Bupa Global for Expats and International Workers Costs, Cover Levels & Choosing US Cover

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 14, 2026
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TL;DR

As one of the UK’s most experienced private medical insurance brokers, having helped arrange cover for over 900,000 people, WeCovr understands the unique challenges facing expats and international workers. This guide delves into Bupa Global, a premium choice for those living and working abroad, exploring its costs, cover, and crucial decisions. How Bupa Global works for expats – where it fits, where it doesnt, how US cover changes pricing, and how to avoid common buying mistakes Bupa Global is a specialist division of Bupa, designed specifically for individuals and families who live, work, or travel internationally.

Key takeaways

  • Expatriates and Their Families: Individuals and families relocating for work or lifestyle reasons who need seamless medical cover in their new country of residence and beyond.
  • High-Net-Worth Individuals: Those who travel frequently between multiple homes or require the peace of mind that comes with access to the best medical facilities worldwide, without question.
  • Senior Executives & Diplomats: Professionals on international assignments whose roles demand extensive travel and require a robust, reliable health plan.
  • "Digital Nomads" & Global Citizens: Individuals who work remotely and travel continuously, needing a policy that isn't tied to a single country.
  • Those Requiring a Higher Level of Service: Bupa Global is known for its high-touch service, including multilingual support, direct settlement with a vast network of hospitals, and medical concierge services.

As one of the UK’s most experienced private medical insurance brokers, having helped arrange cover for over 900,000 people, WeCovr understands the unique challenges facing expats and international workers. This guide delves into Bupa Global, a premium choice for those living and working abroad, exploring its costs, cover, and crucial decisions.

How Bupa Global works for expats – where it fits, where it doesnt, how US cover changes pricing, and how to avoid common buying mistakes

Bupa Global is a specialist division of Bupa, designed specifically for individuals and families who live, work, or travel internationally. Unlike standard UK private medical insurance (PMI), which is geographically limited, Bupa Global provides comprehensive health cover across the world.

It is designed for a specific type of client: the globally mobile individual who demands premium, borderless healthcare access. It doesn't fit the needs of someone seeking basic, low-cost cover for use only within the UK. The most significant factor influencing its price is whether you include cover for the USA, which can more than double the premium due to the exceptionally high cost of healthcare in that country.

Common buying mistakes often stem from misunderstanding the policy's scope, particularly regarding pre-existing conditions, the chosen geographical area of cover, and the immense financial impact of adding US cover without a genuine need for it.

Who is Bupa Global For? The Ideal Customer Profile

Bupa Global is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is a premium-tier international private medical insurance (iPMI) product tailored for a distinct audience. Understanding if you fit this profile is the first step in your decision-making process.

Bupa Global is an excellent fit for:

  • Expatriates and Their Families: Individuals and families relocating for work or lifestyle reasons who need seamless medical cover in their new country of residence and beyond.
  • High-Net-Worth Individuals: Those who travel frequently between multiple homes or require the peace of mind that comes with access to the best medical facilities worldwide, without question.
  • Senior Executives & Diplomats: Professionals on international assignments whose roles demand extensive travel and require a robust, reliable health plan.
  • "Digital Nomads" & Global Citizens: Individuals who work remotely and travel continuously, needing a policy that isn't tied to a single country.
  • Those Requiring a Higher Level of Service: Bupa Global is known for its high-touch service, including multilingual support, direct settlement with a vast network of hospitals, and medical concierge services.

Bupa Global is generally not the right fit for:

  • UK Residents Needing UK-Only Cover: If you live and work solely in the UK, a domestic UK PMI policy will be far more cost-effective.
  • Budget-Conscious Buyers: As a premium international product, Bupa Global's premiums are significantly higher than domestic plans or more basic iPMI options.
  • Short-Term Travellers: Standard travel insurance is more appropriate and affordable for holidays or brief trips abroad.
  • Those Seeking Cover Primarily for Chronic or Pre-existing Conditions: Like all private medical insurance, Bupa Global's standard plans are designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you join. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded or subject to special terms.

Bupa Global vs. Standard UK PMI: What's the Difference?

It is crucial to understand that international health insurance and domestic private medical insurance are fundamentally different products. Confusing the two can lead to costly mistakes.

FeatureBupa Global (International PMI)Standard UK PMI
Geographical AreaWorldwide or Worldwide excluding specific regions (like the USA). Designed for cross-border care.Primarily United Kingdom only. Some plans offer limited emergency overseas cover.
Core PurposeTo provide comprehensive medical cover for expats and global citizens living abroad.To provide faster access to private treatment for acute conditions within the UK, complementing the NHS.
Typical CoverVery comprehensive. Often includes wellness, dental, vision, and medical evacuation as standard or as options.Focuses on in-patient and day-patient treatment. Out-patient cover is often an optional add-on.
PricingSignificantly higher. Premiums are based on age, area of cover, and chosen plan level. US cover is a major cost driver.More affordable. Premiums are based on age, location within the UK, and level of cover.
UnderwritingTypically Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) or Moratorium.Moratorium, FMU, or Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME) for switchers.
RegulationRegulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for policies sold in the UK.Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

In simple terms, UK PMI is for living in the UK. Bupa Global is for living outside your home country.

Bupa Global's Core Cover Levels Explained

Bupa Global offers a tiered range of plans, allowing you to balance the level of cover with your budget. While plan names can evolve, they generally follow a structure from essential hospital cover to fully comprehensive benefits.

Here is a simplified breakdown of a typical Bupa Global structure:

Feature/BenefitMajor Medical Plan (Entry-Level)Select Health Plan (Mid-Tier)Premier Health Plan (Comprehensive)Elite Health Plan (Top-Tier)
Overall Annual Limit£1,000,000£1,500,000UnlimitedUnlimited
In-patient & Day-patientPaid in fullPaid in fullPaid in fullPaid in full
Cancer TreatmentPaid in fullPaid in fullPaid in fullPaid in full
Medical EvacuationIncludedIncludedIncludedIncluded
Out-patient ConsultationsNot coveredUp to a limitPaid in fullPaid in full
Prescription DrugsNot coveredUp to a limitPaid in fullPaid in full
Wellness & Health ChecksNot coveredNot coveredIncluded up to a limitIncluded up to a higher limit
Dental & Optical CoverOptional Add-onOptional Add-onOptional Add-onIncluded up to a limit

Adviser Insight: The "sweet spot" for many professionals is a mid-tier plan that covers in-patient and out-patient care fully but forgoes wellness or high-end dental benefits to manage costs. The most crucial elements are hospital cover and medical evacuation.

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The Impact of US Cover on Your Bupa Global Policy

Adding cover for the United States is the single most significant decision you will make regarding the cost of your Bupa Global policy. The price difference is not minor; it is substantial.

Why is US Cover So Expensive?

  1. Extreme Healthcare Costs: The US has the most expensive healthcare system in the world by a large margin. A simple procedure that costs £5,000 in the UK could cost $50,000 in the US. A major hospital stay can easily run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  2. Litigious Environment: The risk of medical malpractice lawsuits drives up costs for doctors and hospitals, who pass these on to patients and their insurers.
  3. Lack of Price Regulation: Unlike in the UK and many other countries, there is little to no government regulation on what hospitals and pharmaceutical companies can charge.

To illustrate the impact, let's look at an example premium for a 40-year-old individual on a mid-tier comprehensive plan.

Area of CoverIllustrative Annual PremiumPercentage Increase
Worldwide excluding USA£6,500-
Worldwide including USA£14,000+115%

Note: These are illustrative figures for 2026 and will vary based on your exact age, plan, and excess level. The purpose is to demonstrate the scale of the cost difference.

How to Decide if You Need US Cover:

  • Do you live in the US? If yes, you have no choice; you must include it.
  • Do you travel to the US frequently for business? If you spend more than a few weeks a year there, including US cover provides essential peace of mind. Relying on travel insurance for multiple business trips can be risky and may not provide adequate cover.
  • Do you only visit the US for a short holiday? If you are only taking a one- or two-week holiday to the US, a high-quality, separate travel insurance policy is a much more cost-effective solution for that specific trip. Do not pay a 115% premium increase all year round for a two-week holiday.

An expert broker at WeCovr can help you analyse your travel patterns and make the most financially sensible decision.

Understanding Bupa Global Costs: What Influences Your Premium?

Several factors combine to determine your final Bupa Global premium.

  1. Age: This is a primary driver. Premiums increase significantly as you get older, reflecting the higher likelihood of needing medical care.
  2. Area of Cover: As discussed, 'Worldwide including USA' is the most expensive. 'Worldwide excluding USA' is the most common choice. Some insurers offer more granular regions, such as 'Europe only' or 'Africa only', which can reduce costs further.
  3. Plan Level: An entry-level 'Major Medical' plan covering only hospital stays will be far cheaper than an 'Elite' plan with unlimited out-patient, dental, and wellness benefits.
  4. Excess (Deductible): This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer starts paying. Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) can lower your premium significantly.
  5. Underwriting: The method used to assess your medical history will impact what is covered.

Underwriting is the process an insurer uses to evaluate your health and medical history to decide the terms of your policy. For iPMI, there are two main types.

  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire, disclosing your entire medical history. The insurer assesses this and may place specific exclusions on your policy for pre-existing conditions.

    • Pro: You have complete clarity from day one about what is and isn't covered.
    • Con: The application process is longer, and past conditions are likely to be permanently excluded.
  • Moratorium Underwriting: You do not have to disclose your full medical history upfront. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical condition you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in a set period before the policy started (typically the last 5 years).

    • Pro: The application is quick and simple.
    • Con: There can be uncertainty about what's covered. A condition may become eligible for cover, but only after you have been on the policy for a continuous period (usually 2 years) without experiencing any symptoms or needing treatment for it.

Crucial Point: Standard international health insurance, including Bupa Global, is for acute conditions (illnesses that are curable and short-lived, like a hernia or appendicitis) that arise after your policy begins. It is not designed to cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure) or pre-existing conditions you already have.

Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Our advisers see the same costly mistakes made time and again. By being aware of them, you can secure the right cover at the best price.

  1. Paying for US Cover You Don't Need: This is the #1 mistake. As shown, it can double your premium. Assess your travel needs honestly.
  2. Choosing the Wrong Area of Cover: Selecting 'Worldwide ex. USA' when you only live and work in Europe is inefficient. See if a more restricted, cheaper geographical area is available and suitable.
  3. Misunderstanding Pre-existing Conditions: Assuming a moratorium policy will magically cover a recent health issue after two years is a common misconception. The "two-year" rule has strict criteria. Be transparent with your broker.
  4. Ignoring the Excess/Deductible: Many people default to a zero excess, paying a much higher premium. If you can afford to pay the first £500 of a claim, choosing a £500 excess can save you a substantial amount on your annual cost.
  5. Not Using an Independent Broker: Going direct to an insurer means you only see one price and one set of options. A specialist broker like WeCovr compares the entire market (including Bupa Global, Cigna, AXA Global, etc.) to find the optimal plan for your specific needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

Why Use an Expert Broker like WeCovr?

Navigating the complexities of international private medical insurance is challenging. The terminology is complex, the stakes are high, and the wrong decision can be financially devastating. This is where an FCA-regulated broker provides immense value.

  • Market-wide Comparison: We aren't tied to any single insurer. We compare Bupa Global against all other leading providers to ensure you get the best possible terms.
  • Expert Guidance: Our advisers are specialists in the iPMI market. We can explain the nuances of US cover, underwriting, and policy benefits in plain English.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, whether you go direct or through us.
  • Ongoing Support: We are here to help you at renewal and can assist with any complex claims queries you may have.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you take out a policy with us, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, and may be eligible for discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection cover.

Choosing the right international health plan is one of the most important decisions you'll make as an expat. Let our experts make it simple.


Does Bupa Global cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Bupa Global, like other international private medical insurance providers, is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that occur after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded from cover, either permanently through Full Medical Underwriting or for a set period under Moratorium underwriting. Some high-tier plans may offer limited cover for specific chronic conditions, but this is not standard.

What is the difference between Bupa UK and Bupa Global?

Bupa UK provides domestic private medical insurance for residents of the United Kingdom, offering access to private healthcare within the UK. Bupa Global provides international private medical insurance (iPMI) for expatriates, frequent travellers, and globally mobile individuals, offering comprehensive health cover across the world, either including or excluding the USA. Bupa Global plans are more comprehensive and significantly more expensive due to their international nature.

Is Bupa Global worth the cost for an expat?

For many expats, yes. While it is a premium product, Bupa Global provides peace of mind with high cover limits, direct access to a vast network of top-tier hospitals worldwide, and robust services like medical evacuation. If you are moving to a country with a weak public healthcare system or simply want the assurance of borderless, high-quality medical care, the cost can be a worthwhile investment in your health and wellbeing. However, it's essential to compare it with other leading global insurers to ensure it's the right fit for your budget.

Can I use my Bupa Global policy in my home country?

Yes, most Bupa Global plans allow you to receive treatment in your home country. However, rules can apply, especially concerning how much time you spend there. It's designed for expatriates, so if you spend the majority of your time in your home country, the insurer might require you to switch to a domestic plan. Always check the specific terms of your chosen policy regarding home country cover.

Ready to find the right international health cover? Our expert, friendly advisers are ready to help. Get a free, no-obligation quote and compare Bupa Global against the entire market in minutes.


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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.


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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 experienced 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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