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Best Private GPs in London 2026 Top Clinics for Speed & Service

Best Private GPs in London 2026 Top Clinics for Speed &...

Navigating London's healthcare landscape can be a challenge. While the NHS is a national treasure, lengthy waiting times for GP appointments are a well-documented reality. This is where the private sector offers a compelling alternative. As expert brokers in UK private medical insurance, here at WeCovr, we've guided over 900,000 people through their insurance choices, and we understand the vital role a private GP plays in a seamless healthcare journey. A private GP offers speed, convenience, and a direct route to the specialist care that a robust health insurance policy is designed to cover.

This article is your definitive 2026 guide to the best private GPs in London. We'll explore the top clinics, break down the costs, and explain how these services integrate with private medical insurance to give you control over your health.

Our curated list of Londons top-rated private GP practices, ranked by appointment availability, specialist access, and patient reviews

Finding the right private GP is about more than just a quick appointment. It’s about finding a service that fits your lifestyle, offers access to a wide network of specialists, and provides a level of care that gives you peace of mind. Our 2026 rankings are based on a comprehensive analysis of the factors that matter most to Londoners: speed of access, quality of service, patient feedback, and the breadth of their medical network.

Why Choose a Private GP in London?

For many, the decision to use a private GP boils down to a few key advantages that the over-stretched NHS system often cannot provide.

  • Speed and Convenience: The primary driver is access. Most private clinics offer same-day or next-day appointments, including evenings and weekends. This means you can be seen, diagnosed, and start treatment in hours, not weeks.
  • Longer Consultation Times: Standard NHS GP appointments are typically scheduled for 10 minutes. Private GPs usually offer 15, 30, or even 60-minute slots, allowing for a more thorough discussion of your health concerns without feeling rushed.
  • Continuity of Care: Many private services allow you to book appointments consistently with the same doctor, fostering a long-term relationship and a deeper understanding of your medical history.
  • Seamless Specialist Referrals: A private GP acts as your expert gateway to the private healthcare system. They can quickly refer you to a top specialist, often within the same hospital group, and your private medical insurance can then cover the cost of that specialist consultation and subsequent treatment.

Here’s a simple comparison:

FeatureNHS GPPrivate GP
Appointment Wait TimeDays to weeksSame day or next day
Consultation LengthTypically 10 minutes15-60 minutes
Choice of DoctorOften depends on availabilityYou can choose your preferred GP
Referral SpeedSubject to NHS waiting listsImmediate referral to a private specialist
CostFree at the point of usePay-as-you-go or membership fee

How Much Do Private GPs Cost in London in 2026?

The cost of seeing a private GP in London varies depending on the clinic, the length of the consultation, and whether you opt for a pay-as-you-go service or a membership plan.

  • Pay-As-You-Go: This is the most common model. You pay for each appointment as you need it. It offers flexibility without long-term commitment.
  • Membership/Subscription: Some clinics offer annual or monthly membership plans. These often include a set number of GP consultations, preferential booking, and sometimes discounts on other services like health screenings. This can be cost-effective if you anticipate needing to see a GP several times a year.

Here are our estimated costs for 2026:

ServiceEstimated 2026 London Cost
Standard GP Consultation (15-20 mins)£80 – £150
Extended GP Consultation (30 mins)£150 – £250
Telephone/Video Consultation£50 – £100
Annual Membership Fee£500 – £3,000+
Comprehensive Health Screen£400 – £1,200

Important Note: These fees typically cover the doctor's time only. Prescriptions, blood tests, diagnostic scans (like MRI or X-ray), and specialist consultations are additional costs. This is where private medical insurance becomes essential.

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Our 2026 Ranking: London's Top Private GP Clinics

Our selection criteria focus on real-world performance: appointment availability, integration with specialist networks, patient satisfaction (via Google & Trustpilot reviews), and regulatory approval from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

ClinicKey LocationsBest For2026 Est. 15-Min ConsultKey Features
HCA Primary CareThe Shard, London Bridge, Canary WharfSeamless specialist access£150 - £200Part of the UK's largest private hospital group (HCA). Unrivalled access to top specialists and diagnostic facilities.
The London General PracticeHarley Street24/7 high-touch serviceMembership-based (POA)Concierge-style medicine. 24/7 availability, home visits, and a highly personalised service for discerning clients.
London Doctors Clinic15+ locations across LondonConvenience & accessibility£89A large network of clinics makes it easy to find a nearby appointment. Owned by Spire Healthcare.
DocTap12+ locations across LondonAffordability & simplicity£79A no-frills, highly efficient service focused on providing fast, affordable GP appointments.
Mayfield ClinicOxford (strong London virtual links)Digital-first with physical options£125 (In-person) / £49 (Virtual)Excellent virtual GP service with the option of physical clinics. Strong patient reviews for their remote care.

In-Depth Clinic Reviews

HCA Primary Care

As part of the HCA Healthcare UK network, which includes The Lister Hospital, The Wellington Hospital, and London Bridge Hospital, HCA Primary Care offers the most integrated pathway from GP to specialist in London. If your GP suspects a heart issue, they can refer you to a top cardiologist within the same building, often for a next-day appointment. This is the gold standard for integrated care.

  • Pros: Unmatched specialist network, state-of-the-art diagnostic facilities on-site.
  • Cons: Premium pricing reflects the premium service.

The London General Practice

Located in the heart of Harley Street, this practice offers a true "concierge" medical service. It's designed for individuals and families who want the highest level of personal attention, including 24/7 direct phone access to a doctor and coordination of all medical care, anywhere in the world.

  • Pros: Ultimate in personalised, responsive care.
  • Cons: Exclusivity comes with a significant price tag, typically via annual membership.

London Doctors Clinic

With clinics in almost every major London district from Victoria to Canary Wharf, their key strength is convenience. Founded by doctors, their model is built around making private healthcare accessible. Now part of the Spire Healthcare group, their referral network is also robust.

  • Pros: Multiple locations, competitive pricing, easy online booking.
  • Cons: Less of a personal, long-term GP relationship than smaller practices.

DocTap

DocTap's mission is to provide affordable and straightforward private GP services. They achieve this by partnering with existing clinics to use their rooms, keeping overheads low. Their booking system is exceptionally simple, and they are transparent about their pricing.

  • Pros: One of the most affordable options in London, very easy to book.
  • Cons: A more transactional service; less focus on continuity of care.

While a private GP provides fast access to a diagnosis, private medical insurance (PMI) is what pays for the expensive specialist treatment that may follow. Understanding this relationship is key to building a smart healthcare strategy.

A private GP acts as the gatekeeper. You see them for your initial concern, and they provide a diagnosis and a referral letter. Your PMI policy then kicks in to cover the costs of the specialist, the diagnostic tests (like MRI scans), and any subsequent surgery or treatment.

The Most Important Rule of PMI

It is critical to understand a core principle of the UK private health cover market: standard PMI is designed for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain requiring a hip replacement, cataracts, or hernias.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management but has no known cure. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure. PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you have had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the years before taking out your policy (typically 5 years). These are usually excluded from cover, at least initially.

How PMI Policies Include GP Access

Insurers recognise the value of fast GP access. Most modern PMI policies from major providers like Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, and Vitality now include a Virtual GP service as a standard, built-in benefit.

This 24/7 service allows you to have a video or phone consultation with a GP, often within a couple of hours. This can be incredibly convenient and is often sufficient for simple diagnoses, prescriptions, and even providing an open referral for specialist care.

Navigating the nuances of outpatient cover, hospital lists, and virtual GP benefits can be complex. An expert broker like WeCovr can compare policies from across the market for you, ensuring you get a plan that provides the level of GP and specialist access you need, at no extra cost to you.

Understanding the Private Referral Process

The journey from a GP consultation to specialist treatment is straightforward in the private sector.

  1. GP Consultation: You discuss your symptoms with the private GP.
  2. Initial Diagnosis & Referral: The GP makes a provisional diagnosis and writes a referral letter to an appropriate specialist (e.g., a dermatologist for a skin issue, an orthopaedic surgeon for knee pain).
  3. Contact Your Insurer: You call your PMI provider with your referral details to get a pre-authorisation number. This confirms your treatment is covered.
  4. Book Specialist Appointment: You (or your GP's office) book an appointment with the specialist. Thanks to the pre-authorisation, the bills are sent directly to your insurer.
  5. Treatment: The specialist oversees your diagnostic tests and treatment, with your insurer covering the eligible costs.

Insider Tip: Always get pre-authorisation from your insurer before you see a specialist or have any tests. This prevents any financial surprises and ensures a smooth claims process.

WeCovr: Your Partner in Navigating Private Healthcare

Choosing the right private medical insurance is just as important as choosing the right GP. At WeCovr, we are an independent, FCA-authorised broker dedicated to making health insurance clear and simple.

We help you:

  • Compare the Market: We provide whole-of-market comparisons to find the best policy for your budget and needs.
  • Understand the Jargon: We explain excesses, underwriting types, and hospital lists in plain English.
  • Tailor Your Cover: We help you decide on the right level of outpatient cover and choose a hospital list that includes the top facilities in London.
  • Save Money: Our service is completely free to you. We also offer discounts on other insurance products, like life or income protection, when you take out a policy with us.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, helping you stay on top of your wellness goals.

Is a private GP worth it in London?

For many, a private GP in London is worth it for the speed, convenience, and peace of mind. If you value same-day appointments, longer consultation times, and fast-track referrals to specialists, the cost can be a worthwhile investment in your health and time. It is particularly valuable when used as the first step in a journey covered by private medical insurance.

Can a private GP access my NHS records?

Generally, a private GP cannot directly access your full NHS medical record without your explicit consent and facilitation. You can request a summary of your record from your NHS GP to share with your private doctor. This ensures they have a complete picture of your medical history, medications, and allergies.

Does private medical insurance cover private GP fees?

Standard private medical insurance (PMI) policies in the UK typically do not cover the cost of face-to-face private GP consultations. However, most modern policies now include a 24/7 virtual GP service as a built-in benefit at no extra cost. Some high-end plans may offer a limited benefit for in-person GP fees, but this is not standard. The main purpose of PMI is to cover specialist care *after* a GP referral.

What's the difference between an acute and a chronic condition for PMI?

This is the most important distinction in UK health insurance. An **acute condition** is a new illness or injury that is expected to respond to treatment and resolve, such as a broken bone, a hernia, or cataracts. PMI is designed to cover these. A **chronic condition** is a long-term illness that requires ongoing management but has no known cure, like diabetes, asthma, or Crohn's disease. PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

Take Control of Your Healthcare Journey

Combining the speed of a top London private GP with the financial security of a well-chosen private medical insurance policy gives you the best of both worlds. You get fast access to a diagnosis and the peace of mind that the subsequent treatment is covered.

Ready to find a health insurance plan that puts you in control? The team at WeCovr is here to help. Get a free, no-obligation quote today and let our experts find the perfect cover for you.


Related guides

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.


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