TL;DR
Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can be complex, especially with a history of cancer. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is here to provide the clarity you need to make an informed decision. PMI eligibility rules for cancer survivors, remission periods, and best approaches for approval A past cancer diagnosis is one of the most significant factors an insurance underwriter will consider.
Key takeaways
- Recurrence: The cancer could return.
- Secondary Cancers: The original cancer or its treatment could lead to a new, different cancer.
- Ongoing Monitoring: You might require regular scans, check-ups, and consultations related to your past diagnosis.
- The Process: You will be asked specific questions about your cancer diagnosis, including dates, treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery), and the date you were declared in remission or your treatment ended. The insurer may also request your permission to obtain a report from your GP or specialist.
- The Outcome: The insurer provides a definitive decision from day one. They will issue policy documents that clearly state what is and isn't covered. For a history of cancer, this almost always results in a specific exclusion. For example, the policy might state: "We will not provide any cover for breast cancer or any related conditions."
Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can be complex, especially with a history of cancer. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is here to provide the clarity you need to make an informed decision.
PMI eligibility rules for cancer survivors, remission periods, and best approaches for approval
A past cancer diagnosis is one of the most significant factors an insurance underwriter will consider. However, a history of cancer does not automatically mean you cannot get private health cover. Your eligibility, the terms of the cover, and the cost will depend on several key factors, including the type of cancer, the treatment you received, and, most importantly, how long you have been in remission.
This guide will walk you through the latest 2025 rules, explain the underwriting processes, and offer expert advice on the best way to secure a policy.
The First Principle of UK PMI: Understanding Pre-existing Conditions
Before we delve into the specifics of cancer, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental rule of the UK's private medical insurance market.
Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.
An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (like a hip replacement or cataract surgery).
Conversely, PMI does not cover chronic conditions – illnesses that are long-lasting and have no known cure, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These conditions can be managed, but not cured.
A history of cancer is treated as a significant pre-existing condition. This means it's a medical issue you had before you applied for health insurance. Insurers handle pre-existing conditions in specific ways, which we will explore next.
How Insurers View a History of Cancer
From an insurer's perspective, a previous cancer diagnosis represents a higher risk. Their main concerns are:
- Recurrence: The cancer could return.
- Secondary Cancers: The original cancer or its treatment could lead to a new, different cancer.
- Ongoing Monitoring: You might require regular scans, check-ups, and consultations related to your past diagnosis.
Because standard PMI is for new, unforeseen conditions, insurers will always seek to exclude cover for your previous cancer and often any related conditions. However, this does not mean you can't be covered for entirely new and unrelated health issues, such as joint pain, heart conditions, or digestive problems that may arise in the future.
The Key to Your Application: Medical Underwriting Explained
The way an insurer assesses your medical history is called "underwriting". For individuals with a history of cancer, the type of underwriting you choose is the single most important decision you'll make. There are two main types in the UK.
1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
With Full Medical Underwriting, you provide detailed information about your health and medical history upfront by completing a comprehensive questionnaire.
- The Process: You will be asked specific questions about your cancer diagnosis, including dates, treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery), and the date you were declared in remission or your treatment ended. The insurer may also request your permission to obtain a report from your GP or specialist.
- The Outcome: The insurer provides a definitive decision from day one. They will issue policy documents that clearly state what is and isn't covered. For a history of cancer, this almost always results in a specific exclusion. For example, the policy might state: "We will not provide any cover for breast cancer or any related conditions."
- Pros: You have complete certainty from the start. You know exactly where you stand, and there are no grey areas about your cancer history being covered.
- Cons: The application process is more intensive. The exclusion for cancer is permanent on that policy.
2. Moratorium Underwriting
Moratorium underwriting is a more common and simplified approach. You do not need to disclose your full medical history at the start. Instead, the insurer applies a general rule.
- The Process: The insurer will not cover you for any condition (including cancer) for which you have had symptoms, treatment, medication, or advice in a set period before the policy started (usually the last 5 years).
- The "Waiting Period": If you then remain on the policy for a continuous period (typically 2 years) without experiencing any symptoms, needing treatment, or seeking advice for that previous condition, it may become eligible for cover. This is often called the "2-year clear" rule.
- The Outcome for Cancer Survivors: This is where it gets complex. While technically possible, it is very difficult for a history of cancer to become covered under a moratorium policy. Most cancer survivors require ongoing surveillance (e.g., annual mammograms or check-ups), which counts as "advice" or "monitoring". Seeking this advice within the 2-year moratorium period will "reset the clock," meaning the exclusion for cancer continues.
- Pros: The application is quick and easy.
- Cons: There is a lack of certainty. You won't know for sure if your cancer history could ever be covered until you try to make a claim, which can be a stressful and disappointing experience.
Table: FMU vs. Moratorium for Cancer Survivors
| Feature | Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) | Moratorium Underwriting |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Detailed health questionnaire. Possible GP report. | No initial health questions. |
| Clarity on Cover | Total clarity from Day 1. You receive written exclusions. | Ambiguous. Cover depends on a 2-year symptom-free period. |
| Cancer History Cover | Almost certain to be permanently excluded in writing. | Unlikely to ever be covered due to ongoing check-ups. |
| Cover for New Conditions | Yes, any new, unrelated acute condition is covered. | Yes, any new, unrelated acute condition is covered. |
| Best For | Someone who wants absolute certainty and peace of mind. | Generally not the recommended route for cancer survivors due to ambiguity. |
Expert Advice: For most people with a history of cancer, Full Medical Underwriting is the clearer and safer path. It removes all doubt and allows you to understand the exact value and limitations of your policy from the beginning.
Remission Periods: How Long is Long Enough?
The length of time you have been in remission is critical. Insurers have different rules, but here are some general guidelines for 2025.
| Time Since Treatment Ended | Insurer's Likely Stance (with Full Medical Underwriting) |
|---|---|
| 0-2 Years | Very difficult to get any offer of cover from most standard insurers. |
| 2-5 Years | You may be able to get a policy, but it will have a mandatory, clear exclusion for cancer and any related conditions. |
| 5-10 Years | Your chances of being accepted for a policy with a cancer exclusion are very high. |
| 10+ Years | You are highly likely to be accepted for cover. The cancer exclusion will almost certainly still apply. Some specialist insurers might consider removing the exclusion for certain low-grade cancers after a very long period (e.g., 10-15 years clear), but this is extremely rare. |
Important Note: These are general guidelines. Every case is unique. The type of cancer, its staging, and the treatment received all play a role. Working with a specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable here, as we understand the nuanced criteria of different insurers and can approach the right ones on your behalf.
Your Best Approach for Approval: A Step-by-Step Guide
Securing the best possible private health cover after cancer requires a strategic approach. Follow these steps for the best chance of success.
1. Be Meticulously Honest and Accurate
Under the Consumer Insurance (Disclosure and Representations) Act 2012, you have a duty to take "reasonable care" not to make a misrepresentation. In simple terms: you must be completely honest.
- Don't Omit Information: Never be tempted to leave out your cancer diagnosis, even if it was 20 years ago.
- Why it Matters: If you fail to disclose your cancer history and later make a claim (even for something unrelated), the insurer could void your entire policy from the start and refuse to pay. Honesty is non-negotiable.
2. Gather Your Medical Details
Before you apply, have the following information to hand. This will make the process smoother and ensure the information you provide is accurate.
- The exact type of cancer you had.
- The date of your diagnosis.
- The dates your treatment started and finished (e.g., last day of chemotherapy or radiotherapy).
- Details of any ongoing medication or check-ups.
- A summary letter from your oncologist or specialist, if you have one.
3. Work With an Expert PMI Broker
This is arguably the most important step. A specialist broker is an expert who works for you, not the insurer.
- Market Knowledge: An independent broker like WeCovr knows the underwriting stances of all the major UK PMI providers (like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality). We know which insurers are more likely to consider an application based on your specific history.
- Application Support: We can help you complete the application forms accurately, ensuring your medical history is presented clearly and correctly to the underwriter.
- No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert, impartial advice at no extra cost. It's the same price as going direct, but with guidance included.
4. Understand the Likely Outcome: An Exclusion
It's vital to manage your expectations. The goal when applying for PMI with a history of cancer is typically not to get the cancer covered. The goal is to get a policy that covers you for all new and unrelated acute conditions that might affect you in the future.
An exclusion for "cancer" on your policy still leaves you with valuable cover for a huge range of conditions, including:
- Orthopaedics: Joint replacements (hip, knee), ACL repair.
- Cardiology: Heart investigations and surgery.
- Gastroenterology: Hernia repair, gallbladder removal.
- Diagnostics: MRI, CT, and PET scans for new symptoms.
- General Surgery: A wide array of procedures.
Think of it as a comprehensive policy with one specific area carved out.
What If I'm Declined or the Exclusion is Too Broad?
In some cases, particularly if the cancer was recent or very aggressive, an insurer might decline to offer cover altogether. Or, they might apply a very broad exclusion (e.g., "any and all tumours, growths, and cancers"). Here are your alternative options.
Health Cash Plans
A health cash plan is not insurance, but a policy that gives you money back for everyday healthcare costs.
- How they work: You pay a monthly premium and can then claim back cash for treatments up to an annual limit.
- What they cover: Typically includes dental check-ups, optical costs (glasses/contacts), physiotherapy, osteopathy, and sometimes specialist consultations.
- Acceptance: Most cash plans accept applicants regardless of their medical history, making them an excellent option for cancer survivors.
Corporate Health Insurance
If you can join a private medical insurance scheme through your employer, this is often the best possible scenario.
- Medical History Disregarded (MHD): Most group schemes are set up on an "MHD" basis. This means the insurer agrees to cover all eligible employees (and sometimes their families) for pre-existing conditions.
- How it works: As long as you are actively at work when you join the scheme, you can be covered for your pre-existing cancer, should it recur. This is a hugely valuable benefit and a key differentiator of corporate PMI.
If you're changing jobs, the health insurance benefit should be a major consideration in your decision.
Wellness and Lifestyle: Staying Healthy After Cancer
Living a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, but it takes on special significance for cancer survivors. Many PMI providers actively encourage and reward healthy living.
Nutrition and Diet
Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. The principles of the NHS Eatwell Guide provide a fantastic foundation. Reducing processed foods, red meat, and alcohol can contribute to better long-term health.
As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It can help you stay on track with your healthy eating goals effortlessly.
Physical Activity
Regular, moderate exercise has been shown to improve quality of life, reduce fatigue, and support mental wellbeing for cancer survivors. Aim for around 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming) per week, as recommended by the NHS. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise programme.
Mental Wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can have a profound emotional impact. Prioritising your mental health is crucial. Many PMI policies now include access to mental health support lines, counselling sessions, and digital therapy apps, even if they exclude treatment for the physical cancer itself.
WeCovr Client Benefits
Beyond expert advice, choosing WeCovr for your private health cover gives you extra value. In addition to the CalorieHero app, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance often qualify for exclusive discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, helping you protect more of what matters for less. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to providing ongoing value and support.
Real-Life Scenarios: How It Works in Practice
Let's look at a few examples to see how these rules apply.
Scenario 1: Amira, 48 - Breast Cancer Survivor (7 Years Clear)
- History: Amira completed treatment for Stage 1 breast cancer seven years ago. She has an annual check-up with her consultant but is otherwise healthy.
- Goal: She wants PMI for peace of mind, to cover her for things like joint issues or any new, unrelated illnesses.
- Best Approach: Amira works with a broker. They recommend a Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) application. She declares her full history.
- Outcome: The insurer offers her a policy at a standard price. The policy documents include a clear exclusion: "No cover will be provided for breast cancer or any related secondary conditions." Amira is happy with this, as she now has cover for everything else.
Scenario 2: Tom, 65 - Prostate Cancer Survivor (1 Year Clear)
- History: Tom finished radiotherapy for prostate cancer 14 months ago. His PSA levels are monitored every 6 months.
- Goal: He is worried about NHS waiting lists for other procedures and wants to get private cover.
- Best Approach: A broker advises Tom that getting cover so soon after treatment will be challenging. Many standard insurers will likely decline his application.
- Outcome: The broker approaches a specialist insurer known for considering more complex cases. They agree to offer Tom a policy, but with a very broad exclusion for "any and all cancers, tumours, or related investigations." Tom decides to wait another year or two before applying again, hoping for a more specific (and less restrictive) exclusion. In the meantime, he takes out a health cash plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I have to declare cancer if it was diagnosed over 10 years ago?
Will my private medical insurance premiums be higher because I've had cancer?
Can I get private health cover if I am currently undergoing cancer treatment?
What is the difference between a cancer exclusion and being declined a policy?
Your Next Step: Get Personalised, Expert Advice
A history of cancer adds a layer of complexity to a private medical insurance application, but it is a hurdle that can be successfully overcome with the right strategy. The key is honesty, choosing the right underwriting, and understanding that the goal is to secure cover for new, unrelated conditions.
The market is nuanced, and an insurer's criteria can change. The most effective way to navigate this landscape is with an expert by your side.
Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert team will listen to your unique circumstances and search the market to find the best possible private health cover for you.
Sources
- Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
- Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
- HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
