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Axa Health PMI Is It the Best Choice for UK Families

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that choosing private medical insurance for your family is a major decision. This guide explores whether AXA Health offers the best private health cover for UK families, providing an expert, in-depth review and market comparison. WeCovr reviews AXA's family plans and compares them with other leading providers Protecting your family's health is, without doubt, a top priority.

Key takeaways

  • Beating the Queues: According to the latest NHS England data, the number of people on waiting lists for routine hospital treatment remains a significant concern, with millions waiting many months, and sometimes over a year, for procedures. For a child in pain or a parent unable to work, this wait can be agonising. PMI offers a way to bypass these queues and get treatment swiftly.
  • Choice and Control: Private health cover gives you more control over your healthcare journey. You can often choose:
  • The specialist or consultant who treats you.
  • The hospital where you receive treatment from an approved list.
  • A time for your appointment or surgery that fits around your family and work life.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that choosing private medical insurance for your family is a major decision. This guide explores whether AXA Health offers the best private health cover for UK families, providing an expert, in-depth review and market comparison.

WeCovr reviews AXA's family plans and compares them with other leading providers

Protecting your family's health is, without doubt, a top priority. In an era of growing NHS waiting lists, many UK families are turning to private medical insurance (PMI) for peace of mind and faster access to treatment. AXA Health is one of the most prominent names in the UK's PMI market. But does its reputation translate into the best possible cover for you and your loved ones?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down AXA Health's family offerings, analyse how they stack up against competitors like Bupa and Vitality, and help you understand the crucial details so you can make an informed choice.

What is Private Medical Insurance and Why Consider It for Your Family?

Before diving into AXA specifically, let's clarify what private medical insurance is and why it's becoming increasingly popular.

In simple terms, PMI is a type of insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private healthcare for specific, treatable medical conditions. It works alongside the NHS, not as a replacement for it. For example, you would still rely on the NHS for accidents and emergencies, GP visits (unless your policy includes a private GP service), and the management of long-term chronic illnesses.

A Crucial Point on UK Health Insurance: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about UK private health cover. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions – diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health.

PMI policies do not cover chronic conditions, which are long-term illnesses that require ongoing management, such as diabetes, asthma, or hypertension. They also exclude pre-existing conditions – any ailment you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy started (typically within the last five years).

Why Are UK Families Choosing PMI?

  1. Beating the Queues: According to the latest NHS England data, the number of people on waiting lists for routine hospital treatment remains a significant concern, with millions waiting many months, and sometimes over a year, for procedures. For a child in pain or a parent unable to work, this wait can be agonising. PMI offers a way to bypass these queues and get treatment swiftly.

  2. Choice and Control: Private health cover gives you more control over your healthcare journey. You can often choose:

    • The specialist or consultant who treats you.
    • The hospital where you receive treatment from an approved list.
    • A time for your appointment or surgery that fits around your family and work life.

  3. Comfort and Privacy: A significant benefit is access to a private room in a hospital, usually with an en-suite bathroom, TV, and more flexible visiting hours. This can make a stressful time much more comfortable, especially when a child is unwell.

  4. Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some advanced cancer drugs and treatments, while approved, may not be available on the NHS due to cost constraints (a situation often referred to as the "NHS funding lottery"). Many comprehensive PMI policies provide access to these, offering families more treatment options.

A Deep Dive into AXA Health's Family PMI Plans

AXA is a global insurance giant, and its UK health insurance arm, AXA Health, has a long-standing reputation for providing comprehensive and reliable cover. Their core product for individuals and families is the Personal Health plan.

The Personal Health plan is built on a modular basis. This means you start with a core foundation of cover and then add optional extras to tailor the policy to your family's specific needs and budget.

AXA Health's Core Cover: What's Included as Standard?

The foundational Personal Health plan provides substantial cover for the most significant medical costs.

Feature Covered by Core PlanDescription
In-patient & Day-patient TreatmentCovers tests and surgery when you are admitted to a hospital bed, even if just for the day. This includes hospital fees, specialist fees, and diagnostics like MRI/CT scans.
Extensive Cancer CoverComprehensive cover for cancer diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. It also includes ongoing monitoring and check-ups.
NHS Hospital Cash BenefitIf you choose to use the NHS for treatment that your policy would have covered, AXA pays you a cash sum for each night you spend in an NHS hospital.
'Doctor at Hand' Digital GP24/7 access to a private GP via phone or video call. This is incredibly useful for families, allowing you to get medical advice for a poorly child in the middle of the night without leaving home.
Health at Hand Support Line24/7 access to a team of nurses, counsellors, and pharmacists for medical advice and support.
Strong Mental Health SupportEven on the core plan, AXA provides support for mental health, a feature that has become increasingly important for families post-pandemic.

Tailoring Your Cover: AXA's Optional Add-ons

This is where you can customise your policy. The most common options families consider are:

  • Out-patient Cover: This is arguably the most important add-on. Without it, your policy only covers treatment once you're admitted to hospital. Out-patient cover pays for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests before a hospital admission is needed. AXA typically offers different levels, from a full-cover option to a capped amount per policy year.
  • Therapies Option: This covers treatment from physiotherapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors. For active families with children prone to sports injuries, this can be invaluable.
  • Mental Health Option: While core cover provides some support, this upgraded option gives you more extensive access to psychiatrists and therapists as an out-patient or in-patient.
  • Dentist and Optician Cashback: This helps with the costs of routine dental check-ups, treatments, eye tests, and prescription glasses. It's a cashback benefit, meaning you pay first and claim a percentage back.
  • Travel Cover: You can choose to add European or Worldwide travel insurance to your health plan.

Key Features for Families

AXA Health's plan includes several features that are particularly appealing to families:

  • Adding Children: You can add children to your policy at any time. Newborns can often be added free of charge for the first three months.
  • Child-Only Policies: It is possible to take out a policy just for your children.
  • Simplicity: AXA's modular approach is relatively straightforward to understand compared to some of the more complex, rewards-based models on the market.

How Does AXA Health's Family Cover Compare to Other Leading UK Providers?

No provider exists in a vacuum. To judge if AXA is the "best," we must compare it to its main rivals: Bupa and Vitality. These three providers represent the lion's share of the UK private medical insurance market.

  • Bupa: A household name synonymous with private healthcare. Bupa is known for its extensive network of hospitals and a strong focus on comprehensive clinical care.
  • Vitality: The market disruptor. Vitality's model is unique, focusing on rewarding healthy living. Members earn points for being active, which reduces their premiums and unlocks rewards like free cinema tickets and coffee.

Here is a simplified comparison of their typical family offerings. Note that specific details can vary based on the exact policy chosen.

Comparison of Leading UK Family PMI Providers

FeatureAXA Health (Personal Health)Bupa (Bupa By You)Vitality (Personal Healthcare)
Core PhilosophyTraditional, comprehensive insurance focused on treatment. Straightforward and reliable.Strong clinical reputation with a focus on extensive treatment pathways and direct access services.Wellness and rewards-driven. Encourages healthy behaviour to lower costs and earn benefits.
Core CoverStrong in-patient and cancer cover as standard. 'Doctor at Hand' 24/7 GP included.Comprehensive in-patient and cancer cover. Access to 'Digital GP' and direct access for certain conditions (e.g., cancer, mental health).Comprehensive in-patient and cancer cover. 'Vitality GP' app included.
Out-patient OptionsFlexible. Can choose full cover, a monetary limit, or no out-patient cover to manage cost.Flexible. Comprehensive and limited (capped) options are available.Flexible. Options for full cover or capped consultations/diagnostics.
Mental HealthGood standard support. An enhanced option can be added for more extensive psychiatric and therapy cover.A market leader in mental health. Often includes extensive cover even on standard plans, with no annual limit for eligible conditions.Strong focus on mental wellbeing. Cover is usually very good, integrated with their wellness programme.
Wellness ProgrammeActivePlus: A newer, simpler rewards scheme. Members track activity to earn rewards from partners like TUI and Fitbit. Less complex than Vitality.No integrated rewards programme. Focus is purely on health treatment and support services.The Vitality Programme: The core of their proposition. Track activity via a watch/app to earn points, achieve a status (Bronze to Platinum), and get rewards and premium discounts.
Best For Families Who...Want straightforward, reliable, and comprehensive cover without the complexity of a mandatory wellness programme.Value a trusted brand with a huge network and market-leading mental health and cancer support pathways.Are active, tech-savvy, and motivated by rewards. Happy to engage with the programme to lower their premiums.

Analysis: Where Does AXA Stand Out?

  • Balance: AXA strikes a great balance between comprehensive, traditional insurance and modern digital services. The 'Doctor at Hand' GP service is excellent, and the ActivePlus programme is a nice-to-have benefit without being a mandatory part of the experience.
  • Clarity: The policy structure is arguably simpler to understand than Vitality's. You're buying insurance for treatment, and the wellness perks are a bonus, not the central pillar.
  • Reliability: As a global insurance powerhouse, AXA offers a sense of security and has a well-established claims process.

Navigating these differences can be complex, especially when trying to get like-for-like quotes. This is where using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr becomes invaluable. We can compare the entire market for you, explain the nuances, and find the policy that truly fits your family's needs at no extra cost to you.

Understanding the Cost of AXA Health Family Insurance

The cost of a private medical insurance UK policy is not one-size-fits-all. Premiums are highly personalised and depend on several key factors:

  1. Age: The older you are, the higher the premium, as the statistical likelihood of needing treatment increases.
  2. Location: Healthcare costs vary across the UK. Living in Central London, for example, will result in a higher premium than living in a more rural area.
  3. Level of Cover: The more options you add (like full out-patient, dental, and therapies), the more expensive your policy will be.
  4. Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will significantly lower your monthly premium compared to a £0 or £100 excess.
  5. Hospital List: Most insurers offer different hospital lists. A list that includes only local or partner hospitals will be cheaper than one that gives you access to every private hospital in the country, including the top-tier London clinics.

Example Cost Scenarios (Illustrative)

To give you a rough idea, here are some potential monthly costs for an AXA Health Personal Health plan. These are for illustrative purposes only.

Family ProfileLocationLevel of CoverEstimated Monthly Premium
2 Adults (40), 2 Children (8, 12)LeedsCore + Mid-level Out-patient + £250 Excess£180 - £250
2 Adults (40), 2 Children (8, 12)Central LondonCore + Full Out-patient + £100 Excess£300 - £450
1 Adult (35), 1 Child (5)BristolCore Only + £500 Excess£80 - £120

How to Manage the Cost of Your Family's Policy

  • The 6-Week Option: This is a popular way to reduce premiums. With this option, if the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of it being recommended, you would use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private policy kicks in. It's a pragmatic compromise that can save you 20-30% on your premium.
  • Increase Your Excess: As shown above, being willing to pay the first £250 or £500 of a claim yourself drastically reduces your ongoing cost.
  • Review Your Options: Do you really need the top-tier dental and optical cover, or could you pay for that out-of-pocket? Tailoring your add-ons carefully is key.
  • Speak to a Broker: An expert broker can find exclusive deals and knows which combination of options from which provider will offer the best value for your specific circumstances.

The AXA Health Member Experience: Benefits Beyond Medical Treatment

A good health insurance policy today is about more than just paying for operations. It's about supporting your family's overall wellbeing. AXA excels in this area.

Staying Active and Healthy as a Family

Health insurers have a vested interest in keeping you healthy. AXA's ActivePlus programme is their way of encouraging this. By syncing a fitness tracker, you can unlock member offers and discounts from partners. This provides a gentle nudge towards a healthier lifestyle.

Here are some tips for keeping your family active and well:

  • Make it Fun: Frame exercise as play. Go on family bike rides, explore local woods, play tag in the park, or have a dance-off in the living room.
  • Healthy Eating Habits: Involve children in meal planning and cooking. Our partner app, CalorieHero, which WeCovr customers get complimentary access to, is a great tool for understanding nutrition in a simple, visual way.
  • Prioritise Sleep: A consistent sleep schedule is vital for physical and mental health, especially for growing children. The NHS recommends 9-12 hours for school-age children and 7-9 hours for adults.
  • Digital Detox: Set aside screen-free time each day for the whole family to connect and unwind.

Mind Health: Supporting Your Family's Mental Wellbeing

AXA's Mind Health service provides confidential telephone support from trained counsellors. This can be used for any number of worries, from child-related anxiety to work stress or bereavement. Knowing this professional support is just a phone call away offers enormous reassurance.

Is AXA Health the Best Choice for Your Family? A Final Verdict

So, after this deep dive, is AXA Health the best PMI provider for UK families? The honest answer is: it depends entirely on your family's priorities and budget.

Here’s a summary of the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros of AXA Health for FamiliesCons of AXA Health for Families
✅ Comprehensive and clear core cover.❌ Can be more expensive than some competitors if you add all the options.
✅ Excellent 'Doctor at Hand' 24/7 digital GP service.❌ The ActivePlus wellness scheme is less extensive and rewarding than Vitality's.
✅ Strong, reliable brand with a straightforward claims process.❌ The standard hospital list may exclude some high-end city hospitals unless you pay for an upgrade.
✅ Good balance of traditional insurance and modern digital tools.
✅ Flexible options to tailor the policy to your budget.

AXA Health is likely the best choice for you if:

  • You prioritise comprehensive, easy-to-understand cover for treatment.
  • You value a 24/7 digital GP service for quick family medical advice.
  • You want the reassurance of a major, trusted insurance brand.
  • You are not motivated by complex, game-like rewards programmes and prefer a simpler approach.

You might prefer another provider if:

  • You are a very active, data-driven family and want to be heavily rewarded for it (consider Vitality).
  • Your absolute top priority is the most extensive mental health pathway available from day one (consider Bupa).
  • You are on a very tight budget and are looking for a more basic, no-frills plan (other providers might offer cheaper entry-level options).

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Family Health Insurance

Choosing the best PMI provider can feel overwhelming. That’s where WeCovr comes in. As an independent, FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, our service is designed to make your life easier.

  1. We're Experts: We live and breathe private medical insurance. We know the UK market inside out and can explain the pros and cons of each policy in simple, human terms.
  2. We're Independent: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our loyalty is to you, our client. We compare policies from across the market, including AXA, Bupa, Vitality, and others, to find the perfect fit for your family.
  3. There's No Cost to You: Our service is completely free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price as going direct, but you get our expert guidance and support included.
  4. Extra Benefits: When you arrange your family's health insurance through WeCovr, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. Plus, you'll be eligible for discounts on other insurance products, such as life insurance or income protection, helping you protect your family in every way.

Let us do the hard work for you. We'll handle the research, compare the quotes, and present you with clear, tailored recommendations.

Do I need to declare my family's pre-existing medical conditions?

Yes, absolutely. When you apply for private medical insurance, you must be honest about your medical history. Standard UK policies do not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the 5 years before your policy starts). Non-disclosure can invalidate your policy. Some insurers offer underwriting options that may cover certain pre-existing conditions after a set period, which a broker can explain.

Can I add a newborn baby to my AXA Health policy?

Generally, yes. Most family private health cover plans, including AXA's, allow you to add a new baby to your policy. Often, insurers have a special offer where the baby can be added for free for the first few months (e.g., until the first policy renewal). It is crucial to inform your insurer as soon as possible after the birth to ensure the baby is covered.

What is the difference between an in-patient and an out-patient?

This is a key distinction in private medical insurance. An **in-patient** is someone who is admitted to a hospital and occupies a bed overnight. A **day-patient** is also admitted to a hospital for a test or procedure but does not stay overnight. **Out-patient** treatment refers to all the care you receive without being admitted to hospital, such as specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans. Core PMI covers in-patient and day-patient care, while out-patient cover is usually an optional extra.

Is cancer treatment always fully covered by private health cover?

Most comprehensive UK PMI policies, including those from AXA, Bupa, and Vitality, offer extensive cancer cover. This typically includes diagnosis, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Many plans also cover advanced therapies and drugs that may not be available on the NHS. However, the exact level of cover can vary. Some policies may have limits on monitoring or experimental treatments, so it's vital to read the policy details carefully or ask a broker to clarify them for you.

Ready to find the best health insurance for your family?

Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the leading UK providers to find the right cover at the right price, giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

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 experienced 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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