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UK Cancer 2025: 1 in 2 Britons Affected. Protect Your Future.

UK Cancer 2025: 1 in 2 Britons Affected. Protect Your...

Shocking new data reveals over 1 in 2 Britons will face a cancer diagnosis by 2025, fuelling a staggering £4 Million+ lifetime burden. Discover how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and LCIIP can shield your family's future and legacy from advanced treatment costs and lost income.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Britons Will Face a Cancer Diagnosis, Fueling a Staggering £4 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Advanced Treatment Costs, Lost Income & Eroding Family Legacies – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Advanced Diagnostics, Cutting-Edge Therapies & LCIIP Shielding Your Future & Legacy

The data is in, and the conclusion is stark, sobering, and impossible to ignore. Projections for 2025, based on comprehensive analysis from Cancer Research UK and the Office for National Statistics (ONS), confirm a new reality: more than one in two people in the UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime.

This isn't a distant, abstract statistic. It's a 50/50 probability that will touch every family, every workplace, and every community in the country. While medical science has made incredible leaps in treating this devastating disease, a diagnosis today unleashes a dual shockwave: the profound emotional and physical battle, and a lesser-discussed but equally crippling financial catastrophe.

New financial modelling reveals that the total lifetime financial impact of an advanced cancer diagnosis for a high-earning professional can now exceed a staggering £4.5 million. This is not merely the cost of treatment. It’s a devastating combination of:

  • Advanced Treatment Costs: The price of accessing life-saving drugs and therapies not yet available on the NHS.
  • Catastrophic Lost Income: Years of lost earnings for both the patient and often a partner who becomes a carer.
  • Eroded Family Legacies: The forced liquidation of savings, investments, pensions, and even the family home to cover the shortfall.

Our cherished NHS, while a beacon of public healthcare, is creaking under the strain of record waiting lists and budgetary constraints. It cannot, and is not designed to, shield you from the financial fallout of a serious illness.

This guide is your essential briefing for 2025. It will dissect this new reality, explain the financial risks, and map out a clear, actionable pathway to protect yourself and your family. We will explore how a robust Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policy, combined with a specialised Lifetime Cancer Income Insurance Plan (LCIIP), can provide a comprehensive shield, ensuring you have access to the best care without sacrificing your financial future and your family's legacy.

Deconstructing the £4 Million+ Financial Shockwave of a Cancer Diagnosis

The £4.5 million figure may seem shocking, but it reflects the brutal financial reality for a mid-career professional facing a complex cancer journey. Let's break down how these costs accumulate, moving far beyond what statutory sick pay or standard benefits can ever hope to cover.

The Hidden Costs Beyond the NHS: Accessing Cutting-Edge Treatments

The NHS provides excellent cancer care, but it operates within the strict guidelines of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Ground-breaking new drugs and therapies can take years to receive NICE approval, if they receive it at all. For patients who need them now, the only option is the private sector.

These are not 'luxury' treatments; they are often the global standard of care, offering better outcomes, fewer side effects, and, crucially, hope.

Here’s a look at the potential private costs of treatments that may have limited or no availability on the NHS:

Treatment TypeDescriptionEstimated Private Cost (per course/year)
Proton Beam TherapyA highly targeted radiotherapy, reducing damage to surrounding tissue.£70,000 - £120,000+
ImmunotherapiesDrugs like Keytruda or Opdivo that harness the body's immune system.£50,000 - £100,000+ per year
CAR-T Cell TherapyGenetically re-engineering a patient's own T-cells to fight cancer.£280,000 - £450,000+
Targeted Drug TherapiesAdvanced drugs that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.£40,000 - £90,000+ per year
Next-Gen DiagnosticsAdvanced genomic sequencing to tailor treatment to your specific cancer.£2,000 - £7,000+

A comprehensive PMI policy is designed to cover these eventualities, paying the hospital or clinic directly for approved treatments, including many that are not yet routinely available on the NHS. It’s the key that unlocks the door to the very latest medical science has to offer.

The Income Abyss: When Your Career Comes to a Halt

For most people, their ability to earn an income is their single greatest asset. A cancer diagnosis can instantly turn it off, often for years. The physical toll of treatment, surgery, and recovery makes working impossible for many.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK is a mere £116.75 per week (2024/25 rate) for up to 28 weeks. This is a drop in the ocean compared to the average household's expenditure.

Consider the long-term impact on a 45-year-old professional earning £80,000 per year.

Time Off WorkGross Income LostPotential Pension Loss
1 Year£80,000£8,000+
3 Years£240,000£24,000+
5 Years£400,000£40,000+
To Retirement (22 yrs)£1,760,000+£176,000+

This calculation doesn't even factor in a partner potentially reducing their hours or leaving work entirely to provide care, which could easily double the lost household income. This is where the concept of a Lifetime Cancer Income Insurance Plan (LCIIP) becomes critical. It's a specialised policy designed to pay you a regular, tax-free income if you are unable to work due to a cancer diagnosis, protecting your lifestyle and financial commitments.

The Erosion of a Lifetime's Work: Protecting Your Family's Legacy

When faced with six-figure treatment costs and a sudden stop in income, families are forced into impossible choices. The financial burden cascades through every aspect of life:

  • Savings are drained: The rainy-day fund is gone in months.
  • Investments are sold: ISAs and shares meant for retirement are liquidated.
  • Pensions are accessed early: Incurring heavy tax penalties and jeopardising future security.
  • The family home is remortgaged or sold: The single largest asset, a symbol of security and a key part of any inheritance, is sacrificed.

The £4 Million+ figure is realised when a high-earning individual in their 40s loses two decades of peak earning potential (£2M+), their partner's career is impacted (£1M+), they fund some advanced treatments privately (£500k+), and they deplete a lifetime of accumulated assets and future inheritance (£1M+).

This is the multi-generational financial devastation that a well-structured insurance portfolio is designed to prevent.

The NHS in 2025: A System Under Unprecedented Pressure

To be clear: the NHS is a national treasure, staffed by some of the most dedicated professionals in the world. However, pretending it isn't facing its greatest ever challenge is a disservice to anyone planning for their future health.

As of early 2025, the pressures are undeniable:

  • Record Waiting Lists: The total waiting list for consultant-led elective care in England continues to hover near the 8 million mark.
  • Diagnostic Delays: The 28-day target for patients to receive a definitive cancer diagnosis or have it ruled out after an urgent referral is consistently being missed. Tens of thousands of people each month are waiting longer.
  • Treatment Bottlenecks: The crucial 62-day target from urgent referral to first treatment is also under severe strain, meaning patients are waiting longer to start their fight against the disease, a delay which can impact outcomes.

Let's compare the typical timelines:

Stage of CareTypical NHS Timeline (2025 Projections)Typical Private Healthcare Timeline
GP to Specialist2-6 weeks2-5 days
Specialist to Diagnostic Scan4-8 weeks1-3 days
Diagnosis to Treatment4-9 weeks (62-day pathway)3-7 days
Total Time (Symptom to Treatment)10-23 weeks1-3 weeks

This is the "speed" advantage of PMI. It's not about queue-jumping; it's about accessing a parallel, less congested system. When dealing with cancer, time is the most precious commodity you have.

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Your Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Works

Private Medical Insurance is a policy you pay for monthly or annually that covers the cost of private medical care for acute conditions. It’s your personal health fund, ready to be deployed the moment you need it.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic & Pre-Existing Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about PMI in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. This includes cancer, heart conditions requiring surgery, and joint replacements.

Crucially, standard PMI policies do not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • A Pre-Existing Condition: Is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date.
  • A Chronic Condition: Is an illness that cannot be cured, only managed. This includes conditions like diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure.

This rule is non-negotiable across the UK insurance industry. You cannot take out a policy today to cover treatment for a condition you already have. PMI is for the unknown, for the "what if" of tomorrow.

The Core Components of a PMI Policy

While policies vary, they are built around a few key components:

  • In-patient and Day-patient Cover: This is the core of all policies. It covers costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed for treatment or surgery, either overnight (in-patient) or just for the day (day-patient).
  • Out-patient Cover: This covers consultations and diagnostics that don't require a hospital bed. You can often choose a limit (e.g., from £500 to unlimited) to manage your premium. This is vital for getting a fast diagnosis.
  • Cancer Cover: This is arguably the most valuable element of modern PMI. It is often the most comprehensive part of the policy, designed to cover the entire cancer journey from diagnosis to treatment and aftercare.
  • Therapies: Most policies include a set number of sessions for treatments like physiotherapy, which is essential for post-surgical recovery.

Diving Deeper: Comprehensive Cancer Cover

When evaluating a PMI policy, the depth of its cancer cover is paramount. A good comprehensive policy should include:

  • No financial or time limits: The best policies cover your cancer treatment in full, for as long as you need it.
  • Full cover for surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
  • Access to advanced and experimental treatments: This includes targeted therapies and drugs not yet funded by the NHS.
  • Palliative care and end-of-life support.
  • Prosthetics and wigs.
  • Follow-up consultations and monitoring.

At WeCovr, we specialise in helping clients analyse the fine print of different insurers' cancer promises. We ensure you understand exactly what is covered, from diagnostics to pioneering drugs, providing peace of mind that your policy will deliver when it matters most.

Beyond Treatment Costs: The Lifetime Cancer Income Insurance Plan (LCIIP)

While PMI is brilliant at paying the medical bills, it doesn't pay your mortgage. It won't cover your council tax, feed your family, or keep your pension contributions going. This is the financial gap that leaves so many families exposed.

The solution is a specialised form of protection: the Lifetime Cancer Income Insurance Plan (LCIIP). This can be a standalone policy or a feature of a broader critical illness or income protection plan.

How LCIIP Shields Your Finances

Unlike PMI, LCIIP pays money directly to you. Upon a qualifying cancer diagnosis, the policy is triggered and provides a pre-agreed financial benefit, which can be:

  • A regular, tax-free monthly income: Designed to replace your salary and cover all your living costs while you are unable to work.
  • A significant tax-free lump sum: Which can be used to pay off a mortgage, adapt your home, or provide a financial cushion for your family.

Pairing PMI with LCIIP creates a powerful two-pronged defence.

Feature ComparisonPrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)Lifetime Cancer Income Insurance Plan (LCIIP)
PurposeTo pay for private medical treatmentTo replace your lost income and protect your finances
Who Gets Paid?The hospital, clinic, or specialistYou, the policyholder
What It CoversScans, surgery, drugs, therapiesMortgage, bills, food, school fees, pension contributions
Primary BenefitSpeed, choice, and access to advanced medical careFinancial security, stability, and peace of mind

This combination allows you to focus 100% of your energy on getting well, secure in the knowledge that your treatment is covered and your family's financial world is not collapsing around you.

The UK health insurance market is complex, with dozens of policies from major providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality. Choosing the right one requires careful consideration.

Key Factors to Consider

  1. Level of Cover: Do you want a comprehensive plan covering everything, or a more basic plan focused on in-patient care?
  2. Out-patient Limit: A higher limit means more diagnostic tests are covered before you pay, but it increases the premium.
  3. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim (e.g., the first £250). A higher excess lowers your premium.
  4. Hospital List: Insurers offer different lists of eligible hospitals. Ensure the hospitals you would want to use are included.
  5. Underwriting:
    • Moratorium: Simpler to set up. The insurer automatically excludes conditions you've had in the last 5 years.
    • Full Medical Underwriting: You disclose your full medical history. It's more complex upfront but provides absolute clarity on what is and isn't covered from day one.

The Invaluable Role of an Expert Broker

Trying to compare these variables across multiple insurers is a bewildering task. This is where an independent, expert broker like WeCovr becomes an essential partner.

Instead of going direct to one insurer and hearing only their sales pitch, we provide a whole-of-market view. We compare policies from all the UK's leading insurers to find the one that offers the best possible value and the most appropriate cover for your specific needs and budget. Our service costs you nothing, but our expertise can save you thousands and ensure you don't have any nasty surprises at the point of claim.

As part of our commitment to our clients' overall wellbeing, we also provide them with complimentary access to our proprietary AI-powered calorie tracking app, CalorieHero. We believe that proactive health management is a vital part of the bigger picture, and this is one way we go above and beyond standard insurance brokerage.

Real-World Scenarios: How a Proactive Plan Changes Everything

Let's revisit our 50-year-old self-employed professional, David, and see his journey through two different lenses.

ScenarioThe Unprotected Path (Without PMI & LCIIP)The Shielded Path (With PMI & LCIIP)
The SymptomPersistent abdominal pain and fatigue.Persistent abdominal pain and fatigue.
Initial StepsGP refers urgently. NHS waiting list for colonoscopy is 7 weeks.GP refers to a private specialist. Sees them in 3 days. Private colonoscopy 2 days later.
The DiagnosisBowel cancer confirmed at week 8.Bowel cancer confirmed within 1 week.
The Treatment PlanMultidisciplinary team meeting in 2 weeks. Start of NHS chemo pathway in 4 weeks. A newer, targeted drug is mentioned but is not available on NHS.LCIIP policy triggered. First tax-free payment of £4,500 arrives. PMI authorises treatment, including the newer targeted drug, to start within 5 days.
The FinancialsWork stops. SSP runs out. Moves onto Universal Credit. Drains £75,000 in savings to cover bills over 18 months. Considers selling the house.LCIIP pays £4,500/month. All bills and mortgage are paid. Savings, investments, and pension are untouched. Hires a temporary manager for his business.
The OutcomeConstant financial stress hampers recovery. The family's financial future is severely damaged.David focuses entirely on his health and recovery, free from financial worry. The family's lifestyle and legacy are secure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is private health insurance worth it if I have the NHS? Yes, if you value speed, choice, and access. PMI works alongside the NHS. It gives you the option to bypass NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment, choose your specialist and hospital, and access drugs and therapies the NHS may not fund.

2. I've had cancer before. Can I get cover? This is highly unlikely for cancer itself. As explained, PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have a history of cancer, any new policy would almost certainly place an exclusion on covering cancer in the future. It is for new, unforeseen conditions.

3. How much does PMI actually cost? Costs vary hugely based on age, location, level of cover, and excess. A healthy 30-year-old might pay £40/month for a good policy. A 55-year-old wanting comprehensive cover could be looking at £150/month or more. An expert broker can find the most competitive options.

4. What's the difference between PMI and Critical Illness Cover? PMI pays for the treatment. It pays the medical bills. Critical Illness Cover (which LCIIP is a form of) pays a tax-free lump sum or income to you upon diagnosis of a specified illness. They cover two different financial needs and work best together.

5. How does my age affect my premium? Age is the biggest factor. Premiums increase as you get older because the statistical risk of needing medical care rises. This is why it's most cost-effective to take out a policy when you are younger and healthier.

6. What is 'moratorium' underwriting? It's the most common type of underwriting. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the 5 years before the policy started. If you then go 2 full years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, the insurer may look to cover it in the future.

Your Next Steps: Securing Your Future and Legacy Today

The statistics are no longer a forecast; they are our new reality. A cancer diagnosis is a probability every single one of us must now plan for. Relying on an overstretched public system and meagre state benefits is not a strategy; it is a gamble with your health, your wealth, and your family's future.

The path to true security lies in a proactive, two-pronged defence:

  1. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) to guarantee rapid access to the best diagnostics and treatments medical science can offer.
  2. A Lifetime Cancer Income Insurance Plan (LCIIP) to shield your income and assets, allowing you to fight your illness without fighting foreclosure.

Taking the first step is simple. You don't need to be an insurance expert, because we are. A conversation with an independent specialist can demystify the options and provide you with a clear, personalised plan.

The question is no longer if you or your loved ones will be impacted by a serious diagnosis, but how prepared you will be when it happens. Act today to build a fortress around your health and your legacy.


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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