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Can You Get PMI for Cosmetic Procedures in the UK

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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is often asked if private medical insurance in the UK covers cosmetic procedures. The short answer is generally no, but the long answer is far more nuanced and reveals crucial exceptions where cover is possible. This guide explains everything.

Key takeaways

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of a joint injury, a hernia, or a cataract.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that continues for a long time, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. Standard private health cover in the UK does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had before your policy started. These are also typically excluded from new PMI policies.
  • Breast augmentation (enlargement)
  • Liposuction

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is often asked if private medical insurance in the UK covers cosmetic procedures. The short answer is generally no, but the long answer is far more nuanced and reveals crucial exceptions where cover is possible. This guide explains everything.

When, if ever, aesthetic surgery is covered by private health insurance

The world of private medical insurance (PMI) operates on a fundamental principle: it's designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of medically necessary care for acute conditions. Understanding this is the key to figuring out what is and isn't covered.

Let's break that down:

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of a joint injury, a hernia, or a cataract.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that continues for a long time, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. Standard private health cover in the UK does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had before your policy started. These are also typically excluded from new PMI policies.

Cosmetic surgery, when chosen purely for aesthetic reasons—to alter your appearance to a more desired form—is considered elective. It's a choice, not a medical necessity to treat an acute condition. Therefore, it falls outside the scope of what standard PMI is designed for.

However, the line blurs when a procedure isn't just "cosmetic" but "reconstructive". This is the critical exception.

The Core Rule: Why Standard PMI Excludes Purely Cosmetic Procedures

Insurers view purely cosmetic surgery in the same way you might view redecorating your house. It’s a personal choice to improve something, but it’s not an essential repair to fix a sudden, unexpected problem.

Your PMI policy is there for the unexpected health issues—the painful hip that needs replacing, the worrying symptoms that need a quick diagnosis, or the sudden injury that requires surgery. It is not a fund for elective aesthetic enhancements.

This means that a standard private medical insurance UK policy will almost certainly not cover procedures like:

  • Breast augmentation (enlargement)
  • Liposuction
  • Facelifts
  • Rhinoplasty (a 'nose job' for aesthetic reasons)
  • Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) for a flatter stomach
  • Dermal fillers or Botox for anti-ageing

These procedures are not treating an underlying medical condition; they are enhancing an individual's appearance. The UK private health insurance market is built around restoring health, not refining aesthetics. According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), there was a 102% surge in cosmetic procedures between 2021 and 2023, highlighting a booming self-funded market completely separate from insurance.

The Crucial Exception: When Surgery is Reconstructive, Not Cosmetic

This is where the conversation gets interesting. If a surgical procedure is required to restore your body's function or return its appearance to a 'normal' state after an accident, disease, or surgery for a covered condition, it may be classified as reconstructive. In these cases, PMI may provide cover.

The key question your insurer will ask is: "Is this procedure medically necessary to correct a problem caused by an illness or injury?"

Here are some real-life examples where cover might be granted:

  1. Breast Reconstruction: This is the most common and clear-cut example. If a woman undergoes a mastectomy to treat breast cancer, most comprehensive PMI policies will cover the subsequent breast reconstruction surgery. This isn't seen as a 'cosmetic' choice but as an integral part of the recovery and treatment process.

  2. Rhinoplasty to Improve Breathing: A standard nose job to change its shape is not covered. However, if you have a deviated septum (the wall between your nostrils is off-centre) due to an injury or a congenital issue that severely obstructs your breathing, a septoplasty—often performed alongside a rhinoplasty—may be covered. The primary goal is restoring function (breathing), not aesthetics.

  3. Skin Grafts and Scar Revision: Following a serious burn or the removal of a cancerous skin lesion (like melanoma), surgery to repair the area with a skin graft or to revise a scar that limits movement would likely be covered. It’s about restoring the skin to a functional state.

  4. Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): If your eyelids droop so severely (a condition known as ptosis) that they hang over your pupils and obstruct your field of vision, corrective surgery may be deemed medically necessary and therefore covered. If it's just to achieve a more youthful look, it won't be.

  5. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): This is very rarely covered but can be in specific circumstances. If a patient has lost a vast amount of weight following a covered bariatric surgery and is left with large, overhanging skin folds that cause persistent, severe medical problems like untreatable rashes, infections, or mobility issues, an insurer might consider it. The evidence burden is extremely high.

Cosmetic vs. Reconstructive: A Clear Comparison

To make this simple, here’s a table showing the difference for the same procedures:

ProcedurePurely Cosmetic (Generally Not Covered)Potentially Reconstructive (May Be Covered)
Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)Reshaping the nose for a different appearance.Correcting a deviated septum to restore normal breathing after an accident.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)Removing excess skin around the eyes for a more youthful look.Lifting drooping eyelids that are medically certified to be obstructing vision.
Breast SurgeryAugmentation (enlargement) for personal aesthetic preference.Reconstruction following a mastectomy required to treat breast cancer.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)Removing excess skin and fat for a flatter stomach after pregnancy or general weight loss.Removing large, painful skin folds that cause recurrent infections after a medically necessary bariatric procedure.
Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)Correcting prominent ears in an adult for aesthetic reasons.Correcting a significant deformity in a child that is causing psychological distress (some policies have specific provisions for this).

Understanding Your Policy Wording: The Devil is in the Detail

No two insurance policies are identical. The decision to cover a procedure always comes down to the specific terms and conditions of your plan. When you're reviewing a policy, look for these key phrases:

  • "Cosmetic Surgery Exclusion": All policies will have this. Read it carefully to see how they define "cosmetic."
  • "Reconstructive Surgery": Check for the definition of "reconstructive" and the conditions under which it's covered (e.g., "following surgery for cancer" or "after an accident").
  • "Medically Necessary": This is the ultimate test. The procedure must be deemed essential by medical professionals for your health and wellbeing.

Crucially, never assume a procedure will be covered. The single most important step is to get pre-authorisation from your insurer before you book any consultation or treatment. To do this, you will need a detailed medical report from your specialist justifying the procedure on clinical grounds.

Navigating these complex documents can be daunting. This is where an expert PMI broker like WeCovr provides immense value. We can help you understand and compare the specific wording on reconstructive surgery from different insurers, ensuring you choose a policy that offers the security you need, at no extra cost to you.

Many people seek cosmetic changes because of the profound impact their appearance has on their mental health and self-esteem. With mental health awareness on the rise, it’s a valid question: will an insurer cover surgery if it’s recommended to alleviate a psychological condition?

The answer is, almost certainly, no.

While most modern PMI policies offer excellent support for mental health, this support is for treatment like counselling, psychotherapy, or psychiatric consultations. For instance, if someone is diagnosed with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a condition where a person obsesses over a perceived flaw in their appearance, PMI would likely cover therapy to treat the BDD.

However, it would not cover the cosmetic surgery the person desires. The insurer's approach is to treat the underlying psychological condition, not to approve surgery based on it. Providing cover for surgery on psychological grounds would open a floodgate of claims that the insurance model is not designed to handle.

Supporting your mental health is vital. In 2023, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that around 1 in 5 adults in Great Britain experienced some form of depression. Utilising the mental health support in your PMI policy can be a powerful, life-changing benefit.

The Process: How to Claim for Reconstructive Surgery on PMI

If you and your doctor believe your situation qualifies for reconstructive surgery, here is the step-by-step process you’ll need to follow:

  1. See Your GP: Your journey always starts here. Discuss your symptoms and the medical need for the procedure. Your GP will provide an initial assessment.

  2. Get a Specialist Referral: If your GP agrees, they will refer you to a private specialist (e.g., a plastic surgeon, an ENT consultant). Your PMI policy must cover this initial consultation.

  3. Obtain a Detailed Medical Report: The specialist is the key. They must examine you and write a comprehensive report for your insurer. This report needs to clearly state why the procedure is medically necessary and not primarily for cosmetic improvement. It should include clinical evidence, such as photos (for visual obstruction) or breathing test results.

  4. Request Pre-authorisation: You or the specialist’s secretary will submit this report to your insurer. This is your formal request for cover. Do not proceed with any treatment until you have a decision.

  5. Await the Insurer's Decision: The insurer's own clinical team will review your case. They will assess the specialist's report against the terms of your policy. They may ask for more information.

  6. Receive Approval and Treatment: If your request is approved, the insurer will issue an authorisation number. This is your green light to book the surgery. The insurer will then typically settle the bills directly with the hospital and specialist.

Enhancing Your Wellbeing Beyond Surgery: A Holistic Approach

While PMI may not cover a facelift, it can be a powerful tool for enhancing your overall wellbeing, which in turn can boost your confidence and how you feel about your appearance. A holistic approach to health often yields more sustainable results than surgery alone.

Many modern private medical insurance policies include benefits that support a healthy lifestyle:

  • Nutrition and Diet: Some premium policies provide access to consultations with registered dietitians. Good nutrition is the foundation of healthy skin, weight management, and energy levels. As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you stay on top of your diet.
  • Fitness and Activity: Providers like Vitality famously reward you for being active, offering perks like gym discounts, free cinema tickets, and even reduced premiums. Regular exercise is proven to improve both physical and mental health.
  • Mental Health Support: As mentioned, access to therapy and counselling can help you build self-esteem and a positive body image from the inside out.
  • Preventative Health Checks: Many policies offer regular health screenings. Catching issues early is the best way to stay healthy and avoid the need for more invasive treatments down the line.

Furthermore, when you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, you may be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a comprehensive protection plan for you and your family.

Comparing UK PMI Providers: A Look at Their Stance

All major UK providers follow the same core principle: no cover for purely cosmetic surgery, but potential cover for medically necessary reconstructive surgery. However, the specifics of their definitions and the breadth of their cover can vary.

Here’s a general overview of the stance of leading UK insurers:

ProviderGeneral Stance on Reconstructive SurgeryNotable Features
BupaCovers reconstructive surgery that is medically necessary following a covered illness, injury, or procedure (e.g., post-cancer). Known for their robust clinical criteria.Extensive hospital network and long-standing reputation. Comprehensive cancer cover is a key strength.
AXA HealthProvides clear guidelines on what constitutes medically necessary reconstructive surgery. Strong focus on guided clinical pathways via their 'Fast Track Appointments' service.Excellent digital GP services and strong support for mental health conditions.
AvivaCovers eligible reconstructive surgery, with clear terms in their well-regarded policy documents. Their 'Expert Select' hospital option can help manage costs.Often praised for straightforward claims processes and providing good value.
VitalityCovers reconstruction when it is clinically appropriate. Their entire model is built around promoting wellness and preventing illness.Unique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks, actively engaging members in their own health.

Choosing between these providers involves more than just reading a summary. It requires a deep dive into their policy documents—something a dedicated PMI broker can do for you. At WeCovr, we analyse the fine print and compare the market to find a policy that aligns with your priorities, whether that's comprehensive cancer care that includes reconstruction, or a plan that rewards you for staying fit.


Is breast reduction ever covered by private health insurance?

Yes, it can be, but only if it is deemed medically necessary. Purely cosmetic breast reduction is not covered. However, if a woman's breast size is causing significant clinical issues, such as severe and persistent back, neck, or shoulder pain, skin infections under the breasts, or deep grooves in the shoulders from bra straps that are unresponsive to other treatments (like physiotherapy or specialised bras), an insurer may consider it. You would need a strong recommendation from both your GP and a specialist consultant to have any chance of the procedure being approved.

Can I get PMI to cover complications from cosmetic surgery I paid for myself?

Generally, no. Most private medical insurance policies explicitly exclude cover for complications arising from any treatment that was not covered by the policy in the first place, and this includes cosmetic surgery. If you have cosmetic surgery and suffer from a complication like an infection, you would typically need to return to the original surgeon or clinic for corrective care. Some surgeons include a limited-time aftercare package for this reason. There is also a separate type of insurance, "cosmetic surgery insurance," which is designed specifically to cover the costs of correcting a procedure if something goes wrong.

Do I need to declare previous cosmetic surgery when applying for PMI?

Yes, absolutely. When applying for private medical insurance, you have a duty to disclose your full medical history, and this includes any and all surgeries, whether they were for medical or cosmetic reasons. Failing to declare a previous surgery could be considered non-disclosure, which might invalidate your policy in the future, especially if you later make a claim related to that area of your body. It is always best to be completely honest and transparent on your application.

Will my PMI premium go up if I claim for reconstructive surgery?

Making a claim of any kind on your private medical insurance policy is likely to affect your renewal premium. Most PMI policies operate with a No Claims Discount (NCD), similar to car insurance. When you make a claim, your NCD level will typically be reduced, which will lead to a higher premium at your next renewal. However, the cost of major reconstructive surgery, which can run into tens of thousands of pounds, is almost always far greater than the increase in your premium, which is precisely why having insurance is so valuable.

Your Next Step to a Healthier Future

While private health insurance may not be a ticket to the cosmetic procedure of your dreams, it is an indispensable tool for protecting your health and providing peace of mind. It ensures that if you face an illness or injury, you can get fast access to high-quality care, including reconstructive surgery when you need it most.

Don't leave your health to chance. Let an expert guide you through your options.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly experts will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the right private health cover for you and your family.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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