conditionsMay offer more flexibility for complex cases (but still excludes chronic conditions)

A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare these options side-by-side, ensuring you don't pay for more cover than you need while still getting the protection that matters to you.

How Major UK PMI Providers Compare on Mental Health (2025)

The UK's leading private health cover providers have distinct approaches to mental health. The table below offers a general comparison, but remember that specific policy details can and do change. Always get a tailored quote for the most accurate information.

ProviderTypical Standard Mental Health OfferingEnhanced Mental Health OptionKey Features & Considerations
AXA HealthOften considered one of the strongest as standard. Typically includes a good number of therapy sessions and support through their 'Mind Health' service.The enhanced option provides 'full cover' for both out-patient and in-patient treatment, removing many of the standard limits.Strong focus on clinical pathways. Their digital GP service, Doctor@Hand, can be a useful first step.
BupaThe 'Mental Health Cover' benefit is standard on their 'Bupa By You' policies, covering consultations and therapy up to a limit.'Extended Mental Health Cover' can be added to significantly increase financial limits and the duration of in-patient care.Bupa has a large network of recognised therapists and facilities. They also offer a 24/7 mental health helpline.
AvivaIncludes a mental health benefit as standard on most policies, providing access to consultations and therapy. Often includes access to the Aviva Digital GP app.The 'Enhanced Mental Health' option provides more extensive cover, often removing the financial limits for out-patient treatment.Known for good digital tools and a straightforward claims process. Their 'Wellbeing Library' provides useful resources.
VitalityStandard cover includes a set number of talking therapy sessions and some in-patient cover.Their 'Full Mental Health Cover' option boosts the limits significantly. Access is also linked to their wellness programme.Unique model that rewards healthy living. You can earn points and rewards for activities that support mental wellbeing, like mindfulness or exercise.
WPAWPA's modular approach allows you to choose your level of psychiatric cover. A basic level is often included, with options to upgrade.You can choose higher financial limits for psychiatric treatment as an optional extra.Known for excellent customer service and flexibility. They are a not-for-profit organisation, which appeals to many customers.

The Pathway to Care: How to Use Your PMI for Mental Health

If you find yourself needing to use your mental health cover, the process is generally straightforward, but you must follow the correct steps to ensure your treatment is approved.

  1. See Your GP: Your first port of call is almost always your NHS GP. They will assess your condition. If they feel specialist intervention is needed, they will provide you with an 'open referral' letter. This confirms you need to see a specialist (e.g., a psychiatrist) without naming a specific person.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: This step is vital. Before booking any appointments, you must call your insurer's claims or pre-authorisation line. Provide them with your policy number and details from the GP referral.
  3. Get Pre-Authorisation: The insurer will check your cover and confirm what you are entitled to. They will give you an authorisation number and provide a list of approved specialists or therapy providers in their network.
  4. Book Your Appointment: You can now contact one of the approved specialists to book your initial consultation. Let them know you are using private medical insurance and provide your authorisation number.
  5. Begin Treatment: After the consultation, the specialist will recommend a course of treatment (e.g., a series of therapy sessions). You will need to get this treatment plan pre-authorised by your insurer as well. In most cases, the provider will bill the insurer directly, so you don't have to worry about payments.

Beyond Treatment: The Rise of Wellness and Prevention

Modern private health cover is about more than just reacting to illness; it’s about proactive wellbeing. Insurers now bundle a host of valuable tools designed to help you manage stress and maintain good mental health.

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Skip the wait for a GP appointment. Apps like an insurer's own or third-party ones let you have a video consultation in hours, providing a quick and convenient way to discuss early signs of stress or anxiety.
  • Confidential Helplines: Most providers offer a 24/7 support line staffed by trained counsellors. You can call anonymously to talk through any issues, from work stress to relationship problems.
  • Wellbeing Apps: Many policies now come with complimentary subscriptions to leading mindfulness and wellbeing apps like Headspace or Calm.
  • Lifestyle Rewards: Providers like Vitality actively encourage healthy habits. By tracking your exercise, sleep, and nutrition, you can earn rewards like discounted gym memberships or cinema tickets. This creates a positive feedback loop, as physical activity is a proven mood booster.

As a WeCovr client, you also receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you support your mental wellbeing through a balanced diet. Furthermore, customers who purchase PMI or life insurance often qualify for discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance.

Understanding the Exclusions: What PMI for Mental Health Won't Cover

To avoid disappointment, it is crucial to be clear about the limitations of private medical insurance. Policies are designed for a specific purpose, and some conditions and treatments will always fall outside their scope.

Here are the most common exclusions:

  • Chronic Mental Health Conditions: As mentioned, long-term, incurable conditions that require ongoing management are not covered. This includes schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and severe, recurrent depression.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: If you have received treatment, medication, or advice for any mental health condition in the five years before your policy starts, it will be excluded. Under a 'moratorium' underwriting policy, this exclusion might be lifted if you remain symptom and treatment-free for a continuous two-year period after your policy begins.
  • Addiction: Treatment for alcohol, drug, or substance abuse is almost always excluded.
  • Developmental and Learning Disorders: The diagnosis and management of conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and dyslexia are not covered as they are considered developmental, not acute illnesses.
  • Dementia and Organic Brain Disease: Conditions like Alzheimer's are not covered by standard PMI.
  • Self-inflicted Injury: Treatment for injuries resulting from attempted suicide or self-harm may be excluded, though the underlying mental health crisis might be covered for acute treatment.

Is PMI for Mental Health Worth the Cost?

The decision to invest in private health cover is a personal one. The cost will depend on your age, location, lifestyle, and the level of cover you choose. Adding enhanced mental health cover will increase your premium, but for many, the benefits provide peace of mind that is well worth the price.

Pros of PMI for Mental Health:

  • Speed of Access: Bypass long NHS waiting lists to see a specialist in days or weeks, not months.
  • Choice and Control: Choose your specialist from the insurer's approved list and often select a hospital or clinic that is convenient for you.
  • Privacy and Comfort: Receive treatment in a private, comfortable setting.
  • Access to Therapies: Gain access to a wider range of psychological therapies that may have limited availability on the NHS.
  • Preventative Tools: Make use of wellness apps, digital GPs, and other resources to proactively manage your wellbeing.

Cons of PMI for Mental Health:

  • The Cost: Premiums are an ongoing financial commitment.
  • Exclusions: The strict rules around pre-existing and chronic conditions mean it isn't a solution for everyone.
  • Annual Limits: Your cover may be capped by a financial amount or a set number of sessions, especially on standard policies.
  • The Process: You still need a GP referral and must get pre-authorisation for all stages of treatment.

Ultimately, private medical insurance is a powerful tool for taking control of your health. By working with an expert broker like WeCovr, you can compare the entire market, understand the nuances of each policy, and build a plan that protects both your physical and mental wellbeing, all at no extra cost to you.


Does UK private health insurance cover therapy?

Yes, most private medical insurance (PMI) policies in the UK now include cover for therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). However, the level of cover varies. Standard policies typically offer a limited number of sessions (e.g., 8-10), while enhanced mental health options can provide for more or even unlimited sessions, subject to clinical need. Cover is for acute conditions, not pre-existing or chronic ones.

Do I need to declare my mental health history when applying for PMI?

Yes, you must be honest about your medical history. When you apply, you will choose between 'moratorium underwriting' (where any condition you've had in the last 5 years is automatically excluded for 2 years) or 'full medical underwriting' (where you complete a detailed health questionnaire). Failing to disclose a condition can invalidate your policy. Any pre-existing mental health issue will be excluded from cover, at least initially.

Can I get private health insurance if I already have anxiety or depression?

You can still get private health insurance, but the policy will not cover your pre-existing anxiety or depression. Private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise *after* your policy starts. If you have a history of anxiety, any future treatment related to it would be excluded. However, the policy would still cover you for other new, unrelated health issues, both mental and physical.

Ready to find the right protection for your mental and physical health?

Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare leading UK insurers to find a policy that fits your needs and budget, giving you the clarity and confidence to make the right choice.


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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.

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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