WeCovr.

UK Pain Crisis Beat NHS Waits with Private Health Insurance

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
📚 Recommended reads

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026

Read

Average Cost of PMI (UK)

Read

PMI Provider Reviews

Read



Watch this on a dedicated video page
Scroll for the full guide
↓

TL;DR

The UK's Silent Crisis: How 1 in 2 Adults Endure Over 5 Years of Preventable Pain & Discomfort Awaiting NHS Resolution – Discover Your Fast Track to Relief and Rediscovered Well-being with Private Medical Insurance. UK 2025 Shock: 1 in 2 Adults Endure 5+ Years of Preventable Pain & Discomfort Awaiting NHS Resolution – Your PMI Fast Track to Relief & Rediscovered Joy A silent epidemic is sweeping across the United Kingdom. It doesn’t grab the headlines like a novel virus, but its impact is just as profound, eroding the quality of life for millions.

Key takeaways

  • Condition Progression: A worn hip or knee can deteriorate further, causing more severe pain and making eventual surgery more complex.
  • Muscle Atrophy: Lack of movement due to pain leads to muscle wastage, prolonging recovery time post-operation.
  • Increased Dependency: Many are forced to rely more heavily on painkillers, which can come with their own side effects and risks.
  • Secondary Health Issues: A sedentary lifestyle forced by a primary condition can lead to weight gain, cardiovascular strain, and other health problems.
  • Anxiety & Stress: The uncertainty of waiting, coupled with constant discomfort, creates a state of chronic stress. Worrying about a condition worsening is a heavy mental load.

The UK's Silent Crisis: How 1 in 2 Adults Endure Over 5 Years of Preventable Pain & Discomfort Awaiting NHS Resolution – Discover Your Fast Track to Relief and Rediscovered Well-being with Private Medical Insurance.

UK 2025 Shock: 1 in 2 Adults Endure 5+ Years of Preventable Pain & Discomfort Awaiting NHS Resolution – Your PMI Fast Track to Relief & Rediscovered Joy

A silent epidemic is sweeping across the United Kingdom. It doesn’t grab the headlines like a novel virus, but its impact is just as profound, eroding the quality of life for millions. A shocking 2025 projection, based on analysis from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and NHS England data, reveals a staggering reality: nearly one in every two adults in the UK is now living with a persistent, non-life-threatening condition, enduring five years or more of preventable pain, discomfort, and restricted mobility while awaiting resolution through the NHS.

This isn't about criticising the NHS. Our National Health Service is a source of immense national pride, staffed by dedicated heroes who perform miracles every day. The reality, however, is one of unprecedented strain. With a national waiting list that has swelled to a projected 8.5 million cases by mid-2025, the system is struggling to cope with the demand for elective, non-urgent procedures.

For millions, this translates into a daily battle with aching joints, debilitating back pain, failing eyesight from cataracts, or the constant discomfort of a hernia. These are conditions that, while not immediately life-threatening, systematically dismantle a person's life. They steal the joy of playing with grandchildren, the ability to perform a job effectively, the freedom of a country walk, and the simple peace of a pain-free night's sleep.

But what if there was another way? What if you didn't have to accept years of "making do" as your new normal? This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) steps in, not as a replacement for the NHS, but as a powerful, parallel solution. It’s your personal fast track, empowering you to bypass the queues, access leading specialists, and receive treatment in weeks, not years. This is your guide to understanding how PMI can help you reclaim your health, your happiness, and your life.

The True Cost of Waiting: More Than Just Time

The waiting list number is just a statistic. The reality behind it is a tapestry of personal stories woven with threads of physical decline, mental anguish, and financial hardship. The "cost" of waiting for treatment extends far beyond the inconvenience of a long delay.

The Physical Toll

When you're waiting for a joint replacement, a hernia repair, or even diagnostic tests, your condition rarely stays static. It often worsens.

  • Condition Progression: A worn hip or knee can deteriorate further, causing more severe pain and making eventual surgery more complex.
  • Muscle Atrophy: Lack of movement due to pain leads to muscle wastage, prolonging recovery time post-operation.
  • Increased Dependency: Many are forced to rely more heavily on painkillers, which can come with their own side effects and risks.
  • Secondary Health Issues: A sedentary lifestyle forced by a primary condition can lead to weight gain, cardiovascular strain, and other health problems.

The Mental and Emotional Burden

The psychological impact of living in chronic pain is immense and often underestimated.

  • Anxiety & Stress: The uncertainty of waiting, coupled with constant discomfort, creates a state of chronic stress. Worrying about a condition worsening is a heavy mental load. The feeling of being "stuck" can lead to profound hopelessness.
  • Social Isolation: When you can't participate in hobbies, social events, or even simple family activities, isolation can quickly set in, further impacting mental well-being.

The Financial Drain

For many, especially the self-employed or those in physically demanding jobs, a long wait is a direct threat to their livelihood.

  • Lost Earnings: Being unable to work at full capacity, or at all, leads to a direct loss of income. Projections suggest that long-term NHS waits will cost the UK economy over £25 billion in lost productivity in 2025 alone.
  • Career Stagnation: Passing up promotions or changing to a lower-paid, less physical role becomes a necessity.
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses: The cost of painkillers, private physiotherapy sessions to manage symptoms, and mobility aids can add up to thousands of pounds over several years.
Area of LifeThe Ripple Effect of NHS Waiting Times
Physical HealthCondition worsens, muscle loss, secondary health issues.
Mental HealthIncreased anxiety, depression, stress, and feelings of hopelessness.
Family & SocialInability to join in activities, social isolation, strain on relationships.
Work & FinancesLost earnings, reduced productivity, potential job loss.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and How Does It Work?

Private Medical Insurance is a policy you pay for—typically via a monthly premium—that covers the cost of eligible private healthcare for acute medical conditions. Think of it as a health safety net that runs alongside the NHS, giving you a choice when you need it most.

When you have a PMI policy, the pathway to treatment is transformed from a long and winding road into an express lane.

Let's compare the typical journeys:

The Standard NHS Journey

  1. Feel a Problem: You develop persistent knee pain.
  2. Visit GP: You manage to get a GP appointment. They suspect a torn meniscus.
  3. NHS Referral: The GP refers you to an NHS orthopaedic specialist.
  4. The Wait: You join the waiting list for a consultation. This can take many months.
  5. NHS Specialist: You finally see the specialist, who confirms the diagnosis and recommends an MRI scan.
  6. The Wait (Again): You join another waiting list for the MRI scan.
  7. The Wait (and Again): After the scan confirms the need for surgery, you join the waiting list for the procedure itself. The 2025 target is 18 weeks from referral to treatment, but for many specialities like orthopaedics, the reality is often over a year.
  8. NHS Treatment: You eventually have your surgery in an NHS hospital.

The PMI Fast-Track Journey

  1. Feel a Problem: You develop the same persistent knee pain.
  2. Visit GP: You see your NHS (or a private) GP. They provide an 'open referral' letter for an orthopaedic specialist.
  3. Call Your Insurer: You call your PMI provider's dedicated claims line. They approve the claim and provide a list of approved local specialists.
  4. Book Specialist: You choose a specialist and book a consultation, often for the following week.
  5. Prompt Diagnostics: The specialist sees you and recommends an MRI. Your insurer approves it, and you have the scan within a few days at a private clinic.
  6. Swift Treatment: The results are back quickly. Surgery is needed. You choose from a list of high-quality private hospitals and schedule your operation, often within 2-4 weeks.
  7. Private Treatment & Recovery: You have your surgery in a private room and begin your post-op physiotherapy (if included in your plan) almost immediately.
StepNHS TimelinePMI Timeline
GP ReferralWeeksDays
Specialist Consultation6-12+ months1-2 weeks
Diagnostic Scans (MRI/CT)2-4+ months~1 week
Surgical Procedure9-18+ months2-6 weeks
Total Time to Treatment1 to 2+ Years4 to 8 Weeks

The difference is not just about comfort and convenience; it's about fundamentally halting the physical, mental, and financial damage caused by waiting.

The Crucial Caveat: What PMI Does Not Cover

This is the single most important section of this guide. Understanding the limitations of Private Medical Insurance is essential to avoid disappointment and ensure it's the right choice for you.

Crucially, standard UK Private Medical Insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you have taken out your policy.

Let's break this down with absolute clarity.

Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Insurers draw a clear line between these two types of conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include cataracts, hernias, joint injuries, gallstones, and most conditions requiring a one-off surgery. PMI is built for these.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it is long-lasting, has no known cure, requires ongoing management, or comes back (or is likely to come back). Examples include diabetes, arthritis, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

Pre-Existing Conditions

This is the other major exclusion. A pre-existing condition is generally defined as any ailment for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment in the five years before your policy start date.

Insurers handle pre-existing conditions in two main ways, known as underwriting:

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common type. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they apply a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the last 5 years. This exclusion lasts for the first 2 years of your policy. If, during that 2-year period, you remain completely free of any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that specific condition, the insurer may then agree to cover it in the future. It's a "wait and see" approach.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply, declaring your entire medical history. The insurer's underwriting team then assesses your application and provides you with a definitive list of what is and what is not covered from day one. It takes longer to set up but offers complete clarity, with no grey areas.

Working with an expert broker like WeCovr is invaluable here. We can help you understand which type of underwriting is best for your circumstances and navigate the application process smoothly.

Exclusion TypeExplanation & Examples
Chronic ConditionsLong-term illnesses needing ongoing management (e.g., Diabetes, Asthma).
Pre-existing ConditionsAny ailment you had symptoms/treatment for before the policy began.
EmergenciesA&E visits, ambulance services. These remain the domain of the NHS.
Cosmetic SurgeryProcedures for purely aesthetic reasons (e.g., face lifts, nose jobs).
Pregnancy/ChildbirthStandard, uncomplicated pregnancy and birth is usually excluded.
Preventative TreatmentGeneral health screenings without symptoms are often outside of core cover.
Self-inflicted injuriesInjuries resulting from substance abuse or dangerous hobbies may be excluded.

Decoding Your PMI Policy: What Are You Actually Paying For?

PMI isn't a one-size-fits-all product. Policies are modular, allowing you to build a level of cover that matches your needs and your budget. Understanding these building blocks is key to getting the right protection.

Core Cover: The Foundation

Almost every PMI policy in the UK includes this as standard.

  • In-patient Treatment: Covers costs when you are admitted to a hospital and require a bed overnight (e.g., for a hip replacement).
  • Day-patient Treatment: Covers costs when you are admitted to a hospital for a procedure but do not stay overnight (e.g., for cataract surgery). This core cover includes surgeons' fees, anaesthetists' fees, hospital accommodation, and nursing care.

Optional Add-on: Out-patient Cover

This is often the most valuable part of a policy for achieving a speedy diagnosis. It covers the costs incurred before you are admitted to hospital.

  • Specialist Consultations: The initial appointments with consultants to diagnose your issue.
  • Diagnostic Tests & Scans: Crucial tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans, which often have the longest NHS waits.
  • Therapies: Post-operative physiotherapy, osteopathy, or chiropractic care to aid your recovery.

You can often choose the level of out-patient cover, for example, up to a limit of £500, £1,000, or unlimited. A higher limit means a higher premium.

Key Choices That Shape Your Premium

You have several levers to pull to tailor the cost of your insurance:

  1. The Excess (illustrative): Just like with car insurance, this is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim. An excess of £250, for instance, means you pay the first £250 of a claim, and the insurer pays the rest. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly reduce your monthly premium.

  2. The Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. A "National" list gives you access to almost any private hospital in the UK. A more "Local" or "Guided" list might restrict your choice to a specific network of hospitals, reducing the cost.

  3. The Six-Week Option: This is a clever way to slash premiums. With this option, if the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of it being recommended, you agree to use the NHS. If the NHS wait is longer than six weeks (which it almost always is for elective surgery), your private cover kicks in. This effectively makes your PMI a safety net for when the NHS is unable to provide prompt care.

Policy ComponentDescriptionImpact on Premium
Core CoverIn-patient & day-patient treatment.Standard
Out-patient CoverConsultations, scans before admission.Increases Premium
Therapies CoverPhysio, osteopathy, etc.Increases Premium
High ExcessAmount you pay per claim.Decreases Premium
Limited Hospital ListRestricts choice of hospitals.Decreases Premium
Six-Week OptionUse NHS if wait is < 6 weeks.Significantly Decreases Premium
Get Tailored Quote

The Fast Track in Action: Real-World Scenarios

The true value of PMI comes to life when you see how it impacts real people in real situations.

Scenario 1: Sarah, the 45-year-old Primary School Teacher with Hip Pain

  • The Problem: Sarah develops severe pain in her right hip, making it difficult to stand all day in the classroom or even walk her dog. Her GP suspects early-onset arthritis and refers her for an X-ray and specialist appointment.
  • The NHS Path: Sarah faces a 10-month wait to see an orthopaedic consultant. During this time, her pain worsens, she takes more sick days, and her mental health suffers. After the consultation, she's told she needs a hip replacement but the surgical waiting list is another 14 months. Total Wait: 2 years.
  • The PMI Path: Sarah calls her insurer. They approve a consultation, and she sees a top-rated hip surgeon the following week. The surgeon arranges an MRI for two days later. The results confirm the need for a hip replacement. Sarah chooses a highly-rated private hospital near her home and has the surgery three weeks later. She's back at school, pain-free, within three months of her first GP visit.

Scenario 2: David, the 55-year-old Self-Employed Builder with a Hernia

  • The Problem: David develops an inguinal hernia. It's painful and prevents him from doing the heavy lifting his job requires.
  • The NHS Path: His GP confirms the hernia and tells him the wait for routine hernia repair surgery in his area is currently around 9 months. For nine months, David cannot work. He loses contracts, burns through his savings, and faces immense financial stress.
  • The PMI Path: David's policy includes full out-patient cover. He sees a general surgeon privately within a week of his GP visit. The surgery is scheduled for two weeks later at a time that suits him. He is back to light duties in four weeks and fully back to work in eight, saving his business and his financial security.

Is PMI Worth the Cost? A Financial and Lifestyle Calculation

This is the question on everyone's mind. The cost of a PMI policy can vary dramatically based on your age, location, smoking status, and the level of cover you choose.

  • Illustrative estimate: A healthy 30-year-old might pay £30-£50 per month for a comprehensive policy.
  • Illustrative estimate: A 50-year-old might expect to pay £70-£120 per month.

At first glance, this might seem like a significant expense. But let's re-frame the question: What is the cost of not having it?

Think of David, the builder. His PMI policy might cost him £960 a year (£80/month). By waiting on the NHS, he could lose over £20,000 in income. For him, the policy isn't a cost; it's an investment that yields a 20x return.

For Sarah, the teacher, the calculation is less about direct income and more about quality of life. What is the value of two years of pain-free living, of being able to do her job without agony, of enjoying her weekends? For many, that peace of mind is priceless.

This is why using an independent, expert broker is non-negotiable. A broker's job is to find the point where value and affordability meet. Here at WeCovr, we don't work for any single insurer. We work for you. We search policies from all the UK's leading providers—including Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality—to find the cover that protects what's important to you, at a price that fits your budget.

Beyond the Policy: The Added Value of Modern Health Insurance

In 2025, PMI is about more than just surgery. Insurers are increasingly focused on keeping you well, not just fixing you when you're broken. Many policies now come bundled with a suite of valuable wellness benefits, often at no extra cost.

  • Digital GP Services: Skip the 8 am scramble for a GP appointment. Most policies now include 24/7 access to a private GP via phone or video call, who can issue prescriptions and make referrals.
  • Mental Health Support: Recognising the link between physical and mental well-being, insurers now offer access to confidential helplines, counselling sessions, and mental health support apps.
  • Wellness and Prevention Programmes: Many providers, like Vitality, actively reward healthy living. You can earn discounts on your premium, cinema tickets, or even an Apple Watch for staying active.
  • Second Medical Opinions: If you receive a worrying diagnosis, many policies allow you to get a second opinion from another leading expert to ensure you have all the information you need to make the right decision.

As part of our commitment to our clients' holistic health, we at WeCovr provide complimentary access to our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero. It's our way of going above and beyond the policy to support your everyday wellness journey, helping you build healthy habits that last a lifetime.

How to Choose the Right PMI Policy for You: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating the market can be daunting. Follow these simple steps to find the perfect policy.

  1. Assess Your Needs and Budget: Be honest with yourself. What are your primary health concerns? Are you worried about cancer cover, mental health, or speedy diagnostics? What is a realistic monthly amount you can set aside?
  2. Understand the Jargon: Get to grips with the key terms: excess, out-patient cover, hospital list, and the six-week option. Deciding on these will have the biggest impact on your cover and cost.
  3. Don't Go It Alone - Use an Expert Broker: This is the most important step. A broker does the hard work for you. They understand the nuances of each insurer's policies, their claims process, and their financial strength. They can explain the pros and cons of moratorium vs. full medical underwriting and guide you to the most suitable choice.
  4. Compare Quotes: A broker will provide you with a clear, like-for-like comparison of quotes from across the market. This allows you to see exactly what you're getting for your money from each provider.
  5. Read the Fine Print: Once you've selected a policy, review the policy documents carefully. A good broker will walk you through the key terms and exclusions to ensure there are no surprises when you need to make a claim.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Your Life From the Waiting List

The statistics are clear: waiting for healthcare in the UK is no longer a matter of months, but a multi-year reality for a huge portion of the population. This wait inflicts a heavy toll—physically, emotionally, and financially.

While our love and support for the NHS remain unwavering, we must also be realistic. For those who can, taking proactive steps to protect their health and well-being is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity.

Private Medical Insurance offers a proven, effective, and increasingly affordable solution. It is your key to unlocking immediate access to the best medical minds and state-of-the-art facilities. It is your tool for taking back control from the uncertainty of a waiting list and replacing it with the certainty of a treatment plan.

Don't let preventable pain and discomfort define the next five years of your life. Don't sacrifice your career, your hobbies, and your joy. Invest in your health, fast-track your path to relief, and rediscover the life you deserve to be living.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

Related tools

NHS Wait vs Private Cost MapOpen →
Private Surgery Price ListOpen →
Health Risk AssessmentOpen →
Can I Get Covered? CheckerOpen →
International PMI CalculatorOpen →
PMI Provider ReviewsOpen →
Back to Private Health Insurance (PMI) hub

WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

Flagship guides

Protection Score
Read now →
Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Average Cost of Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Should I Get Private Health Insurance?
Read now →

Explore insurance hubs

PMI Guides Hub
Life Insurance Guides Hub
Income Protection Guides Hub

Related guides

UK 2025 Age 50 Resilience Pain Crisis – Your PMI Solution
UK 2025 Age 50 Resilience Pain Crisis – Your PMI Solution
Read more →
UK 2026 Age 50 Resilience Pain Crisis – Your PMI Solution
UK 2026 Age 50 Resilience Pain Crisis – Your PMI Solution
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 experienced 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!