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Childrens Treatment and Mental Health PMIs Changing Approach

Childrens Treatment and Mental Health PMIs Changing Approach

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr has seen first-hand how the private medical insurance landscape in the UK is evolving. This article explores the significant shifts in cover for children's physical and mental health, helping you protect what matters most.

A review of expanded benefits, exclusions, and access channels for minors

The world of private medical insurance (PMI) is not static. It adapts to the changing health needs of the UK population, and nowhere is this more apparent than in its approach to children's health. In recent years, insurers have significantly broadened their offerings for young people, particularly in the crucial area of mental health.

This review will break down these changes, giving you a clear picture of:

  • Expanded Benefits: What new treatments and services are now commonly included?
  • Key Exclusions: What conditions remain outside the scope of standard PMI?
  • Access Channels: How can you and your child actually use these new benefits?

We'll provide the insights you need to navigate this new terrain and make informed decisions for your family's wellbeing.

The Growing Need: Why Children's Health is a UK Priority

To understand why PMI is changing, we must first look at the health challenges facing children and young people in the UK today. The pressures of modern life, from social media to academic stress, combined with ongoing NHS waiting lists for certain treatments, have created a perfect storm.

The Youth Mental Health Crisis

Recent statistics paint a stark picture. According to the 2023 NHS "Mental Health of Children and Young People" survey:

  • 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8 to 25 in England had a probable mental disorder in 2023.
  • This figure has risen from 1 in 6 in 2021 and 1 in 9 in 2017, showing a significant and worrying trend.
  • Eating disorders are also on the rise, with the prevalence among 17 to 19-year-olds increasing from 0.8% in 2017 to a staggering 12.5% in 2023.

These are not just numbers; they represent young lives struggling with conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress. While NHS services like CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) are invaluable, they are under immense pressure, leading to long waits for assessment and treatment. This is where private health cover is stepping in to bridge the gap.

Physical Health and NHS Pressures

Beyond mental health, accessing timely specialist care for physical ailments can also be a challenge. Common childhood issues that may require specialist intervention include:

  • Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) problems (e.g., recurrent tonsillitis, glue ear).
  • Dermatological conditions.
  • Gastrointestinal issues.
  • Allergies requiring specialist testing.

While the NHS provides excellent emergency care, waiting lists for elective procedures and specialist consultations can be lengthy. For parents, this can mean watching their child suffer with a treatable condition while waiting for an appointment. PMI offers a route to faster diagnosis and treatment, providing peace of mind and a quicker return to health.

What is Covered by a Standard Children's PMI Policy?

At its core, private medical insurance is designed to cover the cost of treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. An acute condition is an illness or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery, such as an infection, a fracture, or appendicitis.

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

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any ailment for which your child has had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before the policy start date.
  • Chronic Condition: A long-term condition that requires ongoing management rather than a cure, such as asthma, diabetes, or eczema.

When you add a child to your policy, standard cover typically includes:

Benefit CategoryWhat It Usually CoversReal-Life Example
In-patient & Day-patient CareHospital fees, specialist charges, and diagnostic tests when admitted to a hospital bed.Your teenager needs their appendix removed. PMI covers the surgery, anaesthetist, and hospital stay.
Out-patient ConsultationsSeeing a specialist consultant for diagnosis without being admitted to hospital.Your child has persistent knee pain after a football match. PMI covers the consultation with a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon.
Advanced DiagnosticsMRI, CT, and PET scans to investigate symptoms.Following the consultation for knee pain, the surgeon recommends an MRI scan to check for ligament damage. PMI covers the cost.
TherapiesA set number of sessions with a physiotherapist, osteopath, etc., following a specialist referral.After the knee injury, your child needs six sessions of physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility.

The New Frontier: Expanded Mental Health Cover for Minors

The most significant evolution in children's PMI is the enhanced focus on mental health. Insurers now recognise that early intervention is key and are providing more comprehensive support than ever before.

What Does Modern Mental Health Cover Include?

While cover varies between providers, many top-tier policies now include:

  1. Digital Support & Helplines: Immediate, 24/7 access to mental health nurses, counsellors, or AI-driven support tools via phone or app. This is a fantastic first port of call for worried parents or distressed teens.
  2. Talking Therapies: A specified number of sessions with a psychologist or counsellor. This often includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a highly effective treatment for anxiety and depression.
  3. Specialist Consultations: Access to child and adolescent psychiatrists for assessment and treatment planning, often much faster than via the NHS.
  4. In-patient & Day-patient Treatment: For more severe conditions that require intensive support in a hospital or clinic setting. This is typically a high-level benefit and may have annual limits.
  5. Parental Support: Some insurers offer dedicated support lines for parents, providing guidance on how to help their child through a difficult time.

A Look at How Providers Are Adapting

FeatureTraditional Approach (Pre-2020)Modern Approach (2025)
Access PointGP referral required.Direct access via digital GP, mental health helpline, or app.
Initial SupportLimited or non-existent.24/7 helplines, online resources, and digital self-help programmes.
Therapy SessionsLow limit (e.g., £500) or not covered at all.Generous limits for talking therapies (e.g., 8-10 sessions as standard, with options to extend).
Psychiatric CareOften excluded or heavily capped.Covered for assessment and planning, with some policies covering ongoing monitoring.
FocusReactive treatment for severe conditions.Proactive and preventative support, encouraging early intervention.

The All-Important Exclusions for Mental Health

It is vital to understand that even with these expanded benefits, significant exclusions remain. PMI is not designed to cover long-term, developmental, or learning-related conditions.

Common Mental and Developmental Health Exclusions:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and other learning difficulties
  • Behavioural problems (unless diagnosed as part of a covered mental health condition)

While the diagnosis process for these conditions may sometimes be covered (e.g., a consultation with a psychiatrist who then diagnoses ADHD), the long-term management, educational support, and therapies associated with them are not.

More Than Medicine: New Benefits for Physical Health and Wellbeing

The evolution of children's health insurance isn't just about mental health. Insurers are increasingly focused on a holistic, preventative approach to keep your family healthy.

  • Digital GP Services: This is a game-changer for parents. Instead of waiting for a surgery appointment, you can book a video consultation with a GP, often within hours. They can provide advice, issue prescriptions, and make a referral to a specialist if needed, all from the comfort of your home.
  • Wellness Programmes: Leading providers offer rewards and incentives for healthy living. This might include discounts on fitness trackers, sports gear, or even family activity days.
  • Nutrition Support: Access to registered nutritionists or dietitians can be invaluable for tackling issues like fussy eating or ensuring your child has a balanced diet for optimal growth and energy. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your family's health goals.
  • Second Opinion Services: If your child receives a worrying diagnosis, some policies provide access to a world-leading expert for a second opinion, giving you extra reassurance.

How to Use Your Child's Private Health Cover: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having a policy is one thing; knowing how to use it is another. Here is the typical customer journey:

  1. Identify the Problem: Your child shows symptoms of a new, acute condition (e.g., a persistent cough, a painful joint, or signs of anxiety).
  2. First Contact (The "Gateway"): Your first step is usually to see a GP. You can use your NHS GP or, more conveniently, the Digital GP service included with your PMI policy. This is crucial as most policies require a GP referral to authorise specialist treatment.
  3. Get a Referral: The GP assesses your child and, if necessary, provides an "open referral" to a type of specialist (e.g., a paediatric dermatologist).
  4. Contact Your Insurer: This is the most important step. Before you book any appointments, you must call your insurance provider. You will need to provide your policy details and the referral information.
  5. Receive Authorisation: The insurer will check your cover and provide you with an authorisation number for the consultation. They will also give you a list of approved specialists and hospitals in their network.
  6. Book the Appointment: You can now book the appointment with the authorised specialist.
  7. Treatment and Billing: If the specialist recommends a test or procedure, you must call your insurer again for authorisation. Once approved, the specialist's clinic or hospital will usually bill the insurer directly. You only have to pay the excess you agreed to when you took out the policy.

Understanding the Small Print: Costs, Limits, and Exclusions

To avoid surprises, you need to be clear on the financial aspects of your policy.

Key Financial Terms

  • Premium: The monthly or annual fee you pay for your health insurance.
  • Excess: A fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your child has a procedure costing £3,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750. A higher excess typically leads to a lower premium.
  • Out-patient Limit: Most policies have a limit on the amount you can claim for treatments that don't require a hospital bed (like consultations and diagnostic scans). This can range from £500 to unlimited, depending on your level of cover.

Cost of Adding a Child to Your Policy

Adding a child to a parent's policy is generally more cost-effective than buying a standalone policy for them. The cost varies by provider, age, and level of cover, but here are some common pricing structures:

  • Pay for the first child only: Some insurers offer free cover for any subsequent children after you add your first.
  • Discounted rates: Children's premiums are almost always lower than adult premiums.
  • Community pricing: Some providers use a flat rate for all children under a certain age (e.g., 20).

Working with an expert broker like WeCovr is the best way to compare these different pricing models and find the most affordable, comprehensive solution for your family. We can also help you find discounts if you purchase other types of cover, such as life insurance, at the same time.

Wellness Corner: Simple Steps to Support Your Child's Health

While insurance provides a crucial safety net, fostering a healthy lifestyle at home is the foundation of your child's wellbeing.

  • Fuel for Success: Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary drinks and processed foods. The CalorieHero app, free with your WeCovr policy, can make tracking nutrition a fun and educational family activity.
  • The Power of Sleep: A consistent sleep schedule is vital for physical and mental health. The NHS recommends 9-12 hours for children aged 6-12 and 8-10 hours for teenagers. Create a calming bedtime routine and ensure bedrooms are dark, quiet, and screen-free.
  • Move Every Day: Aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. This doesn't have to be organised sport; family walks, bike rides, or even a kitchen disco can contribute!
  • Open the Conversation: Create a home environment where your children feel safe to talk about their feelings without judgement. Ask open-ended questions like, "What was the best part of your day?" and "Was anything tricky today?". Normalising conversations about emotions is a powerful tool for building mental resilience.

WeCovr: Your Partner in Choosing the Right Family PMI

Navigating the private medical insurance market can be complex. With so many providers, cover levels, and underwriting options, it's hard to know if you're making the right choice. That's where we come in.

WeCovr is an FCA-authorised PMI broker with high customer satisfaction ratings and deep expertise in the UK market. We don't work for the insurers; we work for you. Our service is provided at no cost to you.

Our experts will:

  1. Listen to your needs: We take the time to understand your family's specific health concerns and budget.
  2. Compare the market: We analyse policies from all the leading UK providers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality.
  3. Explain the options: We demystify the jargon and clearly explain the differences in cover, especially around crucial areas like mental health and out-patient limits.
  4. Find the best value: We find the policy that offers the right protection for your family at the most competitive price.

Protecting your children's health is the best investment you can make. Let us help you do it right.

Is my child's ADHD or autism covered by private medical insurance?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover chronic or developmental conditions, and this almost always includes Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). While a private consultation with a specialist for an initial diagnosis might be covered under some comprehensive plans, the ongoing management, therapy, and educational support for these conditions are excluded.

Do I need a GP referral to use my child's PMI policy?

In most cases, yes. The vast majority of private medical insurance policies operate on a GP referral basis. This means you must see a GP first to get a referral to a specialist before the insurer will authorise treatment. However, many modern policies include a Digital GP service, allowing you to get this referral quickly and conveniently via a video call, often much faster than waiting for an NHS appointment. Some benefits, like access to mental health helplines, may not require a referral.

What is the difference between a chronic and an acute condition?

This is the most important distinction in private health insurance. An **acute condition** is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a bone fracture, tonsillitis, or a bacterial infection). PMI is designed to cover these. A **chronic condition** is one that has no known cure and requires long-term monitoring and management (e.g., asthma, diabetes, eczema, or high blood pressure). PMI does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Can I buy a private medical insurance policy just for my child?

Yes, it is possible to buy a child-only policy from some specialist insurers, but it is often more cost-effective to add a child to a parent's or guardian's policy. Many mainstream UK insurers offer discounts, "pay for the first child only" deals, and other incentives that make a family policy a more affordable option. An expert broker can help you compare the costs and benefits of both approaches.

Ready to find the right health protection for your family?

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the perfect private health cover for your children's needs.

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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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