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Best PMI for Self-Employed UK 2025

Best PMI for Self-Employed UK 2025 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique challenges of the self-employed. This guide explores the best private medical insurance (PMI) options in the UK to protect your health and your business, ensuring you're never left waiting when it matters most.

Top PMI plans for freelancers and contractors

When you work for yourself, your health is your most valuable asset. An unexpected illness or injury can mean more than just a health scare; it can halt your income and threaten your business. Private medical insurance offers a crucial safety net, providing fast access to diagnosis and treatment, so you can get back to work sooner.

For the self-employed, the "best" PMI policy balances comprehensive cover with an affordable premium. It acts as a business continuity tool, bypassing long NHS waiting lists for eligible conditions. Here’s a quick overview of what the leading UK providers offer for freelancers and contractors in 2025.

ProviderBest ForStandout Feature
BupaComprehensive cover & mental health supportNo annual limit on cancer care & extensive mental health pathways.
AXA HealthFlexible options & digital GP accessHighly customisable plans and the excellent Doctor at Hand 24/7 virtual GP service.
AvivaStrong core cover & brand trustThe "Expert Select" hospital option offers great value and their cancer cover is award-winning.
VitalityWellness rewards & active individualsRewards you for staying healthy with discounts on smartwatches, gym memberships, and more.
WPACustomer service & flexible policiesNot-for-profit ethos with a focus on exceptional service and 'shared responsibility' options.

Why Self-Employed People Need Private Medical Insurance

Running your own business is liberating, but it comes with a unique set of pressures. Unlike employees, you don't have the safety net of statutory sick pay, paid leave, or a company health scheme. If you can't work, you don't earn. This makes staying healthy a non-negotiable part of your business plan.

The Financial Risk of Ill Health

  • No Sick Pay: A few weeks off for a minor operation could mean a significant loss of income. A more serious condition could be financially devastating.
  • Business Disruption: Clients may not wait. Extended time off can lead to lost contracts and damage to your professional reputation.
  • NHS Waiting Times: While the NHS provides excellent emergency care, waiting times for elective treatment can be substantial. According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care was around 14.5 weeks as of mid-2024, with hundreds of thousands waiting over a year. For a self-employed person, a year-long wait for a hip replacement or hernia repair simply isn't an option.

Private health cover is your solution to this problem. It allows you to schedule treatment at a time and place that suits you, minimising disruption and getting you back on your feet and back to your business faster.

Understanding the Core Concepts of UK Private Health Cover

Before you start comparing quotes, it's vital to understand what private medical insurance does – and, more importantly, what it doesn't do. Misunderstanding these core principles is the number one cause of frustration for policyholders.

Critical Point: PMI is for Acute Conditions Only

Standard private medical insurance UK policies are designed to cover acute conditions.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repairs, or diagnosing and treating a new, unexplained pain.

PMI is not designed to cover chronic conditions.

  • A chronic condition is an illness that is long-lasting and often has no known cure. It can be managed but not fixed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and most types of arthritis. You will still receive NHS care for these conditions, but your private policy will not cover their routine management.

Pre-existing Conditions Are Not Covered

This is the golden rule of PMI. A policy will not cover any medical conditions for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment before you took out the cover (typically within the last five years).

Insurers manage this through a process called underwriting.

Understanding Underwriting: The Two Main Types

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your health risks to decide what they will and won't cover.

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting:

    • How it works: This is the most common type. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the five years before your policy started.
    • The "rolling" part: If you then go for a set period (usually two years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that pre-existing condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
    • Pros: Quick and easy to set up.
    • Cons: There can be uncertainty at the point of claim, as the insurer will investigate your medical history then.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU):

    • How it works: You complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply, declaring your medical history. The insurer assesses this and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered.
    • Pros: Total clarity from the start. You know precisely where you stand.
    • Cons: The application process is longer, and any declared conditions will be permanently excluded.

A PMI broker like WeCovr can explain these options in detail and help you decide which is right for your circumstances.

How to Choose the Best PMI Policy for Your Self-Employed Business

A good PMI policy is not one-size-fits-all. It's a tailored suit. You need to balance the level of cover you want with a premium that fits your budget. Here are the key levers you can pull to design your perfect policy.

1. The Level of Cover

Policies are usually structured in tiers:

  • Basic / Budget: This covers the big-ticket items. It typically includes in-patient (when you're admitted to a hospital bed overnight) and day-patient (admitted for a procedure but don't stay overnight) treatment costs. Diagnostic tests and consultations linked to that hospital stay are usually included.
  • Mid-Range / Standard: This is the most popular choice. It includes everything in a basic policy and adds a level of out-patient cover. This is crucial for getting a fast diagnosis and might include a set number of specialist consultations and diagnostic tests (like MRI or CT scans) up to a certain financial limit (e.g., £1,000 per year).
  • Comprehensive: This offers the highest level of reassurance. It includes full in-patient and day-patient cover, plus extensive or unlimited out-patient cover. These policies often include additional benefits like therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy), mental health support, and alternative therapies.

2. The Policy Excess

An excess is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your first claim of the year is for a £3,000 procedure, you pay the first £250, and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750.

  • Higher Excess = Lower Premium: Choosing a higher excess (£500 or £1,000) is one of the most effective ways to reduce your monthly premium. It's a good option if you want cover for serious issues but are happy to pay for smaller claims yourself.

3. The Hospital List

Insurers have different lists of hospitals where you can be treated. Your choice of list directly impacts your premium.

  • Local / Regional: Restricts you to a list of hospitals in your local area. This is the most affordable option.
  • National: Gives you access to a wide network of private hospitals across the UK, but may exclude the most expensive ones in Central London.
  • London / Premium: Includes the top-tier private hospitals in Central London, which are often more expensive. This list carries the highest premium.

4. The "Six-Week Wait" Option

This is a fantastic cost-saving feature, particularly popular with the self-employed.

  • How it works: If the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of when it should take place, you agree to use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private policy kicks in.
  • The benefit: It significantly reduces your premium because you're only using the policy when you really need it to bypass long waits. It provides a safety net against the very delays that threaten your income, while keeping costs down.

Top UK PMI Providers for Freelancers and Contractors in 2025

Each major UK insurer has its strengths. The "best" one for you depends on your priorities: budget, wellness features, mental health support, or flexibility.

Bupa

A household name with a huge network. Bupa is known for its comprehensive cover, especially for cancer and mental health. Their Bupa From You policy is highly flexible.

  • Strengths:
    • Direct Access: For certain conditions like cancer, mental health, and musculoskeletal issues, you may be able to speak to a specialist without a GP referral, speeding up the process.
    • Comprehensive Mental Health: Cover for a wide range of mental health conditions and access to their network of support.
    • Parent Company of Hospitals: Bupa owns a network of clinics and the Cromwell Hospital, which can sometimes lead to a more integrated experience.

AXA Health

AXA Health's Personal Health plan is renowned for its modularity, allowing you to build a policy that fits your exact needs and budget.

  • Strengths:
    • Doctor at Hand: A market-leading digital GP service, providing 24/7 appointments by video or phone. Invaluable for a busy freelancer needing quick medical advice.
    • Guided Option: Their 'Expert Select' option guides you to a pre-approved list of specialists and hospitals, which can significantly reduce your premium in return for less choice.
    • Musculoskeletal Focus: Strong pathways for getting quick treatment for muscle, bone, and joint problems – a common issue for both desk-based and manual workers.

Aviva

As one of the UK's largest insurers, Aviva brings financial stability and a trusted brand. Their Healthier Solutions policy is robust and well-regarded.

  • Strengths:
    • Strong Core Product: Aviva’s standard policy is comprehensive and provides excellent value.
    • Award-Winning Cancer Cover: Their "Cancer Pledge" promises to cover all eligible cancer treatment costs, including drugs that may not be available on the NHS.
    • Digital GP: Includes access to a 24/7 GP helpline for the whole family, even if they aren't on the policy.

Vitality

Vitality pioneered the concept of "active rewards" in health insurance. Their model is perfect for self-employed individuals who are motivated to stay healthy.

  • Strengths:
    • The Vitality Programme: Earn points for tracking your activity, having health checks, and buying healthy food. These points unlock rewards like free cinema tickets, coffee, and significant discounts on Apple Watches, gym memberships, and travel.
    • Lower Premiums for Being Healthy: The more engaged you are with the wellness programme, the lower your premium can be at renewal.
    • Full Cover Promise: Vitality promises to pay for all eligible in-patient and day-patient fees in full, with no shortfalls.
FeatureBupaAXA HealthAvivaVitality
Key Selling PointComprehensive mental & cancer careFlexible, modular plansTrusted brand, strong core coverRewards for a healthy lifestyle
Digital GPDigital GP & Direct AccessDoctor at Hand (24/7 video)Aviva Digital GP (24/7)Vitality GP (24/7 video)
Best for...Peace of mind, extensive coverCustomisation and fast diagnosisA solid, all-round policyMotivated, active individuals
Cost Saving OptionGuided care options'Expert Select' guided option'Six-Week Wait' optionActive rewards reduce renewal premium

Disclaimer: This table is for illustrative purposes. Features and benefits can change. An expert broker can provide the most current details.

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Self-Employed PMI

Navigating the private medical insurance market can be overwhelming. The jargon is complex, and the options are endless. This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable ally.

Why use WeCovr?

  1. Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our experts work for you. We listen to your needs as a freelancer or contractor and recommend the policy that offers the best value for your specific situation.
  2. Market Comparison in Minutes: Instead of you spending hours getting quotes from every provider, we do the hard work for you. We compare policies from all the leading UK insurers to find the most suitable cover at a competitive price.
  3. No Cost to You: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price (or often less) than going direct, but with the added benefit of expert guidance.
  4. We Speak Your Language: We cut through the jargon to explain underwriting, hospital lists, and excess options in plain English, ensuring you are confident in the cover you're buying. Based on customer feedback, our clients consistently rate our service highly for its clarity and helpfulness.

Exclusive WeCovr Benefits: When you arrange your PMI policy through us, you also get:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you stay on top of your health goals.
  • Discounts on other essential cover: We can offer you preferential rates on other policies crucial for the self-employed, such as Income Protection or Life Insurance.

Making Your PMI Policy Tax-Efficient as a Self-Employed Individual

A common question is whether you can claim private medical insurance as a business expense. The answer depends on your business structure.

  • For Sole Traders & Partnerships: HMRC generally considers private medical insurance a personal benefit, not a business expense. Therefore, you cannot usually deduct the cost of your PMI premiums from your taxable profits. The one exception is for insurance specifically taken out to cover you while working abroad.

  • For Limited Company Directors: The situation is different. Your limited company can pay for your PMI policy. The premium is considered an allowable business expense, so the company can deduct it from its pre-tax profit, reducing its Corporation Tax bill.

    However, HMRC treats this as a 'benefit in kind' (P11D benefit) for you as the director. This means:

    1. The company will have to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions on the value of the premiums.
    2. You, the director, will have to pay income tax on the value of the benefit at your marginal rate (20%, 40%, or 45%).

Even with the tax implications, it can still be a tax-efficient way to fund your health cover. Always consult your accountant for advice tailored to your company's specific financial situation.

Beyond PMI: A Holistic Approach to Health for Freelancers

Your PMI policy is your backstop, but your first line of defence is a healthy lifestyle. As a self-employed professional, proactive health management is proactive business management.

  • Ergonomics and Movement: If you're desk-based, invest in a proper ergonomic chair and ensure your screen is at eye level. Use the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of work, 5 minutes of break) to stand up, stretch, and move regularly.
  • Nutrition and Hydration: It's easy to grab convenience food when you're busy. Plan your meals and keep a water bottle on your desk. Good nutrition fuels your brain and your body. Our complimentary CalorieHero app can help you track this effortlessly.
  • Mental Health: The pressure of being self-employed can be intense. Schedule downtime and 'log off' properly at the end of the day. Practice mindfulness, get regular exercise, and don't be afraid to use the mental health support services included in most modern PMI policies.
  • Sleep: According to the Sleep Foundation, adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night for optimal cognitive function, mood regulation, and physical health. Sacrificing sleep for work is a false economy that leads to burnout.

Consider pairing your PMI with Income Protection Insurance. While PMI pays for your treatment, Income Protection pays you a tax-free monthly income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury, protecting your finances while you recover.


Is PMI worth it for a young, healthy freelancer?

Absolutely. While you may feel invincible now, accidents and unexpected illnesses can happen to anyone. For a self-employed person, even a few months on an NHS waiting list for a minor surgical procedure can mean thousands in lost income. Getting a policy while you are young and healthy means your premium will be lower, and you won't have pre-existing conditions that need to be excluded. It's a small business expense that protects your single most important asset: your ability to work.

What's the difference between private medical insurance and critical illness cover?

They serve two very different purposes. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) pays for the cost of private medical treatment for eligible acute conditions. Its goal is to get you diagnosed and treated quickly. Critical Illness Cover pays you a one-off, tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed on the policy (e.g., some types of cancer, heart attack, stroke). You can use this lump sum for anything you want – to cover lost income, adapt your home, or pay for private treatment if you wish. Many self-employed people have both for comprehensive protection.

Can I add my family to my self-employed PMI policy?

Yes, all major insurers allow you to add your partner and children to your personal PMI policy. While this increases the premium, insurers often offer discounts for family or couple plans compared to buying individual policies separately. It can provide great peace of mind knowing your entire family has access to fast private healthcare.

Do I have to have a medical exam to get private health insurance?

Generally, no. For most people, you will not need to undergo a medical examination to take out a PMI policy in the UK. Insurers will assess your health using either Moratorium underwriting (where they automatically exclude recent conditions for a set period) or Full Medical Underwriting (where you complete a health questionnaire). An exam might only be requested in very rare circumstances, such as for very high levels of cover or if you have a particularly complex medical history.

Ready to Protect Your Health and Your Business?

Choosing the right private medical insurance is one of the smartest business decisions a freelancer or contractor can make. It's an investment in your continuity, your peace of mind, and your most valuable asset – you.

Don't navigate the complex market alone. Let our friendly experts at WeCovr do the hard work for you. We'll compare the UK's leading insurers to find a policy that fits your needs and budget perfectly.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote Today]


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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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