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Complementary Therapies in Private Health Insurance

Complementary Therapies in Private Health Insurance 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the nuances of private medical insurance in the UK. This guide explores how PMI handles complementary therapies, an area of growing interest for many seeking comprehensive health cover and faster access to treatment.

How PMI handles osteopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic and more

Private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover the cost of treating acute medical conditions, offering prompt access to specialists and high-quality care. While traditionally focused on surgery and consultations, most modern PMI policies now recognise the value of certain complementary therapies.

However, this recognition comes with important conditions. Cover for treatments like osteopathy, chiropractic, and acupuncture is rarely offered for general well-being or 'maintenance'. Instead, it is provided when these therapies form part of a medically necessary treatment plan for a specific, diagnosed acute condition.

In almost all cases, you will need:

  1. A GP referral to confirm the medical need.
  2. Pre-authorisation from your insurer before starting treatment.
  3. To use a practitioner who is recognised and approved by your insurer.

Coverage is typically subject to limits, either a set number of sessions or an annual financial cap, and is usually found on mid-to-upper-tier policies or as an optional add-on.

Understanding the Core Principles of PMI Coverage

Before diving into specific therapies, it's vital to grasp the fundamental rule of UK private health insurance: it is for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

Acute vs. Chronic Conditions: The Deciding Factor

This distinction is the most critical concept in PMI.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a sprained ankle, a joint dislocation, acute back pain from an injury, or a curable infection. PMI is designed for these situations.

  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and requires ongoing management. Examples include arthritis, diabetes, asthma, and long-term, persistent back pain with no clear resolution. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover the treatment of chronic conditions.

If you seek chiropractic treatment for a new, sudden back injury, your PMI may cover it. If you seek the same treatment for long-term, degenerative arthritis in your spine, it will be declined as a chronic condition.

The Hurdle of Pre-existing Conditions

Similarly, any medical condition you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy started is a pre-existing condition. These are also excluded from cover, typically for the first two years of your policy under a 'moratorium' underwriting plan.

Which Complementary Therapies Are Commonly Covered?

While policies vary, a core group of therapies are now widely accepted by UK insurers, provided they are used to treat an acute condition. These are often grouped under a "therapies" or "outpatient" benefit.

Physiotherapy: The Cornerstone of Recovery

Though often seen as mainstream, physiotherapy is the most commonly included therapy in PMI plans. It uses movement, exercise, and manual therapy to help you recover from injury, illness, or disability.

  • When is it covered? Almost always for post-operative rehabilitation or to treat musculoskeletal injuries like sports injuries, whiplash, or acute back pain.
  • Is it standard? Many entry-level plans include a limited number of sessions. More comprehensive plans offer more extensive cover, sometimes without a GP referral for certain conditions (a feature known as "self-referral").
  • Typical Limits: Can range from 4-6 sessions on a basic plan to a financial limit of £500 - £1,500 on a comprehensive one.

Osteopathy: Aligning Your Body

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment that focuses on the structural integrity of the body, particularly the musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, and joints).

  • What is it? Osteopaths use a range of techniques including massage, stretching, and mobilisation to improve function and relieve pain.
  • When does PMI cover it? For specific, diagnosed musculoskeletal problems such as acute lower back pain, non-chronic neck pain, or joint pain following an injury. It is not covered for general 'MOT' style check-ups.
  • Practitioner Requirements: The osteopath must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).

Chiropractic Care: Focusing on the Spine

Chiropractic care centres on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Chiropractors make specific adjustments to the spine to correct alignment issues and improve function.

  • What is it? A hands-on therapy aimed at treating problems with the joints, bones, and muscles, and the effects they have on the nervous system.
  • When does PMI cover it? Similar to osteopathy, it's covered for acute conditions like sudden back pain, neck pain, or certain types of headaches originating from neck issues.
  • Practitioner Requirements: The chiropractor must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

Acupuncture: The Art of Needling

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. In the context of PMI, it is accepted for its proven benefits in pain management.

  • What is it? A treatment used to relieve symptoms of some physical and mental conditions, most notably pain.
  • When does PMI cover it? When recommended by a specialist for pain relief, often for conditions like chronic tension-type headaches, migraines, or joint and muscle pain where other treatments have been insufficient. Insurers will often follow guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
  • Practitioner Requirements: Insurers usually require the practitioner to be a member of a recognised body, such as the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC).

Other Therapies: Podiatry, Dietetics, and More

Some higher-tier policies may extend cover to other specialist therapies:

  • Podiatry (or Chiropody): Treatment for foot and lower limb conditions. Cover is usually for surgical procedures rather than routine care like nail cutting.
  • Dietetics: Consultations with a registered dietitian, but only when it's integral to treating a diagnosed condition (e.g., coeliac disease) and referred by a specialist.
  • Speech Therapy: Often included for children, or for adults following a stroke or other specific medical event.

How to Access Complementary Therapies Through Your PMI: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating your policy to get the treatment you need can seem daunting, but it follows a clear path.

  1. Visit Your GP: Your journey almost always starts here. Your GP will assess your condition. If they believe you have an acute medical issue that could benefit from a therapy like osteopathy, they will provide a referral letter. This is the crucial evidence your insurer needs.

  2. Contact Your Insurer for Pre-authorisation: Do not book any treatment yet. Call your insurer's claims line, explain your situation, and provide your GP referral details. They will check your policy to confirm you have cover for the condition and the recommended therapy.

  3. Receive Authorisation: If the claim is approved, the insurer will give you an authorisation number. They will also confirm your cover limits (e.g., "we've authorised up to 8 sessions of physiotherapy") and any excess you need to pay.

  4. Find a Recognised Practitioner: Your insurer will have a network of approved therapists. They may provide you with a list or an online directory. It is essential to use a therapist from this network to ensure the costs are covered. Using a non-recognised practitioner means you will likely have to pay for the treatment yourself.

  5. Attend Your Sessions: Provide your authorisation number to the therapist. In many cases, the therapist will bill the insurer directly. If not, you will need to pay upfront and claim the costs back by submitting receipts to your insurer.

Comparing UK Insurers: Who Covers What?

Cover for complementary therapies varies significantly between providers and policy levels. The table below provides a general overview, but you must always check the specific policy details before purchasing.

InsurerTherapies Coverage (General Guide)Typical Limits & ConditionsKey Features
AXA HealthComprehensive cover for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic is widely available on most plans. Acupuncture is often included.Limits are usually financial (e.g., £500 - £1,500 per year). GP referral required. Strong focus on using their approved network.Excellent digital tools, including a 24/7 online GP service. Known for extensive hospital lists and specialist networks.
AvivaMost plans offer a therapies option covering physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic. Acupuncture may require a higher-tier plan.A mix of session limits and financial caps. Their "Expert Select" model guides you to specific specialists.Strong customer service reputation. Offers a 'no-claim discount' protector. The Aviva Digital GP app is highly rated.
BupaTherapies are a core part of their offering. Physiotherapy is often available with self-referral for certain muscle, bone, and joint issues.Limits can be per condition or per policy year. They have a vast network of Bupa-recognised therapists.A major, trusted brand with its own network of facilities. Offers a range of wellness services and support lines.
VitalityStrong focus on therapies as part of a proactive health approach. Physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic are widely available.Offers an initial block of sessions, with more available based on clinical need. Often encourages use of their partner networks.Unique model that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks. Their approach is heavily geared towards prevention and wellness.

Important Note: This table is for illustrative purposes. The private medical insurance UK market is complex. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can navigate these differences for you, comparing policies from across the market to find cover that truly matches your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

Are There Therapies That Are Never Covered?

Yes. Insurers draw a line between evidence-based complementary medicine and what they classify as 'alternative' or 'holistic' therapies. As a rule, treatments that lack robust clinical evidence or are seen as being for general relaxation or well-being are not covered.

These typically include:

  • Reflexology
  • Aromatherapy
  • Reiki
  • Homeopathy
  • Indian Head Massage
  • Hypnotherapy (except in very rare, specific circumstances for phobia treatment, for example)

The reason for their exclusion is that PMI is designed to fund treatments for diagnosed medical conditions, not for preventative care or relaxation, which fall outside the scope of insurance.

The Financial Side: Understanding Limits and Excess

When your policy does include therapies, you need to be aware of two key financial elements:

1. Cover Limits Your policy will cap the amount of therapy you can receive in a policy year. This is done in one of two ways:

  • Session Limit: You are entitled to a fixed number of sessions, for example, 'up to 8 sessions of osteopathy per policy year'.
  • Financial Limit: You are covered up to a certain monetary value, for example, 'up to £1,000 for all therapies per policy year'. Once you hit this limit, you must self-fund any further treatment.

2. Policy Excess An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your claims each year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your approved physiotherapy claim is £400, you would pay the first £250 and your insurer would pay the remaining £150. Once your excess is paid for the year, the insurer will cover 100% of any further approved claims, up to your policy limits.

Beyond Treatment: Wellness Benefits and PMI

The best private medical insurance providers are increasingly looking beyond just treating sickness. They are embracing a more holistic view of health, encouraging members to stay well in the first place.

Providers like Vitality have pioneered this, rewarding members for tracking their activity, eating well, and having regular health checks. This shift acknowledges that prevention is better than cure. Simple lifestyle habits can have a profound impact on your long-term health and reduce your need to claim.

  • Diet: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of many chronic diseases. According to the NHS, eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health.
  • Activity: The NHS recommends adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This can significantly reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and can lower your risk of early death by up to 30%.
  • Sleep: Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night is crucial for physical recovery, mental health, and immune function.

At WeCovr, we support this proactive approach. That’s why our clients who take out private medical or life insurance with us gain complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It’s a simple tool to help you make informed choices about your diet and support your long-term health goals. Furthermore, PMI clients can often receive discounts on other types of cover, such as life or home insurance.

Choosing the Right Policy with WeCovr

The world of private health cover can be a labyrinth of different tiers, add-ons, underwriting options, and hospital lists. Trying to compare them yourself is time-consuming and you risk choosing a policy that doesn’t provide the cover you thought it did.

This is where an independent PMI broker adds immense value. As an FCA-authorised firm with high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr acts as your expert guide. We take the time to understand your priorities—whether that's comprehensive therapy cover, access to a specific hospital, or simply the best value for your budget.

Our service is free to you. We do the research, compare the market, and present you with clear, jargon-free options, empowering you to make a confident choice.


Do I need a GP referral for osteopathy or chiropractic treatment on my PMI?

Yes, in almost all cases. Private medical insurance requires a formal GP referral to confirm that you have a diagnosable acute medical condition that requires the therapy. This referral acts as the medical justification for your claim. Some policies may offer limited self-referral for physiotherapy, but for other therapies, a GP referral is standard practice.

Will my private health insurance cover acupuncture for stress?

It is very unlikely to be covered for 'stress' as a standalone condition. Insurers provide cover for specific, diagnosed medical problems. However, if you are suffering from a physical condition for which acupuncture is a clinically-recognised treatment (such as chronic tension headaches or certain types of muscular pain), then it may be covered, even if stress is a contributing factor to that physical symptom.

Are pre-existing conditions like long-term back pain covered for complementary therapies?

No. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. Chronic conditions (long-term, with no cure) and pre-existing conditions (anything you had symptoms of or treatment for before joining) are fundamental exclusions from cover. This applies to all types of treatment, including complementary therapies.

Ready to find a private health insurance policy that includes the therapies you need? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the perfect cover for you.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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