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AXA vs The Exeter Big Brand vs Specialist Insurer Compared

AXA vs The Exeter Big Brand vs Specialist Insurer Compared

Choosing the right private medical insurance in the UK can feel like a daunting task. At WeCovr, our FCA-authorised experts help thousands of clients navigate this landscape. This article provides an in-depth comparison of two leading providers: the global giant, AXA, and the specialist mutual, The Exeter.

A detailed look at cover limits, exclusions, and customer support

When you're comparing private health insurance, it's easy to get lost in glossy brochures and headline benefits. The real value of a policy, however, is found in the details: the financial limits on your cover, what's specifically excluded, and the quality of support you receive when you need it most.

This guide cuts through the marketing noise to give you a clear, expert comparison of AXA and The Exeter. We will analyse:

  • Core Cover: What you get as standard.
  • Optional Extras: How you can tailor your policy.
  • Financial Limits: The caps on what they will pay.
  • Exclusions: What is never covered.
  • Customer Experience: How they handle claims and support.

Understanding these differences is the key to finding a policy that truly protects your health and offers genuine peace of mind.

Who Are AXA and The Exeter? A Tale of Two Insurers

Your choice between AXA and The Exeter is a classic one: do you opt for the scale and resources of a global brand or the focused expertise and personal touch of a specialist?

AXA: The Global Insurance Powerhouse

AXA is one of the largest insurance companies in the world. In the UK, their brand is instantly recognisable, associated with everything from car and home insurance to business and health cover.

  • Strengths:
    • Vast Resources: As a global giant, AXA has an extensive network of partner hospitals and specialists across the UK.
    • Brand Trust: Many clients feel reassured by the stability and reputation of a large, established name.
    • Digital Innovation: AXA invests heavily in technology, offering sophisticated apps and online portals for managing your policy and accessing services like a virtual GP.
    • Comprehensive Offerings: They can be a one-stop-shop for individuals and businesses needing multiple types of insurance.

The Exeter: The Specialist Friendly Society

The Exeter is a completely different kind of organisation. As a friendly society (or mutual), they have no shareholders. Instead, they are owned by and run for their members. They specialise exclusively in health insurance, income protection, and life insurance.

  • Strengths:
    • Member-First Focus: All profits are reinvested back into the business to benefit members through better products, pricing, or service.
    • Specialist Expertise: Their focus on health-related insurance means they have deep knowledge, particularly in complex areas like underwriting for older applicants or those with some medical history.
    • Personal Service: The Exeter prides itself on its UK-based, personal customer service, often providing a more hands-on approach during a claim.
    • Underwriting Flexibility: They have a reputation for being more willing to consider applications that a larger, more automated insurer might decline.

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

All UK private medical insurance (PMI) policies are built around a core offering that covers the most expensive treatments. This typically includes costs for surgery and hospital stays.

A crucial point to understand: UK private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions — illnesses or injuries that are short-term and expected to respond to treatment. It does not cover chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure that require ongoing management.

Here’s how the core cover from AXA and The Exeter compares:

FeatureAXA Health (Personal Health Plan)The Exeter (Health+)Broker Insight
In-patient/Day-patient TreatmentCovered in fullCovered in fullThis is the foundation of any PMI policy, covering surgery, hospital beds, and nursing care. Both are comprehensive here.
Cancer CoverComprehensive cancer cover included as standard.Comprehensive cancer cover included as standard.Both providers offer excellent, extensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical procedures.
Hospital ListChoice of hospital lists, including a nationwide directory.Choice of hospital lists, including their "Essential" and "Expert" lists.Your choice of hospital list directly impacts your premium. A more restricted list is cheaper.
Post-Treatment TherapiesLimited cover for physiotherapy may be included after eligible surgery.Up to 3 physiotherapy sessions included following eligible surgery.This covers initial rehabilitation, but you'll need the optional therapies add-on for more extensive needs.
Digital GP ServiceDoctor at Hand service included.HealthWise app (including remote GP) included.Both provide 24/7 access to a virtual GP, a huge convenience for getting quick advice and prescriptions.

Both insurers provide a robust core product. The main decision at this stage is which hospital list meets your needs and budget.

Optional Extras and Customisation: Tailoring Your Policy

This is where you can truly shape your cover and where the differences between AXA and The Exeter become more apparent.

Out-patient Cover

This is arguably the most important optional extra. It covers diagnostic tests and specialist consultations before you are admitted to hospital. Without it, you would need to rely on the NHS for your diagnosis, which could involve long waiting lists.

  • AXA: Offers tiered options. You can choose a financial limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited) for out-patient diagnostics and consultations. This is a straightforward way to control your premium.
  • The Exeter: Also offers a choice of full cover or a "Guided Option" where they guide you to a specialist from a curated list, often at a lower premium. Their standard out-patient module covers you in full.

Adviser Tip: We often find that clients underestimate how quickly out-patient costs can add up. An initial consultation can be £250, and a single MRI scan can cost £700-£1,000. A policy with a low out-patient limit might leave you facing a significant shortfall.

Therapies Cover

This add-on covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.

  • AXA: Bundles this with their out-patient options. The number of sessions or financial limit available depends on the level of out-patient cover you select.
  • The Exeter: Offers this as a separate module, covering you in full for referrals from your GP or a specialist. Their HealthWise app also includes access to remote physiotherapy assessments.

Mental Health Cover

Mental health is a critical area of differentiation.

  • AXA: Mental health cover is an optional add-on. It provides a financial limit towards out-patient consultations with psychologists or psychiatrists and may include some in-patient treatment.
  • The Exeter: Places a strong emphasis on mental health. Their core policy includes some out-patient mental health support through the HealthWise app. Their optional mental health add-on is highly regarded, providing extensive cover for both out-patient and in-patient treatment.

For clients who prioritise mental wellbeing support, The Exeter's specialist focus often gives them an edge.

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Cover Limits and Financial Caps: Understanding the Small Print

While both providers offer "unlimited" overall annual limits, the real devil is in the detail of the sub-limits for optional extras. These caps define the maximum amount the insurer will pay for a specific type of treatment in a policy year.

BenefitAXA Health (Typical Limits)The Exeter (Typical Limits)What This Means in Practice
Overall Annual LimitUnlimitedUnlimitedYou're covered for eligible in-patient treatment costs, no matter how high.
Out-patient CoverChoice of £0, £500, £1,000, or Unlimited.Covered in full (on standard option).With a £1,000 limit, a £250 consultation and an £800 MRI scan would exceed your allowance.
Mental Health (Out-patient)Included within your chosen out-patient limit.Unlimited psychiatric and psychological treatment (with optional add-on).The Exeter's "unlimited" approach on their add-on is a significant benefit for long-term therapy needs.
TherapiesOften linked to out-patient limit or a set number of sessions.Covered in full when referred by a specialist.Full cover provides more reassurance than a fixed number of sessions, which could run out mid-treatment.

Real-life Scenario: Imagine you injure your knee. You need a specialist consultation (£250), an MRI scan (£800), and a course of six physiotherapy sessions (£300). Total cost: £1,350.

  • With an AXA policy with a £1,000 out-patient limit, you would have a £350 shortfall to pay yourself.
  • With The Exeter's policy with full out-patient and therapies cover, the entire £1,350 would be covered.

A WeCovr adviser can model these scenarios for you to ensure you don't get caught out by low financial limits.

The Deal-Breakers: A Deep Dive into Exclusions

No private medical insurance policy covers everything. Understanding the exclusions is just as important as knowing what's included.

Standard PMI Exclusions (Apply to Both Insurers)

You must be aware that all standard UK private health insurance policies will exclude:

  • Pre-existing conditions: Any illness or injury you had before your policy started.
  • Chronic conditions: Long-term illnesses that require ongoing management rather than a cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, Crohn's disease).
  • Emergency treatment: A&E visits are handled by the NHS.
  • Routine pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Cosmetic surgery (unless for reconstructive purposes after an accident or eligible surgery).
  • Treatment for addiction, substance abuse, or self-inflicted injuries.

Underwriting: How Insurers Assess Pre-existing Conditions

This is a critical choice you must make when you apply.

  1. Moratorium (MORI) Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer will exclude any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy starts. However, if you then go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.

    • Pro: Quick and simple application.
    • Con: Lack of certainty. A claim could be rejected if it's traced back to a pre-existing condition.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews your medical history and tells you upfront exactly what will be excluded from your policy.

    • Pro: Complete certainty from day one. You know what is and isn't covered.
    • Con: Longer application process.

Insider Adviser Tip: FMU is often the better choice if you have a known medical history, as it provides clarity. For younger, healthier individuals, a moratorium can be simpler. The Exeter is known for its flexible underwriting team, who may be more willing to review specific conditions on an FMU basis than a larger insurer.

Customer Support and Claims Process: Who Helps When You're Ill?

The experience of making a claim is a true test of an insurer's value.

AXA: Digital Efficiency at Scale

AXA's claims process is built for efficiency. They have a large, well-trained team and an excellent digital infrastructure.

  • The Process: You typically get a GP referral, call AXA to get a claim authorised, and then book your appointment with a specialist from their approved network.
  • Digital Tools: Their online member portal and app allow you to start a claim, track its progress, and find specialists.
  • The Experience: It's generally smooth and process-driven. The scale of the operation means you may speak to different people each time you call, but the system is designed to be consistent.

The Exeter: A Personal, Member-Focused Approach

The Exeter aims to provide a more personal, high-touch service.

  • The Process: The claims process is similar (GP referral, authorisation), but the feel is different. Their claims assessors are based in the UK and are known for being empathetic and helpful.
  • Member Focus: As a mutual, their goal is to support the member. They are often praised in reviews for their clear communication and willingness to help navigate the healthcare system.
  • The Experience: Clients often report feeling like they are being treated as an individual, not a policy number. This can make a huge difference during a stressful time.

As your broker, WeCovr can also provide an extra layer of support. If you ever face an issue with a claim, we can act as your advocate to help resolve it with the insurer.

Added Value and Wellness Benefits: More Than Just Insurance

Insurers now compete to offer benefits that help you stay healthy, not just treat you when you're sick.

BenefitAXA HealthThe ExeterWeCovr Added Benefit
Virtual GPDoctor at Hand (24/7 remote GP consultations)Included in HealthWise app (24/7 remote GP consultations)N/A
Mental Health SupportStronger Minds service for assessments and supportIncluded in HealthWise app (counselling & support)N/A
Physiotherapy SupportWorking Body service for remote physioIncluded in HealthWise app (remote physio assessments)N/A
Second Opinion ServiceIncludedIncluded in HealthWise appN/A
Other BenefitsGym discounts, health and wellbeing portalN/AComplimentary access to the CalorieHero AI calorie tracking app and discounts on other insurance policies.

The Exeter's HealthWise app is a standout feature, bundling a virtual GP, mental health support, physiotherapy, and a second medical opinion service into one easy-to-use platform, included as standard for all members. This provides incredible day-one value.

When you purchase a policy through WeCovr, you also get exclusive access to our CalorieHero app and can benefit from discounts when you take out other policies like life or income protection insurance.

AXA vs The Exeter: At-a-Glance Comparison

FeatureAXA HealthThe Exeter
Insurer TypeGlobal PLC (for shareholders)UK Friendly Society (for members)
Best ForBrand-conscious buyers, company policies, digital-first users.Individuals wanting personal service, older applicants, those prioritising mental health.
Core CoverComprehensive, with tiered hospital lists.Comprehensive, with tiered hospital lists.
Out-patient OptionsTiered financial limits (£500, £1k, etc.). Clear but can be restrictive.Full cover or a guided specialist option. Generally more comprehensive.
Mental Health CoverA solid optional extra with financial limits.A key strength, with extensive support via HealthWise and a comprehensive add-on.
Added ValueDoctor at Hand, Stronger Minds, gym discounts.The all-in-one HealthWise app is a market-leading benefit.
Customer ServiceLarge, efficient, process-driven, and digitally advanced.Personal, empathetic, UK-based, and member-focused.
UnderwritingStandardised MORI and FMU processes.Renowned for their flexible and individual approach to FMU.

Making the Right Choice with WeCovr

There is no single "best" private medical insurance provider. The right choice for you depends entirely on your personal circumstances:

  • Your Budget: How much can you afford for your monthly premium and your excess?
  • Your Priorities: Is comprehensive mental health cover a must-have? Or do you value a simple, low-cost plan for major surgery only?
  • Your Health: Do you have a medical history that would benefit from The Exeter's flexible underwriting?
  • Your Preferences: Do you prefer the reassurance of a big brand or the personal touch of a specialist?

This is where expert, independent advice is invaluable. The private health insurance market is complex, and comparing policies like-for-like is challenging.

At WeCovr, our FCA-authorised advisers do this every day. We take the time to understand your unique needs and compare policies from across the market—including AXA, The Exeter, Bupa, Aviva, and more—to find the perfect fit. Our service is completely free to you, and we can often find better terms than if you went directly to the insurer.

Ready to find the right cover for you?

Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded, either permanently or on a temporary basis via moratorium underwriting. If you remain symptom-free and have not sought treatment or advice for a condition for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts, a moratorium policy may then cover it.

What is the main difference between a big brand like AXA and a specialist like The Exeter?

The main difference lies in their structure and focus. AXA is a global, shareholder-owned company offering a vast range of insurance products with a focus on digital efficiency and brand recognition. The Exeter is a UK-based, member-owned friendly society that specialises only in health and protection insurance. This specialist focus often translates to more personal customer service, flexible underwriting for complex cases, and a strong emphasis on member benefits over shareholder profits.

Can I switch my PMI provider from AXA to The Exeter?

Yes, you can switch your private medical insurance provider. The best way to do this without losing cover for conditions that have developed on your old policy is through 'Continued Personal Medical Exclusions' (CPME) underwriting. This allows you to transfer your underwriting terms from your old insurer (like AXA) to the new one (like The Exeter). An expert broker like WeCovr can manage this process for you to ensure a seamless transition with no loss of cover.

Let our experts do the hard work. Get your free, no-obligation quote today and compare the UK's leading health insurers in minutes.


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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