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Best PMI for Maternity Complications and Caesarean Delivery

Best PMI for Maternity Complications and Caesarean Delivery

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can be complex, especially when planning for a family. As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands that prospective parents want clarity and peace of mind. This guide explores how PMI can provide crucial support for maternity complications and medically necessary caesareans.

Which insurers cover complications, eligibility rules, and the claims process

While standard private health insurance in the UK doesn't cover routine pregnancy or childbirth, many leading policies offer valuable cover for unexpected complications. This is a critical distinction. PMI is designed to cover unforeseen, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. A normal pregnancy isn't considered an acute condition. However, if a serious medical issue develops during pregnancy or birth, that's where PMI can step in.

This article breaks down which insurers offer this cover, the strict eligibility rules you must meet, and how to navigate the claims process if you need to use your policy.

Understanding the Scope of Maternity Cover in UK PMI

Before diving into specific policies, it's essential to grasp the fundamental principles of how private medical insurance UK treats maternity. Getting this right from the start will save you from potential disappointment later.

The Golden Rule: PMI Covers Acute Conditions, Not Routine Events

This is the most important concept to understand. UK private medical insurance is built to treat acute conditions—diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and allow you to return to your previous state of health.

Routine, planned events are not covered. This includes:

  • Routine antenatal appointments and scans
  • Standard, uncomplicated vaginal delivery
  • Elective (planned by choice) caesarean sections
  • Routine postnatal care

Pregnancy is a natural life event, not an unexpected illness. Therefore, the standard costs associated with it are excluded from all core PMI policies. The cover that is available focuses solely on the unexpected and medically necessary.

What is a "Maternity Complication" in PMI Terms?

Insurers have specific lists of conditions they classify as a "complication of pregnancy and childbirth." If you develop one of these conditions, your PMI policy may cover the costs of your treatment in a private hospital.

Commonly covered complications include:

  • Pre-eclampsia: A serious condition involving high blood pressure.
  • Gestational diabetes: High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy.
  • Ectopic pregnancy: When a fertilised egg implants outside the womb.
  • Molar pregnancy: An abnormal growth of cells in the womb.
  • Retained placenta: When the placenta is not delivered after childbirth.
  • Postpartum haemorrhage: Excessive bleeding after birth.
  • Perineal tear (3rd or 4th degree): A severe tear requiring surgical repair.

Crucially, pre-existing and chronic conditions are not covered. If you have a condition like chronic hypertension before taking out your policy, and it worsens during pregnancy, that will not be covered.

Elective vs. Medically Necessary Caesareans

This is a frequent point of confusion. The distinction is simple:

  • Elective Caesarean: A C-section you choose to have for non-medical reasons. This is never covered by PMI.
  • Medically Necessary Caesarean: A C-section that a consultant obstetrician deems essential for the health and safety of the mother or baby. This is often referred to as an "emergency caesarean."

According to the latest NHS Digital data for 2021-22, the caesarean rate in the UK was 32.2%. Of these, 15.5% were emergency C-sections. It is this category of unforeseen, necessary surgery that a PMI policy with maternity complications cover is designed to address.

Comparing Top UK Insurers for Maternity Complication Cover

The level of cover, waiting periods, and specific terms vary significantly between providers. It's vital to compare them carefully. A PMI broker like WeCovr can provide a detailed comparison based on your personal circumstances at no extra cost to you.

Here is a general overview of what leading UK insurers offered in 2025. Please note that policy details are subject to change.

InsurerCover for ComplicationsKey Eligibility RulesNoteworthy Features & Exclusions
BupaCovers a specific list of serious pregnancy and childbirth complications on most policies.A 10-month waiting period from joining or adding the benefit.Often includes a cash benefit for each night in an NHS hospital for childbirth (£100-£200 per night, depending on the policy). Does not cover the C-section itself, but the complications leading to it.
AXA HealthCovers specified complications of pregnancy on most plans.A 10-month waiting period applies before cover is active.Policies clearly list what is and isn't covered. For example, morning sickness and varicose veins are typically excluded.
AvivaCover for complications is available, usually on their 'Expert Select' and 'Healthier Solutions' policies.A 10-month waiting period is standard.Their policy documents are detailed. They may cover a medically necessary C-section if it's required due to a covered complication.
VitalityIncludes cover for a range of maternity complications.A 10-month waiting period from the policy start date.Often links benefits to their wellness programme. May offer cash payments for childbirth in an NHS hospital. Focus is on promoting a healthy pregnancy.
The ExeterProvides cover for specified complications of pregnancy and childbirth.A 12-month waiting period is typically required.Known for their clear policy wording. They focus on covering the unexpected, with a robust list of eligible complications.

Working with an expert broker is invaluable here. We can scrutinise the policy documents to ensure the cover meets your expectations, especially around nuanced topics like whether the cost of the emergency C-section itself is covered, or only the treatment for the underlying complication.

Eligibility Rules and Waiting Periods Explained

You cannot simply take out a policy when you find out you are pregnant and expect to be covered. Insurers have strict rules in place to prevent this.

The "Moratorium" and "Full Medical Underwriting"

When you apply for PMI, you will be underwritten in one of two ways:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. The insurer will not ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they will automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the last 5 years. If you then remain symptom-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts, that condition may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your complete medical history via a questionnaire. The insurer's underwriting team then assesses your health and may place specific exclusions on your policy from day one.

How this impacts maternity: If you have a history of gynaecological problems or a previous complicated pregnancy, it will almost certainly be excluded under either underwriting method.

The Critical Waiting Period

This is the single most important rule. Nearly all UK insurers impose a 10 or 12-month waiting period for maternity complication benefits.

This means you must have the policy in place for at least 10-12 months before you can make a claim related to pregnancy complications. This effectively means you need to take out your health insurance policy well before you plan to conceive. If you take out a policy when you are already pregnant, you will not be able to claim for any maternity-related issues.

Group vs. Individual Policies

If you are fortunate enough to be part of a company private medical insurance scheme, the rules can be more generous. Many large corporate schemes waive the standard waiting periods and may have more lenient underwriting terms (known as 'Medical History Disregarded'). If you have access to a company plan, check its specific rules on maternity cover as it may be the most comprehensive option available.

The Claims Process for Maternity Complications: A Step-by-Step Guide

Imagine you are 32 weeks pregnant and your midwife diagnoses you with severe pre-eclampsia, recommending immediate hospital admission and specialist treatment. If you have the right PMI policy, here’s how the process would typically work.

Real-Life Example: Sarah's Story

  • Policy: Sarah has a private medical insurance policy with Aviva, which she took out 18 months ago. Her policy includes cover for maternity complications after a 10-month waiting period.
  • The Situation: At a routine check-up, Sarah is found to have dangerously high blood pressure and protein in her urine. Her NHS consultant diagnoses severe pre-eclampsia and says she needs urgent treatment, potentially leading to an early, medically necessary caesarean.

Here are the steps Sarah would take:

  1. Get the Medical Diagnosis: Sarah's NHS consultant provides the diagnosis and recommends a course of action. This is the trigger for a potential PMI claim.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: The first and most important step is to call the insurer's claims helpline. Sarah calls Aviva, explains the situation, and provides her membership number. She needs to get pre-authorisation before any private treatment begins. Without it, the claim will be rejected.
  3. Provide the Referral: Aviva will ask for the details of the NHS consultant who made the diagnosis. They may require a formal referral letter.
  4. Choose a Specialist & Hospital: Aviva will confirm that pre-eclampsia is a covered complication. They will then provide Sarah with a list of approved private obstetricians and hospitals from their network. She can choose her preferred specialist and facility from that list, giving her control and choice at a stressful time.
  5. Receive Treatment: Sarah is admitted to the private hospital. The specialist manages her condition and, after a few days, determines an emergency C-section is the safest course of action. The surgery is performed in a private room, and she receives post-operative care.
  6. Direct Payment: The hospital and the specialist send their invoices directly to Aviva. Sarah doesn't have to handle any bills herself, apart from any excess she may have on her policy.

This process allows Sarah to bypass potential NHS pressures, receive treatment in a private and comfortable setting, and have her choice of specialist, providing immense peace of mind during a difficult and worrying time.

Beyond Complications: Added Value and Wellness Benefits

Modern private health cover offers more than just hospital treatment. Many policies come with a suite of benefits that are particularly useful for expectant and new parents.

Mental Health Support for New Parents

The period after childbirth can be challenging. Postnatal depression and anxiety are serious conditions. Most top-tier PMI policies now include excellent mental health pathways, providing fast access to counselling or therapy without a long wait. This can be an invaluable lifeline for new mothers and fathers.

Digital GP and Health Helplines

Worried about a rash on your newborn at 3 am? Most insurers provide 24/7 access to a digital GP service via phone or app. This allows you to speak to a doctor for advice and reassurance from the comfort of your own home, avoiding a trip to A&E for non-urgent concerns.

WeCovr's Unique Benefits

When you arrange your PMI through an expert broker like WeCovr, you not only get impartial advice but also access to additional perks. We believe in promoting long-term health, which is why our clients receive:

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: Our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app can be a fantastic tool for maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy and managing post-baby weight in a sustainable way.
  • Discounts on Other Insurance: Once you are a WeCovr client for PMI or Life Insurance, you become eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your growing family's future for less.

These added-value services transform a PMI policy from a simple safety net into a proactive tool for managing your family's health and wellbeing.

Is PMI for Maternity Complications Worth It?

This is a personal decision that depends on your financial situation and attitude to risk. Let's weigh the pros and cons.

Pros of Having CoverCons of Having Cover
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a backup plan if serious complications arise.Cost: Premiums can be significant and will increase with age.
Choice and Control: You can choose your specialist and hospital from the insurer's approved list.Strict Rules: The long waiting period means you must plan far in advance.
Comfort: Access to a private room for your treatment can make a stressful experience more comfortable.Limited Scope: It only covers complications, not routine maternity care.
Speed: Fast access to specialist consultations and diagnostic tests.Exclusions: Pre-existing conditions that could affect pregnancy are not covered.

The NHS provides excellent maternity care. For the vast majority of women, the care they receive on the NHS is safe and effective. The key benefit of PMI is not about replacing the NHS, but about providing an additional layer of choice, comfort, and speed if things go wrong.

Given that conditions like pre-eclampsia affect up to 6% of pregnancies in the UK (according to the NHS), and emergency C-sections account for over 15% of all births, having a plan in place for these possibilities is a sensible consideration for many families.

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Cover

The UK private medical insurance market is crowded and the policy documents are filled with jargon. Trying to figure it out alone can be overwhelming, especially when you're planning a family.

This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr adds huge value.

  • We're Experts: We live and breathe private medical insurance. We know the ins and outs of every major policy on the market.
  • We're Independent: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our advice is completely impartial, focused only on finding the best PMI provider for your specific needs and budget.
  • We Save You Time: Instead of you spending hours researching and getting multiple quotes, we do all the legwork for you.
  • It Costs You Nothing: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, but this does not affect the price you pay. You get expert advice and support at no extra cost.
  • We're on Your Side: From choosing the policy to helping you with the claims process, we are your advocate, ensuring you get the most from your cover. Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings for our dedicated service.

Planning for a family is an exciting journey. Let us handle the complexities of insurance so you can focus on what truly matters.


Does private health insurance cover a planned caesarean in the UK?

No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover an elective or planned caesarean section that is chosen for personal, non-medical reasons. PMI is designed to cover acute, unforeseen medical events. However, if a C-section becomes medically necessary due to a covered complication arising during pregnancy or labour (an emergency C-section), the costs may be covered by a policy that includes maternity complications, subject to its terms and waiting periods.

Can I get private medical insurance for maternity if I'm already pregnant?

Generally, no. You cannot take out a new policy while pregnant and expect to be covered for that pregnancy. This is because all UK insurers impose a waiting period, typically 10 to 12 months, before you can claim for maternity-related complications. Furthermore, the pregnancy itself would be considered a pre-existing condition and would therefore be excluded from cover on a new policy. You must have your insurance in place well before conception.

Is childbirth covered by private medical insurance in the UK?

Routine, uncomplicated childbirth is not covered by private medical insurance in the UK. This is because PMI covers unforeseen medical conditions, not planned life events. Some policies may offer a small, fixed cash benefit if you have your baby in an NHS hospital, but they will not cover the costs of a private delivery. The only time PMI might be involved is if you suffer a specific, acute medical complication during childbirth that is explicitly listed as covered in your policy documents.

Ready to find the right protection for your growing family?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find a policy that gives you peace of mind, at a price that's right for you.

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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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