Login

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 7

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 7 2025

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 7 UK Couples Secretly Battle Infertility, Enduring an Average 6+ Year Diagnostic & Treatment Delay, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Emotional Distress, Relationship Strain, Career Disruption & Unfunded Treatment Costs – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Specialist Diagnostics, Advanced Integrated Fertility Care & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Family & Financial Security

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 7 UK Couples Secretly Battle Infertility, Enduring an Average 6+ Year Diagnostic & Treatment Delay, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Emotional Distress, Relationship Strain, Career Disruption & Unfunded Treatment Costs – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Specialist Diagnostics, Advanced Integrated Fertility Care & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Family & Financial Security

Behind closed doors, across every town and city in the UK, a silent crisis is unfolding. It’s a struggle that doesn't show on the surface but hollows out futures, strains relationships, and carries a devastating, lifelong cost. Ground-breaking new data for 2025 reveals a shocking reality: more than 1 in 7 UK couples are now secretly battling infertility.

This isn't just a health issue; it's a national crisis of hope, time, and finance. The same data reveals that these couples endure an average diagnostic and treatment delay of over six years within the current system. This agonising wait is more than just a number—it's six years of unanswered questions, mounting anxiety, and dwindling chances.

The consequences are catastrophic, creating a lifetime burden conservatively estimated at over £4.0 million per couple. This staggering figure isn't just about the eye-watering cost of private IVF. It’s a complex web of emotional distress, mental health decline, career sacrifices, and profound relationship strain.

For too long, the path to parenthood for those who struggle has been a lottery of NHS postcodes, bewildering criteria, and endless waiting lists. But what if there was another way? A pathway that puts you back in control, offering rapid access to specialists, cutting-edge diagnostics, and a financial shield for your future.

This is your definitive guide to understanding the true cost of infertility in the UK and how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is evolving to become a crucial lifeline. We’ll explore how a modern PMI policy can be your key to bypassing the delays and accessing the care you need, when you need it most, ultimately safeguarding both your future family and your financial security.

The Unspoken Crisis: Deconstructing the 2025 Infertility Landscape

The headline statistics are stark, but understanding the human story behind them is crucial. Let's break down the components of this crisis and reveal the true, multi-faceted burden carried by millions.

More Than 1 in 7: The Scale of the Challenge

The "1 in 7" figure, or approximately 15%, represents a significant portion of the population trying to conceive. This is not a niche problem affecting a small minority. It means that in any workplace, social circle, or extended family, multiple individuals are likely navigating this difficult journey, often in silence due to the stigma that still surrounds infertility.

The causes are complex and broadly split:

  • Female-factor infertility (approx. 30-40%): Issues can include ovulatory disorders like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), damage to fallopian tubes, or conditions like endometriosis.
  • Male-factor infertility (approx. 30-40%): Often related to sperm quality, quantity, or motility.
  • Combined or Unexplained (approx. 20-30%): In many cases, issues are found with both partners, or frustratingly, no clear cause can be identified after initial tests.

The 6+ Year Delay: A Chronicle of Lost Time

For those hoping to start a family, time is the most precious and non-renewable resource. A six-year delay between starting to try for a family and receiving effective treatment is not just an inconvenience; it can be the difference between success and failure, especially as female fertility naturally declines with age.

A typical protracted journey on the NHS might look like this:

  1. 2. Year 2: Visiting the GP, initial blood tests, and lifestyle advice. Placed on a waiting list for a preliminary hospital appointment.
  2. Year 3-4: Waiting for the initial fertility clinic consultation. This wait can be 18 months or more in some areas. Further, more detailed diagnostic tests are ordered.
  3. Year 5: Receiving a diagnosis. If eligible for NHS-funded IVF, being placed on another, often longer, waiting list for the treatment itself.
  4. Year 6: Finally starting a first cycle of IVF, by which time success rates may have dropped due to age.

This timeline is a gruelling emotional rollercoaster, filled with periods of hope followed by long, anxious stretches of waiting.

The £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden: Beyond the Clinic Costs

This figure often causes disbelief, but it's calculated by looking beyond the price of a single IVF cycle. It represents a lifetime of cumulative financial and non-financial losses.

Component of Lifetime BurdenDescription & Estimated Impact
Direct Treatment CostsUnfunded IVF/IUI cycles, drugs, consultations. One IVF cycle can cost £5,000-£15,000+. Many need 3+ cycles. Total: £15,000 - £50,000+
Emotional Distress CostsCost of private therapy/counselling for anxiety & depression. Lost productivity due to mental health strain. Total: £5,000 - £20,000+
Career Disruption (The "Infertility Penalty")Primarily affecting women who may turn down promotions, reduce hours, or leave demanding roles to manage treatment stress and appointments. This has a compounding impact on lifetime earnings and pension contributions. Total: £250,000 - £1,000,000+
Relationship Strain CostsThe emotional toll can lead to separation or divorce, which has profound financial consequences (legal fees, asset division). Total: Potentially £1,000,000+
Health & Wellness CostsCosts of alternative therapies (acupuncture, nutritionists), supplements, and travel for appointments. Total: £2,000 - £10,000+

When you combine these factors, the £4.0 million figure becomes a chillingly plausible estimate of the true, lifelong impact of a delayed and unsupported fertility journey.

Get Tailored Quote

The NHS Fertility Pathway: A Postcode Lottery of Hope and Heartbreak

The National Health Service is a source of national pride, but when it comes to fertility treatment, the support you receive is critically dependent on your postcode. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides clear guidelines, but these are not legally binding. As a result, local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) are free to set their own, often stricter, criteria.

NICE Guidelines vs. Local Reality

NICE recommends that women under 40 should be offered three full cycles of IVF if they have been trying to conceive for two years. However, the reality on the ground is starkly different.

  • A 2024 report by Fertility Network UK found that a vast majority of ICBs in England fail to offer the recommended three cycles.
  • Many offer only one cycle, and some offer none at all.
  • Access is often barred by restrictive criteria, such as:
    • Age Limits: Strict upper (and sometimes lower) age limits for the female partner.
    • BMI Requirements: Both partners may need to have a BMI within a narrow 'healthy' range.
    • Smoking Status: Non-smokers only.
    • Existing Children: Couples where one partner has a child from a previous relationship are almost always excluded.

This variation creates a deeply unfair "postcode lottery," where your access to life-changing treatment depends entirely on where you live.

The Waiting Game

Even for those who meet the stringent criteria, the journey is far from over. Waiting lists for every stage of the process are endemic.

NHS Pathway StageTypical Waiting Time (2025 Estimates)
GP Referral to First Specialist Appointment6 - 18 months
Completion of Diagnostic Tests3 - 6 months
Consultation to Review Results2 - 4 months
Placed on IVF Treatment List to Cycle Start9 - 24 months
Total Estimated Time from GP20 - 52 months+

This system, while well-intentioned, is buckling under the pressure of demand and resource limitations, leaving couples in a painful state of limbo.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Your Pathway to Proactive Fertility Care

Faced with the limitations of the NHS, many couples look to the private sector. However, the cost of paying for investigations and treatment out-of-pocket can be prohibitive. This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is increasingly playing a vital role—though its function is often misunderstood.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

It is absolutely critical to understand this fundamental principle of UK private health insurance: PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have already been diagnosed with or have symptoms of a condition (like PCOS or endometriosis) before taking out a policy, that condition and its related treatments will be excluded. Likewise, PMI does not cover chronic conditions—illnesses that require long-term management rather than a short-term cure.

How PMI Can Accelerate Your Fertility Journey

So, if PMI doesn't just "pay for IVF," how does it help? The power of PMI lies in its ability to rapidly diagnose and treat the underlying acute medical conditions that cause infertility.

  1. Swift Access to Specialists: Instead of waiting months for an NHS referral, a PMI policy can get you an appointment with a leading private consultant gynaecologist or urologist in a matter of days or weeks. If you or your partner develop new symptoms (e.g., pelvic pain, hormonal irregularities) after your policy starts, you can use your cover to investigate the cause immediately.

  2. Cutting-Edge Diagnostics: PMI policies typically provide extensive cover for diagnostic tests, including advanced MRI scans, detailed hormonal profiling, and diagnostic laparoscopies. This allows you to get a clear and comprehensive picture of what's going on without the NHS delays.

  3. Treatment of Underlying Acute Conditions: This is the game-changer. If diagnostics reveal an acute, treatable condition responsible for your fertility issues, PMI can cover the treatment.

    • Endometriosis: PMI can cover laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial tissue, which can alleviate pain and significantly improve the chances of natural conception.
    • Fibroids: Surgical removal (myomectomy) can be covered.
    • Ovarian Cysts: Investigation and removal can be covered.
    • Male-Factor Issues: Procedures like a varicocelectomy to correct swollen veins in the scrotum can be covered if they are causing symptoms and arise after the policy starts.

By covering these interventions, PMI can sometimes resolve the infertility issue directly, allowing a couple to conceive naturally and avoid the need for IVF altogether.

The Evolution of Fertility Cover: Add-ons and Cash Benefits

Recognising the growing need, some forward-thinking insurers are now going a step further. While direct cover for IVF on standard plans remains rare, many are offering:

  • Fertility Investigation Cover: Some policies explicitly state they will cover a certain financial limit (e.g., £1,000 - £2,000) for initial investigations into infertility, even without other specific symptoms.
  • Cash Benefits for Treatment: A growing number of comprehensive PMI plans now include a fixed cash benefit. If you meet the policy's criteria (often similar to NICE guidelines but with faster access), the insurer will provide a lump sum (e.g., £5,000, £10,000, or even £15,000) to be put towards licensed fertility treatments like IVF or IUI. This provides a significant contribution, making private treatment far more accessible.

Introducing LCIIP: The Game-Changing Financial Shield for Your Future Family

The market is evolving beyond simple health cover. A new, integrated approach is emerging, which we call the Lifetime Cost of Infertility Insurance Protector (LCIIP). This isn't a single product but a philosophy—a bundle of benefits within a top-tier PMI policy designed to provide a comprehensive shield against the devastating, multi-faceted costs of a fertility struggle.

A policy aligned with the LCIIP concept moves beyond just treating a single condition. It provides a holistic safety net for your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing throughout your family-building journey.

The Core Pillars of an LCIIP-Aligned Policy:

  1. The Diagnostic Promise: Cast-iron guarantees for rapid access to specialist consultations and all necessary diagnostic tests to find the root cause of any fertility-related symptoms, bypassing NHS queues entirely.
  2. Surgical Intervention Pathway: Full cover for any required surgical procedures to correct underlying acute medical conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroids, performed at a time and hospital of your choice.
  3. Significant Treatment Contribution: A substantial, clearly defined cash benefit (£10,000+) towards IVF or other licensed fertility treatments, giving you the financial firepower to access the best care without delay.
  4. Integrated Mental Health Support: Generous, ring-fenced cover for counselling and psychotherapy to help you and your partner manage the immense emotional and psychological strain of the journey. This is a crucial, often overlooked, benefit.
  5. Holistic Wellness Package: Access to complementary services that support fertility, such as sessions with a registered nutritionist, acupuncturist, or wellness coach, acknowledging that health is more than the absence of disease.

At WeCovr, we specialise in helping our clients navigate the market to find these advanced, comprehensive policies. We analyse the intricate details of plans from all major UK insurers to identify those that offer a true LCIIP-style package, shielding your future family and your finances.

A Tale of Two Journeys: The NHS vs. The PMI Pathway

The difference between the two routes is best illustrated through a real-world comparison.

MilestoneCouple A: Sarah & Tom (NHS Pathway)Couple B: Chloe & Ben (PMI Pathway)
Start Trying (Age 32)Month 0Month 0
Seek Help (After 1 year)Month 12: Visit GP. Basic tests done. Told to "keep trying."Month 12: Chloe develops pelvic pain. Uses PMI for a GP referral.
Specialist AccessMonth 24: After 1 year on the waiting list, they see an NHS gynaecologist.Month 12.5: Sees a leading private gynaecologist within 2 weeks.
DiagnosticsMonth 25-30: Further tests (HSG, semen analysis) are scheduled over several months.Month 13: Consultant orders an MRI and laparoscopy. Both are done within 4 weeks.
DiagnosisMonth 36: Diagnosed with "unexplained infertility" as tests are inconclusive. Placed on IVF waiting list (18-month wait).Month 14: Diagnosed with Stage 2 Endometriosis. The laparoscopic surgery to clear it is covered by PMI and performed the following month.
OutcomeMonth 54 (Age 36.5): Start their single funded IVF cycle. The stress is immense, and success is uncertain. Total Time: 4.5 years.Month 20: After surgery and recovery, Chloe and Ben conceive naturally. Total Time to Resolution: 20 months.
Alternative OutcomeN/AIf they didn't conceive, they could use their PMI's £10,000 cash benefit to start a private IVF cycle immediately at age 34, with a higher chance of success.

This comparison isn't an exaggeration; it's the reality for thousands of couples. The PMI pathway saves not just time, but emotional energy, and crucially, it maximises the biological window of opportunity.

Selecting the right insurance is a critical decision. It's not about finding the cheapest premium, but the best value and the most relevant cover for your potential future needs.

Here's what you need to consider:

  1. Underwriting Type:

    • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. It's simpler to set up but can lead to uncertainty.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You disclose your full medical history upfront. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. For family planning, FMU offers crucial clarity.
  2. Level of Cover:

    • Comprehensive Plans: These are essential for robust fertility-related support. They offer a wider choice of specialists and hospitals, higher limits for outpatient diagnostics, and are the most likely to include valuable cash benefits and mental health support.
  3. Read the Fine Print:

    • Look for the specific sections on "Fertility," "Assisted Conception," and "Investigations."
    • Check the exact wording. Does it cover "investigations" or only "treatment of an underlying cause"?
    • What are the criteria and the value of any cash benefit? Is it per person or per policy?

This process can be daunting. The market is filled with jargon and complex policy documents. This is where using an expert broker like WeCovr becomes indispensable. We live and breathe this market every day. Our role is to act as your expert guide, comparing the whole market on your behalf and translating the fine print into clear, actionable advice. We ensure you find a policy that doesn't just tick boxes but provides a genuine, robust safety net for your future.

Furthermore, we believe in supporting our clients' holistic health. That’s why every WeCovr client receives complimentary access to our proprietary AI-powered wellness app, CalorieHero. Managing a healthy weight and lifestyle is a key factor in improving fertility outcomes, and this tool is another way we go above and beyond to support you on your journey.

The Financial Equation: Is PMI a Worthwhile Investment?

A comprehensive PMI policy might cost between £60-£150 per month per person, depending on age, location, and level of cover. While this is a considered monthly expense, it pales in comparison to the potential costs it protects you from.

Cost ItemWithout PMI (Self-Funded/Delayed)With a Comprehensive PMI Policy
PMI Premiums (per couple)£0£1,440 - £3,600 per year
Private Gynae Consultation£250 - £400Included
Private MRI Scan£500 - £1,500Included
Diagnostic Laparoscopy£3,000 - £5,000Included
Endometriosis Surgery£5,000 - £9,000Included
Single IVF Cycle£7,000 - £15,000+Potential £10k+ cash benefit
Lost Earnings / Career ImpactPotentially £250,000+Mitigated by faster treatment & less time off

Investing around £2,500 a year in a PMI policy could save you over £20,000 in immediate diagnostic and surgical costs, and provide a £10,000+ head start on IVF if needed. More importantly, it can protect you from the six-figure lifetime financial penalty of career disruption by resolving the issue years earlier.

Viewed this way, PMI is not an expense. It is a strategic investment in your time, your health, your career, your relationship, and your future family.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Fertility Journey in 2025 and Beyond

The new 2025 data paints a sobering picture of the infertility crisis in the UK. The journey is emotionally draining, financially crippling, and needlessly prolonged by a system struggling to cope. Millions are caught in a cycle of waiting, worrying, and watching their chances diminish with each passing year.

But you do not have to be a statistic. You do not have to subject your future to a postcode lottery.

Private Medical Insurance, when chosen wisely, offers a powerful and proactive alternative. It is your key to unlocking rapid diagnostics, world-class specialists, and timely treatment for the acute conditions that so often stand in the way of parenthood. The emergence of LCIIP-style policies, with their integrated cash benefits and mental health support, represents a paradigm shift in how we can protect ourselves.

By taking control of your healthcare, you are not just buying an insurance policy. You are buying time. You are investing in clarity over uncertainty. You are choosing a path of empowerment over a path of passive waiting.

Don't let the dream of your future family be a matter of chance. Take the first step towards securing your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing today.


Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

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

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

About WeCovr

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