UK Private Health for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers

Your Essential Guide to UK Private Health Insurance for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers

UK Private Health Insurance for Remote Workers & Digital Nomads: Seamless Health & Wellness Anywhere in the UK

The traditional 9-to-5 office job is, for many, a relic of a bygone era. A new paradigm has emerged, driven by technological advancement and a seismic shift in work culture: the age of the remote worker and the digital nomad. Free from geographical constraints, these trailblazers are redefining productivity, lifestyle, and even what it means to be 'healthy'.

But with this newfound freedom comes a unique set of challenges, particularly concerning health and wellbeing. When your "office" can be a co-working space in Bristol, a quiet cottage in the Scottish Highlands, or a bustling café in Central London, how do you ensure consistent access to quality healthcare? The National Health Service (NHS), while a cornerstone of British society, faces unprecedented pressures, leading to longer waiting lists and reduced accessibility, especially for those without a fixed, long-term address.

This is where UK private health insurance (PMI) steps in. Far from being a luxury, it's becoming an essential tool for remote workers and digital nomads seeking peace of mind, rapid access to specialists, and a proactive approach to their health, no matter where their British adventures take them.

The Evolving Landscape of Work: A Health Perspective

The UK has witnessed a dramatic surge in remote work. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the proportion of people working exclusively from home peaked during the pandemic but has settled at a significantly higher level than pre-2020. Many businesses now operate hybrid models, and a substantial number of individuals have embraced fully remote roles, often enjoying the flexibility to live and work from diverse locations across the country.

Key Trends & Statistics:

• Remote Work Adoption: While specific figures fluctuate, a significant portion of the UK workforce continues to work remotely at least part of the week. Surveys by organisations like CIPD consistently show over half of UK employers offering some form of hybrid or remote working.
• The Rise of the 'Work-from-Anywhere' Mindset: This isn't just about working from home; it's about the ability to work from anywhere with a good internet connection. This has seen people relocate from expensive urban centres to more affordable or picturesque regions of the UK.
• Mental Health Implications: While flexibility can reduce stress, isolation, blurred work-life boundaries, and the lack of traditional office support structures can pose mental health challenges. Studies consistently show an increase in reported anxiety and stress among remote workers if not managed effectively.
• Physical Health Risks: Prolonged sitting, less incidental movement, and difficulty accessing regular health checks due to a transient lifestyle can contribute to physical health issues.

For remote workers and digital nomads, the challenge isn't just about finding healthcare, but finding timely and consistent healthcare that adapts to their mobile lifestyle. The NHS, designed for a more static population, can sometimes fall short in meeting these dynamic needs. Registering with a new GP every few months, navigating different local services, and facing potentially long waits for non-emergency issues can be a significant source of stress.

Why UK Private Health Insurance for a Mobile Lifestyle?

The NHS is a lifeline, providing universal care at the point of need. However, its immense pressures mean that for non-emergency or elective procedures, waiting lists can be extensive. For someone whose livelihood depends on their health and agility, or who simply values prompt diagnosis and treatment, these delays can be detrimental.

Private health insurance offers a compelling alternative or, more accurately, a powerful complement to the NHS for remote workers and digital nomads in the UK.

Key Benefits of PMI for Mobile Professionals:

1. Speed of Access: No more months-long waits for a specialist consultation or diagnostic scan. PMI typically provides rapid access to private GPs, consultants, and diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans, blood tests). This means quicker diagnoses and faster starts to treatment.
2. Choice and Control: You gain greater control over your healthcare journey. You can often choose your consultant, select a hospital that suits your location (from a pre-approved list), and schedule appointments at a time that works for you.
3. Geographical Flexibility: A significant advantage for digital nomads. Your policy covers you across the UK, meaning you can access private healthcare facilities whether you're in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, or Cornwall, as long as they are on your insurer's approved hospital list. No need to re-register with a new GP every time you move.
4. Access to Comprehensive Treatment: PMI policies often include cover for a wide range of treatments, from physiotherapy and mental health support to advanced cancer care, depending on the level of cover chosen.
5. Comfort and Privacy: Private hospitals typically offer private rooms, en-suite facilities, and a more comfortable, quieter environment for recovery, which can be particularly appealing if you're recovering away from your usual support network.
6. Virtual GP Services: Many modern PMI policies include 24/7 virtual GP services, allowing you to have a video or phone consultation with a doctor from anywhere in the UK, often within hours. This is invaluable for remote workers who might be in a new area and need quick medical advice without the hassle of finding and registering with a local NHS GP.
7. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a safety net for your health, regardless of where you are in the UK, can significantly reduce anxiety and allow you to focus on your work and enjoy your flexible lifestyle.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in the UK

Before diving into how PMI specifically benefits remote workers, it's crucial to understand its fundamental mechanics and what to expect from a policy.

How PMI Works

Private Medical Insurance operates on a simple principle: you pay a regular premium (monthly or annually) to an insurer. In return, the insurer covers the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

An 'acute condition' is defined as a disease, illness or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment that aims to return you to the state of health you were in immediately before suffering the disease, illness or injury, or which leads to your full recovery.

What PMI Typically Covers

Most comprehensive PMI policies are designed to cover the costs associated with diagnosing and treating acute conditions, encompassing a broad spectrum of medical services.

What PMI Does NOT Cover

It is absolutely crucial to understand the exclusions inherent in almost all private health insurance policies. Misunderstandings here are a common source of disappointment.

Key Exclusions to Remember:

1. Pre-existing Conditions: This is the most significant exclusion. A pre-existing condition is generally defined as any illness, injury, or disease for which you have received advice or treatment, or had symptoms, in the period leading up to taking out the policy (usually the last 5 years). Insurers will not cover treatment for these conditions.
   • Example: If you had knee pain and saw a physio last year, your new policy likely won't cover a future private knee operation for that same issue.
2. Chronic Conditions: These are ongoing, long-term conditions that cannot be cured by treatment and may require ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, hypertension). While PMI might cover the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition, it will not cover the ongoing management, monitoring, or treatment of that condition.
   • Example: If you are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes after taking out your policy, your PMI might cover the diagnostic tests, but not your ongoing insulin prescriptions, regular check-ups, or complications arising from the diabetes.
3. Emergency Treatment: Private health insurance is not a substitute for A&E (Accident & Emergency) services. In a medical emergency, you should always go to the nearest NHS A&E department. PMI is for planned or acute non-emergency treatment.
4. Normal Pregnancy and Childbirth: Standard PMI policies generally do not cover routine maternity care. Some insurers offer this as a very expensive add-on, often with a long waiting period.
5. Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures primarily aimed at improving appearance, unless medically necessary as a result of an accident or illness.
6. Organ Transplants: Generally excluded.
7. HIV/AIDS: Treatment for these conditions is typically excluded.
8. Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Treatment for addiction is usually not covered.
9. Self-Inflicted Injuries or Injuries from Dangerous Sports: Depending on the policy.
10. Routine Check-ups, Vaccinations, and Screening: Unless specifically offered as a wellness benefit add-on.

Understanding these exclusions is paramount when comparing policies and managing expectations.

Choosing Your Underwriting Type

When you apply for private health insurance, you'll typically be asked to choose how the insurer assesses your medical history. This is called 'underwriting' and directly impacts how pre-existing conditions are handled.

There are two main types relevant for individuals:

1. Moratorium Underwriting:
   • How it works: This is the most common and often easiest to set up. You don't need to provide your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer imposes a 'moratorium' period (usually 2 years) from the start date of your policy. During this period, if you seek treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the 5 years before taking out the policy, that condition will be excluded.
   • What happens after 2 years? If you go two continuous years without symptoms, treatment, or advice for a pre-existing condition, it might then become covered. However, if symptoms recur within those two years, the clock restarts for that specific condition.
   • Pros: Simpler, quicker application.
   • Cons: Less certainty about what's covered initially; you might find out a condition is excluded only when you try to claim.
2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMW):
   • How it works: You provide your complete medical history (sometimes with a GP report) upfront. The insurer then assesses this information and decides at the outset which conditions (if any) will be excluded.
   • Pros: Complete clarity from day one about what is and isn't covered. No uncertainty after the policy starts.
   • Cons: Can be a longer and more detailed application process.
   • Best for: Those who want absolute certainty and don't mind the upfront effort, or if you know you have specific past conditions you want clarity on.

For remote workers and digital nomads, either option can work, but understanding the implications of each is vital.

Tailoring PMI for Remote Workers & Digital Nomads

The mobile nature of remote work necessitates a health insurance policy that is as flexible as your lifestyle. Generic policies might not provide the specific benefits that offer the most value for this demographic.

The Unique Needs of a Nomadic/Remote Lifestyle

• Geographical Flexibility within the UK: The ability to access care consistently, whether you're in a major city or a rural area, without re-registering with local NHS services.
• Rapid Access to Care: Time is money, and delays in treatment can impact productivity and income. Quick diagnostics and treatment are paramount.
• Mental Health Support: The isolation, blurred boundaries, and constant change inherent in a nomadic lifestyle can impact mental wellbeing. Easy access to therapy and counselling is crucial.
• Virtual Services: A digital-first approach to healthcare aligns perfectly with a digital-first lifestyle.
• Proactive Health Management: The ability to get regular check-ups or access wellness programmes to prevent issues before they become acute.

Geographical Scope of Coverage

Ensure your chosen policy covers you throughout the entire UK. Most standard UK PMI policies do this, but it's worth double-checking the hospital network. Some policies might have 'guided options' that limit your choice of hospitals to a smaller, more budget-friendly list, which might be fine if you plan to stay within major urban centres, but less ideal if you frequently venture into more rural areas.

• Hospital Lists: Insurers operate with approved hospital lists. These can range from highly extensive lists covering nearly all private hospitals in the UK (including central London) to more restricted lists that might exclude very expensive hospitals or focus on specific regional networks. As a remote worker, consider a broader list if you plan to move around a lot, ensuring you're not limited when you need care in a new location.

Flexibility and Portability

The beauty of PMI is its portability across the UK. Unlike registering with an NHS GP, which ties you to a specific postcode, your PMI policy moves with you. If you need a consultation in Edinburgh one month and a physio appointment in Brighton the next, your policy can facilitate this, provided the providers are on your insurer's approved list.

This seamless transition is a major selling point for those embracing the "work-from-anywhere" philosophy.

Mental Health Support

The mental health aspect of remote work cannot be overstated. Long hours, lack of social interaction, and the pressure of self-management can take a toll. Many insurers now recognise this and offer robust mental health benefits.

Look for policies that include:

• Counselling and Therapy Sessions: Covering a set number of sessions with psychologists, psychotherapists, or counsellors.
• Inpatient Psychiatric Treatment: For more severe conditions.
• Digital Mental Health Platforms: Access to apps, online resources, or virtual CBT programmes.

Prioritising mental wellbeing through your PMI is an investment in your overall health and productivity.

Virtual GP Services

This is arguably one of the most invaluable features for remote workers and digital nomads. Most leading UK PMI providers now offer 24/7 or extensive-hours virtual GP services.

Benefits of Virtual GP:

• Convenience: Consult a doctor from your laptop or phone, wherever you are in the UK.
• Speed: Get an appointment often within hours, avoiding long waits for an NHS GP slot.
• Prescriptions: Receive private prescriptions (which you then pay for at a pharmacy).
• Referrals: Get private specialist referrals, often electronically, allowing you to bypass the NHS referral system and directly book with a private consultant.
• Continuity: While not the same as a dedicated NHS GP, having consistent access to virtual doctors provides a form of continuity, as many services allow you to see the same doctor again.

This feature alone can significantly enhance the sense of security and accessibility for someone constantly on the move.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Policy

Selecting the right PMI policy requires careful thought. It’s not just about the cheapest premium, but about finding the right balance of cost, coverage, and flexibility for your unique lifestyle.

Budget & Premiums

The cost of private health insurance varies significantly. Premiums are influenced by several factors:

• Age: The older you are, the higher the premium, as the risk of needing medical treatment increases with age.
• Location: Premiums can be higher in areas with more expensive private hospitals, such as London.
• Level of Cover: Comprehensive plans covering extensive outpatient care and a wide range of hospitals will be more expensive than basic inpatient-only plans.
• Excess: A higher excess (the amount you pay towards a claim before the insurer pays) will result in lower premiums.
• Underwriting Type: Moratorium can sometimes be slightly cheaper initially.
• Lifestyle: Some insurers may factor in smoking status or certain dangerous hobbies.

Excess Options

An excess is the initial amount of money you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment for each policy year or each condition. Choosing a higher excess will reduce your annual premium.

• Annual Excess: You pay this amount once per policy year, regardless of how many claims you make.
• Per Condition Excess: You pay this amount for each new condition you claim for.
• No Excess: The insurer pays 100% of the covered costs, but your premiums will be highest.

For remote workers on a tighter budget, opting for a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) can make PMI more affordable, provided you have savings to cover that initial outlay should you need to claim.

Outpatient Coverage

Many of the benefits relevant to remote workers (virtual GP, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests like MRIs, physiotherapy) fall under outpatient care. Some basic policies are 'inpatient only' and cover nothing until you are formally admitted to a hospital.

Consider adding or choosing a plan with robust outpatient coverage:

• Full Outpatient: Covers 100% of eligible outpatient costs.
• Limited Outpatient: Covers outpatient costs up to a certain monetary limit per year or per condition (e.g., £1,000 for consultations, £500 for physio).
• Virtual GP only: A common basic outpatient add-on.

For digital nomads who need quick diagnoses and perhaps ongoing therapy (like physio for a back issue from a poor ergonomic setup), robust outpatient cover is invaluable.

Additional Benefits

Beyond the core medical treatment, many policies offer valuable extras.

• Therapies: Ensure physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic care, and podiatry are covered, especially if you lead an active lifestyle or spend many hours at a desk.
• Optical and Dental: Often available as separate add-ons. Consider if these are worth the extra premium based on your needs.
• Health Screenings/Assessments: Some policies offer annual health checks or discounts on them. A great way for remote workers to proactively manage their health.
• Travel Insurance Integration: Some insurers offer international travel add-ons, which could be useful if you're a true digital nomad who occasionally works from outside the UK. However, note that this article focuses on UK-based health insurance.
• Wellness Programmes: Access to fitness apps, gym discounts, or healthy living incentives.

Waiting Periods

Be aware of initial waiting periods. There's usually a short waiting period (e.g., 14 days) at the start of your policy before you can make any claims. Some specific treatments, like mental health or cancer care, might have longer initial waiting periods (e.g., 3-6 months) before you can claim for them. This means you can't take out a policy today and claim for a pre-existing condition tomorrow, nor can you make an immediate claim for any new condition if you're within the initial waiting period.

The Application Process

Getting private health insurance in the UK is a straightforward process, but preparing correctly can make it even smoother.

What Information You'll Need

When applying, you'll generally need to provide:

• Personal Details: Name, address (your primary UK address for correspondence), date of birth.
• Contact Information: Phone, email.
• Desired Cover Level: What kind of benefits you're looking for (e.g., inpatient, outpatient, mental health).
• Underwriting Choice: Moratorium or Full Medical Underwriting.
• Medical History (for FMW): Detailed information about past conditions, treatments, and dates. For moratorium, you only need to confirm you understand the terms, but if a claim arises, your medical history for the past 5 years will be scrutinised.
• Lifestyle Information: Smoking status, sometimes height/weight, and questions about dangerous hobbies.

Navigating Medical Underwriting

As discussed, your choice of underwriting type dictates how your medical history is handled.

• Moratorium: Be honest about your health generally, but no need to provide a full medical history upfront. Understand that if you claim within the first two years, the insurer will look back at your history for the past five years to see if the condition is pre-existing and therefore excluded.
• Full Medical Underwriting (FMW): This is where detail is key. Provide comprehensive and accurate information about any past illnesses, injuries, symptoms, or treatments. If in doubt, disclose it. Non-disclosure can invalidate your policy later. The insurer will typically issue a decision within a few days or weeks, outlining any specific exclusions.

For a remote worker moving frequently, the ease of moratorium might appeal, but the certainty of FMW can also be highly valuable if you have a known medical history you want clarity on.

The Role of a Broker Like WeCovr

Navigating the complex world of private health insurance can be daunting. There are numerous insurers, each with different policies, terms, exclusions, and pricing models. This is where an independent broker like WeCovr becomes an invaluable resource.

How WeCovr Helps Remote Workers & Digital Nomads:

• Impartial Advice: We work with all major UK private health insurance providers. This means we can compare policies from across the market, rather than being tied to one insurer's offerings. We provide unbiased recommendations based on your specific needs and budget.
• Expert Knowledge: We understand the nuances of different policy types, underwriting rules, and what's best suited for a mobile lifestyle. We can explain complex terms in plain English and help you understand the implications of different choices, particularly concerning pre-existing conditions and geographical flexibility.
• Time-Saving: Instead of you spending hours researching and comparing quotes from multiple providers, we do the legwork for you. We gather quotes, summarise the key differences, and present you with the most suitable options.
• No Cost to You: Our service is completely free to you. We are remunerated by the insurer if you take out a policy through us, but this does not affect your premium. Our priority is to find you the best coverage.
• Seamless Application: We guide you through the application process, helping you complete forms accurately and liaising with insurers on your behalf, making the entire experience smoother and less stressful.
• Ongoing Support: Our support doesn't end once you've purchased a policy. We're here to answer questions about your policy, help with renewals, or discuss changes if your circumstances evolve.

For remote workers and digital nomads, who often value efficiency and expert guidance, partnering with WeCovr means you get access to the best available policies without the headache of self-navigation. We help you secure that seamless health and wellness coverage anywhere in the UK.

Real-Life Scenarios and Case Studies

Let's illustrate how UK private health insurance can benefit remote workers and digital nomads through a few hypothetical scenarios.

Case Study 1: The New Digital Nomad - Sarah, 28, Freelance Graphic Designer

Sarah has just gone fully remote and plans to spend a few months each in various UK cities. She's generally healthy but worries about getting sick or injured far from her family and usual GP.

• The Challenge: Sarah wants peace of mind that she can get quick medical attention without having to re-register with a new NHS GP every time she moves. She also wants access to virtual GP services for minor ailments and quick referrals if needed.
• PMI Solution: Sarah opts for a comprehensive PMI policy with moratorium underwriting. It includes full outpatient cover, mental health support, and 24/7 virtual GP access.
• Outcome: Three months into her nomadic life, Sarah develops a persistent cough and feels unwell while in Glasgow. Instead of trying to find a temporary NHS GP, she uses her virtual GP service. Within an hour, she has a video consultation, gets advice, and a private prescription for antibiotics sent to a local pharmacy. A month later, she twists her ankle hiking in the Lake District. Her PMI covers her initial physio consultation and subsequent sessions at a private clinic in Kendal, all within days of the injury, avoiding long NHS waits and ensuring a quick recovery to get back to work.

Case Study 2: The Established Remote Professional - Mark, 45, Software Developer

Mark has been working remotely for years from his home in rural Cornwall. He recently developed increasing back pain, impacting his productivity. NHS waiting lists for MRI scans and orthopaedic consultations in his area are several months long.

• The Challenge: Mark needs rapid diagnosis and treatment for his back pain to prevent it from becoming chronic and impacting his ability to work. He cannot afford to wait months.
• PMI Solution: Mark has a comprehensive PMI policy with full medical underwriting (taken out years ago, so no pre-existing issues). His policy covers advanced diagnostics and specialist consultations.
• Outcome: Mark's private GP refers him for an MRI scan, which he gets within a week. The scan reveals a bulging disc. He sees a private orthopaedic consultant within another few days, who recommends a course of physiotherapy. All treatments are covered by his PMI, allowing him to get back on his feet and back to full productivity much faster than if he'd relied solely on the NHS.

Case Study 3: The Mental Health Priority - Chloe, 33, Online Content Creator

Chloe loves the flexibility of remote work but has struggled with anxiety and burnout, common issues for remote professionals. She wants proactive support for her mental wellbeing.

• The Challenge: Chloe needs accessible, confidential, and timely mental health support without long waiting lists.
• PMI Solution: Chloe chooses a PMI policy that has a strong focus on mental health benefits, including a generous allowance for talking therapies and access to digital mental wellbeing platforms.
• Outcome: Chloe uses her virtual GP service to discuss her anxiety. She is quickly referred for private counselling sessions, which she attends remotely via video calls, maintaining her privacy and allowing her to continue receiving support even as she moves between locations. The policy covers her sessions, providing invaluable support for her mental health.

These scenarios highlight the tangible benefits of PMI for individuals who prioritise health, flexibility, and rapid access to care, perfectly aligning with the demands of a remote and nomadic lifestyle.

Beyond the Policy: Maintaining Wellness on the Go

While private health insurance provides a crucial safety net, true health and wellness for remote workers and digital nomads extend beyond reactive medical care. Proactive strategies are key.

Proactive Health Management

• Ergonomics: Invest in a good ergonomic setup, even if it's portable. Poor posture is a common cause of pain for remote workers.
• Regular Movement: Counteract prolonged sitting with frequent breaks, stretching, and regular exercise. Explore local parks, walking trails, or gyms wherever you are.
• Healthy Eating: It can be tempting to rely on takeaways or unhealthy snacks when on the go. Prioritise cooking healthy meals or choosing nutritious options when eating out.
• Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even with varying locations. Quality sleep is foundational to physical and mental health.
• Regular Check-ups: Even if not covered by PMI, consider private health assessments if you have specific concerns, or utilise wellness benefits if your policy offers them.

Leveraging Digital Health Tools

Beyond your PMI's virtual GP service, a myriad of apps and digital tools can support your wellness journey:

• Fitness Trackers & Apps: Monitor activity, sleep, and heart rate.
• Meditation & Mindfulness Apps: Combat stress and improve focus (e.g., Headspace, Calm).
• Nutritional Apps: Track food intake and plan healthy meals.
• Telehealth Platforms: Beyond your insurer's offering, these can provide access to dieticians, coaches, or therapists.

Building a Support Network

One of the biggest challenges for remote workers and digital nomads can be isolation.

• Co-working Spaces: Utilise co-working spaces to meet other professionals and create a sense of community.
• Online Communities: Join online forums or groups dedicated to remote work or digital nomadism for shared experiences and support.
• Scheduled Socialisation: Actively schedule virtual or in-person meet-ups with friends and family to maintain connections.
• Local Groups: Explore local clubs, classes, or volunteer opportunities in new locations to build a temporary community.

Your health insurance is a vital pillar, but a holistic approach to wellbeing, embracing both proactive measures and a strong support system, will ensure you thrive in your flexible career.

The Future of Work and Health

The trends are clear: remote and flexible working are here to stay, and likely to expand further. As technology evolves, so too will our ability to work from anywhere. This continued evolution will place an even greater emphasis on adaptable and accessible health solutions.

Insurers are already innovating, with more focus on preventative care, mental wellbeing, and digital health tools. The seamless integration of health services into a mobile lifestyle will be paramount. For remote workers and digital nomads, UK private health insurance won't just be a convenience; it will be a cornerstone of their professional resilience and personal wellbeing.

Conclusion

The freedom and flexibility offered by remote work and the digital nomad lifestyle are incredibly appealing, but they come with inherent responsibilities, particularly concerning your health. Relying solely on the stretched NHS can introduce uncertainty, delays, and logistical headaches for those without a fixed abode or desiring rapid access to care.

UK private health insurance offers a robust solution, providing peace of mind, swift access to diagnostics and treatment, and a range of benefits tailored to a mobile lifestyle – from virtual GP services to comprehensive mental health support. It empowers you to take control of your health, ensuring that your wellbeing is not compromised by your geographical fluidity.

Understanding what PMI covers (and what it doesn't, particularly pre-existing and chronic conditions), choosing the right level of cover, and making informed decisions about underwriting are crucial steps. But you don't have to navigate this landscape alone.

As an expert independent broker, we at WeCovr specialise in helping remote workers and digital nomads find the optimal private health insurance policy for their unique circumstances. We compare options from all major UK insurers, provide impartial advice, and guide you through the entire process, all at no cost to you. Let us help you secure that seamless health and wellness experience, wherever your adventures in the UK may lead you. Invest in your health, invest in your freedom.