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Best PMI for Families with Children Who Have Special Needs

Best PMI for Families with Children Who Have Special Needs

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can be complex, and for families with children who have special needs, it requires extra care and understanding. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in demystifying the UK's private health cover market, ensuring you find a solution that genuinely supports your family's unique circumstances. This guide offers clear strategies and an honest look at what PMI can and cannot do for you.

Strategies and provider policies for developmental, learning, or health disabilities

For parents of children with developmental, learning, or health disabilities, the primary goal is ensuring the best possible care and support. It's natural to explore how private medical insurance might fit into your child's overall healthcare plan.

However, it is absolutely essential to start with a clear understanding of the fundamental principle of UK PMI: private health insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out a policy.

Developmental and learning disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and dyspraxia, are considered long-term, or 'chronic'. The same applies to many long-term physical health disabilities like cerebral palsy or cystic fibrosis. Standard PMI policies do not cover the diagnosis, management, or routine treatment of chronic or pre-existing conditions.

So, where is the value? The strategy is not to seek cover for the special need itself, but to secure fast, high-quality care for any new, unrelated, and curable medical issues your child might face, while also leveraging the invaluable support services that come with modern PMI policies.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions in UK PMI

Understanding the difference between 'acute' and 'chronic' is the single most important step in setting realistic expectations for your private health cover. Insurers are very specific about these definitions.

What is an Acute Condition? An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that:

  • Is likely to respond quickly to treatment.
  • Is expected to return you to your previous state of health.
  • Is short-lived and not expected to recur.

Examples of Acute Conditions Covered by PMI:

  • Bone fractures from a fall
  • Infections (e.g., severe ear or chest infections)
  • Hernias requiring surgery
  • Appendicitis
  • Cataract surgery
  • Joint replacement

What is a Chronic Condition? A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics:

  • It is ongoing, long-lasting, or has no known cure.
  • It needs long-term monitoring, management, or control.
  • It is likely to recur.

Examples of Conditions Treated as Chronic (and therefore excluded from cover):

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • ADHD
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Diabetes
  • Asthma
  • Epilepsy
  • Eczema

A child with a chronic condition can, of course, develop a new, acute condition. For instance, a child with cerebral palsy who breaks their arm can use PMI to see a private orthopaedic specialist quickly, bypassing NHS waiting lists. The PMI policy covers the broken arm (the acute issue), but not the ongoing management of the cerebral palsy (the chronic condition).

Understanding Underwriting and Its Impact on Your Family's Cover

'Underwriting' is the process an insurer uses to assess your family's health and medical history to decide the terms of your policy. For families with children who have special needs, this stage is critical. There are two main types.

1. Moratorium Underwriting

This is the most common type of underwriting. You do not have to disclose your family's full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition that existed in the five years before the policy started. This exclusion can be lifted, but only if you go for a set period (usually two years) without having any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition.

  • Pros: Quick and easy application process.
  • Cons: Lack of certainty. You may not know if a condition is covered until you make a claim. For a child with a permanent developmental or health disability, this means the condition and any related symptoms will always be excluded.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire for every family member. You must declare all pre-existing conditions, including your child's diagnosis. The insurer then assesses this information and tells you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered. They will place a specific exclusion on your child's named condition and any related issues.

  • Pros: Complete clarity and certainty from day one. You know precisely where you stand.
  • Cons: A longer application process that requires gathering medical information.

Our Recommendation: For families with a child who has a known special need or disability, Full Medical Underwriting is almost always the better option. It removes all ambiguity, ensuring there are no surprises when you need to make a claim.

Underwriting TypeHow it WorksBest For
MoratoriumNo initial medical questions. Automatically excludes conditions from the past 5 years.Individuals and families with no significant pre-existing conditions who want a quick start.
Full Medical (FMU)Requires a full declaration of medical history. The insurer provides a clear list of exclusions upfront.Families with children who have special needs. It provides absolute clarity on what is and isn't covered.

So, What CAN Private Health Insurance Cover for a Child with Special Needs?

Despite the exclusions, a well-chosen PMI policy can be an incredibly valuable safety net. The benefits extend far beyond just covering major surgery.

1. Fast-Track Treatment for Unrelated Acute Conditions

This is the core benefit. Children are prone to illnesses and accidents, regardless of any underlying condition. According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care was 15.3 weeks in July 2024. PMI allows you to bypass these queues.

  • Real-Life Example:
    • Leo, aged 9, has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). His ASD is managed through the NHS and his school. One day, he falls from a climbing frame and sustains a complex wrist fracture.
    • His parents use their family PMI policy. They get a virtual GP appointment the same day, who refers them to a private orthopaedic surgeon. Leo has surgery to set the bone in a private hospital within the week.
    • The policy also covers his follow-up appointments and private physiotherapy, helping him regain full use of his wrist faster.
    • In this scenario, the PMI policy provided immense value by dealing with the acute injury swiftly and effectively, entirely separate from Leo's ASD.

2. Access to Private GPs and Speedy Diagnostics

Many modern PMI policies include access to a digital or virtual GP, often available 24/7. For parents, this is a game-changer.

  • Quick Reassurance: Instead of waiting for an NHS GP appointment, you can speak to a doctor in minutes to discuss a new symptom (e.g., a rash, a persistent cough, or stomach pain).
  • Fast Referrals: If the GP suspects an acute condition that is eligible for cover, they can issue an open referral instantly, starting the process for private specialist treatment.
  • Reduced Anxiety: This immediate access to medical advice can significantly reduce parental anxiety, especially when managing the health of a child who may not be able to communicate their symptoms clearly.

3all-Added Services and Wellbeing Programmes

This is where the private medical insurance UK market has evolved significantly. Insurers now compete soluções that support your family's day-to-day health, not just when you are ill.

  • Mental Health Support: While the underlying developmental disorder is excluded, many policies offer access to helplines or a limited number of therapy sessions for new, acute mental health issues like anxiety or depression. This can be a vital resource for descoberta parents and siblings too.
  • Diet and Nutrition Advice: Some plans offer consultations with registered dieticians. This can be hugely beneficial for families managing sensory-related food aversions or specific dietary needs associated with a health condition.
  • Wellness Apps and Rewards: Insurers like Vitality incentivise healthy habits with rewards. This can be a fun, engaging way to encourage the whole family to stay active.
  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. This tool can be incredibly helpful for planning meals and ensuring your child meets their nutritional targets, a common challenge for families navigating special dietary requirements.

A Closer Look at Provider Policies and Added Benefits

While all UK PMI providers exclude chronic and pre-existing conditions, they differ in their approach to value-added services and customer support. Working with a broker like WeCovr can help you compare the subtle but important differences.

Here's a general overview of what some of the best PMI providers offer. Please note this is for illustrative purposes and specific policy details must be checked.

ProviderGeneral Stance on Chronic ConditionsKey Value-Added Services for Families
BupaStandard exclusion for chronic and pre-existing conditions.Strong mental health support pathways (Family Mental HealthLine). Extensive network of hospitals and specialists. Digital GP service.
AXA HealthStandard exclusion for chronic and pre-existing conditions.Excellent 'Doctor at Hand' 24/7 digital GP service. Strong focus on wellbeing and muscle, bone, and joint support.
AvivaStandard exclusion for chronic and pre-existing conditions.'Aviva DigiCare+ Workplace' app (often included) offers health checks, mental health support, and nutrition consultations.
VitalityStandard exclusion for chronic and pre-existing conditions.Unique wellness programme that rewards activity with cinema tickets, coffee, and other perks. Can be a great motivator for families.

Practical Strategies for Choosing the Best PMI Policy

  1. Be Radically Honest in Your Application: When using Full Medical Underwriting, disclose everything. Provide as much detail as you can about your child's diagnosis, treatment, and general health. Withholding information will only lead to claim denials and could invalidate your policy.

  2. Focus on the 'Extras': For your family, the day-to-day value may come from the digital GP, the mental health helplines, and the wellness benefits. Compare these carefully. Ask yourself: which of these services would reduce my stress and make life easier right now?

  3. Set a Realistic Budget and Excess: Your 'excess' is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium. Consider what level of excess you would be comfortable paying if you needed to claim.

  4. Read the Policy Wording: Before you buy, read the "Exclusions" section of the policy document. It will state in black and white what is not covered. An expert broker can help you interpret this document.

  5. Work With an Expert PMI Broker: This is our most important piece of advice. A specialist broker is your advocate. They know the market inside and out. They understand the nuances of each insurer's underwriting philosophy and can guide you to the providers most likely to offer fair terms. A broker's service is free to you, as they are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

Beyond Insurance: Complementary Wellness Strategies for Your Family

A PMI policy is one part of a wider wellness strategy. Supporting your family's health involves a holistic approach.

  • Nutrition and Routine: A structured diet and predictable meal times can be very calming for children with sensory or behavioural challenges. Using an app like CalorieHero can help you plan balanced meals and track intake, turning a potentially stressful task into a manageable one.
  • The Power of Sleep: Consistent sleep and wake times are crucial for emotional regulation and cognitive function. Create a calming bedtime routine, free from screens, to help signal to the body that it's time to rest.
  • Adapted Physical Activity: Keeping active is vital for physical and mental health. Look for local clubscharisma adapted sports or activities like swimming, horse riding, or gymnastics, which can be wonderfully therapeutic.
  • Community and Respite: You are not alone. Organisations like Mencap, the National Autistic Society, and Scope offer incredible resources, advice, and community support. Connecting with other families provides validation and practical tips that no insurer can offer.

The Role of a PMI Broker: Your Advocate in a Complex Market

Trying to navigate the private health insurance market alone, especially with a complex family situation, can be overwhelming. This is where a broker becomes indispensable.

An independent broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies.

  • Market Expertise: We understand the subtle differences between dozens of policies and which insurers have more experience with non-standard applications.
  • Time and Hassle Savings: We do the legwork of gathering quotes and comparing policies, presenting you with a clear, easy-to-understand summary.
  • Application Support: We can help you complete the application forms correctly, ensuring all information is presented clearly to the underwriter.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is entirely free for our clients.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: We pride ourselves on the positive feedback we receive from customers, reflecting our commitment to finding the right cover for every client.

Furthermore, when you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, we offer discounts on other types of cover you may need, such as home or travel insurance, providing even greater value.

In summary, while private medical insurance will not cover your child's special need, it acts as a powerful safety net. It ensures that for all the other unpredictable health bumps in the road, your family will have access to the fastest, most convenient care available, giving you peace of mind and one less thing to worry about.

Do I need to declare my child's ASD, ADHD, or other developmental disorder when applying for PMI?

Yes, absolutely. If you opt for Full Medical Underwriting (which is highly recommended), you must declare all pre-existing medical conditions for every person on the policy. Being transparent ensures your policy is valid and you have total clarity on what is covered from day one. Failure to disclose a condition can lead to claims being rejected.

Will private medical insurance pay for my child's autism diagnosis or speech therapy?

No. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover the diagnosis, management, or therapy for developmental conditions like autism or learning disabilities like dyslexia. These are considered chronic conditions and are a standard exclusion on all PMI policies, which are designed to cover new, acute (curable) conditions.

What is the main benefit of PMI for a family with a special needs child?

The primary benefit is gaining fast access to private medical care for new, unrelated, and acute illnesses or injuries. For example, it would cover surgery for a broken bone or a consultation with a specialist for a severe infection, bypassing NHS waiting lists. Additionally, the value-added services, like 24/7 digital GP access and mental health support lines, provide invaluable day-to-day support for the whole family.
Can I get a family health insurance policy if my child has a serious health disability?
Yes, it is very likely you can. You will be able to get a policy that covers all family members for new, acute conditions that are unrelated to the pre-existing disability. The insurer will place a specific exclusion on your child's disability and any related treatments, but the family will still be covered for a wide range of other medical issues. An expert broker can help you find the right insurer for your circumstances.

Ready to explore your options with clarity and confidence? The expert team at WeCovr is here to help you navigate the market and find the right protection for your family.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of 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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