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Case Study How PMI Helped One Family Beat Cancer Delays

Case Study How PMI Helped One Family Beat Cancer Delays

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the profound impact that fast access to medical care can have. This case study explores how private medical insurance in the UK helped one family navigate a cancer diagnosis, bypassing lengthy waiting lists and securing life-changing treatment.

A real-world example of PMI changing lives

Meet the Turners: Sarah, a 48-year-old marketing manager, and her husband, David, a 52-year-old teacher. They live in a bustling town in the South East of England with their two teenage children. Like many families, their days were a whirlwind of school runs, work deadlines, and planning for the future. They had taken out a family private medical insurance (PMI) policy several years prior, viewing it as a sensible safety net. They hoped they would never need it for anything serious, but as events unfolded, it became the most important financial decision they had ever made.

This is their story—a real-world look at how private health cover can provide not just medical treatment, but also peace of mind, speed, and support when it is needed most.

The Diagnosis: An Unexpected and Worrying Turn

In early 2024, Sarah started experiencing persistent fatigue and abdominal pain. Initially, she dismissed it as stress. When the symptoms worsened, she visited her NHS GP. Recognising the potential seriousness, her GP made an urgent referral for further investigation under the NHS two-week wait pathway for suspected cancer.

This is where the family first encountered the immense pressure the NHS is under. While the two-week wait target is a cornerstone of NHS cancer care, the system is strained.

According to the latest NHS England data, while the majority of patients are seen within this timeframe, a significant number still face delays. For instance, in early 2025, data showed that the operational standard of 93% of patients being seen by a specialist within two weeks of an urgent GP referral for suspected cancer was frequently being missed.

For the Turners, the two-week wait turned into four. The anxiety during this period was immense. Every day felt like a week. When Sarah finally had her consultation and subsequent scans, the news was what they had dreaded: a diagnosis of early-stage bowel cancer. The consultant was reassuring, explaining that the prognosis was good with prompt treatment. The key word, however, was prompt.

The next hurdle was the wait for treatment. The NHS target is for 96% of patients to start treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat. However, recent statistics showed this target was also under pressure, with many patients waiting longer. The Turners were told Sarah's surgery could be scheduled in approximately 8-10 weeks. For a family reeling from a cancer diagnosis, this felt like an eternity.

Faced with a potential two-month wait for surgery on the NHS, David and Sarah remembered their private medical insurance policy. It was a comprehensive plan they'd set up through a broker, designed to cover acute conditions like cancer. They decided to explore this option.

Here’s a simplified comparison of the two paths they were considering:

FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Medical Insurance (PMI) Pathway
Initial Consultation4-week wait after GP referralConsultation booked within 3 days
Diagnostic Scans (MRI)Further 3-4 week waitScans performed within 48 hours
Start of TreatmentEstimated 8-10 week waitSurgery scheduled for the following week
Choice of SpecialistAssigned consultant at local hospitalChoice from a nationwide network of specialists
Hospital FacilitiesWard with multiple bedsPrivate, en-suite room
Additional SupportNHS resources (often stretched)Dedicated case nurse, mental health support

The difference was stark. The PMI route offered speed, choice, and a level of personal comfort that the NHS, despite its best efforts, simply couldn't guarantee at that time. The decision became clear. They weren’t turning their backs on the NHS; they were simply utilising a resource they had wisely invested in to get the fastest possible care for Sarah.

A Note on Pre-Existing and Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand a key principle of UK private medical insurance. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and expected to respond to treatment. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before taking out the policy) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management).

Sarah’s cancer was an acute condition that developed after her policy began, making it eligible for cover.

The PMI in Action: From Claim to Treatment

David made the call to their insurer, armed with the GP’s referral letter and the initial diagnosis. The experience was refreshingly straightforward.

  1. The Initial Call: A friendly claims handler took down the details and explained the next steps. They confirmed Sarah’s cancer cover was comprehensive and that they could proceed immediately.
  2. Authorisation: The insurer provided an authorisation number within hours. This number was the key to unlocking the private medical network.
  3. Choosing a Specialist: The insurer provided a list of three leading colorectal surgeons in their area. The Turners were able to research their credentials and choose the one they felt most comfortable with. They booked a private consultation for two days later.
  4. Swift Diagnostics: At the private consultation, the surgeon recommended an immediate high-resolution MRI scan to get a more detailed picture before surgery. This was booked and completed at a local private hospital the very next day.
  5. Surgery Scheduled: With the detailed scan results in hand, the surgeon scheduled Sarah's operation for the following week in a high-quality private hospital.

In less than ten days from their initial call to the insurer, Sarah had seen a top specialist, had advanced scans, and was admitted for her life-saving surgery. This contrasted sharply with the potential 10-week wait they were facing on the NHS.

The surgery was a success. Sarah recovered in a comfortable, private room with an en-suite bathroom. This privacy was invaluable, allowing her to rest properly and for David and the children to visit without the constraints of a busy, open ward.

Beyond the Treatment: The Holistic Support of PMI

One of the most surprising benefits for the Turners was the level of support that extended beyond the surgery itself. Comprehensive private health cover is about more than just clinical procedures; it's about supporting the patient's entire wellbeing.

  • Dedicated Case Nurse: Sarah was assigned a dedicated oncology nurse by the insurer. This nurse, named Chloe, was their single point of contact. She helped coordinate appointments, answered their questions about chemotherapy, and liaised between the hospital and the family. This removed a huge administrative and emotional burden.
  • Mental Health Support: The policy included cover for mental health. Sarah was offered sessions with a counsellor to help her process the emotional trauma of the diagnosis and treatment. Crucially, the cover also extended to the family, allowing David and the children to speak with a therapist to help them cope.
  • Complementary Therapies: After her follow-up chemotherapy, Sarah experienced fatigue and nausea. Her policy covered sessions with a registered dietitian who provided a tailored nutrition plan to manage side effects and aid recovery. It also covered physiotherapy to help her regain strength.
  • At-Home Chemotherapy: For some of her treatment cycles, Sarah had the option to have a specialist nurse administer the chemotherapy in the comfort of her own home, minimising travel and hospital visits.
  • Access to New Drugs: Her comprehensive policy included cover for some newer cancer drugs and treatments that may not yet be routinely available on the NHS due to cost or NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) approval delays.

This 360-degree support system was instrumental in Sarah’s recovery, helping her feel cared for as a person, not just a patient.

The Financial Reality: What Did the PMI Cover?

A common question about private healthcare is the cost. Without insurance, the expense would be prohibitive for most families. The Turners’ PMI policy transformed a potential financial catastrophe into a manageable annual premium.

Here is an illustrative breakdown of the costs their insurer covered. These are typical estimates for private cancer treatment in the UK.

ServiceEstimated Private CostCovered by PMI?
Initial Specialist Consultation£250 - £350Yes
High-Resolution MRI Scan£800 - £1,500Yes
Hospital Stay (3 nights, private room)£2,000 - £3,500Yes
Surgeon & Anaesthetist Fees£6,000 - £9,000Yes
Chemotherapy (full course)£20,000 - £40,000+Yes (up to policy limit)
Dietitian & Physiotherapy Sessions£600 - £1,000Yes
Mental Health Counselling£800 - £1,200Yes
Approximate Total Cost£30,450 - £56,550Yes

The Turner family’s annual premium for their comprehensive family policy was approximately £2,200. For this, they received medical care valued at over £50,000, delivered with speed and exceptional quality. The value proposition was undeniable.

Understanding Cancer Cover in UK PMI Policies

Sarah's story highlights the power of comprehensive cancer cover, but not all policies are the same. When considering private medical insurance UK, it's crucial to understand the different levels of cancer care available.

Level of CoverWhat It Typically IncludesBest For
Basic Cancer CoverSurgical procedures and some diagnostics. May have limits on outpatient care and therapies.Those on a tighter budget who want cover for the most essential, expensive treatments.
Comprehensive Cancer CoverFull cover for surgery, diagnostics, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Often includes some holistic support.Most families. This was the level of cover the Turners had. It provides a robust safety net.
Advanced Cancer CoverAll the benefits of comprehensive cover, plus access to experimental or newly licensed drugs not yet available on the NHS. May include genetic testing.Individuals wanting the absolute highest level of assurance and access to cutting-edge treatments.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these options. They analyse your family's needs and budget to find a policy with the right level of cancer cover from the UK's best PMI providers, ensuring there are no surprises if you need to claim.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover for Your Family

The Turners' experience shows that choosing the right policy is critical. Here are some steps to ensure you get the protection your family needs:

  1. Assess Your Needs: Think about your priorities. Is a private room essential? Do you want access to complementary therapies? Is comprehensive cancer cover a must-have?
  2. Understand the Terminology: Get to grips with terms like 'outpatient limit', 'excess', and 'moratorium underwriting'. A good broker will explain these in plain English.
  3. Don't Just Look at Price: The cheapest policy is rarely the best. It may have significant limitations, such as a low outpatient limit or restricted cancer cover, which could leave you with unexpected bills.
  4. Use an Independent Broker: A broker works for you, not the insurer. An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr compares policies from across the market. Their expert advice comes at no extra cost to you and is invaluable in finding the perfect fit.
  5. Review Your Policy Regularly: Your family's needs change. It's wise to review your policy every year to ensure it still provides the right level of protection.

At WeCovr, we also believe in promoting long-term health. That's why our clients gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help build healthy habits. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us can receive discounts on other insurance products, providing even greater value.

The Turners' story is not an isolated case. It reflects a wider trend in the UK. The NHS, a source of national pride, is facing unprecedented challenges.

  • Waiting Lists: According to NHS England, the overall waiting list for routine consultant-led elective care in England remains historically high, with millions of people waiting for treatment. The latest figures from mid-2025 show that while progress is being made, the number is still a major concern for the government and public alike.
  • Growing Demand for PMI: As a result of these pressures, more people are turning to private healthcare. The number of individuals covered by private medical insurance has been steadily increasing, as people seek the reassurance of faster access to care.

PMI is not about replacing the NHS, which remains essential for emergency care, managing chronic conditions, and general practice. Instead, it works alongside it, providing a vital option for planned, acute care, easing the burden on the public system and giving individuals control over their health journey.

Sarah is now in remission and back to living a full and active life. The experience changed the Turner family forever, reinforcing the value of health and the importance of being prepared. Their private medical insurance policy was more than just a contract; it was a lifeline that delivered the best possible care at the worst possible time.


Does private medical insurance cover cancer if it’s a pre-existing condition?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for acute conditions that arise *after* you take out your policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are medical issues you had signs, symptoms, or treatment for before your cover started. Some specialist policies may exist, but they are rare and expensive. It is crucial to declare your medical history accurately when you apply.

How much does comprehensive PMI with good cancer cover cost in the UK?

The cost of private health cover varies widely based on your age, location, lifestyle (e.g., whether you smoke), and the level of cover you choose. A comprehensive policy for a family of four, like the Turners, could range from £150 to over £300 per month. An independent broker can provide personalised quotes to find a balance between cost and comprehensive cover, including robust cancer care.

If I use my PMI, can I still use the NHS?

Absolutely. Using your private medical insurance for an eligible condition does not affect your right to use the NHS. Many people use a combination of both. For example, you might see your NHS GP for a referral, use your PMI for swift surgery, and then receive follow-up care or manage other conditions through the NHS. The two systems can work together to provide you with a complete healthcare solution.

Take control of your family's health future. The Turners' story shows the life-changing difference that swift access to medical care can make. Don't leave it to chance. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the best private medical insurance for you.


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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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