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Bowel Cancer in the UK Private Screening & Care

Bowel Cancer in the UK Private Screening & Care 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr provides this guide to navigating bowel cancer concerns with UK private medical insurance. Our goal is to empower you with clear, authoritative information for your health and peace of mind.

Learn about bowel cancer risks and how PMI helps with faster screening and treatment

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, but it is also one of the most treatable, especially when caught early. Understanding your risk factors and the screening options available is the first step towards proactive health management. While the NHS provides an excellent screening programme, waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment can be a source of significant anxiety.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) can provide a crucial advantage. It offers a pathway to faster diagnosis, greater choice over your care, and access to a wider range of treatments, giving you control and comfort when you need it most.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore:

  • The key facts about bowel cancer in the UK.
  • The risk factors you need to be aware of.
  • How the NHS screening programme works.
  • The specific benefits of using private health cover for diagnosis and treatment.
  • How to choose the right PMI policy for your needs.

Understanding Bowel Cancer in the UK: Key Facts and Statistics

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, affects the large bowel, which is made up of the colon and rectum. It typically develops from pre-cancerous growths called polyps. If left undetected, these polyps can turn cancerous.

Knowledge is power, and understanding the landscape of bowel cancer in the UK highlights the importance of awareness and early action.

Key UK Bowel Cancer Statistics (2025 Data Outlook):

StatisticFigureSource Context
New Cases AnnuallyApprox. 43,000Cancer Research UK
Ranking4th most common cancer in the UKCancer Research UK
Lifetime Risk1 in 15 for men, 1 in 18 for womenCancer Research UK
Annual DeathsApprox. 16,800ONS / Cancer Research UK
Ranking by Mortality2nd most common cause of cancer deathCancer Research UK

The most critical statistic, however, is the one related to survival. It paints a stark picture of why early detection is not just important—it's life-saving.

Survival Rates by Stage at Diagnosis:

  • Stage 1: More than 9 out of 10 people (over 90%) will survive their cancer for 5 years or more.
  • Stage 4 (advanced): Fewer than 1 in 10 people (less than 10%) will survive their cancer for 5 years or more.

These figures from the NHS and Cancer Research UK prove that catching bowel cancer early dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. This is the fundamental reason why efficient screening and rapid access to diagnostic tests are so vital.

Who is at Risk? Identifying the Main Risk Factors for Bowel Cancer

Anyone can develop bowel cancer, but certain factors can increase your risk. These can be broken down into things you can't change (unavoidable risks) and lifestyle factors you can influence.

Unavoidable Risk Factors

  • Age: The risk increases significantly with age. Around 94% of cases are diagnosed in people over 50.
  • Family History: Having a close relative (parent, sibling, child) diagnosed with bowel cancer under the age of 50 increases your risk.
  • Inherited Genetic Conditions: Conditions like Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) greatly increase the risk, though they are rare.
  • Personal Health History: A previous history of non-cancerous polyps in your bowel or having long-term inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can raise your risk.
  • Diet: A diet low in fibre and high in red and processed meats is a major contributor.
  • Weight: Being overweight or obese is linked to a higher risk of bowel cancer.
  • Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle with little to no regular exercise increases your risk.
  • Alcohol: Drinking alcohol regularly is associated with an increased risk.
  • Smoking: Tobacco smoking is a known risk factor for bowel cancer, as well as many other cancers.
Risk Factor CategorySpecific ExamplesCan It Be Modified?
Age & GeneticsOver 50, family history, Lynch syndromeNo
DietHigh intake of red/processed meat, low fibreYes
LifestyleObesity, lack of exercise, high alcohol intakeYes
Personal HistoryInflammatory bowel disease, polypsNo (but can be monitored)

Being aware of these risks allows you to have more informed conversations with your GP and make positive lifestyle changes.

NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme: What You Need to Know

The NHS has a national screening programme designed to detect bowel cancer at an early stage, often before any symptoms appear. The process varies slightly across the UK.

  1. The FIT Test (Faecal Immunochemical Test): This is the main screening tool. It's a simple test you do at home that looks for tiny traces of blood in your poo, which can be a sign of polyps or cancer.

    • England: Offered every 2 years to people aged 60-74. This is gradually being extended to everyone aged 50 and over.
    • Scotland: Offered every 2 years to people aged 50-74.
    • Wales: Offered every 2 years to people aged 58-74.
    • Northern Ireland: Offered every 2 years to people aged 60-74.
  2. What Happens After the FIT Test?:

    • Normal Result: You'll be invited for screening again in two years.
    • Abnormal Result: This does not mean you have cancer. It means blood was found and further investigation is needed. You will be invited for a colonoscopy.
  3. The Colonoscopy: This is the key diagnostic procedure. A specialist uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your entire large bowel. They can see and remove any polyps during the procedure.

The Challenge: NHS Waiting Times

While the NHS provides excellent care, the system is under immense pressure. The NHS Constitution for England sets a target that no more than 1% of patients should wait longer than six weeks for a diagnostic test like a colonoscopy. Furthermore, the 'Faster Diagnosis Standard' aims for patients to have cancer ruled out or diagnosed within 28 days of an urgent GP referral.

Unfortunately, these targets are frequently missed. Patients often face waits of several weeks or even months for a diagnostic colonoscopy after an abnormal FIT test or a GP referral. This waiting period can be incredibly stressful and may lead to a delay in diagnosis and the start of treatment.

The Role of Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in Bowel Cancer Care

This is where having a robust private medical insurance UK policy can make a profound difference. PMI is designed to complement the care offered by the NHS, giving you speed, choice, and comfort.

Critical Note on Pre-existing Conditions: It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. If you have already been diagnosed with or are having symptoms of bowel cancer before buying a policy, that specific condition will not be covered.

Here’s how PMI helps if you develop symptoms or require investigation after your policy starts:

  1. Rapid Diagnosis: This is the single biggest advantage. If your GP refers you for suspected bowel cancer, PMI allows you to bypass the NHS waiting lists for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests. You can often see a top gastroenterologist and have a colonoscopy within days, not weeks or months. This dramatically reduces anxiety and leads to a much faster diagnosis.

  2. Choice of Specialist and Hospital: With PMI, you are not limited to your local NHS hospital. You can choose from a nationwide network of leading cancer specialists (oncologists) and surgeons, as well as high-quality private hospitals that offer a comfortable and private environment for your care.

  3. Access to Advanced Treatments: Most comprehensive PMI policies offer extensive cancer cover. This can include access to the latest chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies. Crucially, it may also provide funding for drugs or treatments that are not yet approved for widespread use on the NHS or are subject to rationing.

  4. Enhanced Comfort and Support: Undergoing treatment is physically and emotionally draining. PMI often provides benefits like a private en-suite room, more flexible visiting hours, and a quieter environment, which can significantly improve your experience.

  5. Holistic Wellness Support: Modern insurers understand that care goes beyond medicine. Many policies now include valuable extras like:

    • Mental health support (counselling sessions).
    • Access to dietitians and nutritionists.
    • Second medical opinion services.
    • At WeCovr, our PMI clients also get complimentary access to our AI-powered diet and calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, to help support healthy lifestyle changes.

So, how does it work in practice? The journey is straightforward and designed to be efficient.

  • Step 1: The GP Referral. You visit your GP (either NHS or private) with concerning symptoms like a persistent change in bowel habit, blood in your poo, or unexplained weight loss. The GP agrees you need to see a specialist and writes you a referral letter.

  • Step 2: Contact Your Insurer. You call your PMI provider, explain the situation, and provide your referral details. They will give you a pre-authorisation number for the specialist consultation.

  • Step 3: Choose Your Specialist. Your insurer will provide a list of approved gastroenterologists. You can research them and choose the one you prefer at a hospital that is convenient for you.

  • Step 4: Consultation and Diagnostics. You attend your private consultation, often within a few days. If the specialist recommends a colonoscopy or other scans (like a CT or MRI), you simply get another pre-authorisation from your insurer and book it in, again, usually within days.

  • Step 5: Treatment Plan. If a diagnosis of cancer is made, your specialist and a multi-disciplinary team will create a treatment plan. Your PMI policy's cancer cover will then kick in to fund the surgery, chemotherapy, and other care you need, all within the private sector.

A Note on Asymptomatic Screening

Most standard PMI policies are designed to cover diagnosis and treatment when you have symptoms (diagnostic care). They do not typically cover purely preventative screening tests if you are healthy and have no symptoms. However, some higher-tier policies or optional wellness add-ons do offer benefits for health checks, which may include tests like a private FIT test or even a colonoscopy in some cases. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you identify policies that include these valuable preventative benefits.

Comparing Private Health Cover for Cancer Care

Not all PMI policies are created equal, especially when it comes to cancer cover. It's one of the most important aspects of any policy. When comparing providers like AXA Health, Bupa, Aviva, and Vitality, here’s what you need to look for.

FeatureWhat to Look For in a Comprehensive PolicyWhy It Matters
Cancer Cover LevelFull cover with no time or financial limits.Ensures your treatment is covered from diagnosis onwards, no matter how long it takes.
Outpatient CoverFull cover or a high annual limit (£1,500+).Covers all your initial consultations and diagnostic tests without you having to pay.
Drug and Treatment CoverCovers drugs licensed in the UK, even if not routinely available on the NHS.Gives you access to the very latest and potentially most effective treatments.
Hospital NetworkA comprehensive list including top cancer centres (e.g., HCA, GenesisCare).Gives you the choice of the best facilities and specialists for your condition.
Palliative Care CoverInclusion of cover for end-of-life care if needed.Provides support and comfort for you and your family in a worst-case scenario.
NHS Cancer SupportOption to receive a cash payment if you choose to use the NHS for your cancer treatment.Provides flexibility and a financial benefit if you opt for NHS care.

Navigating these options can be complex. Working with an independent broker like WeCovr is invaluable. We analyse the entire market on your behalf, explain the small print, and find the best PMI provider and policy that matches your budget and needs, all at no cost to you.

The Cost of Private Bowel Cancer Treatment vs. PMI Premiums

The peace of mind offered by PMI becomes even clearer when you look at the cost of private treatment without insurance.

Procedure / TreatmentTypical UK Private Cost (Without Insurance)
Initial Specialist Consultation£250 - £400
Colonoscopy (with sedation)£2,200 - £3,500
CT Scan£800 - £1,500
Bowel Resection Surgery£15,000 - £25,000+
Course of Chemotherapy£20,000 - £70,000+ (highly variable)

Facing these costs unexpectedly would be a huge financial burden for most families. A private health cover policy, which might cost between £50 to £150 per month depending on your age and cover level, spreads this financial risk. It ensures that if the worst happens, your focus can be on your health, not on the bills.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Bowel Cancer Risk

While insurance provides a safety net, prevention is always the best medicine. You can take proactive steps to lower your risk of developing bowel cancer.

  1. Eat a Balanced Diet:

    • Increase Fibre: Aim for at least 30g of fibre a day. Good sources include fruits, vegetables, wholegrains (oats, brown rice, wholewheat bread), pulses, and nuts.
    • Reduce Red & Processed Meat: Limit red meat (beef, lamb, pork) to no more than 70g (cooked weight) per day and avoid processed meats like bacon, sausages, and ham as much as possible.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

    • Keeping your Body Mass Index (BMI) within the healthy range (18.5-24.9) significantly reduces your risk. Tools like our CalorieHero app can be a great help in managing your diet and weight.
  3. Stay Active:

    • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running or sports) each week.
  4. Cut Down on Alcohol and Stop Smoking:

    • Limiting alcohol intake to within the recommended guidelines (no more than 14 units a week) and quitting smoking are two of the most impactful changes you can make for your overall health.

WeCovr: Your Expert Partner in Finding the Right PMI

Choosing the right private medical insurance is a big decision. With so many providers and policy options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's where WeCovr can help.

As an FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, we are independent and work for you, not the insurance companies. Our expert advisors take the time to understand your specific needs, concerns, and budget. We then compare policies from across the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect fit.

Why choose WeCovr?

  • Expert, Impartial Advice: We simplify the jargon and help you understand exactly what you're buying.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We have access to a huge range of policies, ensuring you get the best cover at a competitive price.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is completely free for our clients.
  • Exclusive Benefits: Our clients get complimentary access to the CalorieHero app and can also enjoy discounts on other types of insurance, such as life or home insurance, when they purchase a policy through us.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance cover screening for bowel cancer if I have no symptoms?

Generally, standard private medical insurance policies are designed for diagnosing and treating conditions where you have symptoms. Routine, asymptomatic screening (like a wellness FIT test or colonoscopy) is not usually covered. However, some comprehensive, high-tier policies do offer wellness benefits or health check add-ons that may include this. It's crucial to check the policy details or ask a broker to find a plan with this specific benefit.

Do I need to declare a family history of bowel cancer when applying for PMI?

Yes, you should always be completely honest on your application. Insurers will likely ask about your family's medical history. Having a family history of bowel cancer does not mean you will be denied cover, but the insurer may add a specific exclusion related to it, or it could slightly affect your premium. Full disclosure ensures your policy is valid when you need to make a claim.

What happens if my PMI policy has limits on cancer cover?

Some less comprehensive or budget-friendly policies may have financial or time limits on cancer treatment. For example, they might only cover the initial diagnosis or the first year of treatment. If your treatment needs go beyond these limits, you would have two options: fund the rest of the private care yourself or transfer back to the NHS to continue your treatment. This is why we strongly recommend choosing a policy with full, unlimited cancer cover for complete peace of mind.

Ready to secure peace of mind with the right private health cover?

Take control of your health journey. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the best private medical insurance policy for you and your family.


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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