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Can You Use Private Health Insurance for Mental Health Day Care

Can You Use Private Health Insurance for Mental Health Day...

Navigating mental health care options is complex. WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, clarifies if your private medical insurance in the UK covers mental health day care. This guide explains policy limits, therapies, and different care types to help you make informed decisions.

Coverage limits, typical therapies, and inpatient vs outpatient mental health care explained

Mental health is as vital as physical health, yet understanding how to access the right support can feel overwhelming. With NHS waiting lists growing, many people are turning to private medical insurance (PMI) for faster access to care. A key question we often hear is whether this cover extends to mental health day care – a crucial service that sits between a weekly therapy session and a full-time hospital stay.

This article provides a definitive guide to using your private health cover for mental health day care in the UK. We'll explore:

  • What mental health day care actually involves.
  • How different levels of private health insurance treat it.
  • The critical difference between inpatient, outpatient, and day care.
  • Typical therapies included and common policy exclusions.
  • How to get the right policy for your needs.

The Growing Need for Mental Health Support in the UK

It's no secret that the UK is facing a significant mental health challenge. The demands on NHS services are at an all-time high, and while the care provided is excellent, access can be slow.

According to recent NHS data, the system is under immense pressure. In early 2025, reports indicated that over 1.8 million people were in contact with NHS mental health services at any one time. Crucially, hundreds of thousands of adults and children remain on waiting lists, sometimes for months, just for an initial assessment, let alone the start of treatment.

This delay can be detrimental for someone struggling with an acute condition like severe anxiety, depression, or an eating disorder. The gap between asking for help and receiving it is where private medical insurance can offer a vital lifeline, providing prompt access to specialists and structured treatment programmes.

What is Mental Health Day Care? The 'In-Between' Option Explained

When people think of mental health treatment, they often imagine two scenarios: a one-hour weekly therapy session (outpatient) or a 24/7 stay in a psychiatric hospital (inpatient). Mental health day care, also known as 'day-patient' care, fills the essential gap between these two extremes.

Mental Health Day Care is a structured, intensive treatment programme that you attend during the day, returning to your own home in the evening.

It's designed for individuals who need more support than a single weekly appointment can provide but do not require the constant supervision of an overnight hospital stay. It offers a safe and therapeutic environment to work on recovery while maintaining a connection to home life and community.

A typical day-care programme might involve:

  • Arriving at the clinic in the morning (e.g., 9 am).
  • Participating in a series of group therapy sessions.
  • Having a one-to-one session with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
  • Engaging in skills-based workshops (e.g., stress management, emotional regulation).
  • Taking part in holistic therapies like mindfulness, art, or yoga.
  • Leaving in the late afternoon (e.g., 4 pm).

Real-life Example: Sarah, a 35-year-old marketing manager, has been struggling with a severe bout of anxiety and panic attacks that are making it impossible for her to work. Her GP refers her to a private psychiatrist. The psychiatrist determines that while Sarah doesn't need to be hospitalised, weekly therapy isn't enough to get her symptoms under control quickly. He recommends a four-week day care programme. This allows Sarah to receive intensive daily support to build coping mechanisms while still being at home with her family in the evenings.

Private Health Insurance and Mental Health: The Core Principles

Before we dive into day care specifics, it's crucial to understand two fundamental rules of all standard UK private medical insurance policies. Getting these wrong is the most common source of confusion and disappointment.

1. Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Private health insurance is designed to treat acute 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 of Acute Mental Health Issues Covered: A sudden episode of depression following a bereavement, post-natal depression, or an acute stress reaction.

It is not designed to cover chronic conditions. A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and requires ongoing management.

  • Examples of Chronic Mental Health Issues NOT Covered: Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dementia, or long-term, treatment-resistant depression. Management for these conditions typically falls to the NHS.

2. Pre-existing Conditions

Standard PMI policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any illness or symptom for which you have sought advice, received treatment, or been aware of in the years before your policy began (usually the last 5 years).

There are two main ways insurers handle this:

  • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. The insurer will not cover any condition you've had in the 5 years before your policy starts. However, if you go for a set period without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy begins (usually 2 years), the insurer may start to cover it.
  • Full Medical Underwriting: You provide a full medical history when you apply. The insurer will review it and state upfront which conditions are permanently excluded from your cover. It provides certainty but can lead to more exclusions.

This is critical: If you have received treatment for anxiety in the last few years, a new PMI policy will not cover you for anxiety-related treatment until you have been symptom-free and treatment-free for the required moratorium period.

Does UK Private Medical Insurance Cover Mental Health Day Care?

Yes, many private medical insurance policies in the UK do cover mental health day care, but it is almost never included in a basic or budget-level plan. The level of cover is the single most important factor.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can typically expect from different tiers of cover:

Policy TierTypical Mental Health CoverageDay Care Coverage?
BasicOften provides access to a digital GP and perhaps a small number of counselling sessions via an app or helpline. May have a very low outpatient limit (e.g., up to £500).Very Unlikely. Day care is almost always excluded from basic plans. The limited outpatient benefit would not be enough to cover the cost.
Mid-RangeIncludes a more substantial outpatient limit (e.g., £1,000-£2,000 per year). Often includes day care and inpatient treatment, but this may be subject to a combined annual financial limit or a limit on the number of days (e.g., up to 30 days).Likely, with limits. It will be covered up to a specific financial cap or for a set number of sessions. It's crucial to check the policy details.
ComprehensiveOffers generous, often 'full cover' for outpatient, day care, and inpatient mental health treatment. Limits are much higher or may only be subject to your overall annual policy limit.Almost certainly, yes. Comprehensive plans from major providers like Aviva, Bupa, and AXA Health are designed to cover intensive treatments like day care thoroughly.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these tiers, comparing the specific mental health benefits from different insurers to ensure you don't get caught out by unexpected limits.

A Deep Dive into Coverage Limits and Exclusions

Even on policies that include mental health day care, there are always limits and exclusions written into the small print. Understanding these is key.

Common Coverage Limits

  • Financial Limits: Your policy might state it covers mental health care "up to £15,000 per policy year" or that day-patient treatment is "paid in full". Others might have a specific, lower limit just for mental health.
  • Session/Day Limits: It is common for policies to limit the duration of treatment. For example, a policy might cover "up to 28 days of combined inpatient and day-patient treatment for mental health per year".
  • Therapy-Specific Limits: Some policies might limit the number of sessions for a specific therapy, such as "up to 20 sessions of cognitive behavioural therapy".

Common Exclusions

All policies have exclusions. For mental health, these almost always include:

  • Chronic Conditions: As mentioned, long-term conditions like bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and schizophrenia are not covered.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any mental health issue you had before taking out the policy.
  • Addiction: Treatment for alcohol, drug, or substance abuse is often excluded or handled under a separate, specific benefit with its own tight limits.
  • Developmental and Learning Disorders: Conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and dementia are not covered by standard PMI.
  • Unproven Therapies: Insurers will only pay for evidence-based treatments from recognised practitioners. Experimental or alternative therapies are typically excluded.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient vs. Day Care: A Clear Comparison

Choosing the right level of care is a clinical decision made by your specialist, but understanding the terms helps you understand your policy. Here's a clear breakdown:

FeatureInpatient CareDay Care (Day-patient)Outpatient Care
DefinitionYou are admitted to a hospital or clinic and stay overnight for continuous, 24/7 care and supervision.You attend a hospital or clinic for a structured programme of treatment during the day (usually several hours) but return home at night.You attend a scheduled appointment with a specialist (e.g., a psychiatrist or therapist) for a fixed duration, typically 50-60 minutes.
IntensityHigh. For acute crises, severe symptoms requiring constant monitoring, or when a patient is a risk to themselves.Medium to High. For individuals needing more than weekly therapy to stabilise or build skills, but who are safe to be at home.Low. For managing mild to moderate conditions, initial diagnosis, medication reviews, and ongoing 'talking therapy'.
Best for...Severe depression with suicidal ideation, acute psychosis, complex detoxification, or severe eating disorders requiring medical stabilisation.Step-down support after an inpatient stay, preventing hospitalisation for worsening conditions, intensive therapy for anxiety, OCD, or trauma.Mild depression, generalised anxiety, phobias, stress management, or as long-term maintenance after more intensive treatment.
PMI CoverageUsually included in mid-range to comprehensive policies. It is a core feature of more expensive plans.Often bundled with inpatient cover. A plan that covers inpatient care will very likely cover day care.Included in nearly all policies, but the financial or session limit is a key differentiator between basic, mid-range, and comprehensive plans.

What Therapies are Typically Included in Mental Health Day Care Programmes?

Day care programmes are multi-faceted, using a blend of proven therapeutic techniques to promote recovery. Your private health cover will typically fund programmes that include the following evidence-based therapies:

  1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): The 'gold standard' for treating anxiety and depression. It helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
  2. Group Therapy: A cornerstone of day care. Sharing experiences with others who have similar struggles reduces isolation and builds a sense of community.
  3. Individual Psychotherapy: One-to-one sessions with a therapist to delve into personal issues in a private setting.
  4. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Particularly effective for emotional dysregulation, self-harm, and certain personality traits. It focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
  5. Psychoeducation: Workshops that teach you about your condition, the nature of recovery, and strategies for preventing relapse.
  6. Holistic and Creative Therapies: Many programmes include art therapy, music therapy, yoga, or mindfulness sessions. These help with expressing emotions non-verbally and managing stress.
  7. Family/Couples Sessions: When appropriate, involving loved ones in the treatment process can be hugely beneficial for the support system at home.

How to Access Mental Health Day Care Through Your PMI: A Step-by-Step Guide

Using your private health insurance is a structured process. You cannot simply book yourself into a day care clinic. Follow these steps to ensure your treatment is approved and paid for.

  1. Get a GP Referral. Your journey almost always starts with your NHS or private GP. You need an 'open referral' to a specialist, usually a consultant psychiatrist. Some insurers now offer a digital GP service which can speed this up.
  2. Consult a Private Psychiatrist. The psychiatrist will conduct a thorough assessment, provide a diagnosis, and recommend a treatment plan. If they believe day care is the most appropriate course of action, they will formally recommend it.
  3. Contact Your Insurer for Pre-authorisation. This step is non-negotiable. Before you start any treatment, you or your specialist's secretary must contact your insurer with the proposed treatment plan and costs. They will check your policy terms and confirm what is covered. They will give you a pre-authorisation number. Do not proceed without this.
  4. Choose from an Approved Facility List. Your insurer will only pay for treatment at hospitals and clinics that are on their approved list. They will provide you with options in your area that meet their quality and cost criteria.
  5. Begin Treatment. Once you have pre-authorisation and have chosen a facility, you can begin your day care programme. The clinic will usually bill the insurer directly, so you don't have to worry about payments, apart from any excess on your policy.

Choosing the Right Private Health Insurance for Mental Health Cover

With so many variables, choosing the right policy can be daunting. The headline price of a policy rarely tells the full story, especially when it comes to mental health.

This is where working with an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr provides immense value.

  • Expert Analysis: We live and breathe policy documents. We know which insurers offer robust mental health cover as standard and which ones have hidden limitations.
  • Market Comparison: We don't work for any single insurer. We compare plans from leading providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, and The Exeter to find the one that best matches your specific needs and budget.
  • No Extra Cost: Our advisory service is completely free for you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, unbiased advice without paying a penny more.
  • Added Value: When you arrange a policy through us, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, and can benefit from discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection cover.

Our clients consistently rate our service highly because we demystify the process and prioritise finding cover that truly delivers when it's needed most.

Beyond Insurance: Proactive Steps for Your Mental Well-being

While insurance is a safety net, building daily habits that support your mental resilience is the best long-term strategy. Here are some simple, evidence-based tips:

  • Move Your Body: The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Even a brisk 30-minute walk each day can significantly boost mood by releasing endorphins and reducing stress hormones.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is a major contributor to anxiety and low mood. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: dim the lights, avoid screens for an hour before bed, and ensure your bedroom is cool and dark.
  • Nourish Your Brain: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein supports brain health. Foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids (like oily fish) have been shown to have a positive effect on mood.
  • Connect with Others: Social connection is a powerful buffer against mental health problems. Make time for friends and family, join a local club, or volunteer. Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can make a world of difference.
  • Practise Mindfulness: Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath and the present moment. Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you, or simply find a quiet spot and pay attention to the sights and sounds around you.

Do I need to declare my previous mental health issues when applying for PMI?

Yes, absolutely. You must be completely honest about your medical history. If you don't, your insurer could refuse a claim or even void your policy. With 'moratorium' underwriting, any condition you've had in the last 5 years is automatically excluded for at least 2 years. With 'full medical underwriting', you declare everything upfront, and the insurer tells you exactly what is excluded from day one.

Will my private health insurance premiums go up if I claim for mental health treatment?

It is very likely, yes. Making a claim on your policy will usually result in the loss of your No Claims Discount, which can lead to a higher premium at your next renewal. The cost of your renewal will also be affected by your age and medical inflation, but a claim is a significant factor.

What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist in the UK?

A psychiatrist is a medically qualified doctor who has gone on to specialise in mental health. They can diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and provide talking therapies. A clinical psychologist is not a medical doctor but holds a doctorate in psychology. They are experts in assessment and talking therapies but cannot prescribe medication. For insurance purposes, you will almost always need a referral to a psychiatrist first to access treatment like day care.

Are digital mental health services like online therapy apps covered?

Increasingly, yes. Most major UK private medical insurance providers now include access to a range of digital health tools as a standard benefit. This often includes a 24/7 digital GP service, a health and wellbeing helpline, and access to a limited number of online counselling or CBT sessions through an approved app or platform. These are excellent for early, convenient support but are not a substitute for intensive treatments like day care.

Mental health cover can be one of the most complex areas of private medical insurance. You don't have to navigate it alone.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert advisors will compare the UK market to find a policy that gives you the comprehensive cover and peace of mind you deserve.

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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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