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Top Private Maternity Hospitals in London (2026 Reviews & Costs)

Top Private Maternity Hospitals in London (2026 Reviews &...

As expert brokers in UK private medical insurance, WeCovr has helped over 900,000 individuals and families navigate their healthcare choices. This guide provides an authoritative look at London's premier private maternity hospitals, breaking down their costs and services for 2026 to help you make an informed decision for one of life's most important moments.

A guide to London's most exclusive private maternity wings, comparing birth package costs, facilities, and consultant-led care

Choosing where to welcome your new arrival is a deeply personal and significant decision. For those considering private care, London is home to some of the world's most renowned maternity units, offering a level of service, comfort, and personalised care that goes far beyond the standard.

These exclusive wings promise a consultant-led journey, luxurious hotel-like suites, and a degree of privacy that appeals to many, from international clients to discerning local families.

However, navigating this exclusive world can be complex. The costs are substantial, and understanding what is—and isn't—included in a "package" is crucial. This guide will demystify the process, comparing London's top private maternity hospitals and explaining the financial landscape, including the role of private medical insurance.

Understanding Private Maternity in the UK

Before diving into the hospitals themselves, it’s essential to understand how private maternity care operates in the UK, particularly concerning insurance.

Does Private Medical Insurance Cover Maternity?

This is the most common question we receive, and the answer requires careful explanation.

Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover routine pregnancy and childbirth. Insurers classify pregnancy as a planned life event rather than an unforeseen, acute medical condition, which is what PMI is designed for.

  • Standard Exclusions: Virtually all individual and small business PMI policies in the UK explicitly exclude costs related to uncomplicated pregnancy, delivery, and postnatal care.
  • Complications Cover: Some policies may offer limited cover for certain unexpected complications of pregnancy, but this varies hugely and should be checked carefully.
  • Specialist Maternity Plans: A very small number of high-end international or corporate health insurance plans may include a maternity benefit. However, these typically have a waiting period of 10-12 months. This means you must have the policy in place for almost a year before conception to be eligible for cover.
  • Self-Funding: The vast majority of people opting for private maternity care in the UK do so on a self-funded basis, paying the hospital and consultants directly.

Insider Tip: If you're planning a family, don't assume your private health cover will pay for a private birth. At WeCovr, we can review your policy documents to give you clarity on what is and isn't covered, ensuring there are no surprises down the line.

Consultant-Led vs. Midwife-Led Care

In the private sector, the primary model is consultant-led care. This is one of its main attractions.

  • Consultant-Led Care: You choose a specific consultant obstetrician who will oversee your entire pregnancy journey, from antenatal appointments to the delivery itself. This continuity is highly valued, providing reassurance and a single point of contact who understands your personal and medical history.
  • Midwife-Led Care: The standard model in the NHS for low-risk pregnancies. Care is provided by a team of midwives. While some private hospitals are introducing midwife-led packages, the consultant-led experience remains the hallmark of private maternity.

The Best Private Maternity Hospitals in London: A 2026 Comparison

London's private maternity scene is dominated by a few prestigious names, most of which are private wings within large, reputable NHS hospitals. This co-location is a significant advantage, providing the best of both worlds: the luxury of private care with the immediate back-up of NHS critical care and neonatal intensive care units (NICU) if required.

Here’s our 2026 review of the top contenders.

1. The Lindo Wing, St Mary's Hospital

Famed as the choice for the British Royal Family, The Lindo Wing has a global reputation for excellence and discretion. Situated within St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, it offers patients peace of mind with access to one of London's leading NHS teaching hospitals.

  • Key Features: En-suite rooms, deluxe suites, a la carte menu with celebratory afternoon tea, secure and discreet environment. The on-site neonatal unit at St Mary's is a major draw for managing any potential complications.
  • Consultant-Led Care: Home to some of the UK's most respected obstetricians and paediatricians. You select your consultant who provides care throughout.
  • 2026 Estimated Costs: The Lindo Wing is at the premium end of the market. Consultant fees are billed separately and are in addition to the hospital's package prices.
The Lindo Wing - 2026 Estimated Package CostsStarting Price (Estimate)Notes
Normal Delivery (1 Night)£16,500Includes midwifery care, theatre costs, routine monitoring.
Caesarean Section (2 Nights)£22,000Includes planned C-section theatre costs, midwifery care.
Extra Night£2,000Priced per night in a standard room.
Consultant Fees£9,000 - £15,000+Billed separately by the consultant's practice.

Disclaimer: Prices are estimates for 2026, subject to change, and exclude consultant, anaesthetist, and paediatrician fees.

2. The Portland Hospital

The Portland is the only fully independent private hospital in the UK dedicated entirely to the care of women and children. Located in central London, it's synonymous with luxury, privacy, and five-star service, making it a favourite among celebrities and international clients.

  • Key Features: 36 private consultant-led rooms, two critical care beds, a large neonatal intensive care unit, a paediatric intensive care unit, and a Special Care Baby Unit. It offers a comprehensive service under one roof. The nursery is available 24/7 so parents can rest.
  • Consultant-Led Care: A vast network of over 150 leading consultants in obstetrics, paediatrics, and women's health.
  • Safety Note: As a standalone private hospital, any major adult emergency requiring specialist care not available on-site would necessitate a transfer to a nearby NHS hospital.
  • 2026 Estimated Costs: The Portland's pricing is among the highest, reflecting its unique position in the market.
The Portland Hospital - 2026 Estimated Package CostsStarting Price (Estimate)Notes
Consultant-Led Normal Delivery£18,000 - £30,000+Price varies based on room type and length of stay.
Consultant-Led Caesarean Section£25,000 - £40,000+Includes a 2-3 night stay typically.
Consultant Fees£10,000 - £18,000+Billed separately and can be higher than other units.

Disclaimer: Prices are estimates for 2026 and are highly variable. They exclude consultant, anaesthetist, and paediatrician fees.

3. The Kensington Wing, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital

The Kensington Wing is a modern, highly-regarded private maternity unit located within the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, one of the UK’s top-performing NHS trusts. It offers a superb balance of comfort, expert care, and the critical safety net of a major hospital.

  • Key Features: 16 en-suite rooms, some with views over London. It's known for its evidence-based approach and support for natural births, with two birthing pools available. The hospital has a Level 3 NICU, the highest level of intensive care for newborns.
  • Consultant-Led Care: You can choose a consultant package or opt for their Midwife-Led Care package, which is a more affordable option.
  • 2026 Estimated Costs: The Kensington Wing is competitively priced against the Lindo and Portland, often seen as providing excellent value for a top-tier service.
The Kensington Wing - 2026 Estimated Package CostsStarting Price (Estimate)Notes
Normal Delivery (1 Night)£14,500Consultant-led package.
Caesarean Section (2 Nights)£18,500Planned C-section package.
Midwife-Led Package£11,000A more affordable option for low-risk pregnancies.
Consultant Fees£8,000 - £12,000+Billed separately by the consultant.

Disclaimer: Prices are estimates for 2026 and exclude additional fees for consultants, anaesthetists, and paediatricians.

4. The Westminster Maternity Suite, St Thomas' Hospital

Located directly opposite the Houses of Parliament, the Westminster Maternity Suite boasts some of the most iconic views of any hospital in the world. As part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, it benefits from the backing of a world-class medical institution.

  • Key Features: Private en-suite rooms with stunning views, direct access to the hospital's extensive medical services, including a renowned neonatal unit and adult intensive care. The location is truly unique.
  • Consultant-Led Care: Care is provided by a dedicated team of private midwives alongside your chosen consultant obstetrician.
  • 2026 Estimated Costs: Pricing is competitive and offers a compelling alternative to the more established names, especially given the location and NHS backing.
The Westminster Suite - 2026 Estimated Package CostsStarting Price (Estimate)Notes
Normal Delivery Package£15,000Includes a one-night stay.
Caesarean Section Package£20,000Includes a two-night stay.
Consultant Fees£8,500 - £13,000+Billed separately by the consultant.

Disclaimer: Prices are estimates for 2026 and exclude fees for consultants, anaesthetists, and any additional treatments or stays.

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Cost Comparison Table: London's Private Maternity Packages (2026 Estimates)

To help you compare at a glance, here is a summary of the estimated starting costs. Remember, the total cost will be the package price plus all additional fees.

HospitalNormal Delivery (Package Est.)C-Section (Package Est.)Consultant Fees (Est. Additional)Key Advantage
The Lindo Wing£16,500+£22,000+£9,000 - £15,000+Royal-approved reputation; co-located with St Mary's NHS.
The Portland Hospital£18,000+£25,000+£10,000 - £18,000+Fully private; luxury hotel feel; extensive paediatric services.
The Kensington Wing£14,500+£18,500+£8,000 - £12,000+Excellent value; modern facilities; co-located with top NHS trust.
The Westminster Suite£15,000+£20,000+£8,500 - £13,000+Unbeatable views; backed by Guy's and St Thomas' NHS.

CRITICAL NOTE: A realistic total budget for a private birth in London in 2026, including all fees, is likely to be in the £25,000 to £45,000 range, and potentially higher if complications arise.

What's NOT Included in a Private Maternity Package? The Hidden Costs

Understanding the "extras" is vital for budgeting accurately. A package price is just the starting point. Fees almost always billed separately include:

  1. Consultant Obstetrician's Fees: This is the largest additional cost, covering all your antenatal care, being on-call for your birth, and the delivery itself. This is paid directly to their private practice.
  2. Anaesthetist's Fees: If you have an epidural or a caesarean section, you will be billed separately by the anaesthetist. This can be £1,500 - £2,500+.
  3. Paediatrician's Fees: A paediatrician will check your baby after birth. Their fee for this initial consultation is typically extra.
  4. Antenatal Scans & Tests: Packages may include routine scans, but extra scans, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), or other specialised blood tests will incur additional charges.
  5. Extra Nights: If you or your baby need to stay in hospital longer than the package allows, you will be charged a per-night rate.
  6. Emergency Care: An emergency C-section, blood transfusions, or a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can significantly increase the final bill. A NICU stay can cost several thousand pounds per day.

How WeCovr Can Help Navigate Your Health Insurance Options

While a standard private medical insurance UK policy won't fund your private birth, having the right health cover for your family is more important than ever.

The birth of a child is often a trigger for families to review their healthcare provisions. At WeCovr, our expert advisers can:

  • Review Your Existing PMI: We'll help you understand exactly what is and isn't covered by your current policy, especially regarding family extensions and newborn cover.
  • Find the Right Family Policy: We compare leading UK PMI providers to find a policy that protects your whole family against future health concerns, ensuring fast access to specialists and treatment for acute conditions.
  • Offer Exclusive Benefits: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, and can benefit from discounts when you take out other policies like life insurance.

We provide a no-obligation, free service to help you find the best private health cover for your new and growing family's needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I buy private health insurance to cover my pregnancy now?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance policies exclude routine pregnancy and childbirth. A small number of specialist plans may offer a maternity benefit, but they require you to have held the policy for a 'waiting period' of 10-12 months before you conceive. Therefore, you cannot buy a new policy to cover a current pregnancy.

How much does a private birth in London really cost in total for 2026?

A realistic total budget for 2026 is between £25,000 and £45,000. This is based on estimated hospital package costs (around £15,000-£25,000) plus consultant fees (£8,000-£15,000+), anaesthetist fees, and other potential extras. The final cost can be higher if complications arise.

What happens if there's an emergency during a private birth?

This is a key consideration. Private maternity wings located within large NHS hospitals (like The Lindo Wing, Kensington Wing, and Westminster Suite) are often considered the safest option. They have immediate, on-site access to NHS emergency services, including adult intensive care and Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). Standalone private hospitals like The Portland have their own NICU and critical care facilities but may need to arrange an ambulance transfer to an NHS hospital in a severe maternal emergency.

Choosing a private maternity hospital is a major financial and personal commitment. London offers some of the best facilities in the world, but it's crucial to go in with your eyes open to the full scope of costs and services.

While private medical insurance may not cover the birth itself, ensuring your family has comprehensive health cover for everything else is a wise investment. Speak to a WeCovr adviser today for a free, no-obligation quote and find the right protection for your loved ones.


Related guides

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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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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