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Cross Border Healthcare Access PMI for Expats in

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 20, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique healthcare challenges facing a globally mobile population. This guide explores how UK private medical insurance provides a vital safety net for those moving to, from, or within the United Kingdom in 2026.

Key takeaways

  • Expatriates: This includes British citizens living abroad who plan to return to the UK, as well as foreign nationals moving to the UK for work or family. They often face a period of uncertainty regarding their eligibility for NHS care.
  • International Students: While most have access to the NHS via the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), they may seek faster access to care, particularly for mental health support and specialist consultations, to avoid disrupting their studies.
  • Globally Mobile Workers: This dynamic group, including consultants and digital nomads, may have a UK base but travel frequently. They need flexible healthcare that covers them at home and provides peace of mind while they are away.
  • Immediate Access: If you develop a new, acute symptom like sharp knee pain or concerning digestive issues, you can use your PMI to see a specialist within days.
  • Peace of Mind: You don't have to worry about potential eligibility disputes or long waits while re-establishing your life in the UK.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique healthcare challenges facing a globally mobile population. This guide explores how UK private medical insurance provides a vital safety net for those moving to, from, or within the United Kingdom in 2026.

How UK PMI policies serve expatriates, international students, and globally mobile workers

In an increasingly connected world, the lines between countries are blurring for work, study, and lifestyle. Whether you're a British expat returning home, an international student embarking on your studies, or a professional whose work spans the globe, navigating healthcare can be a complex puzzle. Each of these groups faces distinct challenges that UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is uniquely positioned to solve.

  • Expatriates: This includes British citizens living abroad who plan to return to the UK, as well as foreign nationals moving to the UK for work or family. They often face a period of uncertainty regarding their eligibility for NHS care.
  • International Students: While most have access to the NHS via the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), they may seek faster access to care, particularly for mental health support and specialist consultations, to avoid disrupting their studies.
  • Globally Mobile Workers: This dynamic group, including consultants and digital nomads, may have a UK base but travel frequently. They need flexible healthcare that covers them at home and provides peace of mind while they are away.

UK PMI acts as a powerful supplement to the National Health Service (NHS), offering speed, choice, and comfort. It bridges potential gaps in public healthcare access, ensuring that new, unexpected medical issues don't derail your life plans.

Understanding the UK Healthcare Landscape: NHS vs. Private Medical Insurance

Before diving into policies, it's crucial to understand the two pillars of the UK's healthcare system: the NHS and the private sector.

The National Health Service (NHS)

The NHS is a world-renowned public health service, providing comprehensive care that is free at the point of use for people who are "ordinarily resident" in the UK. Its strength lies in its universal accessibility for everything from GP visits to emergency surgery and long-term condition management.

However, the NHS continues to face significant pressures. Heading into 2026, waiting lists for elective treatments in England remain a major concern for the public. NHS England data consistently shows millions of treatment pathways on the waiting list, meaning patients can wait many months for consultations and procedures. While emergency care is always prioritised, this can lead to long, anxious waits for non-urgent but quality-of-life-affecting conditions.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

PMI is not a replacement for the NHS. Instead, it works alongside it. A PMI policy is a contract with an insurer that pays for private treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

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 conditions like cataracts, joint replacements, or hernias.

Crucial Point: Standard UK private health cover does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing conditions are any health issues you knew about before your policy began.
  • Chronic conditions are long-term illnesses that cannot be cured, only managed, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These will continue to be managed by the NHS.

PMI's primary benefit is bypassing NHS waiting lists, giving you fast access to specialists, diagnostic scans, and treatment in a comfortable, private hospital setting.

NHS vs. UK PMI at a Glance

FeatureNational Health Service (NHS)Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
Eligibility"Ordinarily resident" in the UK.Anyone who can afford the premiums.
CostFree at the point of use (funded by taxes).Monthly or annual premiums.
CoverageComprehensive, including emergencies and chronic care.Acute conditions arising after policy start. Excludes pre-existing/chronic conditions.
Waiting TimesCan be long for non-urgent treatment.Minimal; fast access to specialists and treatment.
ChoiceLimited choice of hospital or specialist.Greater choice of specialists and hospitals from an approved list.
ComfortTypically in a shared ward.Typically a private en-suite room.

UK PMI for British Expats Returning to the UK

Many British citizens assume they can land at Heathrow and immediately access the full range of NHS services. Unfortunately, the reality can be more complicated.

The "Ordinary Residence" Hurdle

To be eligible for free NHS hospital treatment, you must be "ordinarily resident" in the UK. This means you are living in the UK on a "lawful and properly settled basis for the time being." If you have been living abroad for an extended period, you may need to prove you have returned to settle permanently. This can create a temporary grey area where you might not be immediately eligible for non-emergency NHS care.

How PMI Provides a Bridge

This is where a UK PMI policy becomes invaluable. By arranging cover to start on the day you return, you create a seamless healthcare safety net.

  • Immediate Access: If you develop a new, acute symptom like sharp knee pain or concerning digestive issues, you can use your PMI to see a specialist within days.
  • Peace of Mind: You don't have to worry about potential eligibility disputes or long waits while re-establishing your life in the UK.
  • Fast Diagnostics: Get access to MRI, CT, and PET scans quickly to understand the problem and formulate a treatment plan without delay.

Real-Life Example:

Mark, a 52-year-old engineer, returns to the UK after a decade in Singapore. Two months after arriving, he experiences severe, debilitating back pain. Instead of facing a potentially long wait for an NHS specialist appointment, he uses his PMI policy. He sees a private consultant within a week, has an MRI scan three days later, and is scheduled for spinal surgery a fortnight after that, allowing him to get back on his feet and focus on his new job.

Working with an expert broker like WeCovr before you move back is wise. We can help you compare policies from the best PMI providers and ensure your cover is active from day one of your return.

International Health Insurance vs. UK PMI: What's the Difference?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but these are two distinct products for different needs. Choosing the right one is critical.

UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Designed for residents of the United Kingdom. Its primary focus is providing access to private healthcare within the UK. Some policies offer an option for emergency overseas cover, but this is usually limited to short trips, like a holiday.

International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI): Designed for people living and working outside their home country for extended periods. It is geographically broader and more portable. It provides comprehensive cover across multiple countries, and you can often choose to include or exclude cover in high-cost countries like the USA to manage your premium.

Comparison: UK PMI vs. International PMI (IPMI)

FeatureUK Private Medical Insurance (PMI)International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI)
Geographic ScopePrimarily UK-based treatment.Global or regional cover, highly customisable.
Target AudienceUK residents (including new arrivals).Expats, digital nomads, long-term travellers.
PortabilityLimited. Designed for a UK base.High. The policy moves with you between countries.
Typical CostGenerally more affordable.More expensive due to wider scope and complexity.
RegulationRegulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).May be regulated in various jurisdictions (e.g., Isle of Man, Dublin).

If you are moving to the UK to live and work, a UK PMI policy is usually the most appropriate and cost-effective choice for your UK healthcare needs. If you are a Brit moving abroad, you need IPMI.

The UK remains a top destination for higher education, attracting close to 700,000 international students in recent academic years, based on data from official sources like the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Most students on a visa for longer than six months pay the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants them the same access to the NHS as a UK resident.

So, if the NHS is available, why would a student consider PMI?

  1. Minimising Disruption: A long wait for a diagnosis or treatment can seriously impact your studies. PMI offers a way to get seen and treated quickly, so you can focus on your degree.
  2. Mental Health Support: Moving to a new country is stressful. Many modern PMI policies include outstanding mental health pathways, offering fast access to counselling and therapy sessions via phone or video call, often without needing a GP referral. This is a crucial benefit for students far from their support networks.
  3. Choice and Comfort: PMI allows you to choose your specialist and be treated in a private hospital, usually with an en-suite room, which can be a great comfort when you're unwell in a foreign country.
  4. Access to Virtual GPs: Many policies include 24/7 access to a virtual GP service. This is incredibly convenient for getting quick advice, a diagnosis for a minor issue, or a prescription without the hassle of registering with and waiting for an appointment at a local NHS surgery.

Budget-friendly plans are available, and a specialist PMI broker can help find a policy that provides essential cover without breaking a student's budget.

Key Features to Look for in a Cross-Border PMI Policy in 2026

When comparing private medical insurance UK policies, it's easy to get lost in the jargon. Here are the key components to understand.

Level of Cover

Policies are typically sold in tiers:

  • Basic: Covers in-patient and day-patient treatment only (i.e., when you need a hospital bed). It's the most affordable but offers the least flexibility.
  • Mid-Range: The most popular choice. It covers in-patient care plus a set limit for out-patient services like specialist consultations and diagnostic scans.
  • Comprehensive: Covers in-patient and day-patient care in full, plus extensive out-patient cover. It may also include therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy), mental health support, and dental/optical benefits.

Hospital Lists

Insurers have agreements with networks of private hospitals. Your choice of hospital list affects your premium:

  • A list that excludes expensive central London hospitals will be cheaper.
  • A list that includes all private hospitals nationwide will be more expensive.

Excess and Co-payment

These are ways to share the cost of a claim with your insurer, which lowers your premium.

  • Excess (illustrative): A fixed amount you agree to pay towards your first claim each year (e.g., £250). A higher excess means a lower monthly premium.
  • Co-payment (illustrative): You agree to pay a percentage of each claim, usually up to a certain cap (e.g., you pay 10% of every claim up to a total of £1,000 in a year).

Underwriting Options

This is how the insurer assesses your medical history.

  • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common method. You don't declare your medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the five years before your policy starts. However, if you go two full, continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer assesses your medical history and tells you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered. This provides certainty but can be a more complex process.

The 'Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions' Clause

It is vital to repeat this: PMI is for unforeseen, acute medical conditions. It is not designed to cover the ongoing management of long-term illnesses you already have. The NHS remains the primary provider for chronic care in the UK. Any attempt to claim for a condition that existed before your policy began will be rejected.

The Role of a Specialist PMI Broker like WeCovr

The UK PMI market is complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy combinations. A specialist broker acts as your expert guide.

Why use a broker?

  • Impartial Advice: An independent broker like WeCovr is not tied to any single insurer. We work for you, providing impartial advice on which policy best suits your needs and budget.
  • Market Access: We have access to policies from a wide range of insurers, including specialist plans that may not be available directly to the public.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price (or often less) than going direct.
  • Expertise: We understand the nuances of different policies and how they apply to specific situations, like those of expats and international students.
  • Support: We help you with the application process and can offer guidance if you ever need to make a claim.

As an FCA-authorised firm with high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr is committed to finding you the right cover. We also provide our clients with added value, such as complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, and discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection cover.

Wellness Benefits and Preventative Care in Modern PMI

Today's best PMI providers do more than just pay for treatment. They actively encourage and reward a healthy lifestyle, which is particularly beneficial when you're adapting to life in a new country.

Look for policies that include:

  • 24/7 Virtual GP: Speak to a UK-based GP via phone or video at any time, from anywhere.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to helplines, therapy sessions, and wellbeing apps to manage stress and anxiety.
  • Gym and Fitness Discounts: Reduced membership fees at major UK gym chains.
  • Health Screenings: Subsidised health check-ups to catch potential problems early.
  • Nutrition and Wellbeing Programmes: App-based support for diet, sleep, and healthy habits.

These benefits can be a lifeline for an expat or student, providing easy-to-access, confidential support as you settle in.

Real-Life Scenarios: How PMI Works in Practice

ScenarioThe PersonThe Medical IssueThe PMI Solution
1. The Returning ExpatA 45-year-old Brit returning from Australia.Develops painful gallstones three months after returning.Uses their PMI policy. Sees a private consultant in 4 days, has an ultrasound the next day, and is scheduled for keyhole surgery to remove the gallbladder within two weeks. They recover in a private room.
2. The International StudentA 20-year-old US student in London.Struggles with anxiety and low mood, affecting their studies.Uses the mental health pathway on their PMI policy. They self-refer via an app and have their first video therapy session with a qualified psychologist within 48 hours.
3. The Globally Mobile WorkerA 38-year-old German consultant based in Manchester.Tears a knee ligament playing football.Their comprehensive PMI policy authorises a private MRI scan within the week, which confirms the diagnosis. They are referred to a top knee surgeon for reconstructive surgery the following month. The policy also covers the subsequent physiotherapy.

As an expat returning to the UK, am I immediately covered by the NHS?

Not necessarily for non-emergency care. To receive free NHS hospital treatment, you must prove you are "ordinarily resident," which means you have returned to the UK to live on a settled basis. There can be a period of ambiguity after you arrive. A private medical insurance policy is the best way to bridge this potential gap, ensuring you have immediate access to healthcare for new, acute conditions upon your return.

Does UK private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK PMI policies are designed to cover acute medical conditions that begin *after* your policy starts. They explicitly exclude pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before joining) and chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma). Management of these conditions remains the responsibility of the NHS.

I'm an international student paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Why would I need PMI?

While the IHS gives you access to the NHS, PMI offers significant additional benefits. These include bypassing long NHS waiting lists for specialist appointments and treatments, which can prevent disruption to your studies. It also provides the comfort of a private room, a choice of specialist, and often includes valuable mental health support and 24/7 virtual GP services, which are incredibly helpful when you are far from home.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your health history. With **moratorium underwriting**, you don't declare your medical history upfront, but any condition you've had in the 5 years prior is automatically excluded for an initial period (usually 2 years). With **full medical underwriting**, you provide a full health declaration at the start, and the insurer tells you precisely what is excluded from day one, offering greater certainty.

Navigating your healthcare options in a new or returning country can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Understanding the role of UK private medical insurance is the first step towards securing peace of mind for yourself and your family.

Ready to explore your options? The expert advisors at WeCovr offer no-obligation, free advice to help you compare the best PMI providers and find a policy tailored to your unique circumstances. Get your personalised quote today.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 experienced 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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