WeCovr

AXA Health vs The Exeter Best Options for Treating Tennis Elbow

For UK residents with private medical insurance, both AXA Health and The Exeter offer robust treatment for tennis elbow, but key differences in physiotherapy limits and outpatient cover define the best choice. Our expert analysis at WeCovr shows The Exeter often leads on physio, while AXA's guided pathways offer value.

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Mar 17, 2026

Editorial standards

We research and update guides regularly, keep commercial relationships separate from editorial rankings, and publish content for information only rather than personal advice.

Rated Excellent on Google & Trustpilot
900,000+ policies arranged
Expert guidance
AXA Health vs The Exeter Best Options for Treating Tennis...

TL;DR

For UK residents with private medical insurance, both AXA Health and The Exeter offer robust treatment for tennis elbow, but key differences in physiotherapy limits and outpatient cover define the best choice. Our expert analysis at WeCovr shows The Exeter often leads on physio, while AXA's guided pathways offer value.

Key takeaways

  • AXA Health's 'Guided FFS' option can provide a cost-effective, insurer-directed pathway for treating tennis elbow.
  • The Exeter's Health+ policy stands out by offering generous, often uncapped, physiotherapy as a core benefit.
  • Access to steroid injections and minor surgery depends entirely on the level of outpatient cover you choose with either insurer.
  • Crucially, PMI only covers acute conditions; pre-existing tennis elbow is not covered by standard new policies.
  • Using an expert broker like WeCovr is vital to navigate policy nuances and find the optimal cover for your needs.

Dealing with the persistent, nagging pain of tennis elbow can disrupt everything from your work to your weekend. When facing long NHS waiting lists for physiotherapy or specialist treatment, many UK residents turn to private medical insurance (PMI) for a faster solution. At WeCovr, where we've helped thousands of clients navigate the UK's complex PMI market, a common question arises: which insurer is best for musculoskeletal issues like this?

Two leading providers, AXA Health and The Exeter, both offer excellent pathways for treating tennis elbow. However, their approaches to physiotherapy limits, access to steroid injections, and cover for minor outpatient surgery differ significantly. This in-depth comparison will dissect their policies to help you make an informed choice.

Comparing physiotherapy limits, steroid injections, and minor outpatient surgery

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a classic 'acute' condition that private health insurance is designed to cover. It’s an injury caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons around the elbow, leading to pain and inflammation. The typical private treatment journey involves three key stages:

  1. Physiotherapy: The first line of defence to strengthen the affected area and manage pain.
  2. Guided Steroid Injections: If physiotherapy isn't fully effective, a consultant may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation.
  3. Minor Outpatient Surgery: In rare, persistent cases, a minor surgical procedure may be required to release the damaged tendon.

Your ability to access these treatments swiftly and without significant out-of-pocket costs depends entirely on the specifics of your PMI policy. Let's explore how AXA Health and The Exeter stack up.

What is Tennis Elbow and Why is PMI a Game-Changer?

Despite its name, you don't need to be a tennis player to suffer from tennis elbow. It's common among people whose jobs or hobbies involve repetitive wrist and arm movements, such as decorators, chefs, and office workers.

The NHS Pathway vs. The PMI Advantage

On the NHS, after seeing your GP, you'll likely be referred for physiotherapy. While the care is excellent, waiting times can be substantial. According to recent NHS England data, the median wait for musculoskeletal services can be several weeks, and a referral to an orthopaedic specialist for injections or surgical assessment can take much longer.

This is where private medical insurance transforms your experience. A PMI policy allows you to bypass these queues entirely.

  • Speed: Get a GP referral (often via a 24/7 digital GP service included with your policy) and see a private specialist or physiotherapist in days, not weeks or months.
  • Choice: Select a consultant and hospital that are convenient for you from the insurer's approved network.
  • Comfort: Receive treatment in a private hospital environment.

The Most Important Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions Before we dive into the comparison, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance: PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. A new case of tennis elbow is a perfect example.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, or arthritis.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any ailment you had symptoms of, received advice for, or had treatment for before your policy started.

If you already have tennis elbow when you apply for insurance, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover. Your PMI policy is for new, unforeseen health issues.

AXA Health's Approach to Musculoskeletal Conditions

AXA Health is one of the UK's largest and most respected health insurers. Their policies are modular, allowing you to build a plan that suits your needs and budget. Their approach to conditions like tennis elbow is efficient and often involves a 'guided' pathway.

Physiotherapy with AXA Health

AXA offers a few routes for accessing physiotherapy, with the choice significantly impacting both cost and process.

  1. Standard Outpatient Cover: You can add an outpatient cover limit to your policy. This is a pot of money for diagnostics, specialist consultations, and therapies. Common limits are £500, £1,000, or a 'Full' cover option. If you choose this, you can be referred to any physiotherapist in their network.
  2. Guided FFS (Fee For Service): This is AXA's innovative, cost-effective option. If you select the "Guided" hospital list, you gain access to their 'Working Body' service for musculoskeletal issues. Instead of a financial limit, you get the treatment you need, but you must use the specialists and physiotherapists chosen by AXA. For a straightforward issue like tennis elbow, this is an excellent, value-for-money choice.
AXA Physiotherapy OptionHow It Works for Tennis ElbowBest For
Standard Outpatient LimitYour GP refers you to a specialist, who then refers you to a physio. The costs come out of your chosen monetary limit (e.g., £1,000).Members who want maximum choice of specialist and physiotherapist.
Guided FFS (Working Body)You call AXA directly. They arrange a telephone triage with a physio, who then directs your treatment pathway.Members prioritising cost-effectiveness and a streamlined, hands-off process.

Steroid Injections and Minor Surgery

Whether you're covered for a steroid injection or a minor outpatient surgical procedure depends entirely on your chosen outpatient limit.

  • These treatments are performed by a consultant on an outpatient basis (meaning you don't need an overnight hospital bed).
  • The costs for the consultant's time and the procedure itself are deducted from your outpatient allowance.
  • If you have a £500 outpatient limit, and the combined cost of your initial consultation and the injection procedure is £600, you would face a £100 shortfall.
  • If you have the 'Full' outpatient option, these costs would be covered in full (subject to your policy excess).

Real-Life Scenario: David's Tennis Elbow with AXA

David, a 45-year-old software developer, develops tennis elbow from long hours at his desk. He has an AXA Health policy with a £1,000 outpatient limit.

  1. GP Visit: He uses the AXA Doctor at Hand app for a same-day video call and gets an open referral.
  2. Specialist: AXA approves a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist (£250).
  3. Physio: The specialist recommends 8 sessions of physiotherapy. The physio is on AXA's network and charges £70 per session (£560 total).
  4. Cost Check: Total so far: £250 + £560 = £810. This is within his £1,000 limit.
  5. Follow-up: The pain persists. The specialist recommends a steroid injection (£350).
  6. The Shortfall: The total cost is now £810 + £350 = £1,160. David's policy covers the first £1,000, but he must pay the remaining £160 himself. If he had 'Full' outpatient cover, it would have all been paid.

The Exeter's Approach to Musculoskeletal Conditions

The Exeter is a Friendly Society, which means they are owned by their members, not shareholders. They have a strong reputation for excellent customer service and flexible policies, particularly their flagship 'Health+' product.

Physiotherapy with The Exeter

This is where The Exeter truly shines for musculoskeletal conditions.

  • Generous Core Benefit: Unlike many insurers who require you to buy expensive outpatient cover for therapies, The Exeter often includes unlimited physiotherapy as part of their standard outpatient benefit, or even on their core policy depending on the chosen configuration.
  • Healthwise Service: Members get access to their Healthwise app, which provides quick access to medical advice, including remote consultations with physiotherapists. This can get your treatment started incredibly quickly, sometimes without even needing a GP referral.

This commitment to therapy access makes The Exeter a compelling option for anyone active or prone to injuries like tennis elbow. You can proceed with a full course of physiotherapy without the anxiety of hitting a monetary cap.

Steroid Injections and Minor Surgery

Similar to AXA, access to injections and minor outpatient surgery with The Exeter is governed by your outpatient cover limit. They offer straightforward options, typically:

  • £0 (No cover for consultations or diagnostics)
  • £500
  • £1,000
  • Unlimited

A key difference is that even if you choose a lower limit like £500 or £1,000 for consultations and diagnostics, your separate physiotherapy benefit may still be unlimited. This unique policy structure is a significant advantage.

Real-Life Scenario: Sarah's Tennis Elbow with The Exeter

Sarah, a 38-year-old keen gardener, develops tennis elbow. She has The Exeter's Health+ policy with a £1,000 outpatient limit and their included unlimited physiotherapy benefit.

  1. GP Visit: She uses The Exeter's Healthwise service for a quick telephone assessment and gets a referral.
  2. Specialist: The Exeter approves a consultation with a specialist of her choice from their list (£250). This comes off her £1,000 limit.
  3. Physio: The specialist recommends an extended course of 10 physiotherapy sessions. Because her policy includes unlimited physio, the cost of these sessions does not impact her £1,000 outpatient limit.
  4. Follow-up & Injection: After 10 sessions, there's still some lingering pain. The specialist suggests a steroid injection (£350). This cost is deducted from her outpatient limit.
  5. Cost Check: Her outpatient limit has been used for the consultation (£250) and the injection (£350), totalling £600. This is well within her £1,000 limit. The cost of her 10 physio sessions was covered separately and in full. She pays nothing beyond her policy excess.

Head-to-Head Comparison: AXA Health vs The Exeter for Tennis Elbow

This table summarises the key differences for treating an acute case of tennis elbow.

FeatureAXA HealthThe ExeterAdviser Insight (WeCovr)
Standard PhysiotherapyCovered under a chosen monetary outpatient limit (£500, £1k, Full).Often included as an unlimited benefit, separate from the main outpatient limit.The Exeter has a clear advantage here. The 'unlimited' physio benefit provides huge peace of mind for injuries that may require extended treatment.
Cost-Saving OptionYes, the 'Guided FFS' (Working Body) pathway offers comprehensive care for a lower premium.Less emphasis on a specific 'guided' route, but their overall premiums can be very competitive.AXA's Guided option is superb for those on a budget who are happy for the insurer to manage their care pathway. It removes financial caps for therapies.
Steroid InjectionsCovered under your outpatient monetary limit.Covered under your outpatient monetary limit.No difference here. Your cover depends entirely on the financial limit you choose. A £500 limit is risky for this.
Minor Outpatient SurgeryCovered under your outpatient monetary limit.Covered under your outpatient monetary limit.Identical approach. This reinforces the need to select an adequate outpatient limit (£1,000 or Full) for complete protection.
Digital GP ServiceDoctor at Hand (Provided by Doctor Care Anywhere).Healthwise app, which includes remote GP and physio triage.Both offer excellent, fast-access digital services, which are a cornerstone of modern PMI.
Member BenefitsDiscounts on gym memberships, health tracking support.Member-owned friendly society, focus on personal service. Includes second opinion services.AXA's benefits are broader 'wellness' perks. The Exeter's focus is on direct health support and service, reflecting their mutual status.
Best For...Budget-conscious individuals happy with a guided care network; those wanting a major, established brand.Individuals prioritising comprehensive, unlimited physiotherapy; those who value personal service and flexible underwriting.The 'best' choice is highly personal. Speaking to a broker like WeCovr is the only way to model costs and benefits for your specific circumstances.

The Critical Importance of Your Outpatient Cover Level

As the scenarios show, choosing the right outpatient limit is arguably the most important decision you will make when customising your PMI policy for musculoskeletal issues.

An outpatient is someone who receives treatment or tests at a hospital but does not need to stay overnight. For tennis elbow, almost all your treatment will be on an outpatient basis.

Let's look at a realistic cost breakdown for a full private treatment pathway:

  • Initial Specialist Consultation: £250 - £300
  • Diagnostic Ultrasound (if needed): £200 - £400
  • Course of 6-8 Physiotherapy Sessions: £420 - £640 (@ £70/session)
  • Guided Steroid Injection Procedure: £300 - £500
  • Follow-up Consultation: £150 - £200

Total Potential Cost: £1,320 - £2,040

This demonstrates why a basic policy with a £500 outpatient limit is often insufficient. It might cover the initial consultation and a few physio sessions, but you would quickly face a significant shortfall, defeating the purpose of having comprehensive insurance.

Adviser Tip: For robust cover against issues like tennis elbow, we at WeCovr generally recommend an outpatient limit of at least £1,000, or preferably the 'Full' outpatient cover option if your budget allows.

Get Tailored Quote

Underwriting: Why It's Crucial for Musculoskeletal Issues

When you buy a policy, the insurer "underwrites" it to decide what they will and won't cover. This is especially important if you've had joint pain in the past.

  1. Moratorium (MOR) Underwriting: This is the most common type. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they will automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy started. However, if you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without any issues related to that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's simple to set up but can lead to uncertainty at the point of claim.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you declare your entire medical history on the application form. The insurer's medical team assesses it and gives you a definitive list of what is and isn't covered from day one. If you had elbow pain three years ago that resolved, they might agree to cover it. If you had major surgery, they will likely exclude it permanently.

Which is better for tennis elbow? If you have a clean bill of health with no history of joint pain, Moratorium is fine. But if you've had any niggles, aches, or pains in your elbows, shoulders, or wrists in the past, FMU offers valuable certainty. It takes longer to set up, but you know exactly where you stand. An expert broker can help you navigate this process to ensure there are no nasty surprises when you need to claim.

Common Pitfalls To Avoid When Choosing Your Policy

  1. Choosing the Lowest Outpatient Cover to Save Money: As demonstrated, a £250 or £500 limit provides a false sense of security. The small monthly saving isn't worth the large potential shortfall.
  2. Misunderstanding the Excess: Your excess is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim (e.g., the first £250). A higher excess lowers your premium. Be sure you understand if it's applied per claim or per year, as this dramatically affects your costs.
  3. Ignoring Hospital Lists: Both AXA and The Exeter have extensive hospital networks, but there can be differences. The 'Guided' or more budget-friendly options may have a more restricted list. Always check that your local private hospital is included before you buy.
  4. Not Using an Independent Broker: The UK private health insurance market is complex. Trying to compare policies alone is time-consuming and risky. A broker like WeCovr does the work for you, provides impartial advice, and ensures the policy is tailored to you. Our service is free to you, as we are paid by the insurer.

How WeCovr Helps You Find the Right Cover

Navigating the details of AXA Health vs The Exeter requires expertise. As an independent, FCA-regulated brokerage, WeCovr provides impartial advice to find a strong fit for your needs and budget.

  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare not just AXA and The Exeter, but other leading insurers like Bupa and Vitality, ensuring you see all your best options.
  • Expert Guidance: We explain the jargon—outpatient limits, excesses, underwriting—in plain English so you can make a confident decision.
  • Personalised Recommendations: We don't do one-size-fits-all. We listen to your needs, health history, and budget to recommend the right level of cover.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you take out a policy with us, you get complimentary access to the CalorieHero AI calorie tracking app and may be eligible for discounts on other cover like life insurance.

Don't risk choosing the wrong cover. Let our experts do the hard work for you.

Can I get private health insurance if I already have tennis elbow?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover pre-existing conditions. If you currently have symptoms of tennis elbow or have recently been treated for it, it will be excluded from a new policy. The purpose of PMI is to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your cover begins.

Is physiotherapy always included in private health insurance?

Not always. On many policies, physiotherapy is an optional extra covered under an outpatient limit that you must choose to add. However, some insurers like The Exeter are known for including generous or even unlimited physiotherapy as a key benefit, making them a strong choice for musculoskeletal health. It's crucial to check the policy details.

How much does outpatient cover add to my PMI premium?

The level of outpatient cover is one of the biggest factors affecting your premium. A policy with no outpatient cover will be the cheapest, while a policy with 'Full' or unlimited cover will be the most expensive. A mid-range limit of £1,000 often provides a good balance of cost and protection for conditions like tennis elbow.

Does AXA Health or The Exeter have better hospital lists?

Both insurers have comprehensive UK-wide hospital networks. AXA Health offers different tiers of hospital lists, including a more affordable 'Guided' option where they choose the specialist for you. The Exeter also provides extensive choice. The "best" list depends on which private hospitals are near you, so it's vital to check this before purchasing a policy. A broker can help you compare lists easily.

Sources

  • NHS England
  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI)

Disclaimer: This is general guidance only and does not constitute formal tax or financial advice. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances, policy terms, and HMRC interpretation, which cannot be guaranteed in advance. Whenever applicable, businesses and individuals should always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before arranging such policies.

Before you compare PMI quotes

Start with your Protection Score, then decide whether private health cover is the right fit

Check where health access sits in your overall protection picture before deciding whether to compare private health cover.

Check My Health Access GapGet PMI Help If It Fits

Spot whether NHS access risk is the real issue

See if PMI is the gap to fix first

Get health insurance help only if it makes sense for you

📚 Recommended reads

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026

Read

Average Cost of PMI (UK)

Read

PMI Provider Reviews

Read

Get your score

Start with your protection score

Check your current position first, then get health insurance help if you need it.

1

Check your current resilience

Score your income, health access and family protection position in a few minutes.

2

See where private cover helps

Understand whether faster diagnosis and treatment is a priority gap.

3

Continue to tailored PMI help

If health access is the issue, continue to tailored PMI help.

Get My Free Protection ScoreGet Private Health Insurance Help

What you get

A quick view of your current protection position

A clearer idea of where the biggest gaps may be

A direct route to tailored help if you want it

See Plans

Related tools

NHS Wait vs Private Cost MapOpen →
Private Surgery Price ListOpen →
Health Risk AssessmentOpen →
Can I Get Covered? CheckerOpen →
International PMI CalculatorOpen →
PMI Provider ReviewsOpen →
Back to Private Health Insurance (PMI) hub

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.

Flagship guides

Protection Score
Read now →
Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Average Cost of Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Should I Get Private Health Insurance?
Read now →

Explore insurance hubs

PMI Guides Hub
Life Insurance Guides Hub
Income Protection Guides Hub

Related guides

AXA Health vs The Exeter Best Health Insurance for Treating Cataracts
AXA Health vs The Exeter Best Health Insurance for Treating Cataracts
Read more →
Vitality vs The Exeter Best Health Insurance for Treating Sciatica
Vitality vs The Exeter Best Health Insurance for Treating Sciatica
Read more →

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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