Login

Comparing UK PMI Providers Why WeCovr Leads on Price and Service

Comparing UK PMI Providers Why WeCovr Leads on Price and...

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies arranged, WeCovr helps you navigate the UK’s private medical insurance market. This guide compares leading PMI providers, revealing how to secure superior service and coverage at a lower price, ensuring you make the best choice for your health.

See how WeCovr outperforms other UK PMI providers with superior service, lower premiums, and wider coverage

Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel like a daunting task. With dozens of providers, hundreds of policy options, and confusing terminology, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, making an informed decision is crucial for your peace of mind and your health.

This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify the process. We will break down the key factors to consider—price, service, and coverage—and show you how working with an expert broker can unlock benefits you simply won't find by going direct to an insurer.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance in the UK

Before we compare providers, let's establish what private medical insurance is and, just as importantly, what it isn't.

PMI is an insurance policy that covers the costs of private healthcare for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or treatment for hernias.

Its primary purpose is to help you bypass long NHS waiting lists and gain quicker access to specialists, diagnostic tests, and eligible treatments in a private hospital setting.

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic and Pre-existing Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about standard UK private health cover:

PMI does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date.
  • Chronic Conditions: A condition that is long-lasting and cannot be fully cured. It can be managed with treatment and monitoring but continues indefinitely. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

PMI is designed for unforeseen health issues, complementing the fantastic emergency and chronic care provided by our National Health Service (NHS).

Why Are More People Considering PMI in 2025?

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is currently facing unprecedented pressure. According to the latest NHS England data, the waiting list for consultant-led elective care remains exceptionally high, with millions of treatments pending. For many, waiting months or even years for a procedure can mean prolonged pain, anxiety, and a reduced quality of life.

This is where private medical insurance UK steps in. It offers a parallel path, providing:

  • Speed: Prompt access to consultants and diagnostic scans (MRI, CT).
  • Choice: Greater control over where and when you are treated, and often by which specialist.
  • Comfort: The privacy and comfort of a private room in a private hospital.
  • Access to Treatments: Some policies offer access to drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS.

The Core Pillars of a Great PMI Policy: Price, Service, and Coverage

When comparing providers, your decision should rest on a careful balance of three pillars:

  1. Price (Premium): The monthly or annual cost of your policy.
  2. Service: How the insurer and your broker support you, from initial setup to making a claim.
  3. Coverage: What treatments, hospitals, and conditions are included in your policy.

The cheapest policy is rarely the best. It might have a restrictive hospital list, a high excess, or poor service when you need it most. Conversely, the most expensive plan might include benefits you'll never use. The goal is to find the sweet spot: comprehensive coverage and excellent service at a competitive price.

Comparing PMI Premiums: How WeCovr Secures Lower Costs

Private health cover premiums are not one-size-fits-all. They are influenced by a range of factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Costs are higher in areas with more expensive private hospitals, like Central London.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers pay significantly more due to higher health risks.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive policy with full outpatient cover will cost more than a basic plan.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will lower your premium.
  • Underwriting: The method the insurer uses to assess your medical history.

The Broker Advantage: Unlocking a Better Deal

You could spend days calling individual insurers for quotes. Or you could make one call to an independent broker. A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr works on your behalf, at no cost to you.

Because we are independent, our loyalty is to you, not to any single insurance company. We use our expertise and market knowledge to:

  1. Scan the Entire Market: We compare policies from all major UK insurers and smaller, specialist ones you may not have heard of.
  2. Negotiate Better Terms: We have established relationships with insurers, allowing us to access preferential rates and tailored deals.
  3. Provide Impartial Advice: We help you understand the small print and choose the policy that truly matches your needs and budget.

The table below gives an illustrative example of how premiums can vary.

Provider / MethodEstimated Monthly Premium (40-year-old, non-smoker, mid-level cover)Key Notes
Insurer A (Direct)£75Standard policy with a £250 excess and limited outpatient cover.
Insurer B (Direct)£90Comprehensive policy with full outpatient cover and a wide hospital list.
Via WeCovr£65 - £85We find the best-value option from across the market, often securing a policy similar to Insurer B's for a price closer to Insurer A's.

Note: These are illustrative estimates. Your actual premium will depend on your personal circumstances.

Furthermore, when you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, you can often benefit from exclusive discounts on other types of insurance cover, providing even greater value.

Service Beyond the Sale: The WeCovr Difference

When you're unwell and facing the stress of a diagnosis, the last thing you need is a difficult claims process or an unhelpful call centre. Excellent service is non-negotiable.

What Defines Great Service in PMI?

  • A Simple Claims Process: A clear, straightforward way to get your treatment authorised. Many top insurers now offer digital claims portals and dedicated phone lines.
  • Expert Human Support: The ability to speak to a knowledgeable person who can guide you through your options and help you find a specialist.
  • Advocacy: A team that will fight your corner if there's a dispute with the insurer about a claim.
  • Proactive Wellness Support: Resources and tools that help you stay healthy in the first place.

This is where using a dedicated PMI broker shines. When you buy a policy through WeCovr, our service doesn't stop once the paperwork is signed. We are your long-term partner. If you need to make a claim, you can call us. We will help you navigate the process, liaise with the insurer, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Our consistently high customer satisfaction ratings reflect this commitment to being your advocate.

Added Value: The WeCovr Wellness Programme

We believe in proactive health management, not just reactive treatment. That's why all our clients gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This tool helps you make informed decisions about your diet, empowering you to build healthy habits that can reduce your long-term health risks.

Decoding Coverage: Getting More with the Right Policy

The "coverage" is the engine of your policy—it determines what you are actually protected for. Policies are generally split into a core module with optional add-ons.

Core Inpatient & Day-patient Cover: This is the foundation of every PMI policy. It covers tests and treatment when you are admitted to a hospital bed, even if just for a day.

Optional Extras:

  1. Outpatient Cover: This is arguably the most important add-on. It covers costs incurred before you are admitted to hospital, such as:

    • Specialist consultations.
    • Diagnostic tests and scans (MRI, CT, PET).
    • This is crucial for getting a quick diagnosis. Policies can offer anything from a few hundred pounds of cover to full, unlimited cover.
  2. Therapies Cover: Pays for treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.

  3. Mental Health Cover: Support for mental health is an increasingly vital part of modern private health cover. Coverage can range from limited outpatient therapy sessions to comprehensive inpatient care for psychiatric conditions.

  4. Dental & Optical Cover: Usually offered as a cash-back benefit for routine check-ups and treatments.

How a Broker Widens Your Coverage

Different insurers excel in different areas. For example, one provider might have the UK's leading cancer care pathway, while another offers superior mental health support.

By going direct, you are locked into that single provider's strengths and weaknesses. As your broker, WeCovr can analyse your specific priorities and find the insurer whose policy best aligns with them, ensuring your money is spent on the coverage that matters most to you.

FeatureA Standard Direct PolicyA Policy Tailored by WeCovr
Cancer CoverCovers standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy.Accesses insurers with advanced cancer cover, including support for experimental drugs and extensive aftercare.
Mental HealthCapped at £1,000 for outpatient therapy. No inpatient cover.Finds providers offering comprehensive outpatient and inpatient mental health support, tailored to your needs.
Hospital ListA limited list that excludes central city hospitals to keep costs down.A choice of lists to balance cost and access, ensuring you can be treated at a convenient, high-quality facility.
Outpatient LimitFixed at £500, which may not cover a single MRI scan.An optimised limit (e.g., £1,500 or 'Full Cover') that provides genuine peace of mind for diagnostics.

Beyond Insurance: A Proactive Approach to Your Health

While private medical insurance is an excellent safety net, the best strategy is always prevention. A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing many of the acute conditions PMI is designed to treat.

Here are some actionable tips, aligned with UK health guidelines:

  • Nourish Your Body: Aim for a balanced diet as outlined in the NHS Eatwell Guide. Prioritise whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Use WeCovr's complimentary CalorieHero app to track your intake and make healthier choices.
  • Stay Active: The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) per week. Strength-building activities on two days a week are also crucial.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a routine, create a restful environment, and avoid screens before bed to improve your sleep hygiene.
  • Mind Your Mental Health: Chronic stress can impact physical health. Practice mindfulness, stay connected with loved ones, and spend time in nature. Don't be afraid to seek support when you need it.

Who are the Main UK PMI Providers?

The UK market is dominated by a few key players, each with its own unique selling points. As a leading PMI broker, we work with all of them to find the perfect fit for our clients. The main providers include:

  • Bupa: One of the oldest and most recognised names in UK health insurance.
  • AXA Health: Known for its comprehensive cover and strong clinical support.
  • Aviva: A major UK insurer offering a wide range of flexible PMI products.
  • Vitality: Unique for its focus on rewarding healthy living with discounts and benefits.
  • WPA: A not-for-profit provider known for its excellent customer service.

By using WeCovr, you gain an expert overview of what each of these providers can offer, ensuring you don't miss out on the best policy for you.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get private health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or long-term chronic illnesses like diabetes or asthma. However, if you remain symptom-free and have not needed treatment or advice for that condition for a set period (usually two years) after taking out a 'Moratorium' policy, it may become eligible for cover in the future.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are the two main ways insurers assess your medical history.
  • Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common and quickest method. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a general exclusion for any condition you've had in the last five years. If you go two continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may then become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a full medical history via a detailed questionnaire. The insurer then assesses this and states clearly from the start what will and will not be covered. This provides certainty but can take longer to set up.

Is it better to go directly to an insurer or use a broker like WeCovr?

While you can go direct, using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr has significant advantages at no extra cost to you. A broker compares the entire market to find the best value, provides impartial advice tailored to your needs, and can often access preferential rates. Crucially, a good broker also acts as your advocate, providing support if you ever need to make a claim.

Does PMI cover dental and optical care?

Core private medical insurance policies do not typically cover routine dental check-ups, fillings, or eye tests. However, many insurers offer an optional add-on that provides a cash-back benefit towards these costs. Surgical procedures, such as the removal of wisdom teeth, may be covered under your core policy if performed in a hospital as a day-patient or inpatient.

Take the Next Step to Better Health Protection

Navigating the world of private medical insurance doesn't have to be complicated. With the right expert guidance, you can secure a policy that gives you fast access to high-quality care, complete peace of mind, and outstanding value.

Ready to see your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our friendly, expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find you the best private health cover at a price that fits your budget.


Related guides


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.