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Cancer Treatment on Private Medical Insurance

Cancer Treatment on Private Medical Insurance 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that a cancer diagnosis is one of life's most challenging moments. This article explores how private medical insurance in the UK provides a powerful safety net, offering fast-track access to diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments.

In-depth overview of cancer care options, early diagnostic access, drugs not available on NHS, and how leading policies compare for cancer support in 2025

A cancer diagnosis is something none of us wants to think about, yet statistics from Cancer Research UK show that 1 in 2 people in the UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. While the NHS provides excellent cancer care, the system is under immense pressure, leading to anxieties around waiting times for diagnosis and treatment.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) can provide invaluable peace of mind. It acts as a complementary partner to the NHS, offering you more control, choice, and comfort when you need it most.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through:

  • The key benefits of private cancer care.
  • How cancer cover works within a PMI policy.
  • The patient journey from seeing a GP to receiving specialist treatment.
  • Access to advanced drugs and therapies often unavailable on the NHS.
  • A comparison of what leading UK insurers offer for 2025.
  • The crucial support services that wrap around your medical treatment.

Why Consider Private Cancer Care in the UK?

The NHS is the cornerstone of UK healthcare, and its oncologists, nurses, and support staff are among the best in the world. However, the sheer demand for its services can create bottlenecks that are a source of significant stress for patients.

According to the latest NHS England data, while urgent cancer referral targets aim for a diagnosis or all-clear within 28 days, this target is frequently missed. Similarly, the 62-day target from urgent referral to first treatment is also under strain. These waits, while the NHS works tirelessly to reduce them, can be agonising for individuals and their families.

Private medical insurance offers a solution to these specific challenges. The core benefits are:

  • Speed: Bypassing NHS waiting lists for diagnostic scans (like MRI, CT, and PET scans) and consultations with specialists is a primary advantage. Getting a definitive diagnosis faster means treatment can start sooner.
  • Choice: PMI gives you more control over your care. You can often choose the specialist consultant you want to see and the private hospital where you receive treatment.
  • Comfort: Treatment can be received in a private, comfortable setting, often in a single en-suite room. This can make the difficult process of chemotherapy or recovery from surgery a little more manageable.
  • Access to a Wider Range of Treatments: The private sector can often provide access to specialist drugs, therapies, and surgical techniques that may not be available on the NHS, usually due to cost or pending approval from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

Real-Life Scenario: Imagine David, a 52-year-old architect, notices a persistent cough. His GP refers him for an urgent chest X-ray. On the NHS, he might wait several weeks for the scan and then several more for a follow-up consultation and potential biopsy. With PMI, he could see a private respiratory consultant within days, have a CT scan the same week, and receive a diagnosis and treatment plan almost immediately, dramatically reducing his anxiety and ensuring treatment begins at the earliest possible stage.

Understanding Cancer Cover on Private Medical Insurance

Before diving into the details, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of all standard UK private medical insurance.

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out a policy. An acute condition is a disease or illness that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Crucially, PMI does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • A pre-existing condition is any illness or symptom you had before your policy started, whether it was diagnosed or not.
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured and needs long-term management, such as diabetes, asthma, or certain long-term cancers. If cancer is deemed incurable and requires ongoing management rather than active treatment aimed at a cure, its care may revert to the NHS.

Most insurers offer different tiers of cancer cover, allowing you to tailor your policy to your budget and needs.

Level of Cancer CoverDescriptionBest For
Full Cancer CoverThis is the most comprehensive option and is often included as standard on mid-to-high-tier policies. It covers diagnosis and all eligible stages of treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, with few or no financial or time limits.Those wanting the highest level of peace of mind and access to the most advanced care without worrying about costs.
NHS Cancer Cover PlusThis is a hybrid option. Your diagnosis and surgery might be handled privately, but for treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy, you would use the NHS. The policy then provides a cash benefit and access to specialist drugs not available on your local NHS trust.A more budget-conscious approach that still provides key benefits, particularly access to advanced drugs.
No Cancer CoverSome basic, entry-level policies may exclude cancer cover entirely to keep premiums low. This is a significant consideration and should be chosen with extreme caution.Individuals on a very tight budget who are willing to rely solely on the NHS for any potential cancer diagnosis and treatment.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these options, explaining the subtle but important differences between insurers to ensure you don't find yourself underinsured.

The Patient Journey: From Diagnosis to Treatment with PMI

Here is a step-by-step guide to how your cancer care journey would typically unfold with a private medical insurance policy.

  1. Spotting Symptoms & Visiting Your GP: Your journey always starts with the NHS. You visit your local GP with your symptoms. They are the gatekeeper to all further specialist care, both NHS and private.
  2. Getting an Open Referral: If your GP suspects something that needs further investigation, they will write you an 'open referral' letter. This letter doesn't name a specific consultant but outlines the type of specialist you need to see.
  3. Contacting Your Insurer: You call your PMI provider's claims line, explain the situation, and provide the open referral. They will authorise the next steps and usually give you a list of approved specialists and hospitals in your area.
  4. Fast-Track Diagnostics: This is where PMI makes a huge difference. Your insurer will authorise private diagnostic tests. Instead of waiting weeks, you can often get an appointment for an MRI, CT, or PET-CT scan within a few days.
  5. Seeing the Specialist: You'll have a consultation with a private oncologist or consultant surgeon, who will review your scan results, perform any further tests like biopsies, and provide a definitive diagnosis.
  6. Forming a Treatment Plan: If cancer is diagnosed, your specialist will create a comprehensive treatment plan. You will send this to your insurer for pre-authorisation. A dedicated case manager or cancer nurse at the insurance company will typically be assigned to you to guide you through the process.
  7. Receiving Treatment: Your approved treatments will begin promptly in a private hospital or clinic of your choice from the insurer's list. This can include:
    • Surgery: Including tumour removal and reconstructive procedures.
    • Chemotherapy: Often with the option of having it administered at home by a specialist nurse.
    • Radiotherapy: Including advanced forms like Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) which targets tumours more precisely.
    • Targeted Therapies & Immunotherapy: Access to the latest generation of cancer drugs (more on this below).
  8. Monitoring and Aftercare: Your policy will also cover follow-up consultations, scans, and therapies like physiotherapy to help you recover.

Access to Specialist Drugs & Treatments Not on the NHS

One of the most powerful benefits of comprehensive private cancer cover is access to treatments that are not routinely available on the NHS.

The NHS has to make difficult decisions about which drugs to fund based on cost-effectiveness, as assessed by NICE. This means that some new, innovative—and often very expensive—drugs may not be approved for NHS use, or may only be available in specific circumstances or through the Cancer Drugs Fund.

Private insurers are not bound by the same NICE restrictions and will often cover any licensed cancer drug recommended by your specialist, provided it has proven efficacy for your condition.

FeatureNHS ProvisionTypical Full PMI Provision
Drug AvailabilityLimited to drugs approved by NICE or available via the Cancer Drugs Fund.Access to a wider range of licensed drugs, including many not yet approved by NICE.
Targeted TherapiesAvailability can be inconsistent across different NHS trusts.Generally well-covered if prescribed by your consultant.
ImmunotherapiesAvailability is growing but can still be restricted to certain cancer types and stages.Widely available for eligible conditions under most comprehensive policies.
Proton Beam TherapyVery limited NHS access, usually for specific, rare cancers in children and young adults.Some insurers, like Bupa and AXA, offer cover as standard for clinically appropriate cases.

This access can be life-changing, offering treatment paths that simply wouldn't be an option otherwise. It gives patients and their doctors the freedom to choose the very best treatment, not just the one that is most affordable for the state.

How Leading UK PMI Providers Compare for Cancer Cover in 2025

While most major insurers offer excellent cancer cover, there are differences in their approach, features, and support networks. Here’s a high-level comparison of the leading providers.

ProviderCancer Cover FeatureKey Highlights for 2025
BupaFull Cancer CoverNo time limits on treatment for as long as you have the policy. Direct access to specialist cancer nurses. Extensive network of specialist cancer centres and chemotherapy at home options. Covers Proton Beam Therapy.
AXA HealthComprehensive Cancer CoverNo overall financial limit on eligible cancer treatment. Strong focus on mental health support for patient and family. Access to their "Expert Help" service for second opinions. Covers advanced treatments like Gamma Knife surgery.
Aviva"Expert Select" with Full Cancer Cover"Cancer Cover Promise" to cover all eligible costs once a claim is approved. Extensive hospital list. Strong digital GP service. Option to add "Cancer Drugs Fund Plus" for even wider drug access.
VitalityAdvanced Cancer CoverFull cover for eligible treatments. Unique focus on prevention and wellbeing, with rewards for healthy living. Offers genetic testing for cancer risk and covers preventative treatments in some cases.

Deep Dive into Provider Strengths:

  • Bupa: Bupa is renowned for its end-to-end cancer support. Their partnership with leading cancer centres ensures you're treated by top experts. Their commitment to covering treatment without time limits provides immense security.
  • AXA Health: AXA stands out with its holistic approach. They recognise the huge mental toll a diagnosis takes and build in extensive psychological support for the whole family, not just the patient.
  • Aviva: Aviva's strength lies in its clarity and promise. Once your cancer claim is accepted, their guarantee to cover all eligible costs removes a significant financial worry, allowing you to focus entirely on getting better.
  • Vitality: Vitality offers a proactive model. Their "Advanced Cancer Cover" is excellent, but they also empower members to reduce their risk through lifestyle tracking, offering tangible rewards and even covering certain preventative measures based on genetic testing.

Choosing between them can be complex. Working with an independent PMI broker like WeCovr ensures you get unbiased advice tailored to your specific health priorities and budget, comparing not just the headline features but the all-important small print.

Beyond Treatment: The 'Plus' Factor in Cancer Support

Modern private health cover goes far beyond just paying for operations and drugs. Insurers now provide a 360-degree support system to help you and your family navigate the entire experience.

These value-added services often include:

  • Dedicated Cancer Nurses: A single point of contact who can answer questions, coordinate appointments, and offer emotional support.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counsellors or psychologists for you and your close family members.
  • Nutritional and Dietetic Advice: Specialist guidance on what to eat during and after treatment to aid recovery and manage side effects.
  • Post-Surgery Therapies: Including physiotherapy and occupational therapy to help you get back on your feet.
  • Symptom and Pain Management: Specialist palliative care focused on maintaining your quality of life during treatment.
  • Second Medical Opinions: If you have doubts about your diagnosis or treatment plan, your insurer can arrange for another leading expert to review your case.
  • Practical Support: Some policies even cover costs for things like wigs and prostheses.

At WeCovr, we enhance this further. All our health and life insurance clients receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, our clients often receive discounts on other insurance products, such as life or income protection insurance, providing a more robust financial safety net. Our commitment to client care is reflected in our high satisfaction ratings on major customer review platforms.

The Financials: What Does Comprehensive Cancer Cover Cost?

The cost of private medical insurance varies significantly based on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Costs are typically higher in London and the South East due to higher hospital charges.
  • Lifestyle: Smokers will pay significantly more than non-smokers.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive policy with full cancer cover will cost more than a basic one.
  • Excess: Choosing a higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) will lower your monthly premium.

Here are some illustrative examples of monthly premiums for a non-smoker with a comprehensive policy and a £250 excess.

AgeEstimated Monthly Premium (Outside London)Estimated Monthly Premium (London)
30£45 - £65£60 - £80
45£70 - £95£90 - £120
60£130 - £180£170 - £230

Disclaimer: These are illustrative figures for 2025 and not a formal quote. The actual cost will depend on your individual circumstances and the insurer you choose.

The best way to find an accurate price is to get a personalised quote. WeCovr's expert advisors can compare the whole market for you in minutes, finding a policy that delivers the cancer care you want at a price you can afford, all at no cost to you.

Important Exclusions and Things to Watch Out For

While PMI is powerful, it's not a magic wand. You must be aware of the limitations:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: As stated earlier, any cancer you had signs or symptoms of before your policy began will not be covered. This is the single most important exclusion to understand.
  • Chronic Cancers: If your cancer is diagnosed as treatable but not curable (chronic), your insurer will typically fund treatment for a period to stabilise it, but long-term management may then revert to the NHS. Check the policy wording carefully for how 'chronic' is defined.
  • Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting: When you apply, you'll choose one of these. Moratorium underwriting is quicker but may lead to more ambiguity at the point of claim. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) involves disclosing your full medical history upfront, providing more certainty about what is and isn't covered from day one.
  • Experimental Treatments: Treatments that are still in a trial phase and are not yet licensed are usually excluded.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance cover all types of cancer?

Generally, yes. If you have comprehensive cancer cover, your policy will cover the treatment of any primary cancer that is diagnosed after you join. The key is that the condition must not be pre-existing. Policies will cover eligible costs for surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and specialist drugs for most cancers as recommended by your consultant.

What happens if my cancer is diagnosed as terminal or becomes chronic on PMI?

This is an important and sensitive point. Most private medical insurance policies in the UK are designed to cover acute conditions, where the aim of treatment is a cure. If cancer becomes chronic (manageable but not curable) or is diagnosed as terminal, the policy may have limits. Often, it will cover palliative care to manage symptoms and pain, but ongoing, long-term management may revert to the NHS. The specifics vary significantly between insurers, so it's vital to check the policy details.

Can I get cancer cover if I have had cancer before?

This is considered a pre-existing condition. Standard private medical insurance will exclude that specific cancer and often any related conditions. However, some specialist insurers might consider offering cover after a long period of remission (e.g., 5-10 years), but it will likely come with specific exclusions or a higher premium. It is always essential to declare your full medical history.

Do I still need the NHS if I have private health insurance for cancer?

Absolutely. Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. You will always need the NHS for A&E services, GP visits, and the management of chronic conditions. Think of PMI as a way to get faster access to specialist diagnosis and a wider choice of treatments for eligible acute conditions like cancer.

Facing the prospect of cancer is daunting, but knowing you have a plan in place can make all the difference. Private medical insurance offers a tangible way to regain control, providing rapid access to the best possible care, technology, and support when you and your family need it most.

Take the next step today. Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and let our friendly experts compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect cancer cover for your peace of mind.


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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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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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