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AXA vs Aviva vs Bupa vs Vitality vs The Exeter vs WPA The Ultimate UK PMI Comparison (2025)

AXA vs Aviva vs Bupa vs Vitality vs The Exeter vs WPA The...

A full-market comparison of the UK's leading private health insurers on cost, cover and service

Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel overwhelming. With so many providers, policies, and options, how do you know you're making the best choice for your health and your budget? At WeCovr, our FCA-authorised experts have helped arrange cover for over 900,000 clients, and we're here to demystify the market for you. This guide provides an ultimate head-to-head comparison of the UK's six leading insurers: AXA, Aviva, Bupa, Vitality, The Exeter, and WPA.

We'll break down their offerings on cost, cover, unique features, and customer service, giving you the clarity needed to make an informed decision.

First, What Exactly is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Before we dive into the comparison, let's establish what UK private medical insurance is—and what it isn't.

PMI is designed to cover the cost of private treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

What PMI Typically Covers:

  • Inpatient Treatment: When you're admitted to a hospital and need an overnight bed (e.g., for surgery).
  • Day-patient Treatment: When you're admitted to a hospital for a procedure but don't stay overnight (e.g., an endoscopy).
  • Outpatient Treatment (Optional Extra): Consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans that don't require a hospital admission.
  • Cancer Care: Comprehensive cover for diagnosis and treatment is a cornerstone of most PMI policies.
  • Mental Health Support (Often Optional): Access to therapists, counsellors, and psychiatrists.
  • Therapies: Physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.

What PMI Does NOT Cover:

This is the most critical point to understand. UK private health cover is not a replacement for the NHS.

  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term conditions that cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). The NHS will continue to manage these.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy started.
  • Accident & Emergency: A&E services remain the domain of the NHS.
  • Routine Pregnancy & Childbirth: Standard maternity care is not covered, although complications may be.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.

Understanding this distinction is the key to having the right expectations and avoiding disappointment at the point of claim.

Meet the Contenders: A Snapshot of the UK's Leading PMI Providers

These six insurers represent the vast majority of the UK's private medical insurance market. Each has a distinct identity and targets slightly different customer needs.

  1. AXA Health: A global insurance giant with a strong UK presence, known for its comprehensive cover, digital GP service (Doctor@Hand), and flexible policy options.
  2. Aviva: The UK's largest general insurer, offering a well-regarded PMI product known for its strong core cover, clear pricing, and the 'Aviva A-Z of Health'.
  3. Bupa: Arguably the most famous name in UK private healthcare, Bupa is a "providence" organisation (no shareholders) known for its extensive network and focus on mental health support.
  4. Vitality: The disruptor. Famous for its wellness-linked model, Vitality rewards members for healthy living with premium discounts and other perks like cheap cinema tickets and coffee.
  5. The Exeter: A mutual society (owned by its members), The Exeter is highly regarded for its customer-centric approach, flexible underwriting, and focus on providing value for older applicants and those with specific health needs.
  6. WPA (Western Provident Association): A not-for-profit insurer with a unique "shared responsibility" model on some policies, WPA is known for its excellent customer service and commitment to paying claims.

Core Cover Comparison: Inpatient & Cancer Care

All PMI policies start with a core foundation: cover for inpatient and day-patient treatment. This is non-negotiable and pays for hospital beds, operating theatre costs, surgeons' fees, and specialist consultations while you are admitted. Cancer cover is also typically included as standard, but the level of cover can vary.

Here's how the big six stack up on their standard, core offerings:

ProviderCore Inpatient/Day-Patient CoverStandard Cancer CoverKey Feature
AXA HealthFully ComprehensiveFull cover for diagnostics, surgery, chemo & radiotherapyStrong core product with access to extensive hospital lists.
AvivaFully ComprehensiveFull cover for diagnostics, surgery, chemo & radiotherapyIncludes 'Expert Select' option to guide hospital choice for better value.
BupaFully ComprehensiveFull cover for diagnostics, surgery, chemo & radiotherapyAccess to Bupa's own network of Cromwell hospitals and specialist cancer centres.
VitalityFully ComprehensiveFull cover for diagnostics, surgery, chemo & radiotherapy'Advanced Cancer Cover' includes access to experimental drugs.
The ExeterFully ComprehensiveFull cover for diagnostics, surgery, chemo & radiotherapyExcellent unlimited inpatient cover as standard.
WPAFully ComprehensiveFull cover for diagnostics, surgery, chemo & radiotherapyOften includes NHS hospital cash benefit as standard.

Adviser Insight: While all providers offer comprehensive core and cancer cover, the devil is in the detail. Differences emerge in the list of eligible hospitals and the specific limits on certain advanced cancer drugs or treatments. A broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these nuances based on your location and potential needs.

Optional Extras Compared: Outpatient, Mental Health & Therapies

This is where you truly tailor a policy to your needs and budget. The most significant choice is your level of outpatient cover.

  • No Outpatient Cover: The cheapest option. You would rely on the NHS for diagnosis and then use your PMI for private inpatient treatment.
  • Limited Outpatient Cover: A popular mid-range choice. Covers consultations and diagnostics up to a set financial limit per year (e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500).
  • Full Outpatient Cover: The most expensive and comprehensive option. All eligible outpatient costs are covered in full.

Here’s how the providers' optional benefits compare:

ProviderOutpatient OptionsMental Health CoverTherapies Cover
AXA HealthFull or limited (£500/£1000).Strong integrated mental health pathway, often a standard benefit.Optional extra, covers physio, osteo, chiro.
AvivaFull or limited (£500/£1000/£1500).Strong mental health cover available as an add-on.Included with outpatient cover.
BupaFull or limited (£500/£1000/£1500).Extensive mental health support, including for addiction and self-harm.Optional extra, sometimes linked to outpatient choice.
VitalityFull, limited (£500/£1000/£1500), or 'Diagnostics Only'.Up to 8 talking therapy sessions as standard; further cover is optional.Included with outpatient cover, with limits.
The ExeterFull or limited (£500/£1000).Generous outpatient mental health cover included as standard.Optional add-on, typically with a session limit.
WPAFlexible limits (e.g., £500 to £1,500).Good mental health pathway, can be added as an option.Included with outpatient cover.

Real-World Scenario: Imagine you have persistent knee pain.

  • With Full Outpatient Cover: You get a GP referral, see a private orthopaedic specialist (£250), have an MRI scan (£800), and attend physiotherapy sessions (£60/session). All costs are covered.
  • With £1,000 Outpatient Limit: The specialist and MRI cost (£1,050) would use up your limit. You'd pay the £50 excess and then pay for your own physio.
  • With No Outpatient Cover: You would wait for an NHS specialist appointment and NHS MRI scan. If surgery is recommended, you could then use your PMI to have it done privately.

Choosing the right outpatient limit is a balance of risk and budget.

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Cost vs. Value: How Do Premiums Stack Up in 2025?

The cost of private medical insurance is highly personal. It depends on:

  • Age: The older you are, the higher the premium.
  • Location: Premiums are higher in areas with expensive private hospitals, like Central London.
  • Cover Level: Full outpatient cover costs more than limited cover.
  • Excess: A higher excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) lowers your premium. Common excesses are £0, £100, £250, £500.
  • Hospital List: Choosing a more restricted hospital list can reduce costs.
  • Underwriting: How the insurer treats your pre-existing conditions.

While we can't give exact prices, we can provide a relative cost ranking based on our market analysis for a typical 40-year-old non-smoker outside London with a £250 excess and £1,000 outpatient cover.

ProviderRelative Price PositionBest For
AvivaCompetitive / Mid-RangeValue-seekers looking for strong core cover from a major brand.
AXA HealthMid-Range / PremiumThose wanting comprehensive options and excellent digital tools.
VitalityVaries (Can be cheapest)Active individuals who will engage with the wellness programme to earn discounts.
The ExeterCompetitive / Mid-RangeThose who value customer service and flexible underwriting. Good for older ages.
WPAMid-Range / PremiumIndividuals and families prioritising service and claims handling.
BupaPremiumThose wanting the reassurance of a leading brand name and an extensive network.

Important Note: Vitality can often appear as the cheapest quote initially. However, your premium depends on how many Vitality points you earn. If you don't engage with the wellness programme, your renewal price could increase significantly.

Unique Features & Wellness Programmes

Beyond the core cover, insurers differentiate themselves with unique benefits.

  • Vitality: The clear leader here. Their entire model is built around the Vitality Programme. You track your activity (e.g., steps, workouts, health checks) via an app to earn points. These points unlock rewards like free coffee, cinema tickets, and discounts on Apple Watches and gym memberships. Crucially, they also reduce your renewal premium. It’s a fantastic model if you are motivated to stay active.

  • AXA Health: Their standout feature is the Doctor@Hand digital GP service. This provides 24/7 access to a private GP via phone or video call, who can issue prescriptions and make referrals. It's a highly convenient and well-regarded service included with most policies.

  • Bupa: Bupa's key strength is its brand and integrated network. They run their own clinics and the Cromwell Hospital. Their mental health promise is also a significant differentiator, offering more extensive cover for a wider range of conditions than many competitors.

  • Aviva: Aviva focuses on delivering excellent value and clarity. Their Aviva A-Z of Health is a comprehensive online resource, and their 'Expert Select' option is a smart feature that guides customers to high-quality, cost-effective consultants and hospitals, which helps keep premiums down.

  • The Exeter: As a mutual, The Exeter's focus is its members. They are known for their superb customer service and flexible approach to underwriting. They are one of the few insurers who will consider offering cover to individuals well into their 70s and 80s, making them a go-to for older clients.

  • WPA: WPA is a not-for-profit insurer, meaning profits are reinvested for the benefit of members. They offer a unique "Shared Responsibility" option on some corporate schemes where the member co-pays 25% of a claim, dramatically reducing the premium. Their customer service is consistently rated among the best in the industry.

How WeCovr Makes Choosing Easy

Navigating these options alone is complex. As an independent, FCA-authorised PMI broker, WeCovr provides expert, impartial advice at no cost to you.

  • Whole-Market Comparison: We compare policies from all these leading insurers to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
  • Expert Guidance: We explain the jargon, highlight the crucial differences in policy wording, and help you choose the right level of cover, excess, and underwriting.
  • Save Time and Money: Instead of getting multiple quotes yourself, you get one simple, clear comparison from us. We ensure you're not paying for benefits you don't need.
  • Lifetime Support: We're here to help you at renewal or if you have issues with a claim.

Plus, all our health and life insurance clients receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie tracking and nutrition app, and can benefit from discounts on other insurance products.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get private medical insurance with a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can get a policy, but the pre-existing condition itself and any related conditions will usually be excluded from cover. The most common type of underwriting, 'Moratorium', automatically excludes anything you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. If you then go 2 continuous years without any trouble after your policy starts, the insurer may add cover for it. Alternatively, 'Full Medical Underwriting' requires you to declare your medical history upfront, and the insurer will state any permanent exclusions from the start.

Does private medical insurance cover chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma?

No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions. PMI is designed for acute conditions that can be resolved with treatment. The day-to-day monitoring, medication, and check-ups for chronic conditions remain the responsibility of the NHS, which is best equipped to provide this long-term care.

Which is the single best private health insurance provider in the UK?

There is no single "best" provider for everyone. The ideal choice depends entirely on your personal circumstances and priorities. Vitality is often best for young, active individuals. Bupa is a strong choice for those wanting comprehensive mental health cover. Aviva offers great all-around value. The Exeter excels in customer service and for older applicants. An independent broker like WeCovr can compare the market to find the best provider for your specific needs.

Your Next Step: Get a Personalised Comparison

Choosing between AXA, Aviva, Bupa, Vitality, The Exeter, and WPA comes down to what you value most: price, comprehensive cover, wellness rewards, or customer service.

The smartest way to find the right policy is to see how they compare for you.

Get a free, no-obligation quote from our WeCovr experts today. We’ll do the hard work for you, providing a clear, personalised comparison of your best options and helping you secure the right protection at the best possible price.


Related guides

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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