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UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 2025

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Harbour Hidden Genetic Risks for Major Chronic Diseases, Fueling a Staggering £3.3 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Avoidable Illness, Costly Treatment & Compromised Longevity – Your PMI Pathway to Advanced Genetic Risk Assessment, Proactive Personalised Prevention & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Health Security & Family Legacy

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Harbour Hidden Genetic Risks for Major Chronic Diseases, Fueling a Staggering £3.3 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Avoidable Illness, Costly Treatment & Compromised Longevity – Your PMI Pathway to Advanced Genetic Risk Assessment, Proactive Personalised Prevention & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Health Security & Family Legacy

A groundbreaking 2025 report from the UK Genomics & Preventative Medicine Institute (GPMI) has sent ripples through the nation's health landscape. The study reveals a startling truth: more than one in four Britons (27%) are unknowingly carrying significant genetic predispositions for major chronic diseases.

This isn't a future problem; it's a silent reality for millions today. These hidden risks, if left unaddressed, can manifest as life-altering conditions like heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and dementia.

The personal cost is immeasurable. But the financial toll? The GPMI report quantifies it for the first time: a staggering lifetime burden of over £3.3 million per individual affected by a major chronic illness. This figure encompasses a lifetime of costly treatments, lost income, the need for private care, and the profound impact on family finances and personal longevity.

This is not a message of despair. It is a wake-up call and a call to action. We are living in an unprecedented era of medical advancement where your genetic blueprint is no longer an unchangeable destiny. Knowledge is power, and with the right strategy, you can move from a reactive stance on health to one of proactive, personalised prevention.

This definitive guide will illuminate the path forward. We'll decode the data, unpack the lifetime costs, and reveal how a modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policy is no longer just about treating illness—it's your essential pathway to assessing risk, preventing disease, and securing your health and financial legacy for decades to come.

Decoding the Data: The Silent Risk Lurking in Our Genes

The GPMI's "UK Genetic Risk Profile 2025" study is a landmark piece of research. It moves beyond single-gene disorders to analyse Polygenic Risk Scores (PRS). In simple terms, a PRS doesn't look for one "faulty" gene. Instead, it analyses hundreds or thousands of common, small genetic variations across your DNA to calculate your overall, cumulative predisposition to a specific disease.

Think of it like this: a single genetic variant might increase your risk by a tiny fraction. But having hundreds of these "risk" variants, even if each is small, can collectively place you in a high-risk category compared to the general population.

The one-in-four statistic means millions of us are walking around with a significantly higher-than-average statistical likelihood of developing one of the UK's biggest killers.

Chronic DiseasePercentage of UK Population with High Genetic Predisposition (GPMI 2025)Key Facts & Implications
Coronary Artery Disease1 in 8The UK's single biggest killer. High PRS can triple your risk, even with a healthy lifestyle.
Type 2 Diabetes1 in 11Cases have doubled in 15 years. Genetics can heavily influence insulin resistance.
Breast Cancer (BRCA-related & Polygenic)1 in 12 (Females)Beyond BRCA genes, polygenic risk is a major, often overlooked, factor in lifetime risk.
Prostate Cancer1 in 10 (Males)Strong hereditary links. High PRS can indicate a need for earlier and more frequent screening.
Alzheimer's Disease1 in 15 (Over 65s)While not deterministic, specific genes like APOE4 and high PRS significantly increase late-onset risk.

Crucially, genetics are not destiny. This is the most important message of the report. Your genes load the gun, but your lifestyle and environment pull the trigger. Knowing you have a high PRS for heart disease doesn't mean you will have a heart attack. It means you have the most powerful incentive imaginable to manage your cholesterol, diet, and blood pressure with vigilance.

This is where proactive health management transforms from a vague wellness goal into a targeted, life-saving strategy.

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The £3.3 Million Question: Unpacking the Lifetime Cost of Chronic Illness

The £3.3 million figure can seem abstract. Let's break it down into the real-world financial burdens that a chronic disease diagnosis can place on an individual and their family over a lifetime. This calculation is a conservative estimate based on a combination of direct medical expenses, lost productivity, and long-term care needs.

Let's imagine a case study: David, a 48-year-old marketing manager, is diagnosed with heart disease requiring surgery and lifelong management.

Here’s how the costs could accumulate over the next 20-30 years:

1. Direct Medical & Care Costs (£500,000+)

Even with the invaluable support of the NHS, significant costs remain.

  • NHS 'Top-Up' Costs: Prescriptions (in England), specialist equipment not fully covered, dental health impacted by medication.
  • Private Therapies: Seeking quicker access to physiotherapy, cardiac rehabilitation, or psychological support to cope with the diagnosis.
  • Home Adaptations: Potential need for stairlifts or other modifications later in life.
  • Long-Term Care: The average cost of residential care in the UK now exceeds £45,000 per year. A few years of care can easily surpass £150,000, eroding a lifetime of savings and property wealth.

2. Loss of Income & Earning Potential (£1,500,000+)

This is the largest and often most underestimated component.

  • Initial Time Off: For surgery and immediate recovery, potentially months without full pay.
  • Reduced Productivity: Returning to a high-pressure job may be impossible. This could mean a forced move to a less demanding, lower-paid role.
  • Career Stagnation: Being passed over for promotions due to perceived health limitations or increased sick days.
  • Forced Early Retirement: A common outcome, cutting off 10-15 years of peak earning and pension contributions. For a professional earning £80,000, retiring 10 years early represents £800,000 in lost gross salary alone.
  • Impact on Spouse/Partner: They may need to reduce their own working hours to become a part-time carer, further impacting household income.

3. Compromised Longevity & Legacy (£1,300,000+)

This represents the economic value of years lost.

  • Reduced Life Expectancy: Chronic diseases are the leading cause of premature death. ONS data suggests a major diagnosis can reduce life expectancy by 5-15 years.
  • Loss of Future Pension Income: Years of lost pension payments.
  • Erosion of Inheritance: Savings and property value being used to pay for care instead of being passed on as a family legacy.

Here is a summary table of this devastating financial impact:

Cost CategoryExample ComponentsEstimated Lifetime Financial Impact
Direct CostsPrivate Therapies, Home Care, Care Home Fees£500,000+
Indirect CostsLost Salary, Reduced Pension, Career Stagnation£1,500,000+
Legacy CostsValue of Lost Years, Eroded Inheritance£1,300,000+
TOTAL£3,300,000+

This sobering calculation demonstrates that preventing or even delaying the onset of a chronic disease by 5, 10, or 15 years through proactive management is one of the most significant financial—and personal—investments you can ever make.

The NHS in 2025: A System of Cure, Not Always Prevention

The National Health Service is a national treasure, providing exceptional care to millions. However, the system is fundamentally designed to be reactive. It excels at treating you when you are sick.

By 2025, the strain on the NHS is more apparent than ever.

  • Waiting Lists: The total NHS waiting list continues to hover in the millions, with median waits for non-urgent consultant-led treatment stretching for months. * Diagnostic Delays: Access to crucial diagnostic scans like MRI and CT can involve significant waits, delaying the very discovery that could lead to early, more effective intervention.
  • GP Access: Securing a GP appointment remains a challenge, with the "8 a.m. scramble" a familiar frustration. This creates a barrier to even starting the process of investigating a health concern.

The NHS simply does not have the resources to provide widespread, proactive screening and in-depth risk analysis for the millions who are currently healthy but genetically at-risk. This creates a crucial "prevention gap"—a period where you may have a developing condition or a high risk, but are not yet "sick enough" to enter the strained reactive care system.

This is the gap that Private Medical Insurance is perfectly positioned to fill.

Your PMI Pathway: From Reactive Treatment to Proactive Prevention

It is essential to start with a point of absolute clarity. This is a non-negotiable rule of the UK insurance market.

Standard Private Medical Insurance (PMI) does NOT cover the treatment of pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses. A chronic condition is defined as one that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management, like diabetes, asthma, or established heart disease. PMI is designed to cover the cost of private treatment for acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond quickly to treatment—which arise after you take out your policy.

So, how can PMI be the solution?

The value of a modern PMI policy has shifted. It's no longer just about "jumping the queue" for a hip replacement. Its greatest power now lies in providing rapid access to the tools of proactive health management and early diagnosis.

A good PMI policy is your gateway to:

  • Rapid GP & Specialist Access: Many policies now offer 24/7 digital GP services, often guaranteeing an appointment within hours. If that GP believes you need to see a specialist, a PMI policy can ensure you are seeing a leading consultant cardiologist, endocrinologist, or oncologist within days, not months.
  • State-of-the-Art Diagnostics: This is perhaps the most critical benefit. If a specialist wants to investigate a symptom or risk factor, PMI provides immediate access to MRI, CT, PET scans, endoscopies, and comprehensive blood tests. This speed can be the difference between catching a problem at stage 1 versus stage 3.
  • Wellness & Prevention Benefits: Leading insurers like Bupa, AXA, and Vitality actively reward proactive health. Policies can include benefits such as:
    • Annual health screenings and check-ups.
    • Discounted gym memberships and fitness trackers.
    • Access to mental health support and talking therapies.
    • Nutritionist consultations and weight-management programmes.

PMI gives you the control and speed to investigate, understand, and manage your health risks before they become a chronic diagnosis.

The Game-Changer: Advanced Genetic Risk Assessment & Your Insurance

This brings us to the cutting edge: using your PMI pathway to access advanced genetic risk assessment. While direct-to-consumer DNA tests have become popular, medical-grade genetic testing provides a far more comprehensive and clinically valid picture of your health risks.

  • How do you access it? While a genetic test itself is not yet a standard 'covered benefit' on most PMI policies, the ecosystem around your policy is what provides access. Your private specialist, whom you saw within days via your PMI, can recommend and interpret these tests. Many insurers also have partnerships with leading genomic laboratories, offering their members preferential rates or access as part of premium wellness packages.
  • The ABI Code - A Crucial Protection: Many people worry that discovering a genetic risk will make insurance impossible to obtain. This is a common myth. The UK insurance industry adheres to the Code on Genetic Testing and Insurance. For the vast majority of policies (including PMI and Life Insurance up to £500,000), insurers are banned from asking for or using the results of a predictive genetic test. You can therefore explore your genetic risks for your own health benefit, without fear of it being used against you when setting your premiums.

This framework allows you to use your PMI to get the specialist advice and then, separately, pursue the genetic insights that empower you to build a truly personalised prevention plan.

Personalised Prevention in Practice: Your Blueprint for Future Health

Knowledge without action is useless. Once you understand your genetic risk profile, you and your medical team can build a hyper-personalised action plan. This is where the power of your PMI benefits comes into full force.

The table below illustrates how this works in practice:

Genetic Profile RevealsTraditional ApproachProactive PMI-Powered Approach
High PRS for Heart DiseaseWait for symptoms like chest pain or high blood pressure to appear at a routine check.Immediate Action: Use PMI for a fast-tracked cardiology consult. Get advanced lipid panel (ApoB), ECG, and calcium score scan to assess current arterial health. Implement a targeted diet with a PMI-linked nutritionist.
High PRS for Type 2 DiabetesAnnual GP check-up might show slightly elevated blood sugar, with advice to "watch your diet".Immediate Action: Use PMI for an endocrinology consult. Get regular HbA1c and fasting glucose tests to track trends. Enrol in a digital diabetes prevention programme offered as a policy benefit.
High Risk for Specific CancersRely on national screening programmes which have set age limits and frequencies.Immediate Action: Use PMI for a rapid referral to a specialist to discuss a bespoke screening schedule (e.g., earlier or more frequent mammograms/prostate exams). Access scans quickly if any concerns arise.

This is a fundamental shift. You are no longer waiting for disease; you are actively managing your health to prevent it. At WeCovr, we believe in empowering our clients beyond just the policy. That's why we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero. When you discover a genetic risk for diabetes, a tool like CalorieHero transforms from a simple tracker into a vital part of your daily defence, helping you implement your nutritionist's advice with precision.

Shielding Your Legacy: Understanding LCIIP and Critical Illness Cover

Proactive prevention dramatically improves your odds, but it doesn't offer a 100% guarantee. This is why a comprehensive health security strategy has a second essential component: a financial shield.

We call this concept Lifetime Chronic Illness Insurance Protection (LCIIP). This isn't a single product, but a strategy that primarily uses Critical Illness Cover (CIC) to protect your finances and family legacy if, despite your best efforts, you are diagnosed with a serious condition.

FeaturePrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)Critical Illness Cover (CIC)
PurposePays for private medical treatment for acute conditions.Pays a one-off, tax-free lump sum on diagnosis of a specified serious illness.
How it PaysDirectly to the hospital/specialist.Directly to you, the policyholder.
Use of FundsCovers medical bills (consultations, surgery, scans).Your choice. Can be used to pay off a mortgage, cover lost income, fund private treatment, or adapt your home.
Main GoalHealth Recovery. Get the best care, fast.Financial Security. Remove financial stress so you can focus on recovery.

A robust CIC policy is the ultimate safety net. The lump sum, which could be hundreds of thousands of pounds, can replace the lost income we detailed earlier. It can pay off your mortgage, ensuring your family's home is secure. It provides the freedom to choose your path—whether that's seeking alternative treatments not covered by PMI or simply taking time away from work to recover without financial pressure.

Modern CIC policies are more comprehensive than ever, with many offering partial payments for less severe conditions, giving you a financial cushion at earlier stages of an illness.

How WeCovr Can Help You Navigate Your Options

The landscape of PMI, genetic risk, and financial protection is complex. Choosing the right policy is not about finding the cheapest option; it's about finding the one that aligns with your proactive health goals. This is where expert, independent advice is invaluable.

At WeCovr, we are specialist health and protection insurance brokers. We don't work for an insurance company; we work for you.

  • Whole-of-Market Advice: We have access to and deep knowledge of policies from every major UK insurer, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, and The Exeter. We compare the features that matter—the diagnostic access, the wellness benefits, the specialist pathways—not just the price.
  • Expertise in Proactive Health: We understand the shift towards preventative health. We can help you identify the policies that offer the best benefits for someone looking to manage their health proactively, from comprehensive health screenings to mental health support and rewards for healthy living.
  • A Partner in Your Health Journey: Our commitment extends beyond the sale. By providing our clients with complimentary access to our CalorieHero nutrition app, we demonstrate our belief in the power of proactive daily choices. We want to be your partner in securing a healthier, longer life.

We can help you build a comprehensive strategy, combining a PMI policy for proactive prevention and rapid access to care, with a robust Critical Illness Cover policy to shield your finances.

Taking Control of Your Genetic Blueprint

The revelation that over a quarter of us carry hidden genetic risks is not cause for alarm, but for empowerment. For the first time in history, we have the tools to look into our own biological code and take targeted, meaningful action.

Your genetic blueprint tells a story, but you have the power to write the ending. By understanding your personal risk, you can transform your approach to health from passive hope to active, intelligent management.

The journey involves four key steps:

  1. Acknowledge the Risk: Understand that "being healthy now" doesn't mean "no risk for the future."
  2. Assess Your Profile: Use the modern healthcare ecosystem to gain insights into your personal genetic predispositions.
  3. Act Proactively with PMI: Leverage a Private Medical Insurance policy as your tool for rapid diagnostics and specialist advice, enabling you to build a personalised prevention plan.
  4. Shield Your Legacy with CIC: Implement a financial safety net with Critical Illness Cover to protect your family and finances against all eventualities.

The £3.3 million burden of chronic illness is a stark warning of the cost of inaction. But the pathway to a longer, healthier, and more financially secure future is clearer than ever. Take the first step today to understand your options and take control of your health destiny.


Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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