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UK's Sedentary Crisis

UK's Sedentary Crisis 2025 | Free Tailored Quotes

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 policies, WeCovr is committed to providing clear, authoritative guidance on your health and financial wellbeing. This deep-dive into the UK’s sedentary crisis and the role of private medical insurance is designed to empower you with knowledge.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Britons Are Trapped in a Sedentary Crisis, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Obesity, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Mental Health Decline & Eroding Financial Security – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Wellness, Preventative Care & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Prosperity

The silent creep of inactivity has become a defining public health challenge of our time. Projections for 2025, based on the latest trends from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and NHS Digital, paint a sobering picture: more than two-thirds of UK adults are not meeting the recommended guidelines for physical activity. We are, quite simply, sitting ourselves into a state of chronic ill-health.

This isn't just about feeling a bit sluggish. This is a full-blown crisis with devastating consequences for our physical health, mental resilience, and long-term financial security. The cumulative lifetime cost—factoring in NHS treatments, lost earnings, and social care for conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease—is spiralling, creating a potential £4.2 million burden for every group of 100 people affected over their lifetimes.

But this future is not set in stone. By understanding the risks and exploring proactive solutions like modern private medical insurance (PMI), you can build a powerful defence, not just for your health, but for your future prosperity.

The Anatomy of Inactivity: What Does a 'Sedentary Crisis' Actually Mean?

When we talk about being "sedentary," we're not just referring to those who never visit a gym. Sedentary behaviour is defined as any waking activity characterised by low energy expenditure while in a sitting or reclining posture.

Think about a typical day:

  • Commuting to work, sitting on a train or in a car.
  • Working for 8 hours at a desk.
  • Eating meals while seated.
  • Relaxing in the evening by watching television or scrolling on a phone.

The NHS recommends adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week. Yet, startling data reveals a significant shortfall.

Activity Level2025 UK Adult Population ProjectionKey Health Implications
ActiveLess than 1 in 3Lower risk of chronic disease, better mental health, stronger immune system.
Fairly ActiveVariableSome health benefits, but may not be enough to offset sedentary time.
Inactive / SedentaryOver 2 in 3Dramatically increased risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and poor mental health.

Source: Projections based on current trends from ONS, Sport England, and NHS Digital data.

The result is a cascade of preventable health problems that are placing an unsustainable strain on the NHS and individual lives.

The Domino Effect: How Sitting Down Drives Up Health Risks

A sedentary lifestyle is a direct contributor to some of the UK's biggest killers and causes of disability. It's not a passive risk factor; it actively harms your body's systems.

  1. Obesity: Lack of physical activity means the body burns fewer calories, making weight gain more likely. The NHS estimates that obesity is responsible for over 30,000 deaths each year in the UK and costs the health service billions.

  2. Type 2 Diabetes: Inactivity impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, a key driver of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. According to Diabetes UK, over 5 million people are now living with diabetes in the UK, with 90% of cases being type 2.

  3. Cardiovascular Disease: Your heart is a muscle. Without regular exercise, it weakens. Sedentary behaviour contributes to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis (the hardening of arteries), all major risk factors for heart attacks and strokes. The British Heart Foundation links physical inactivity to around 1 in 6 UK deaths.

  4. Mental Health Decline: The link between mind and body is undeniable. Physical activity is a powerful antidepressant and anxiety-reducer, boosting endorphins and improving sleep. A lack of it is strongly correlated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

  5. Musculoskeletal Issues: Prolonged sitting leads to weak core muscles, poor posture, chronic back pain, and stiff joints, reducing mobility and quality of life as we age.

The £4.2 Million Lifetime Burden: The Financial Cost of Doing Nothing

The headline figure of a £4.2 million+ lifetime burden can seem abstract, but it represents the real, tangible financial fallout of the sedentary crisis, spread across society and individuals. Let's break it down:

  • Direct NHS Costs: Treating a single patient with type 2 diabetes can cost the NHS over £10,000 per year when complications arise. A heart attack or stroke can incur immediate costs in the tens of thousands, plus ongoing rehabilitation expenses.
  • Lost Productivity & Earnings: Ill health is a leading cause of economic inactivity. Chronic conditions lead to more sick days, reduced performance at work ('presenteeism'), and often force people into early retirement, slashing their lifetime earning potential.
  • Social Care Costs: As conditions worsen, many people require social care support, a cost that often falls on families or is subsidised by the state, further draining public resources.
  • Personal Financial Erosion: Beyond lost income, individuals face higher premiums for essential protection like life and critical illness insurance. They may also have to pay for private treatments or home modifications out of pocket.

This isn't just a national problem; it's a personal financial threat. This is where a robust financial and health plan becomes not a luxury, but a necessity.

Your PMI Pathway: More Than Treatment, It's a Proactive Wellness Toolkit

It is absolutely crucial to understand a core principle of private medical insurance UK: standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. They do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions like diagnosed type 2 diabetes or long-term heart disease.

So, how can PMI help in the face of this crisis?

The answer lies in the evolution of modern private health cover. The best PMI providers have shifted from a reactive "fix-it-when-it's-broken" model to a proactive "keep-it-running-smoothly" approach. They actively empower you to stay healthy and catch problems early.

Key Preventative & Wellness Benefits in Modern PMI Policies:

  • Digital GP Access: Speak to a GP via phone or video call, often 24/7. This encourages you to seek advice early for nagging concerns without waiting weeks for an NHS appointment.
  • Mental Health Support: Most top-tier policies now include access to telephone counselling, mental health apps (like Headspace or Calm), and even a set number of face-to-face therapy sessions without needing a GP referral. This is vital for tackling the mental health decline linked to inactivity.
  • Gym & Fitness Discounts: Leading providers like Vitality are famous for this, offering significant discounts on gym memberships and fitness trackers (like Apple Watch or Fitbit). They gamify health, rewarding you for being active with cinema tickets, coffee, and lower premiums.
  • Health Screenings: Many policies offer access to regular health checks, which can spot the early warning signs of conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes before they become chronic and uninsurable.
  • Nutritional Support & Apps: Some insurers provide access to dieticians or nutritional advice services. At WeCovr, we go a step further by providing our PMI and Life Insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you make informed dietary choices.

A Look at Wellness Offerings from Leading Insurers

ProviderKey Wellness Feature(s)How It Helps Combat Inactivity
VitalityPoints-based rewards for activity, gym discounts, discounted smartwatches.Directly incentivises and rewards daily movement and exercise.
BupaDigital GP, health assessments, family mental health lines.Encourages early intervention and provides holistic family support.
AXA HealthAccess to online health support, 24/7 health line, gym discounts.Provides a safety net of advice and makes fitness more affordable.
Aviva"Get Active" benefit with gym discounts, stress counselling helpline.Targets both physical and mental aspects of wellbeing.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these options, comparing not just the price and core cover, but the wellness benefits that will provide you with the most value and support your health goals.

Reclaiming Your Vitality: A Practical Guide to Beating the Sedentary Trap

Breaking the cycle of inactivity doesn't require a dramatic, unsustainable lifestyle overhaul. It's about integrating small, consistent, and enjoyable changes into your daily routine.

1. Start with Your Plate

You can't out-train a bad diet. Simple nutritional changes have a profound impact.

  • Hydrate First: Often, we mistake thirst for hunger. Aim for 6-8 glasses of water a day.
  • Embrace Colour: A colourful plate is a healthy plate. Aim for a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
  • Prioritise Protein & Fibre: They keep you feeling full and stabilise blood sugar, reducing cravings for sugary snacks. Think lean meats, fish, beans, lentils, and whole grains.
  • Track Your Intake: Knowledge is power. Using an app like CalorieHero can provide eye-opening insights into your eating habits, helping you make smarter choices effortlessly.

2. Snack on Movement

The idea of a one-hour gym session can be daunting. Instead, "snack" on activity throughout the day.

  • The 5-Minute Rule: Every hour, get up and move for 5 minutes. Walk around the office, do some stretches, or climb a flight of stairs.
  • Deskercise: Simple exercises at your desk can make a difference. Try seated leg raises, shoulder rolls, or neck stretches.
  • Walk & Talk: Take your phone calls while walking, whether it's around the room or a quick lap of the block.
  • Find Your Fun: Exercise shouldn't be a punishment. Hate running? Try dancing in your kitchen, taking up badminton, joining a walking football team, or exploring local hiking trails.

3. Protect Your Sleep

Sleep is the foundation upon which all health is built. It's when your body repairs muscle, consolidates memory, and regulates hormones.

  • Create a Routine: Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time every day, even on weekends.
  • Optimise Your Environment: Your bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet.
  • Digital Sunset: Avoid screens (phones, tablets, TVs) for at least an hour before bed. The blue light disrupts melatonin production, the hormone that signals sleep.

Shielding Your Future: The Power of LCIIP (Life & Critical Illness Insurance Plans)

While PMI is your tool for proactive health and fast access to treatment for acute conditions, what protects your finances if the worst happens? This is where a comprehensive LCIIP strategy comes in.

LCIIP isn't a single product, but a strategic combination of three essential policies:

  1. Life Insurance: Provides a tax-free lump sum to your loved ones if you pass away. This can pay off a mortgage, cover funeral costs, and replace your lost income, ensuring your family's financial stability.
  2. Critical Illness Cover (CIC): Pays a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed on the policy (e.g., heart attack, stroke, most cancers). This money is yours to use as you see fit—to cover medical bills, adapt your home, or simply give you financial breathing room while you recover.
  3. Income Protection (IP): This is arguably the bedrock of any working adult's financial plan. If you're unable to work due to any illness or injury (not just the "critical" ones), it pays you a regular, tax-free replacement income until you can return to work, retire, or the policy term ends.

A sedentary lifestyle directly increases your risk of needing to claim on all three of these policies. By securing them, you create a powerful financial shield for you and your family against life's biggest uncertainties.

As an added benefit, when you purchase your private medical insurance or life cover through WeCovr, we can often provide exclusive discounts on other essential protection policies, making it more affordable to build your complete financial shield.

Finding Your Path with WeCovr

The world of private health cover can feel complex. Moratorium underwriting, outpatient limits, cancer cover choices, excess levels—these terms can be confusing. This is why partnering with an independent, FCA-authorised expert broker is so valuable.

At WeCovr, our service is completely free to you. We take the time to understand your unique health needs, lifestyle, and budget. We then search the market on your behalf, comparing policies from the UK's most trusted insurers to find the perfect fit. We do the hard work, explain everything in plain English, and ensure you get the best possible cover for your money.

The sedentary crisis is a challenge, but it is one you can overcome. With the right knowledge, small lifestyle changes, and a robust health and financial plan, you can protect your vitality and secure your prosperity for years to come.

Does private medical insurance cover conditions caused by a sedentary lifestyle, like type 2 diabetes?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease that has already been diagnosed, are not covered. However, modern PMI is invaluable for prevention. It offers wellness benefits like gym discounts and health screenings to help you avoid these conditions, and it provides rapid diagnostics to catch warning signs early.

Can I get private health cover if I'm already overweight or have a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can still get private health cover. However, the insurer will almost certainly place an exclusion on your policy for the pre-existing condition and any related health issues. For example, if you have high blood pressure, any treatment for that condition or related heart problems would likely be excluded. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you navigate the application process and find an insurer with underwriting that is most favourable to your personal circumstances.

Are the wellness benefits and gym discounts on PMI policies really worth it?

For many people, absolutely. The value of wellness benefits often goes beyond the monetary savings. While discounts on gym memberships or a new smartwatch can offset a significant portion of your premium, their real power lies in motivation. These rewards systems are designed by behavioural scientists to encourage consistent, healthy habits. This can lead to far greater long-term "savings" in the form of better health, fewer sick days, and a higher quality of life.

What's the difference between using a broker like WeCovr and going directly to an insurer?

Using an independent broker like WeCovr offers impartial, market-wide advice at no cost to you. We compare policies and prices from a wide range of leading insurers to find the best fit for your needs and budget. When you go directly to an insurer, you only see their products and prices, which may not be the most competitive or suitable for you. We act as your advocate, saving you time, hassle, and money while ensuring you understand exactly what you're buying.

Don't wait for a health scare to take action. Take control of your health and financial future today. Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how the right private medical insurance can be your partner in proactive wellness.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
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Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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