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AXA vs Aviva vs Vitality vs The Exeter vs WPA Which PMI Provider Suits Your Lifestyle

AXA vs Aviva vs Vitality vs The Exeter vs WPA Which PMI...

Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel like navigating a maze. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we simplify this process for you. This definitive guide compares five leading UK PMI providers—AXA, Aviva, Vitality, The Exeter, and WPA—to help you find the perfect fit for your health needs and lifestyle.

Comparing traditional cover, specialist care and rewards-based insurance

The UK private health insurance market isn't a one-size-fits-all landscape. Providers have evolved to cater to different priorities, from straightforward, comprehensive cover to wellness-integrated programmes. Understanding these approaches is the first step to making an informed choice.

  • Traditional Providers (e.g., AXA, Aviva): These are the household names. They offer robust, comprehensive policies focusing on extensive hospital lists, strong cancer cover, and a wide range of optional benefits. Their model is simple: you pay a premium for access to private healthcare when you need it. This suits individuals and families who want a reliable, no-fuss safety net.

  • Rewards-Based Provider (e.g., Vitality): This model, pioneered by Vitality, gamifies health. It actively encourages and rewards healthy living through a system of points, discounts, and perks. Your premium can even be linked to your engagement. This is ideal for active, tech-savvy individuals who want their insurance to be a proactive part of their daily wellness routine.

  • Specialist Providers (e.g., The Exeter, WPA): These insurers carve out specific niches. The Exeter is renowned for its flexible underwriting, making it a go-to for the self-employed and older applicants. WPA operates as a not-for-profit provident association, offering unique features like shared responsibility on claims and complete freedom to choose your specialist. They appeal to those with specific needs that may not be perfectly met by the larger, more standardised providers.

At a Glance: AXA vs Aviva vs Vitality vs The Exeter vs WPA

This table provides a snapshot to help you quickly identify which providers align with your priorities.

FeatureAXA HealthAvivaVitalityThe ExeterWPA
Best ForComprehensive cover & brand trustValue, strong mental health & cancer supportActive individuals & families who love rewardsSelf-employed, over-50s & complex historiesMaximum choice of hospital & specialist
Core PhilosophyTraditional, high-quality, comprehensive PMITraditional PMI with cost-control optionsProactive wellness & rewards-based insuranceSpecialist, flexible & community-focused underwritingNot-for-profit, patient-centric, shared responsibility
Unique Selling PointGlobal brand, extensive network, Doctor@Hand app'Expert Select' hospital option, Cancer PledgeActive Rewards programme, lower premiums for activityFavourable underwriting for older ages & self-employedNo restrictive hospital lists, co-payment options
Typical CustomerThose wanting a "gold standard" policyBudget-conscious buyers seeking quality coverGym-goers, tech-savvy users, motivated familiesBusiness owners, retirees, those with minor health issuesIndividuals wanting full control over their treatment

Deep Dive: The 'Big Two' - AXA and Aviva

For many, the choice begins with the two largest and most established players in the UK PMI market. Both offer exceptional cover but with subtle differences in their approach and philosophy.

AXA Health: The Established Global Leader

AXA Health, part of the global AXA Group, is synonymous with high-quality, comprehensive private medical insurance. Their flagship 'Personal Health' plan is designed to be a robust safety net, giving you peace of mind with one of the most extensive hospital lists available.

Key Strengths of AXA:

  • Comprehensive Core Cover: All policies include extensive cancer cover and access to the 24/7 Doctor@Hand digital GP service as standard.
  • Guided Treatment Option: AXA's 'Guided Option' can help reduce your premium. If you choose this, AXA will give you a shortlist of 3-4 suitable specialists for your condition, from which you can choose.
  • Strong Mental Health Support: AXA provides access to a dedicated team of counsellors and psychologists, often without needing a GP referral for initial assessments.
  • Brand Trust: As a major global insurer, AXA offers a sense of security and reliability that many customers value highly.

Real-Life Scenario:

Amelia, a 52-year-old consultant, wants a "no-compromise" policy. Her biggest fear is a long wait for a diagnosis or surgery. She chooses an AXA Personal Health plan with the full hospital list and a low excess. She values the security of a globally recognised brand and the comprehensive nature of the cover, ensuring she has access to the best possible care, fast.

AXA is an excellent choice for those who prioritise breadth of cover and the reassurance of a market-leading brand.

Aviva: The UK Insurance Giant

Aviva is another household name, providing insurance to millions of UK customers. Their 'Healthier Solutions' policy is highly respected and known for offering a fantastic balance between quality cover and affordability.

Key Strengths of Aviva:

  • 'Expert Select' Option: To manage costs, you can opt for 'Expert Select'. With this, Aviva helps find a suitable consultant and hospital from their quality-approved list. This often results in a lower premium than having a traditional unrestricted hospital list.
  • Exceptional Cancer Care: Aviva's 'Cancer Care Pledge' is a standout feature, promising to cover all eligible cancer treatment costs, including the latest drugs and therapies, even if they aren't available on the NHS.
  • Strong Digital and Mental Health Pathways: Like AXA, Aviva offers a Digital GP service and has a strong focus on mental health support, providing access to assessments and therapy.
  • Value for Money: Aviva is often very competitively priced, making it a popular choice for families and individuals looking for robust private medical insurance UK without the premium price tag of some competitors.

Real-Life Scenario:

David and his family are looking for their first PMI policy. They want solid cover for major health issues but need to keep an eye on the monthly cost. They opt for an Aviva Healthier Solutions policy with the 'Expert Select' option and a £500 excess. This gives them fantastic cancer and mental health cover at a price that fits their family budget.

Aviva is a perfect fit if you're seeking a high-quality, trusted policy that delivers excellent value. An expert broker like WeCovr can run a detailed comparison to see if Aviva's pricing and features are the best match for you.


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The Game Changer: Vitality's Rewards-Based Model

Vitality turned the insurance industry on its head by directly linking health insurance to healthy behaviour. It's more than just a policy; it's an interactive wellness programme.

Vitality Health: Get Rewarded for Being Healthy

The premise is simple: the more you do to look after your health, the more points you earn. These points unlock rewards and can lead to lower premiums in the future.

How Vitality Works:

  1. Get Active: You earn points for tracking daily steps, gym visits, parkruns, or cycling, all logged via the Vitality app and a compatible wearable device (like an Apple Watch or Fitbit).
  2. Get Checked: You can earn more points for completing health checks and online health reviews.
  3. Get Rewarded: Points unlock immediate rewards like weekly coffees, cinema tickets, and discounts on smartwatches and fitness gear.
  4. Get Lower Premiums: Your activity level determines your Vitality Status (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum). A higher status can lead to significant discounts on your renewal premium.

The underlying private medical insurance is comprehensive, covering diagnostics, treatment, and extensive cancer care. The key difference is the proactive, engaging layer on top.

Who is Vitality Best For?

Vitality is a fantastic option for individuals, couples, and families who are already active or are motivated to become more active. If you're self-motivated and love technology, you can extract huge value from the programme, effectively making your healthy lifestyle pay for itself.

Real-Life Scenario:

Liam and Jessica, both in their early 30s, are keen runners and gym-goers. They choose Vitality because it rewards them for the healthy habits they already have. They link their smartwatches, track their activity, and enjoy weekly coffees and cinema trips. At renewal, their Gold status earns them a discount, making their comprehensive cover even more affordable.

The Insider Tip: The value of Vitality hinges on your engagement. If you are unlikely to use the app or track your activity, you may be better suited to a traditional policy from Aviva or AXA.


The Specialists: The Exeter and WPA

Beyond the big names lie providers who excel by focusing on specific customer needs. The Exeter and WPA offer compelling alternatives for those who don't fit the standard mould.

The Exeter: The Friend to the Self-Employed and Over-50s

The Exeter is a mutual society, meaning it's owned by its members (policyholders), not shareholders. This member-first ethos is reflected in their flexible and understanding approach, particularly for demographics often underserved by mainstream insurers. Their 'Health+' policy is highly regarded.

Key Strengths of The Exeter:

  • Flexible Underwriting: They are known for taking a more individual view of applicants, making them a superb choice for the self-employed, contractors, or those with some pre-existing medical conditions that other insurers might flatly decline.
  • No-Claims Discount Protection: A single large claim won't necessarily cause a huge spike in your renewal premium, as they use a community-rated approach at renewal.
  • Age-Friendly: They have a strong appetite for covering older individuals, often providing competitive terms where others may impose heavy loadings or restrictions.
  • Unlimited Outpatient Diagnostics: On their main policies, they offer unlimited cover for diagnostics like MRI and CT scans, which is a significant benefit.

Real-Life Scenario:

Michael is a 58-year-old self-employed electrician. He had a minor, fully resolved heart issue six years ago. Some insurers were hesitant to offer cover. The Exeter reviewed his case, understood it was well-managed, and offered him a comprehensive Health+ policy at a competitive rate, giving him the security he needed for his business and family.

WPA: The Not-for-Profit with a Different Approach

Western Provident Association (WPA) is another non-profit insurer with a unique and transparent model. They believe in giving members maximum control over their healthcare journey.

Key Strengths of WPA:

  • Freedom to Choose: WPA policies typically do not have restrictive hospital lists. You are free to choose any recognised hospital or specialist in the UK, giving you ultimate flexibility.
  • Shared Responsibility: Many WPA policies include a co-payment element. For example, you might agree to pay 25% of any claim. This shared risk model keeps premiums significantly lower while still providing a huge financial backstop against large medical bills.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: As a not-for-profit focused on members, WPA consistently receives high praise for its UK-based, personal customer service.
  • Advanced Cancer Drugs: WPA is known for its access to a wide range of advanced and expensive cancer therapies that may not be routinely funded by the NHS.

Real-Life Scenario:

Dr. Evans, a retired GP, wants a policy that gives her the freedom to see her preferred consultants in London. She understands the costs involved and is comfortable with a co-payment model. She chooses a WPA policy with a 25% shared responsibility limit. This keeps her premiums very low but ensures that if she needed a £40,000 procedure, her liability would be capped at £10,000, which she is comfortable with.


Key PMI Concepts You MUST Understand

Choosing a provider is only half the battle. You must also understand the core components of any private health cover policy. Getting these wrong can lead to disappointment at the point of claim.

Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your risk before offering you a policy.

  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your medical history. The insurer then offers terms with specific, named exclusions from the outset (e.g., "no cover for the right knee"). This provides absolute clarity from day one.
  • Moratorium Underwriting (Mori): This is the most common type. You don't need to declare your full history. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of, or sought advice for, in the 5 years before your policy started. Cover for that condition may be added later, but only after you complete a 2-year continuous period on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for it.

Adviser Tip: FMU is often better for those with a known but historic medical issue, as it provides certainty. Moratorium is faster and less intrusive but can create ambiguity about what is and isn't covered.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most critical concept in UK private health insurance. UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, and hernia repairs.

UK PMI does not cover chronic conditions. A chronic condition is one that continues indefinitely and has no known cure. It can only be managed, not resolved. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. While PMI may cover the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition, it will not cover the long-term, day-to-day management, which remains with the NHS.

Pre-existing Conditions Explained

A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury you had before your policy started. As a general rule, standard PMI excludes these. How they are excluded depends on your underwriting type (FMU or Moratorium). This is why PMI is best taken out when you are young and healthy.

Excess, Hospital Lists, and 6-Week Wait: How to Control Your Premium

These three levers are the primary way to manage the cost of your policy:

  1. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim each year. An excess can range from £0 to £1,000 or more. A higher excess means a lower monthly premium.
  2. Hospital List: Providers offer different tiers of hospitals. A list that excludes expensive central London hospitals will be cheaper than one that includes them all.
  3. 6-Week Wait Option: This is a powerful cost-saving tool. If you choose this option, for any eligible inpatient treatment, you must first check the NHS waiting list. If the NHS can treat you within 6 weeks, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer than 6 weeks, your private cover kicks in. This can reduce your premium by 20-30%.

Working with a WeCovr adviser is the best way to model these options and find the perfect balance between cost and cover. We can also provide complimentary access to our AI calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals, and offer discounts on other policies like life insurance when you take out PMI.


How to Choose the Right Provider for Your Lifestyle

Let's bring it all together. Which provider best matches your life stage and priorities?

  • For the Young & Active: Vitality is the clear front-runner. If you're motivated by rewards and will engage with the programme, no other provider offers this level of interactive value.
  • For Families: Aviva offers a fantastic blend of value and quality, making it a sustainable choice for family budgets. Vitality is also great for active families who can pool their points for rewards.
  • For the Self-Employed: The Exeter is purpose-built for you. Their understanding of fluctuating incomes and their flexible underwriting provide peace of mind that's hard to find elsewhere.
  • For Retirees or Over-60s: The Exeter and WPA are often the most competitive and accommodating. The Exeter's community rating can protect against steep age-related price hikes, while WPA's shared responsibility model can make comprehensive cover highly affordable.
  • For Maximum Choice & Control: WPA's 'Freedom to Choose' philosophy is unmatched. If you want to see a specific specialist at a specific hospital without restriction, they are the provider to explore.
  • For Traditional, No-Fuss Cover: AXA and Aviva are the titans. AXA offers the premium, 'gold-standard' experience, while Aviva provides exceptional quality and value. You can't go wrong with either for solid, reliable protection.

Why Use a Broker like WeCovr?

You could go direct to one of these insurers, but you would only see one part of the picture. Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr costs you nothing but offers immense value.

  • Whole-Market View: We compare all these providers and more, ensuring you see the best options across the entire market.
  • Expert Guidance: We explain the complex details of underwriting, excesses, and policy wording in plain English.
  • Personalised Recommendations: We don't just sell policies; we listen to your needs and find the private health cover that genuinely fits your lifestyle and budget.
  • It's Free: Our service is completely free for you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, so you don't pay a penny more.

Finding the right PMI provider is a crucial decision. Let us do the hard work for you.


Frequently Asked Questions about UK Private Medical Insurance

Is private medical insurance worth it in the UK?

For many, yes. While the NHS is exceptional in emergencies, private medical insurance offers significant benefits for elective (non-emergency) care. The primary advantages are speed of access to specialists and diagnostics, choice over where and when you are treated, and access to a private room for recovery. With NHS waiting lists for some procedures currently at record highs, PMI provides a valuable way to bypass these queues and get treatment sooner.

Can I switch my private medical insurance provider?

Yes, you can switch PMI providers, and it's often a good way to ensure you're getting the best value. It's crucial to do this with care, ideally through a broker. You will need to consider your underwriting terms. You can often switch on a "Continued Moratorium" or "CPME" (Continued Personal Medical Exclusions) basis, which allows you to carry over your existing underwriting terms without losing cover for conditions that have developed while you've been insured.

Does private health insurance cover dental and optical?

Generally, routine dental check-ups, hygienist visits, and optical tests are not covered by standard private medical insurance policies. However, most of the providers discussed—including AXA, Aviva, and Vitality—offer optional add-ons for an extra premium that can cover a portion of these costs. More complex surgical procedures (like wisdom tooth extraction) may be covered under the core policy if they require hospital admission.

Is my private medical insurance premium tax-deductible?

For individuals paying for their own policy, the premium is not tax-deductible. It is paid for out of your post-tax income. If your employer pays for your private medical insurance as a benefit, it is considered a 'benefit-in-kind' and you will be liable for income tax on the value of the premium. For limited companies paying for a director's health insurance, the premium can often be treated as an allowable business expense.

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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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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