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Chronic Kidney Disease Private Care Options

Chronic Kidney Disease Private Care Options 2026

As FCA-authorised private medical insurance brokers who have helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on navigating the UK healthcare landscape. This article explores private care options related to Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), explaining what the condition is and how private healthcare can offer support.

Understand chronic kidney disease, symptoms, and how private healthcare supports faster care

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant health concern in the UK, affecting millions of people. While the NHS provides excellent care for chronic conditions, waiting lists for diagnostics and specialist appointments can be a source of anxiety. This can lead many to wonder what role private healthcare can play.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about CKD, from its stages and symptoms to the realities of private medical insurance cover. Crucially, we will clarify the distinction between acute and chronic conditions and explain how, even though PMI doesn't cover CKD management, it can be an invaluable tool for faster diagnosis and peace of mind.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Chronic Kidney Disease is a long-term condition where your kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. Think of your kidneys as the body's sophisticated filtration system. Day in, day out, they work tirelessly to:

  • Filter waste products and excess fluid from your blood, which are then excreted as urine.
  • Regulate blood pressure by managing fluid levels and producing certain hormones.
  • Balance minerals in your body, such as sodium, potassium, and phosphate.
  • Produce hormones that help create red blood cells and keep your bones strong.

When someone has CKD, this filtration system becomes damaged and less efficient over months or years. According to Kidney Care UK, it's estimated that around 3.5 million people in the UK are living with CKD, with many more likely undiagnosed because the early stages often have no symptoms.

The two most common causes of CKD in the UK are high blood pressure and diabetes. When poorly controlled, both conditions can damage the delicate blood vessels within the kidneys.

The Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease Explained

Doctors classify CKD into five stages based on the estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). The eGFR is a measure of how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood, calculated from a simple blood test. A lower eGFR number indicates poorer kidney function.

Understanding these stages is key, as it helps doctors tailor treatment and advice.

StageeGFR (ml/min)Description
Stage 190 or moreNormal kidney function, but with other evidence of kidney damage (e.g., protein in urine). Often no symptoms.
Stage 260-89Mildly reduced kidney function, with other evidence of kidney damage. Usually no symptoms.
Stage 3a45-59Mild to moderately reduced kidney function. Symptoms may start to appear, such as mild fatigue.
Stage 3b30-44Moderately to severely reduced kidney function. Symptoms like fatigue and fluid retention become more common.
Stage 415-29Severely reduced kidney function. Preparation for dialysis or a transplant may begin.
Stage 5Less than 15Kidney failure (also known as end-stage renal disease). Dialysis or a transplant is needed to live.

It is important to remember that progression through these stages is not inevitable. With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and proper management, many people can slow down the decline in kidney function and live well for many years.

Common Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease

One of the most challenging aspects of CKD is that it's often a "silent" disease in its early stages (1 and 2). Symptoms typically only become noticeable once the kidney function has declined significantly, usually around Stage 3 or 4.

When symptoms do appear, they can be non-specific and easily mistaken for other conditions. They include:

  • Persistent tiredness and a general lack of energy.
  • Swollen ankles, feet, or hands due to fluid retention (oedema).
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Feeling sick (nausea) or loss of appetite.
  • Blood in your urine (haematuria).
  • Needing to urinate more often, especially at night.
  • Itchy skin.
  • Muscle cramps.

If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it is vital to see your GP. They can arrange for simple blood and urine tests to check your kidney health.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions in Private Medical Insurance

This is the single most important concept to understand when considering private healthcare for any long-term condition. UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover acute conditions, not chronic ones.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and from which you are expected to make a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it requires long-term monitoring, needs ongoing management of symptoms, has no known cure, or is likely to recur.

Chronic Kidney Disease is, by its very definition, a chronic condition.

Therefore, standard private medical insurance in the UK will not cover the ongoing management of CKD. This includes routine consultant appointments, monitoring, medication, dialysis, or kidney transplants related to established CKD. These treatments are comprehensively managed by the NHS, which is expertly equipped for long-term care.

So, if PMI doesn't cover CKD itself, how can it possibly help? The answer lies in its ability to provide speed, choice, and peace of mind in other crucial areas of your health journey.

Even though your policy will not cover the chronic condition itself, private health cover can be an incredibly powerful tool for those worried about their kidney health or for those already diagnosed with early-stage CKD. Here’s how:

1. A Faster Route to Diagnosis

Imagine you develop new, worrying symptoms like back pain or blood in your urine. While your GP will be your first port of call, the NHS waiting list to see a specialist (a nephrologist or urologist) can sometimes be lengthy.

With a good PMI policy, your GP can provide an open referral to the private sector. This means you could:

  • See a leading consultant specialist in days or a few weeks, rather than months.
  • Get a definitive diagnosis much faster, which either provides reassurance or allows a treatment plan to be put in place sooner.

Example: David, 52, notices some swelling in his ankles. His GP is concerned it could be an early sign of a kidney, heart, or liver issue. With his private health insurance, David gets a private appointment with a nephrologist the following week. After tests, he is thankfully given the all-clear, avoiding months of worry while waiting for an NHS appointment.

2. Rapid Access to Advanced Diagnostics

Private medical insurance excels at providing quick access to diagnostic scans and tests. If a specialist wants to investigate your kidneys further, your policy could cover:

  • Ultrasound scans
  • CT scans
  • MRI scans

Receiving these scans privately means you can often have them within a week, getting crucial information to your specialist without delay. This is invaluable for ruling out other potential causes for your symptoms, such as kidney stones, cysts, or tumours, which may be covered as acute conditions.

3. Treatment for New, Unrelated Acute Conditions

Having CKD does not stop you from developing other health problems. This is where PMI provides its core benefit. If you develop a new, eligible acute condition after your policy starts—one that is not related to your pre-existing CKD—your private health cover will kick in.

This could include anything from a hernia repair and joint replacement to treatment for cancer (depending on your policy level). It ensures that other aspects of your health can be dealt with swiftly, allowing you and your NHS doctors to focus on managing your kidney health.

4. Comprehensive Wellness and Support Services

Modern PMI policies are about more than just hospital treatment. They often include a wealth of resources to support your overall wellbeing, which is vital when managing a chronic condition. These can include:

  • 24/7 Virtual GP Services: Get medical advice quickly from the comfort of your home without needing to wait for a GP appointment.
  • Mental Health Support: A chronic diagnosis can take a toll on your mental health. Many policies offer access to counselling or therapy.
  • Nutritional Advice: Some insurers provide access to dietitians who can help you make lifestyle changes to support your health.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you find a policy that includes these valuable day-to-day benefits.

When you apply for private medical insurance, you must go through an underwriting process. This is how the insurer assesses your medical history to determine what they will and will not cover.

Moratorium Underwriting

This is the most common type. The insurer will automatically exclude any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before your policy starts. For CKD, which is permanent, this means it will always be excluded. An advantage is that you don't need to fill out a long medical questionnaire at the start.

Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

With FMU, you provide your complete medical history on the application form. The insurer's underwriting team will review it and then issue a policy that clearly states any specific exclusions. If you declare CKD, the insurer will place a permanent exclusion on the condition and any related complications. The benefit of FMU is clarity from day one—you know exactly what is and isn't covered.

Honesty is non-negotiable. You must declare any known conditions or symptoms during your application. Failing to do so can lead to your policy being cancelled and claims being rejected.

Lifestyle and Wellness Support for Kidney Health

Managing kidney health, whether to prevent CKD or slow its progression, heavily involves lifestyle choices. A good private medical insurance plan can support you, but daily habits are your first line of defence.

Diet and Nutrition

A kidney-friendly diet is crucial. The key is often to limit:

  • Salt (Sodium): Too much salt raises blood pressure, which is harmful to kidneys. Aim for less than 6g per day.
  • Potassium and Phosphate: In later-stage CKD, the kidneys struggle to filter these minerals, which can build up to dangerous levels. They are found in many fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. A specialist renal dietitian can provide tailored advice.
  • Protein: While essential, excessive protein can strain the kidneys.

To help manage your diet, WeCovr provides customers with complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrient tracking app, CalorieHero. It can be a fantastic tool for monitoring your intake of salt, protein, and other key nutrients under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Blood Pressure and Diabetes Control

As the leading causes of CKD, managing high blood pressure and diabetes is paramount.

  • Regularly monitor your blood pressure at home.
  • Take all prescribed medications as directed.
  • Follow your diabetes care plan meticulously, including monitoring blood sugar levels.

Other Important Lifestyle Factors

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, unless your doctor has advised you to restrict your fluid intake (common in later stages).
  • Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, each week.
  • Stop Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the kidneys.
  • Limit Alcohol: Keep alcohol consumption within recommended limits.

Comparing Private Medical Insurance Providers in the UK

Several major providers offer excellent private medical insurance in the UK. While all will exclude chronic CKD, their approaches to diagnostics, wellness benefits, and digital health tools can vary.

ProviderKey Strengths / Features to Consider
BupaExtensive network of hospitals and specialists. Strong focus on comprehensive cancer cover and mental health support. Well-regarded digital GP service.
AXA HealthKnown for its 'Fast Track Appointments' service and strong emphasis on member wellbeing through its 'ActivePlus' programme. Flexible policy options.
AvivaOffers a wide range of policy levels, including a "guided" option (the 'Expert Select' hospital list) which can reduce premiums. Good digital tools via the Aviva DigiCare+ app.
VitalityUnique approach that rewards healthy living. Members can earn discounts and rewards for being active, which can be highly motivating for those managing their overall health.

Choosing the best PMI provider depends entirely on your personal circumstances, budget, and what you value most in a policy. This is where an independent broker adds immense value.

The Role of an Expert PMI Broker like WeCovr

Trying to compare the private medical insurance market alone can be overwhelming. Policies are complex, and the small print matters. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr simplifies the entire process.

  • Independent, Expert Advice: As an FCA-authorised broker, our primary duty is to you, the client. We provide impartial advice based on your specific needs.
  • Access to the Whole Market: We compare plans from all the leading UK insurers to find the right fit for you.
  • No Cost to You: Our brokerage service is completely free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without any extra fees.
  • Personalised Service: We take the time to understand your health concerns and budget to recommend a policy that provides genuine value and peace of mind. We have high customer satisfaction ratings, reflecting our commitment to our clients.
  • Extra Benefits: When you arrange PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr, you can also benefit from discounts on other types of cover you may need.

Take Control of Your Health Journey Today

While a diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease means relying on the excellent long-term care of the NHS, it doesn't mean private healthcare has no role to play.

A private medical insurance policy acts as your health safety net. It empowers you with rapid access to specialists and diagnostics for any new and unexpected health worries, ensuring you get answers and treatment for acute conditions without delay. This allows you to focus on what matters most: managing your wellbeing and living life to the fullest.

Can I get private medical insurance if I already have chronic kidney disease?

Yes, you can absolutely get private medical insurance if you have CKD. However, the policy will exclude Chronic Kidney Disease as it is a pre-existing chronic condition. Your cover will be for new, eligible acute conditions that arise after your policy begins, giving you fast access to diagnosis and treatment for unrelated health issues.

Will private health insurance cover kidney dialysis or a transplant?

No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover treatments for chronic kidney failure, such as dialysis or organ transplants. These are considered management of a chronic condition and are provided comprehensively by the NHS, which is the national centre of excellence for this type of long-term, complex care.

How can PMI help if it doesn't cover my CKD?

Private medical insurance (PMI) provides significant value by offering rapid access to specialists and diagnostic tests for any new symptoms you may develop. This allows for the quick diagnosis or exclusion of other potential health problems. Furthermore, it provides full cover for new and unrelated acute conditions, from joint replacements to hernia repairs, ensuring other aspects of your health are managed swiftly without long waiting times.

Is it worth declaring my kidney condition when applying for PMI?

Yes, it is absolutely essential. You must declare all pre-existing conditions, including Chronic Kidney Disease, during your application. Full transparency ensures your policy is valid. Failing to disclose a known condition can be considered fraud and will likely result in your insurer rejecting future claims and potentially voiding your policy entirely.

Ready to explore your options and gain the peace of mind that comes with private health cover? Get a free, no-obligation quote from the experts at WeCovr today and let us help you find the perfect policy for your 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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