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Bupa vs WPA Direct Provider vs Broker-Friendly Insurer

Bupa vs WPA Direct Provider vs Broker-Friendly Insurer 2026

Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel like navigating a maze. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised specialist broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we know the landscape inside out. This guide directly compares three distinct routes to getting cover: a healthcare giant like Bupa, a specialist not-for-profit like WPA, and using an independent broker to access the wider market.

We compare policy flexibility, service levels, and claim outcomes

Deciding on private health cover is one of the most important financial decisions you can make for your wellbeing. The provider you choose determines not just your level of cover, but the quality of your experience when you need it most.

In the UK market, consumers typically encounter three main models:

  1. The Integrated Healthcare Giant (e.g., Bupa): A household name that is both an insurer and a direct provider of healthcare services through its own network of hospitals and clinics.
  2. The Specialist Direct Insurer (e.g., WPA): A provider, often with a unique structure like a not-for-profit, that primarily sells its policies directly to the public and businesses.
  3. The Broker-Friendly Insurer (e.g., Aviva, AXA, Vitality): Major insurance companies that distribute their policies predominantly through expert intermediaries, or brokers, like WeCovr.

This article provides an authoritative comparison across the factors that truly matter: how flexible your policy can be, the quality of service you'll receive, and what happens when you actually need to make a claim.


Understanding the Three UK PMI Models

To make an informed choice, it’s vital to understand the fundamental differences in how these organisations operate. Each model has distinct advantages and potential drawbacks.

Bupa: The Integrated Healthcare Giant

Bupa is arguably the most recognised brand in UK private healthcare. Its unique position as both an insurer and a major owner of hospitals, clinics, and care homes gives it a powerful market presence.

  • How they work: Bupa provides insurance policies that often seamlessly integrate with its own healthcare facilities. When you claim, you may be guided towards a Bupa hospital or a consultant within their network.
  • Pros:
    • Brand Trust: Decades of history and high brand recognition.
    • Integrated Care: The potential for a very smooth journey if you use their network from start to finish.
    • Comprehensive Offerings: A wide range of plans for individuals, families, and businesses of all sizes.
  • Cons:
    • Potential for Bias: There can be an incentive to steer customers towards their own facilities, which may not always be the most convenient or appropriate choice for the individual.
    • Premium Pricing: As a premium brand, their policies are not always the most competitively priced on the market.
    • Limited Choice: You are only seeing options from one insurer.

WPA: The Not-for-Profit Specialist

Western Provident Association (WPA) stands out due to its structure. It is a not-for-profit provident association, meaning it is owned by its members and reinvests surpluses back into the organisation to improve services and benefits.

  • How they work: WPA focuses heavily on customer service and building direct relationships. They offer unique policy features, such as "Shared Responsibility," where you co-pay a percentage of treatment costs to reduce your premium.
  • Pros:
    • Customer-Centric: Consistently high ratings for customer service and claims handling.
    • Ethical Focus: The not-for-profit ethos appeals to many customers who want to feel like a member, not just a policy number.
    • Innovative Policies: Features like shared responsibility and open referrals can offer greater control and flexibility.
  • Cons:
    • Limited Market Access: WPA policies are primarily available directly or through a select group of intermediaries, so they aren't always part of a whole-of-market comparison.
    • Niche Provider: They are smaller than giants like Bupa or Aviva, with less brand recognition and a smaller direct network.

The Broker-Friendly Insurer (via WeCovr)

This category includes major household names like Aviva, AXA Health, and Vitality. Their primary route to market for individual and SME policies is through professional, FCA-regulated brokers.

  • How they work: These insurers design a wide array of flexible policies and compete for your business on price, features, and service. A broker acts as your professional representative, comparing these providers to find the optimal solution for your specific needs and budget.
  • Pros:
    • Maximum Choice: A broker gives you a single point of access to the entire market, ensuring you see all suitable options.
    • Competitive Pricing: Insurers have to compete for your business, which drives down prices and enhances value.
    • Expert Guidance: An expert broker like WeCovr translates the jargon, explains the fine print, and tailors the policy to you.
  • Cons:
    • Broker Dependent: The quality of your advice and service is entirely dependent on the quality of the broker you choose. This is why selecting a reputable, FCA-authorised firm is essential.

Policy Flexibility: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Policy flexibility is your ability to customise your health insurance to match your exact needs and budget. Key levers include your hospital list, excess level, and outpatient cover limits.

A Critical Note on Cover: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are new, unexpected, and likely to respond quickly to treatment. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy.

Here’s how the three models stack up on flexibility:

FeatureBupaWPABroker-Friendly Insurer (via WeCovr)
Hospital ListsTiered lists (e.g., Essential, Extended). Can favour Bupa-owned facilities.Generally flexible, with a focus on consultant choice rather than restrictive lists.Huge choice of nationwide lists, from local networks to premium London hospitals.
Excess OptionsStandard range, typically £0 to £1,000 per year.Standard excesses plus unique co-payment options (e.g., 25% co-pay).The widest range of options, from £0 up to £5,000+, allows for significant premium control.
Outpatient CoverUsually offered as fixed limits (e.g., £500, £1,000) or full cover.Often generous and flexible, reflecting their customer-first approach.Highly customisable. You can choose zero cover, a fixed limit, or full cover across multiple providers.
Mental Health CoverOften an optional add-on with specific limits.A key strength, with many policies offering generous mental health benefits as standard.Varies by insurer but comprehensive, high-limit options are readily available and easily compared.
Wellness BenefitsStrong digital GP and wellness app offerings.Focuses more on core medical benefits and service than peripheral wellness programmes.Very competitive, especially with providers like Vitality who reward healthy living with discounts.

Adviser Insight from WeCovr: Going direct to one insurer is like visiting one car showroom – you'll only ever see their models. A customer might go to Bupa and be quoted a high price for a policy with a London hospital list they don't need. A broker can instantly show them an alternative from AXA or Aviva with a more suitable regional hospital list, potentially saving them over 40% on their premium without sacrificing the quality of care relevant to them.


Service Levels and The Customer Journey

Your interaction with an insurer isn't just at the point of claim. The application process and ongoing support are crucial parts of the experience.

The Application Process

  • Direct (Bupa & WPA): You are responsible for navigating the application yourself. This includes understanding complex questions about your medical history and choosing the right type of underwriting (e.g., 'Moratorium' vs 'Full Medical Underwriting'). A mistake here can have serious consequences at the point of a claim.
  • Broker (WeCovr): The journey is simplified. We walk you through every step. Our advisers explain the pros and cons of each underwriting method based on your personal circumstances. We handle the paperwork and ensure the application is completed accurately, giving you peace of mind.

Day-to-Day Support & Policy Changes

  • Direct (Bupa & WPA): For any query, you will contact a large call centre. While WPA is known for excellent service, you may speak to a different person each time.
  • Broker (WeCovr): You have a dedicated point of contact. If you need to add a family member, adjust your cover, or simply don't understand part of your policy documentation, you call us. We know you and your policy history, providing a consistent and personal service that large, direct insurers struggle to replicate.

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Claim Outcomes: The Moment of Truth

This is why you buy health insurance. A smooth, fair, and fast claims process is paramount. All regulated UK insurers have high claim payout rates for valid claims, but the experience can differ.

The Claims Process: A Simple Overview

  1. See Your GP: You get a referral for specialist treatment.
  2. Get Authorisation: You contact your insurer to pre-authorise the consultation and any subsequent treatment.
  3. Receive Treatment: You see the specialist and have the procedure or tests.
  4. Invoices are Settled: The hospital and consultant bill your insurer directly. You only pay your chosen excess.

How Each Model Handles Claims

AspectBupaWPABroker-Friendly Insurer (via WeCovr)
Authorisation ProcessEfficient online portals and phone lines. Can be very quick if using a Bupa-recognised provider.Highly-regarded, personal telephone-based service. They are known for making the process simple for members.Robust digital and phone systems. The key difference is broker support.
Consultant ChoiceOffers 'Open Referral' where they choose the specialist, often in return for a lower premium.Excellent freedom of choice. You and your GP can choose any recognised specialist.Both open referral and free choice options are available. A broker explains the trade-offs.
Claims AdvocacyHandled by an in-house team. You deal directly with the insurer if there's an issue.Handled by their in-house team, who are known for being helpful and fair.This is the broker's key advantage. If a claim is complex or unfairly questioned, WeCovr acts as your advocate. We leverage our expertise and relationship with the insurer to ensure a fair outcome, saving you stress and time.

Real-Life Scenario: A client has a claim for a scan rejected on the grounds it relates to a pre-existing condition.

  • Going Direct: The client must gather evidence and argue their case alone against a large insurance company's claims department. This is a daunting and stressful process.
  • Using WeCovr: The client calls their WeCovr adviser. We review the policy terms, speak to the insurer's underwriting and claims teams on the client's behalf, and present the case professionally. We often get unjustified decisions overturned because we understand the policy wording and regulatory framework (FCA) inside-out.

The Cost Factor: Comparing Premiums and Value

Price is always a consideration. However, the cheapest private health cover is rarely the best. The goal is to find the best value – the right cover at the most competitive price.

  • Bupa: Often commands a premium price for its brand and integrated network. While they offer different tiers, they are not typically the cheapest option in a like-for-like comparison.
  • WPA: Pricing is competitive, particularly if you are willing to use their "Shared Responsibility" co-payment option. Their not-for-profit status means value is prioritised, but it doesn't automatically equate to the lowest premium.
  • Broker Channel (via WeCovr): This is consistently the best way to ensure you are getting market-leading value. We instantly compare policies and prices from Aviva, AXA, Vitality, and others. This competition forces insurers to offer their most competitive rates and flexible products.

Furthermore, a broker can add extra value. At WeCovr, our PMI and Life Insurance clients receive:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app.
  • Exclusive discounts on other insurance products, such as income protection or life insurance.

Why a Broker Like WeCovr Often Provides the Best Outcome

While going direct may seem simpler, the reality is that for a complex product like PMI, expert advice delivers superior results.

  1. Unbeatable Choice: We provide a comprehensive view of the market, not a single brand's perspective.
  2. Expertise on Tap: We are specialists. We understand the nuances of every insurer's cancer cover, mental health options, and hospital lists. We do this all day, every day.
  3. No Extra Cost: Our service is paid for by the insurer in the form of a commission. The price you pay is the same, or often cheaper, than going direct.
  4. Your Advocate: From application to claim, we work for you, not the insurance company. This is a fundamental difference in alignment.
  5. Peace of Mind: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), a guarantee of our professional standards and your protection as a consumer.

Choosing between Bupa, WPA, or the wider market can be summarised simply: Bupa offers an integrated system, WPA offers specialist service, but a broker offers you choice, expertise, and advocacy across them all.


Is Bupa or WPA cheaper for private health insurance?

There is no simple answer, as the cost depends entirely on your age, location, chosen cover level, and medical history. In some scenarios, WPA's co-payment options might result in a lower premium. In others, a Bupa policy with a restricted hospital list could be cheaper. The only way to know for sure is to get a market-wide comparison from a broker like WeCovr, who can compare both against other leading providers like Aviva and AXA.

Can I switch my current PMI provider if I went direct?

Yes, absolutely. Switching is a straightforward process, and you do not have to stay with your current insurer. A broker can manage the entire switch for you. Crucially, they can ensure you switch on a 'Continued Medical Exclusions' (CME) basis, which means any conditions already covered by your old policy will continue to be covered by the new one, with no new underwriting required. This protects your continuity of cover.

Does UK private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, as a general rule, standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. PMI is designed to cover the costs of diagnosis and treatment for new, acute medical conditions that arise after you take out your policy. Some past conditions may be covered after a set period (typically two years) without symptoms or treatment, depending on your underwriting type.

What's the main benefit of using a PMI broker over going direct?

The main benefit is having an impartial expert on your side. A broker works for you, not the insurer. They provide access to a wide choice of insurers, give tailored advice to match the policy to your needs, and act as your advocate if you ever need to make a complex claim. This combination of choice, expertise, and support is something you cannot get when going direct to a single provider.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

The UK's private medical insurance market offers incredible choice, but that choice can be overwhelming. Whether the brand power of Bupa, the service focus of WPA, or the flexibility of an insurer like Aviva or AXA is right for you, the best way to find out is through impartial, expert advice.

Let WeCovr do the hard work for you. Our specialist advisers will compare the UK's leading insurers to find you the best possible cover at the best possible price. Our advice is free, and there is no obligation.

Contact us today for your free, personalised market review and quote.


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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