Private Colonoscopy Cost UK 2026 Procedure Fees & Insurance Cover

With NHS waiting lists for crucial diagnostic tests remaining a significant concern, many UK residents are now looking for faster alternatives. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker that has helped arrange cover for over 900,000 people, we provide transparent guidance on accessing private healthcare. This article demystifies the costs of private colonoscopies and explains how the right insurance can provide rapid access and peace of mind.

Transparent pricing for private colonoscopies and gastroscopies in the UK, helping patients bypass NHS waiting lists

A private colonoscopy or gastroscopy offers a swift and efficient route to diagnosis, investigation, and treatment, bypassing the lengthy waits that can cause significant anxiety. Understanding the costs involved is the first step towards making an informed decision about your health.

Prices for these procedures are not uniform; they vary based on the hospital, the consultant, and your location. However, a typical 'package price' or an itemised bill will generally include:

Consultant's Fee: For the initial consultation and for performing the procedure itself.
Hospital Fee: Covers the use of the endoscopy suite, nursing staff, and day-patient facilities.
Anaesthetist's Fee: For administering and monitoring sedation.
Histology Fee: An additional cost if biopsies are taken and need to be analysed by a pathologist.

Let's break down the estimated costs for 2026.

Private Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy Costs UK (2026 Estimates)

Paying for a procedure yourself, known as 'self-pay', provides immediate access. Below are estimated costs, which are crucial for budgeting if you don't have private medical insurance. London-based hospitals typically charge 15-25% more than those in other parts of the UK.

Procedure	Initial Consultation	Procedure Cost (incl. hospital & anaesthetist)	Potential Biopsy Fee	Estimated Total Range
Colonoscopy	£200 - £350	£1,800 - £2,500	£200 - £400	£2,200 - £3,250
Gastroscopy	£200 - £350	£1,500 - £2,200	£200 - £400	£1,900 - £2,950
Combined	£250 - £400	£2,800 - £3,800	£300 - £500	£3,350 - £4,700

Insider Tip: Always ask for a 'fixed-price package' if you are self-funding. This helps avoid unexpected bills. Ensure the package clearly states what is included, such as the initial consultation, the procedure, and one follow-up appointment. Crucially, check if the cost of removing polyps (polypectomy) and analysing them (histology) is included, as this is a common source of extra fees.

How Private Medical Insurance Covers Endoscopy Procedures

For the vast majority of people, private medical insurance (PMI) is the most affordable and effective way to access procedures like colonoscopies. Most comprehensive PMI policies in the UK cover diagnostic tests and procedures when they are medically necessary to investigate new symptoms.

However, it is absolutely vital to understand the core principle of UK private health cover:

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., appendicitis, joint pain leading to a hip replacement, or new digestive symptoms requiring a colonoscopy).
Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management but has no known cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis). PMI will not cover the routine monitoring or flare-ups of chronic illnesses.
Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or symptom you have had in the years before your policy starts. Most policies exclude these for a set period, typically two years (see 'moratorium underwriting' below).

Real-Life Scenarios:

Covered: David, 52, starts experiencing new and concerning bowel symptoms. His GP refers him to a gastroenterologist. He calls his PMI provider, who authorises the consultation and the recommended colonoscopy. The procedure reveals several benign polyps, which are removed. The entire pathway, from consultation to procedure and follow-up, is covered by his insurance, subject to his chosen excess.
Not Covered: Maria, 48, has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis for ten years. Her specialist recommends a routine annual colonoscopy to monitor the condition. Because ulcerative colitis is a pre-existing and chronic condition, this surveillance procedure will not be covered by her standard PMI policy.

Navigating the Private Healthcare Pathway: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have private health insurance and need a colonoscopy, the process is straightforward and designed to be stress-free.

Visit Your GP: This is the essential first step. You will need a referral letter from your GP explaining your symptoms and why a specialist opinion is needed. Insurers require this to confirm the investigation is medically justified.
Contact Your Insurer for Pre-Authorisation: Before you book anything, call your insurer's claims or pre-authorisation line. Provide them with your GP referral details. They will confirm your cover is active and provide an authorisation number for the consultation.
Choose Your Specialist and Hospital: Your insurer will provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals from their network. You can choose who and where you want to be treated, offering a level of choice not available on the NHS.
Book Your Appointments: Once authorised, you book the consultation. If the specialist recommends a colonoscopy, you or their secretary will contact the insurer again for authorisation for the procedure itself.
The Procedure and Billing: You attend your appointment at the private hospital. The hospital and the consultant will bill your insurance company directly. You are only responsible for paying the 'excess' on your policy.
Pay Your Excess: The excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards any claim. For example, if your excess is £250 and the total cost of your claim is £2,500, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,250.

Choosing the Right Private Health Insurance Policy for You

Not all PMI policies are created equal. To ensure you're covered for diagnostics like colonoscopies, you need a policy with adequate outpatient cover.

Here’s what to look for when comparing options:

Feature	What to Look For	WeCovr Adviser Tip
Outpatient Cover	Ensure your policy includes cover for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests. Some basic policies only cover you once you are admitted to a hospital bed (in-patient). For a colonoscopy, you need comprehensive outpatient cover.	Opt for a policy with at least £1,000-£1,500 in outpatient cover, or ideally, a 'full cover' option. This ensures the entire diagnostic journey is likely to be covered.
Underwriting Type	Choose between Moratorium (no medical questionnaire, automatically excludes conditions from the last 5 years) or Full Medical Underwriting (you declare your history, and exclusions are specified upfront).	Moratorium underwriting is the most popular choice in the UK. It's simpler and quicker. After two consecutive years on the policy without symptoms or treatment for a condition, it may become eligible for cover.
Hospital List	Policies offer different tiers of hospitals (e.g., Local, National, London). A more extensive list costs more.	Unless you live or work near central London's exclusive hospitals (e.g., The Lister, The London Clinic), a national list is often sufficient and more cost-effective.
Excess Level	You can choose an excess from £0 to £1,000+. A higher excess significantly lowers your monthly premium.	Choosing a manageable excess of £250 or £500 is a smart way to reduce your premium. You only pay it once per policy year, per person, regardless of how many claims you make.
Cancer Cover	Check the level of cancer cover. Most policies offer extensive cover for diagnosis and treatment, often including access to drugs not yet approved on the NHS.	This is one of the most valuable parts of any PMI policy. Ensure it covers advanced therapies and provides ongoing support.

Navigating these options can be complex. An expert broker like WeCovr compares the UK's leading insurers—such as Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality—to find a policy that matches your specific needs and budget, at no cost to you.

What If My Private Colonoscopy Finds Something?

This is a primary concern for anyone undergoing an investigation. Here’s how private medical insurance provides a seamless journey from diagnosis to treatment.

If Benign Polyps or a Treatable Condition Are Found: The consultant will typically remove any polyps during the colonoscopy itself (a polypectomy). The tissue is sent for analysis (histology). Your PMI policy will cover the cost of this and any follow-up consultation needed to discuss the results and next steps.

If a Cancer Diagnosis Is Made: This is where private medical insurance demonstrates its profound value. If a colonoscopy leads to a cancer diagnosis, your policy’s cancer cover is triggered. This typically provides:

Rapid access to treatment: No waiting for NHS oncology services.
Full cover for treatments: Including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Access to advanced drugs: Many policies provide cover for cutting-edge cancer drugs and therapies that may not be available on the NHS due to cost or NICE approval delays.
Choice of specialist: You can be treated by a leading oncologist at a specialist cancer centre.
Support services: Including palliative care, home nursing, and mental health support.

At any stage, you retain the right to transfer your care back to the NHS if you wish. The flexibility is entirely yours.

WeCovr: Added Value for Your Health and Wellbeing

When you arrange your private medical insurance through WeCovr, you get more than just expert, FCA-regulated advice. Our clients also benefit from:

Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All clients receive free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you manage your health proactively.
Exclusive Discounts: When you take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us, you can receive discounts on other essential protection products.
Exceptional Service: We pride ourselves on high customer satisfaction, guiding you through the comparison, application, and claims process with clarity and care.

Ready to bypass the waiting lists and secure peace of mind? The first step is understanding your options.

Take control of your health journey today. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr, and let our independent experts find the perfect private health cover for your needs.

Do I need a GP referral for a private colonoscopy in the UK?

Generally, yes. If you are using private medical insurance, a GP referral is almost always required to validate that the procedure is medically necessary. This is a standard part of the claims process. If you are self-funding, some private clinics offer direct-access colonoscopies without a GP letter, but it is always best practice to consult your GP first.

Will my private medical insurance premium go up after a claim?

It might. Most UK private medical insurance policies operate with a No Claims Discount (NCD), similar to car insurance. Making a claim will typically reduce your NCD level, which can lead to a higher premium at renewal. However, the increase is usually far less than the cost of the private treatment you received. Conversely, if you don't claim, your NCD will increase, helping to keep your premiums down.

What is the difference between a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy?

Both are types of endoscopy, but they examine different parts of the digestive system. A colonoscopy uses a flexible camera to examine the large intestine (colon) and is inserted via the rectum. A gastroscopy (or upper endoscopy) uses a similar camera to examine the oesophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, and is inserted via the mouth.

Can I get private health insurance if I already have a condition like IBS or Diverticulitis?

Yes, you can still get private health insurance, but the policy will exclude that specific pre-existing condition and any related symptoms or treatments. If you choose 'moratorium' underwriting, this exclusion is automatic. If you remain free of symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition for two continuous years after your policy starts, the exclusion may be lifted by the insurer.

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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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7 Million+ UK Adults on NHS Lists by 2026 How PMI Ensures Your Health Cant Wait

⌛ 29 min read

70% of Private Medical Treatments Now Insurance-Funded

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70% of Private Treatments Now Insurance-Funded

⌛ 17 min read

Abdominal Adhesions Private Surgery Options

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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!

Private Colonoscopy Cost UK 2026 Procedure Fees & Insurance Cover

Transparent pricing for private colonoscopies and gastroscopies in the UK, helping patients bypass NHS waiting lists

Private Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy Costs UK (2026 Estimates)

How Private Medical Insurance Covers Endoscopy Procedures

Real-Life Scenarios:

Navigating the Private Healthcare Pathway: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the Right Private Health Insurance Policy for You

What If My Private Colonoscopy Finds Something?

WeCovr: Added Value for Your Health and Wellbeing

Do I need a GP referral for a private colonoscopy in the UK?

Will my private medical insurance premium go up after a claim?

What is the difference between a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy?

Can I get private health insurance if I already have a condition like IBS or Diverticulitis?

Related guides

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

How does it work?

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Important Fact!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form

2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes

3. Enjoy your protection!

Any questions?

Are Pre-existing Medical Conditions Covered?

Why Do I Need Private Medical Insurance?

How Much Does It Really Cost?

Isn't NHS Treatment and Coverage Enough?

Why Do I Need to Speak to Someone?

Are Your Insurance Partners Trustworthy?

How Do You Make Money If the Quotes Are Free to Get?

How Much Is Private Health Insurance?

How Does Private Health Insurance Work?

What Does Health Insurance Cover?

Can I Pay Extra to Have a Pre-existing Condition Covered?

When Will My Health Insurance Policy Start?

Will I Need an Excess on My Private Health Insurance Policy?

How Can I Reduce the Cost of Health Insurance?

Is There an Age Limit for Private Medical Insurance?

How Can I Compare Health Insurance Plans?

Can I Add Other People Onto My Health Insurance Policy?

Can I Use Health Insurance Abroad?

What is Comprehensive Cover?

Does Health Insurance Cover Dental Treatment?

Does Health Insurance Cover Cancer?

Can I Change My Cover Once I Have Signed Up?

How Quickly Can I Get an Appointment with a Private GP?

Can Each Person on My Policy Have Different Options of Cover?

Are There Different Levels of Cover?

Where Can I Find Out More About Hospitals or Treatment Providers?

What Does Fee Assured Mean?

Does Health Insurance Cover Mental Health?

Can I Cover My Children as Well?

Will the Cost Go Up Every Year?

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

What's the Difference Between Health Insurance and NHS?

Does Health Insurance Cover Physiotherapy?

Can I Use My Cover Straight Away?

How Can I Get a Quote?

What Does Health Insurance Cover and What Can't It Cover?

How Does Health Insurance Work?

What is Outpatient Cover?

Can I Use My Health Insurance Cover Immediately?

Does Health Insurance Cover A&E (Accident and Emergency)?

Are There Any Rewards for Being a PMI Plan Holder?

I'm Leaving My Job and Have Health Insurance with Them, What Do I Do?

How Do I Get a Quote After I've Left My Job?

If I Continue My Health Insurance After I've Left My Job, Will My New Cover Be the Same as Before?

If I Continue My Health Insurance After I Left My Job, Will the Price for My New Cover Be the Same?

How Long Do I Have After Leaving My Job to Decide to Stay with My Insurer?

What Do I Need Before Asking About Continuing My Cover After I've Left My Job?

I've Ongoing Treatment But I'm Leaving My Work Health Insurance Policy, Can I Still Have Treatment?

When And How Do I Pay My Excess?

Do I Pay an Excess for Using Services Like Digital GP?

Can I Change My Excess Partway Through the Year?

What is a No Claims Discount?