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Cost of Private Health Insurance for Over 70s UK

Cost of Private Health Insurance for Over 70s UK 2025

WeCovr's guide to PMI options and costs for people in their 70s

Welcome to the definitive WeCovr guide on private medical insurance (PMI) for over 70s in the UK. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies of various kinds, we understand that navigating your healthcare options later in life can feel daunting. This article will provide the clarity you need.

Navigating your health in your 70s is about living well and having peace of mind. While the NHS provides an essential service to us all, many people in their eighth decade and beyond consider private health cover to gain faster access to treatment and more control over their medical care.

But what does it cost? And is it worth it? Let’s explore the world of private medical insurance for the over-70s, breaking down the costs, benefits, and crucial details you need to know to make an informed decision.

Why Consider Private Medical Insurance in Your 70s?

The NHS is a national treasure, but it's facing unprecedented pressure. For many, the primary motivation for considering private healthcare is the length of NHS waiting lists.

According to NHS England data, the waiting list for routine hospital treatment stood at around 7.5 million cases in early 2024. For an older person facing a condition that affects their quality of life, such as the need for a hip replacement or cataract surgery, waiting months or even over a year can be debilitating.

Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. Think of it as a key to unlock faster, more flexible healthcare when you need it for specific, treatable conditions.

Key Benefits of PMI for Over 70s:

  • Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment: This is the number one reason people buy PMI. You can often see a specialist within days and begin treatment within weeks, bypassing lengthy NHS queues.
  • Choice and Control: You can choose your specialist and the hospital where you're treated. This allows you to select leading consultants and facilities known for their expertise in your condition.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Treatment in a private hospital typically means a private, en-suite room with more flexible visiting hours, a better menu, and a quieter environment to recover in.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs and Therapies: Some advanced cancer drugs or treatments that are not yet approved for widespread use on the NHS may be available privately through your insurance.

PMI isn't just about convenience; for many in their 70s, it’s about maintaining independence, reducing worry for their families, and getting back to enjoying life as quickly as possible.

The Big Question: What Does Private Health Insurance Cost for Over 70s?

Let's be direct: private health cover costs more as you get older. Insurers base premiums on risk, and statistically, the likelihood of needing medical treatment increases with age. However, the cost can be managed and is often more affordable than people think.

The final price of your policy depends on a wide range of factors. Below is a table providing some estimated monthly premiums for individuals in their 70s.

Estimated Monthly PMI Costs for Over 70s (2025)

Age BracketBasic Cover (Essential)Mid-Range Cover (Standard)Comprehensive Cover (Full)
70-74£120 – £190£180 – £280£250 – £400+
75-79£150 – £230£220 – £350£300 – £500+
80+£190 – £300+£280 – £450+£400 – £650+

Disclaimer: These figures are illustrative estimates. Your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances, chosen insurer, and policy options. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote.

Key Factors That Influence Your Premium

  1. Your Age: This is the most significant factor. Premiums are calculated year-on-year and will increase as you get older.
  2. Your Location: Premiums are typically higher in London and the South East due to the higher cost of private medical care in those areas.
  3. Level of Cover:
    • Basic: Usually covers only inpatient and day-patient treatment (when you need a hospital bed).
    • Mid-Range: Includes inpatient care plus a set limit for outpatient services like specialist consultations and diagnostic scans.
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive cover for inpatient and outpatient care, often with higher financial limits and additional therapies.
  4. Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250, and the insurer pays the rest. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  5. Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A policy that only covers local hospitals or a specific network will be cheaper than one that gives you access to every private hospital in the UK, including the top-tier London clinics.
  6. Underwriting Type: The way an insurer assesses your medical history affects your cover and sometimes your price. We'll cover this in detail next.
  7. Your Lifestyle: Some insurers may ask about your smoker status, and while BMI is less of a direct rating factor for PMI, your general health is relevant.

What's Covered (and What's Not)? The Golden Rule of PMI

This is the most important section to understand. UK private medical insurance is designed for a specific purpose:

PMI covers acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repairs, and most forms of cancer treatment.

What does this mean in practice? Let's break it down.

What is Typically COVERED by PMI?What is Typically NOT COVERED by PMI?
Inpatient & Day-Patient Treatment: Surgery and procedures requiring a hospital bed.Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical issue you had symptoms, advice, or treatment for before joining.
Cancer Care: Diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are core to most policies.Chronic Conditions: Long-term, manageable illnesses like diabetes, asthma, arthritis, or high blood pressure.
Diagnostic Scans: MRI, CT, and PET scans as part of diagnosing a covered condition.Emergency Services: A&E visits are handled by the NHS.
Specialist Consultations: Seeing a consultant before or after treatment.Routine GP Visits: You continue to use your regular NHS GP.
Mental Health Support: Many policies now offer some cover for acute mental health needs.Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
Therapies: Physiotherapy or osteopathy, often as an add-on or with a limit.Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Complications may be covered, but routine maternity is not.

The NHS remains your partner for GP appointments, A&E emergencies, and the management of any long-term chronic conditions. PMI is the specialist tool you use for new, curable health problems.

Decoding Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting

When you apply for a policy, the insurer needs to know about your medical history to determine what they will and won't cover. This is called underwriting. For over 70s, there are two main types.

1. Moratorium Underwriting (Mori)

This is the most common and straightforward method.

  • How it works: You don't need to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, medication, or advice for in the five years before your policy start date.
  • The "rolling" part: This exclusion can be lifted. If you go for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that specific condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Pros: Quick and easy to set up. No lengthy forms.
  • Cons: There can be uncertainty. A claim might be delayed while the insurer investigates whether your condition is new or pre-existing.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

This method involves a more detailed application process.

  • How it works: You complete a full health questionnaire, declaring all your past medical conditions. The insurer's underwriting team reviews your history and decides what, if anything, will be permanently excluded from your policy.
  • Pros: You have complete certainty from day one about what is and isn't covered. There are no surprises at the point of claim.
  • Cons: The application process takes longer. The exclusions are usually permanent.

Which is right for you? An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you decide. For someone with a complex medical history, FMU can provide valuable clarity. For those with few recent health issues, a moratorium policy is often simpler.

How to Reduce Your Private Health Insurance Premiums in Your 70s

While premiums for over 70s are higher, there are several powerful strategies you can use to make your private health cover more affordable without sacrificing the core benefits.

  1. Increase Your Excess: Agreeing to a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) is one of the most effective ways to lower your premium. You are essentially sharing a small part of the risk with the insurer, who rewards you with a lower price.

  2. Opt for the "6-Week Option": This is a brilliant cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks of when it is recommended, you agree to use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private policy kicks in. As the main benefit of PMI is avoiding long waits, this option provides a safety net at a much lower cost.

  3. Choose a Guided Hospital List: Instead of a policy that covers every private hospital, choose one with a more limited, "guided" list. Insurers negotiate preferential rates with these hospitals and pass the savings on to you. You still get access to excellent facilities, just from a pre-approved selection.

  4. Adjust Your Outpatient Cover: Outpatient diagnostics can be expensive. You could choose a policy that fully covers inpatient care but places a limit on outpatient consultations and scans (e.g., £1,000 per year). This means you might pay for some initial diagnostic tests yourself, but you're fully covered for the most expensive part – the surgery and hospital stay.

  5. Speak to a Specialist Broker: This is perhaps the most important tip. The UK private health insurance market is complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy variations. An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr does the hard work for you. We compare the entire market, explain the differences in plain English, and find a policy that balances your needs with your budget. Our service is free to you, as we are paid by the insurer.

Comparing Top UK PMI Providers for Over 70s

Many of the UK's leading insurers are happy to offer policies to people in their 70s and beyond, though some may have upper age limits for new applications. The "best" provider is entirely dependent on your personal needs, location, and budget.

Here’s what to look for when comparing providers:

Feature to CompareWhat to Look For
Age LimitsDo they accept new applicants over 70, 75, or 80? Most major providers have no upper age limit once you have a policy.
Cancer CoverIs cancer care a core benefit? Check the level of cover – does it include advanced therapies, monitoring, and end-of-life care? Most policies are very comprehensive here.
Hospital ListsHow extensive is their list? Do they have good quality, approved hospitals near you? Do they offer a cheaper "guided" or "network" option?
Mental Health CoverIs there any support for acute mental health conditions? This is an increasingly standard feature, but the limits can vary significantly.
Digital GP ServicesMost insurers now offer a 24/7 virtual GP service. This can be a fantastic benefit for getting quick advice without leaving home.
Customer ServiceCheck independent review sites. How does the insurer handle claims? Are they easy to deal with? WeCovr enjoys consistently high customer satisfaction ratings for our service.
No-Claims DiscountHow does their NCD work? Does it protect you if you only claim for small amounts?

Providers like Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality all have strong offerings. The key is to compare them on a like-for-like basis, a task perfectly suited to an expert broker.

Beyond Insurance: A WeCovr Guide to a Healthy Lifestyle in Your 70s

A health insurance policy is a safety net, but the best strategy is to invest in your health every day. Living a healthy, active, and engaged life in your 70s is the foundation of wellbeing.

  • Stay Active: Gentle, regular exercise is vital. Walking, swimming, bowls, or tai chi are excellent for maintaining mobility, balance, and heart health. Always consult your GP before starting a new exercise regime.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Staying hydrated is also crucial for energy levels and cognitive function.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Good sleep is essential for physical and mental recovery. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
  • Stay Socially Connected: Loneliness can have a significant impact on health. Make time for family, friends, and community groups. Joining clubs or volunteering can provide a great sense of purpose.

WeCovr's Added Value:

We believe in supporting our clients' overall wellbeing. That’s why, when you take out a policy with us, we offer:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you manage your diet effectively.
  • Discounts on other policies: Our PMI and Life Insurance clients can benefit from reduced rates on other types of cover, such as travel or home insurance.

Your Questions Answered: PMI for Over 70s FAQs

Can I get private health insurance if I already have medical conditions?

Yes, you can, but with a crucial caveat. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. These are any illnesses or injuries you had before your policy began. It also does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or arthritis) that require ongoing management rather than a cure. PMI is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you join. Your NHS care for any pre-existing or chronic conditions will continue as normal.

Is there an upper age limit to get private health insurance in the UK?

For most major insurers, there is no upper age limit to keep a policy once you have one. However, some providers may have a maximum age for new applicants, which could be 75, 80, or sometimes higher. Other insurers have no upper age limit for joining at all. This is a key reason to use a broker like WeCovr, as we know which insurers are best suited for applicants in their 70s and 80s.

Do I still need the NHS if I have private medical insurance?

Absolutely. Private medical insurance is a complement to the NHS, not a replacement. You will always rely on the NHS for accident and emergency services, GP visits, and the management of any chronic conditions (like high blood pressure or diabetes) and pre-existing conditions that are excluded from your private policy.

Why is it better to use a PMI broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Using an expert, independent broker like WeCovr offers several advantages at no extra cost to you. We compare policies from across the market to find the best value, not just the products of a single company. We provide impartial advice, explain the complex jargon in simple terms, and help tailor a policy to your exact needs and budget. We save you time, remove the hassle, and can often find you better cover for your money.

Take the Next Step with WeCovr

Choosing the right private health cover in your 70s is a significant decision. It’s about investing in your future health, wellbeing, and peace of mind. While the costs can seem high, a well-chosen policy tailored to your needs can provide incredible value and reassurance.

The information here is a guide, but the best policy is always a personal one. Let our friendly, expert team at WeCovr help you navigate your options. We’ll provide a free, no-obligation comparison of the UK's leading insurers and answer all your questions.

[Get Your Free, Personalised PMI Quote Today]

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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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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.

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