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Business Health Insurance for Startups in

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK’s private medical insurance market inside and out. In this guide, we explore why a group health policy is one of the smartest investments a startup can make in 2026 to protect its people and its growth. WeCovr explains why early-stage businesses benefit from group PMI For a startup, every employee is essential.

Key takeaways

  • Protecting your most valuable asset: Your people.
  • Minimising disruption caused by long-term sickness absence.
  • Gaining a competitive edge in the fierce race for talent.
  • Extended Sickness Absence: An employee waiting a year for a knee operation is a year they may be unable to work at full capacity.
  • 'Presenteeism': Team members may come to work while unwell or in pain because they can't get timely treatment. This leads to a drop in productivity, creativity, and focus.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK’s private medical insurance market inside and out. In this guide, we explore why a group health policy is one of the smartest investments a startup can make in 2026 to protect its people and its growth.

WeCovr explains why early-stage businesses benefit from group PMI

For a startup, every employee is essential. The loss of a key team member to a long illness can disrupt projects, slow growth, and impact morale. Group Private Medical Insurance (PMI), often called business health insurance, offers a powerful solution. It's a company-funded policy that gives your team swift access to private diagnosis and treatment for eligible conditions.

In simple terms, it's a fast-track pass to getting better, sooner. For a startup, this means:

  • Protecting your most valuable asset: Your people.
  • Minimising disruption caused by long-term sickness absence.
  • Gaining a competitive edge in the fierce race for talent.

Think of it not as an expense, but as a strategic investment in your company's resilience and future success.

The UK Healthcare Landscape in 2026: Why PMI is More Crucial Than Ever

The NHS is a national treasure, providing incredible care to millions. However, the system has been under unprecedented strain for years. As we move through 2026, the reality for many is facing significant delays for routine procedures and specialist appointments.

According to the latest NHS England data, the waiting list for non-urgent consultant-led treatment stands at over 7.5 million. This means millions of people are waiting, often in pain or with uncertainty, for procedures like hip replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

For a startup, the consequences of these delays are magnified:

  • Extended Sickness Absence: An employee waiting a year for a knee operation is a year they may be unable to work at full capacity.
  • 'Presenteeism': Team members may come to work while unwell or in pain because they can't get timely treatment. This leads to a drop in productivity, creativity, and focus.
  • Increased Stress: The uncertainty and discomfort of waiting for treatment can take a significant toll on an employee's mental health.

Business health insurance provides a direct and effective alternative. It allows your team to bypass these NHS waiting lists for eligible acute conditions, ensuring they receive the care they need, when they need it.

The Core Benefits of Business Health Insurance for Your Startup

Implementing a group PMI scheme offers tangible, far-reaching benefits that go well beyond just quick medical treatment. It's a cornerstone of a supportive and high-performing company culture.

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

In the competitive 2026 job market, salary is just one part of the equation. Ambitious, high-calibre candidates are looking for employers who invest in their wellbeing. Offering private health cover sends a powerful message: "We value you, and we care about your health."

For a startup competing against larger corporations with bigger budgets, a strong benefits package can be the deciding factor that helps you secure the best engineers, marketers, and leaders.

Reducing Sickness Absence and 'Presenteeism'

Sickness absence costs the UK economy billions each year. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that 140.7 million working days were lost to sickness or injury in 2023. For a small team, the impact of even one person being off for an extended period is immense.

PMI tackles this head-on by:

  1. Speeding up diagnosis: Access to private consultations and scans can turn a wait of months into a matter of days.
  2. Accelerating treatment: Prompt access to surgery or therapy gets your employee back on their feet faster.
  3. Reducing 'presenteeism': When staff know they can get issues sorted quickly, they are less likely to struggle on at work while feeling unwell, which ultimately boosts overall team productivity.

Boosting Morale and Productivity

A team that feels cared for is a team that is more engaged, loyal, and productive. Knowing that they and their families have access to private healthcare if they fall ill provides invaluable peace of mind. This psychological security reduces stress and allows employees to focus on their work, knowing their health is protected.

This positive impact on company culture fosters loyalty and creates a work environment where people feel genuinely supported.

A Tax-Efficient Benefit

For your startup, the cost of the business health insurance premiums is generally considered a tax-deductible business expense. This means you can offset the cost against your corporation tax bill, making it a highly efficient way to reward your staff.

For the employee, the cover is treated as a 'benefit-in-kind'. This means they will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium, which will be noted on their P11D form. Even so, the cost is typically far lower than if they were to purchase an equivalent personal policy themselves.

Access to Digital and Wellbeing Services

Modern PMI is so much more than just hospital cover. Most leading providers now include a fantastic suite of digital and preventative health tools as standard, including:

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Video consultations with a GP, often available within hours.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling sessions, therapy, and digital tools for mental wellbeing.
  • Wellness Programmes: Discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and healthy food.
  • Health and Lifestyle Advice: Access to nutritionists, physiotherapists, and other experts.

At WeCovr, we enhance this further. When you arrange a policy with us, your team also gets complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping them build healthy habits every day.

How Does Group Private Medical Insurance Work?

Understanding the mechanics of PMI is simple. We've broken down the key concepts you need to know.

The Key Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about private medical insurance in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover ACUTE conditions that arise AFTER your policy begins. It does NOT cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • An Acute Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, joint injuries requiring surgery, or cataracts.
  • A Chronic Condition is an illness that continues for a long time, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These conditions can be managed but not cured. The NHS will continue to manage all chronic conditions.
  • A Pre-existing Condition is any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before the start of your policy.

For example, if an employee develops painful gallstones after joining the scheme, PMI would cover the consultation, scans, and surgery to remove them. However, it would not cover the ongoing management of an employee's pre-existing diabetes.

Underwriting Options Explained

'Underwriting' is how an insurer assesses the risk and decides what it will and will not cover. For small groups, there are two main options.

Underwriting TypeHow It WorksBest For
Moratorium (MORI)The most common and simplest option. Any medical conditions an employee has had in the 5 years before joining are automatically excluded. However, if they go for a continuous 2-year period after joining without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.Startups and small businesses who want a quick and easy setup without lengthy medical questionnaires.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)Each employee completes a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then reviews their medical history and states upfront what will be excluded from cover.Businesses that want complete clarity on what is and isn't covered from day one. It can sometimes be cheaper if the team is in very good health.

For larger groups (typically 20+ employees), a third option, Medical History Disregarded (MHD), becomes available. This is the most comprehensive type of cover as it ignores previous medical history and covers eligible pre-existing conditions, subject to the policy terms.

The Patient Journey: A Simple Example

Here’s how it works in practice when a team member needs treatment:

  1. Initial Symptom: Your marketing manager, Sarah, develops persistent shoulder pain.
  2. GP Visit: She uses the PMI's digital GP app and gets a video appointment the same day. The GP suspects a torn rotator cuff and gives her an 'open referral' for an orthopaedic specialist.
  3. Authorisation: Sarah calls the insurance provider's claims line. She gives them her policy number and referral details. They authorise the specialist consultation and an MRI scan.
  4. Private Treatment: The insurer provides a list of approved specialists. Sarah books an appointment for later that week. The MRI confirms a tear, and surgery is recommended. The insurer authorises the procedure.
  5. Recovery: Sarah has keyhole surgery in a private hospital two weeks later. She also gets post-operative physiotherapy covered by her policy.
  6. Back to Work: Within a few weeks, Sarah is back at work, fully recovered and hugely grateful for the company's support. The insurer settles all the bills directly with the hospital, less any policy excess.

Tailoring a PMI Policy for a Startup's Budget

One of the biggest myths about business health insurance is that it's prohibitively expensive. In reality, policies are highly flexible and can be designed to fit almost any budget. The key is to understand the 'levers' you can pull to control the cost.

An expert broker like WeCovr can guide you through these options to build the perfect plan.

Core Cover vs. Optional Extras

Every PMI policy is built on a foundation of 'core cover', with the option to add extra benefits.

  • Core Cover (Essential): This is the heart of the policy and typically includes costs for in-patient and day-patient treatment. This means hospital beds, operating theatre costs, surgeons' fees, and specialist consultations while you are admitted to hospital.
  • Optional Extras (Customisable):
    • Out-patient Cover (illustrative): This is the most common add-on. It covers diagnostic tests (like MRI/CT scans) and specialist consultations that don't require a hospital admission. You can choose a set limit (e.g., £1,000 per year) or full cover to manage costs.
    • Mental Health Cover (illustrative): Provides more extensive access to therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Given that poor mental health costs UK employers up to £56 billion a year according to Deloitte, this is a highly valuable addition.
    • Therapies Cover: Covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.
    • Dental and Optical Cover: Helps with the costs of routine check-ups, glasses, and dental treatment.

Ways to Manage Your Premiums

Here are the most effective ways to make your group PMI policy more affordable.

Cost-Saving LeverHow it Reduces Your PremiumGood to Know
Add an ExcessYou agree that each employee will pay a small, fixed amount towards their first claim each year (e.g., £100 or £250). A higher excess leads to a lower premium.This is one of the most effective ways to lower the cost. The excess is paid per person, per policy year, not per claim.
Choose a Hospital ListInsurers have tiered hospital lists. Opting for a list that excludes the most expensive central London hospitals can significantly reduce the price, while still providing excellent nationwide coverage.Perfect for startups based outside of London or whose employees are unlikely to need treatment in the capital's top-tier facilities.
The '6-Week Wait' OptionThe policy will only pay for in-patient treatment if the waiting time for that procedure on the NHS is longer than six weeks. If the NHS can treat you sooner, you use the NHS.This is a major cost-saver, as it means the policy is primarily used to bypass significant NHS delays, not minor ones.
Introduce a Co-paymentYou and the insurer agree to share the cost of a claim. For example, the employee might pay 25% of every claim, up to a certain limit.This can work for some businesses but requires clear communication with employees so they understand their potential liability.

By mixing and matching these options, you can create a high-value, low-cost plan that gives your team the protection they need without breaking the bank.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Startup

The UK private medical insurance market is dominated by a few major players, each with unique strengths:

  • Bupa: One of the most recognised names, with its own network of hospitals and clinics.
  • Aviva: A huge UK insurer offering flexible and well-regarded health policies.
  • AXA Health: Known for its strong focus on digital health tools and comprehensive pathways.
  • Vitality: Unique for its wellness-focused approach, rewarding members for healthy living with discounts and perks.
  • The Exeter: A friendly society known for excellent service and flexible underwriting.

Navigating the different policies, hospital lists, and benefit options from these providers can be complex and time-consuming. This is where using an independent broker is essential.

An expert adviser at WeCovr acts as your advocate. We take the time to understand your startup's culture, budget, and specific requirements. Then, we scour the market, comparing policies from all the leading insurers to find the one that delivers the best value and protection for your team. Our service is completely free to you, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose. We enjoy high customer satisfaction ratings because we prioritise our clients' needs above all else.

Furthermore, if you purchase business health insurance or life insurance through us, we can often provide discounts on other types of cover your business might need.

Wellness Beyond Insurance: Building a Healthy Startup Culture

A PMI policy is a fantastic tool, but it's most powerful when it's part of a wider culture that prioritises health and wellbeing. Here are some low-cost, high-impact ideas for your startup:

Promoting Mental Wellbeing

  • Open Conversations: Actively work to de-stigmatise mental health. Have leaders share their own experiences with stress and burnout.
  • Mental Health First Aiders: Train one or two team members to be a confidential point of contact for anyone who is struggling.
  • Flexible Working: Where possible, allow flexibility in hours and location to help your team manage work-life pressures.

Encouraging Physical Activity

  • Walking Meetings: For one-on-one catch-ups, get out of the office and walk and talk.
  • Cycle-to-Work Scheme: A tax-efficient government scheme to help employees buy a bike.
  • Team Activities: Organise a team entry into a local 5k run or a friendly game of rounders in the park.

Healthy Eating in the Office

  • Ditch the Biscuit Tin: Replace sugary snacks with a weekly fruit bowl, nuts, and healthy cereal bars.
  • Hydration Stations: Ensure fresh, filtered water is always available.
  • Promote Healthy Tools: Encourage your team to use apps like WeCovr's CalorieHero to understand their nutrition and make healthier choices.

The Importance of Sleep and Rest

  • Lead by Example: Avoid sending emails at 11 PM. Show that you respect boundaries.
  • Encourage Holidays: Make sure your team takes their full holiday allowance to properly disconnect and recharge.
  • Avoid a 'Burnout' Culture: Celebrate hard work, but also celebrate rest and efficiency. The goal is sustainable success, not short-term sprints that lead to exhaustion.

The Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Startup Insured with WeCovr

We make the process of arranging business health insurance straightforward and hassle-free.

  1. Free Initial Consultation: You'll have a no-obligation chat with one of our friendly, UK-based PMI specialists. We'll listen to your goals, learn about your team, and establish your budget.
  2. Whole-of-Market Comparison: We'll then go to the market on your behalf, gathering quotes and policy details from the UK's leading insurers.
  3. Tailored, Clear Recommendation: We'll present you with 2-3 of the best options in a clear, jargon-free report. We'll explain the pros and cons of each, empowering you to make an informed decision.
  4. Effortless Application and Setup: Once you've chosen a policy, we handle all the paperwork and administration to get your scheme up and running smoothly.
  5. Dedicated Ongoing Support: Our service doesn't stop there. We're here to help with any questions, support you during a claim, and ensure you're still on the best policy for your needs at your annual renewal.

How much does business health insurance cost for a startup?

The cost varies significantly based on factors like the average age of your employees, your business location, and the level of cover you choose. However, a basic plan can start from as little as £30–£40 per employee per month. Using levers like a higher excess or the 6-week wait option can make cover surprisingly affordable, even for a brand-new startup. An expert broker can find the best value for your specific budget.

Can we cover just the founders or key employees?

Yes, absolutely. You don't have to cover every single employee. Many startups begin by insuring only the directors, founders, or a few mission-critical staff members. A group scheme can be set up with as few as two employees, making it a flexible and scalable benefit that can grow with your company.

Does business health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

This is a critical point to understand. Standard UK private medical insurance policies do **not** cover pre-existing conditions. Cover is for new, 'acute' conditions that arise after your policy begins. It also does not cover long-term 'chronic' conditions like diabetes or asthma. The only exception is 'Medical History Disregarded' underwriting, which is typically only available to larger groups of 20+ employees and may cover pre-existing conditions subject to the policy terms.

Is private health insurance a taxable benefit?

Yes. For the company, the premiums paid are usually classed as a tax-deductible business expense. For the employee who receives the cover, it is considered a 'benefit-in-kind'. This means they will need to pay income tax on the value of the benefit, which the employer reports to HMRC on a P11D form each year.

Ready to invest in your team's health and your startup's future? Protecting your people is the smartest move you can make.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable and effective business health insurance can be for your startup.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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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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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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