WeCovr.

Login

UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons At Risk

UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons At Risk 2026

The UK is facing a silent health emergency. As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explains how this crisis impacts you and how private medical insurance can be your shield, helping you access proactive care and wellbeing support.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Britons Are Dangerously Inactive, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Diseases, Lost Productivity, and Premature Mortality – Discover Your PMI Pathway to Enhanced Wellbeing & LCIIP Shielding Your Productive Future

A seismic shockwave is reverberating through the UK's public health landscape. Alarming new analysis for 2025 reveals a stark and urgent reality: more than half of all Britons are now classified as "dangerously inactive," failing to meet even the most basic recommended levels of physical activity.

This isn't just a matter of personal fitness; it's a national crisis with devastating consequences. This widespread inactivity is a primary driver behind a lifetime burden of illness and economic loss estimated to exceed a staggering £4.0 million per individual affected. This figure encompasses the escalating costs of treating chronic diseases, the immense drain of lost economic productivity, and the tragic cost of lives cut short.

In this essential guide, we unpack the data, explore the personal risks, and reveal how a modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policy is no longer just for treatment—it's a powerful tool for proactive wellbeing, helping you and your family lead healthier, more active, and more secure lives.

The Alarming Reality: What "Dangerously Inactive" Means for You

When we talk about being "dangerously inactive," we aren't referring to missing a few gym sessions. The term is based on official UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines.

An adult is considered 'inactive' if they do less than 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week.

To put that into perspective, moderate activity includes things like:

  • A brisk walk where you can still talk but not sing
  • Cycling at a steady pace
  • Pushing a lawnmower
  • Aqua aerobics

The latest data indicates that over 50% of the adult population is failing to clear even this low bar. This epidemic of stillness is driven by modern life: desk-bound jobs, longer commutes in cars or on public transport, and leisure time dominated by screens.

Are You at Risk? A Quick Self-Assessment

Ask yourself honestly about your last seven days:

  • Dedicated Exercise: Did I complete at least 150 minutes of moderate activity (e.g., 30 mins, 5 times) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity?
  • Daily Movement: Did I take a brisk walk, cycle, or do any activity that raised my heart rate for at least 10 minutes at a time?
  • Sedentary Time: How many hours a day did I spend sitting—at work, commuting, or on the sofa?
  • Strength Training: Did I perform activities to strengthen my muscles on at least two days?

If your answers are mostly "no," you likely fall into the at-risk category. The good news is, it's never too late to change course.

The Cascade Effect: How Inactivity Triggers Chronic Disease

Your body is designed to move. When it doesn't, a domino effect of negative health consequences begins, significantly increasing your risk of developing serious, long-term conditions.

It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions—illnesses that are long-term and require ongoing management rather than a cure.

However, by increasing your risk of developing new health problems, inactivity puts you on a path where you may need the very services PMI excels at providing: rapid diagnosis and treatment for acute flare-ups or newly developed conditions.

Chronic ConditionLink to InactivityUK Prevalence (Illustrative 2025 Estimates)
Type 2 DiabetesInactivity impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, leading to insulin resistance.Over 5 million people
Heart & Circulatory DiseasesLack of exercise weakens the heart, raises blood pressure, and contributes to clogged arteries.Around 7.8 million people
Certain Cancers (Bowel, Breast)Regular activity helps regulate hormones and maintain a healthy weight, reducing cancer risk.Over 40,000 bowel cancer cases annually
Musculoskeletal DisordersWeak muscles and bones lead to back pain, joint problems, and an increased risk of osteoporosis.Around 1 in 4 adults affected by back pain
Depression & AnxietyPhysical activity is a powerful mood booster, releasing endorphins and reducing stress hormones.1 in 6 adults experience a common mental disorder

While PMI won't manage your Type 2 diabetes, it could provide the swift knee replacement surgery you need when arthritis—worsened by inactivity and weight gain—becomes debilitating. That is the crucial difference.

The £4.0 Million+ Burden: The Personal Economic Fallout

The financial cost of inactivity extends far beyond the strain on the NHS. For an individual, a major health event triggered by a sedentary lifestyle can be financially catastrophic. We call this the Lifetime Cost of Inactivity-Induced Problems (LCIIP).

This burden is made up of several factors:

  1. Lost Income: A serious illness like a heart attack or stroke can lead to months, or even years, off work. Statutory Sick Pay is minimal, and many households would struggle to cope.
  2. Reduced Future Earnings: A chronic condition may force you to reduce your hours, take a less demanding (and lower-paid) job, or stop working altogether.
  3. Private Treatment Costs: Without insurance, the costs for one-off treatments like joint replacements or cardiac procedures can run into tens of thousands of pounds if you choose to go private to avoid long waits.
  4. Ongoing Expenses: This includes prescription charges, home modifications, and private physiotherapy or care that may not be readily available on the NHS.

Example: The Financial Impact of a Heart Attack

Cost CategoryPotential Financial ImpactHow It Affects You
Immediate Lost Earnings£5,000 - £15,000+Months off work with only basic sick pay.
Long-Term Career Impact£100,000 - £500,000+Inability to return to a high-pressure job; reduced pension contributions.
Private Healthcare (Uninsured)£15,000 - £30,000Cost of a private angioplasty or bypass surgery to skip waiting lists.
Ongoing Costs£500 - £2,000 per yearPrescriptions, cardiac rehab, dietary changes, and other related expenses.

This illustrates how quickly the costs can spiral, depleting savings and jeopardising your family's financial future. Protecting your health is one of the most important financial decisions you can make.

Your Proactive Shield: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Fits In

This is where understanding the modern role of private medical insurance in the UK becomes essential. It’s not just a "sick care" policy; it's a "wellbeing" toolkit.

A PMI policy acts as your proactive shield in three distinct ways:

  1. Rapid Diagnosis for Peace of Mind: If you develop concerning symptoms—like persistent joint pain, a worrying lump, or neurological issues—PMI allows you to bypass lengthy NHS waiting lists. You can get a referral to a specialist and access diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans in days, not months. Early diagnosis is critical for better outcomes.
  2. Prompt Treatment for Acute Conditions: Should that diagnosis reveal an acute condition needing treatment (e.g., a hernia requiring surgery, cataracts needing removal, or a torn ligament needing repair), PMI gives you control. You can choose your specialist and hospital, scheduling your treatment at a time that suits you, minimising disruption to your life and work.
  3. Powerful Wellbeing and Prevention Benefits: This is the game-changer. Modern PMI providers are heavily invested in keeping you healthy. They know that an active, healthy client is less likely to make a large claim. This has led to a revolution in the benefits they offer.

Expert brokers like WeCovr can help you navigate the market to find a policy with the right balance of treatment cover and wellbeing benefits that you'll actually use, all at no extra cost to you.

Unlock Your Wellbeing: The Hidden Gems in Your PMI Policy

Gone are the days when a health insurance policy just sat in a drawer until you got sick. Today's best PMI providers offer a suite of benefits designed to help you get active and stay healthy.

These wellness programmes actively reward you for looking after your health.

Benefit TypeExamples of What's OfferedHow It Fights Inactivity
Gym & Fitness DiscountsUp to 50% off memberships at major chains like Nuffield Health, Virgin Active, and PureGym.Makes joining a gym more affordable, removing a key barrier to getting active.
Wearable Technology DealsHeavily discounted Apple Watches, Fitbits, or Garmin devices.Provides the tools to track your activity, sleep, and progress, motivating you to hit daily goals.
Activity RewardsEarn points for walking, running, or cycling. Points can be redeemed for cinema tickets, coffee, or even lower premiums.Creates a powerful incentive loop, rewarding consistent healthy behaviour.
Digital GP Access24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often within hours.Gives you quick, convenient medical advice without needing to take time off work.
Mental Health SupportAccess to therapy sessions, mindfulness apps (like Headspace), and stress-management resources.Tackles the mental barriers to activity, as poor mental health can sap motivation.
Nutrition & Health ChecksAccess to nutritionists, online health assessments, and discounted preventative health screenings.Empowers you with knowledge about your body and how to fuel it correctly for an active life.

WeCovr enhances this by providing all its PMI and Life Insurance customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This tool integrates seamlessly into a healthier lifestyle, helping you manage your diet as you increase your activity levels.

Your Practical 5-Step Plan to Reclaim an Active Life

Feeling motivated? The journey from inactive to active doesn't require a radical overhaul. It's about building small, sustainable habits.

  1. Find Your Joy: Don't force yourself to go running if you hate it. The best exercise is the one you'll actually do. Try dancing, hiking, team sports, swimming, or even vigorous gardening.
  2. Embrace "Movement Snacks": Can't find a 30-minute block? Break it up! A 10-minute brisk walk at lunchtime, 10 minutes of stair climbing, and 10 minutes of dancing in the kitchen while dinner cooks all add up.
  3. Schedule It In: Treat your activity like any other important appointment. Block out time in your calendar. This tells your brain that it's a non-negotiable priority.
  4. Fuel Your Engine: You wouldn't put diesel in a petrol car. Your body needs the right fuel. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates. A well-fed body has the energy to move.
  5. Prioritise Sleep: Adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's when your body repairs muscle, consolidates memory, and regulates hormones. Poor sleep kills motivation and energy.

Choosing Your Ideal Private Health Cover with WeCovr

Navigating the UK private medical insurance market can feel complex, but it doesn't have to be. Working with an expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr simplifies the entire process. We offer impartial, specialist advice to help you find the perfect cover for your needs and budget.

Here’s what to consider:

  • Level of Cover: Do you want a basic policy covering just in-patient treatment, or a comprehensive plan that includes out-patient diagnostics, therapies, and extensive mental health support?
  • Underwriting Type: Choose between 'Moratorium' (which automatically excludes conditions you've had in the last 5 years) or 'Full Medical Underwriting' (where you declare your full history). We can explain the pros and cons of each.
  • The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Policies have different lists of approved hospitals. We'll ensure your local private hospital is included if that's important to you.

Because we work for you, not the insurer, we can compare policies from all the leading providers to find the one that delivers the best value. Furthermore, customers who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us can often access discounts on other policies, such as income protection or critical illness cover, creating a complete financial safety net. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for every client.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition for PMI?

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure. Standard UK PMI covers acute conditions but excludes chronic ones.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Private medical insurance is designed for new, eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. Most policies will exclude any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before joining. Some policies may cover them again in the future if you remain symptom-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts.

How much does private medical insurance in the UK cost?

The cost of PMI varies widely based on your age, location, level of cover chosen, and medical history. Basic policies can start from as little as £30 per month, while comprehensive plans for older individuals can be several hundred pounds. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote from a broker who can compare the market for you.

Can my PMI policy help with my mental health?

Yes, most modern PMI policies offer excellent mental health support. This can range from access to 24/7 support lines and mindfulness apps on basic plans, to a set number of therapy or counselling sessions on mid-range plans. Comprehensive policies often provide extensive cover for psychiatric treatment, including in-patient care. It's a key benefit that provides support long before a condition becomes critical.

The UK's inactivity crisis is a clear and present danger to our collective health and financial security. But you have the power to act. By embracing a more active lifestyle and securing the right protective shield, you can safeguard your wellbeing and your future.

Take the first step today. Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how a private medical insurance policy can become your greatest ally in living a long, healthy, and active life.

Get Quote

Related guides

UK Inactivity Crisis Half Britons at Risk
UK Inactivity Crisis Half Britons at Risk
Read more →
UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons at Risk
UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons at Risk
Read more →
UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons At Risk
UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons At Risk
Read more →
UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons At Risk
UK Inactivity Crisis Half of Britons At Risk
Read more →
UK Inactivity Crisis 1 in 2 Britons at Silent Risk
UK Inactivity Crisis 1 in 2 Britons at Silent Risk
Read more →
UK Inactivity Crisis 1 in 3 Britons At Risk
UK Inactivity Crisis 1 in 3 Britons At Risk
Read more →

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:

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

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London