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Customer Service Revolution in PMI

Customer Service Revolution in PMI 2026

The UK's private medical insurance landscape is changing. As an FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr has helped arrange over 900,000 policies and is at the forefront of this evolution. This article explores the customer service revolution in private medical insurance, driven by a demand for faster, more transparent care.

Faster claims and transparency in 2026

For years, the promise of private medical insurance (PMI) has been simple: swift access to high-quality healthcare when you need it most. Yet, the reality has sometimes involved cumbersome paperwork, confusing policy language, and anxious waits for claim authorisations.

That's all set to change. By 2026, the UK PMI market will look and feel dramatically different. A powerful combination of cutting-edge technology, stricter consumer-focused regulation, and shifting customer expectations is forcing a revolution. The future is one of near-instant claims, radical transparency, and a renewed focus on keeping you well, not just treating you when you're ill.

This shift isn't just about convenience; it's about control. In a world where NHS waiting lists continue to be a national concern—with NHS England data consistently showing millions of people waiting for treatment—having a private health cover plan that is fast, clear, and responsive is more crucial than ever.

The Pain Points: Why PMI Customer Service Needed a Shake-Up

To understand where we're going, we must first acknowledge the frustrations of the past. Many policyholders will recognise these common challenges:

  • The Pre-Authorisation Wait: Needing a diagnosis or procedure, only to wait days—or sometimes weeks—for the insurer to give the green light. This administrative delay adds stress at an already anxious time.
  • Opaque Processes: Submitting a claim and feeling like it has vanished into a black hole, with little to no visibility on its status.
  • Confusing Jargon: Policy documents filled with complex terms like "moratorium," "in-patient limits," and "out-patient excess," leaving customers unsure of what they are actually covered for.
  • Manual Claims: The hassle of collecting invoices, filling out paper forms, and posting them, a process that feels archaic in a digital-first world.

These issues have historically created a disconnect between the peace of mind that PMI promises and the customer's actual experience. The industry has listened, and change is well underway.

The Three Pillars of Change: Tech, Regulation, and You

This customer service revolution isn't happening by accident. It's being driven by three powerful, interconnected forces.

1. Technological Acceleration Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics are no longer buzzwords; they are practical tools being deployed by the best PMI providers.

  • AI-Powered Claims: Algorithms can now assess and approve straightforward claims (like an initial consultation with a specialist) in minutes, cross-referencing the request against your policy details automatically.
  • Telemedicine as Standard: The pandemic normalised virtual GP appointments. Now, they are a cornerstone of modern PMI, offering 24/7 access to a doctor via your phone, speeding up diagnoses and referrals.
  • Integrated Health Apps: Insurers are providing sophisticated mobile apps that act as a central hub for your policy. You can find a specialist, book an appointment, submit a claim, and track your wellness goals all in one place.

2. The FCA's Consumer Duty The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the UK's financial regulator, introduced the Consumer Duty in 2023. This is arguably the most significant piece of consumer protection regulation in a generation.

In simple terms, the Duty requires all financial firms, including insurers and brokers like WeCovr, to "act to deliver good outcomes for retail customers."

This means insurers must:

  • Communicate Clearly: Ensure all information is easy to understand, so you can make informed decisions.
  • Provide Fair Value: The price of a policy must be reasonable relative to its benefits.
  • Offer Suitable Products: Sell policies that meet the customer's actual needs.
  • Deliver Excellent Support: Provide a level of customer service that helps you use your policy, rather than hindering you.

This regulation has put customer service at the very top of every insurer's agenda. Those who fail to deliver a fast, transparent, and supportive service risk facing significant scrutiny and penalties from the FCA.

3. Evolving Customer Expectations Today's consumer expects the same seamless, on-demand experience from their insurer as they get from their banking app or online shopping. The tolerance for slow, paper-based processes has evaporated. People want speed, simplicity, and self-service options, backed by expert human support when things get complicated.

What a "Faster Claim" Will Look Like in 2026

Imagine you tweak your knee playing football on a Sunday morning. The process for using your private medical insurance in 2026 will be a world away from the old model.

The Old Way (Pre-2023)The New Way (2026 and Beyond)
1. Wait: Wait until Monday to call your GP for an appointment, which might be a week away.1. Instant GP Access: Open your insurer's app and book a video call with a private GP for that same afternoon.
2. Paper Referral: Your GP gives you a paper referral letter for an orthopaedic specialist.2. Digital Referral: The virtual GP instantly generates a digital referral letter within the app.
3. Phone Calls: You call your insurer's helpline, wait on hold, and explain your situation. They tell you to find a specialist from their approved list.3. In-App Authorisation: You use the app's specialist finder, select a consultant, and submit a pre-authorisation request. AI approves it in under 5 minutes for a standard consultation.
4. Uncertainty: You wait 3-5 business days for an authorisation number to arrive by post or email.4. Seamless Booking: You receive an instant notification with your authorisation code and a link to book directly with the specialist's clinic online.
5. Manual Claim: After your MRI scan, you pay a shortfall and submit the invoice by post, waiting for reimbursement.5. Automated Billing: The hospital bills the insurer directly. The app notifies you that the claim is settled, showing you exactly what was paid and if any of your excess was used.

This new process isn't science fiction; the foundations are already in place. The leading providers are investing heavily to make this seamless journey the standard for every customer.

The Quest for True Transparency

A faster claim is only half the battle. The other key part of the revolution is transparency. You have the right to understand exactly what you're paying for and what you can expect when you need to use your cover.

Here’s what true transparency looks like:

  • Plain English Policies: Insurers are rewriting their policy documents to remove jargon. The goal is for a 13-year-old to be able to understand the core benefits and exclusions.
  • Interactive Policy Dashboards: Your online account will no longer be a static page with a policy number. It will be an interactive dashboard showing:
    • Your remaining out-patient benefit limit for the year.
    • How much of your excess has been used.
    • A clear history of all your claims.
    • Easy access to your full list of covered hospitals.
  • Upfront Cost Tools: Before you commit to a procedure, new tools will allow you to see the estimated costs and compare fees between different specialists and hospitals in your network, eliminating surprise bills.
  • Clear Underwriting Explanations: Whether you choose 'Moratorium' or 'Full Medical Underwriting', the implications will be explained in simple video guides and interactive explainers, not just dense text.

An expert PMI broker plays a vital role here. At WeCovr, our job is to provide this transparency from day one. We decode the jargon, compare the small print across different providers, and ensure you choose a policy that genuinely matches your needs and budget, all at no cost to you.

A Crucial Reminder: What Private Medical Insurance Does Not Cover

For all its benefits, it is essential to be crystal clear about the purpose of private medical insurance in the UK. This transparency is a cornerstone of good customer service.

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you have taken 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 (e.g., joint replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment).

Standard UK PMI policies do not cover:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before your policy start date. Some policies may cover them after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment, which is known as moratorium underwriting.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term, incurable conditions that require ongoing management rather than a curative treatment. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. While the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition might be covered, the long-term management will typically be handled by the NHS.
  • Emergency Services: A&E visits are handled by the NHS.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Though complications may be covered by some comprehensive plans.
  • Cosmetic Surgery, unless medically necessary.

Understanding these limitations is key to having a positive experience with your health insurance.

Beyond Treatment: The Rise of Preventative Wellness

The most forward-thinking insurers understand that the best customer service is helping you stay healthy in the first place. This has led to a boom in integrated wellness programmes.

Instead of just being a financial safety net, your private health cover is becoming a partner in your wellbeing.

Common Wellness Benefits in Modern PMI Plans:

BenefitDescriptionExample Providers
Discounted Gym MembershipsSignificant savings on memberships at major UK gym chains like Nuffield Health, Virgin Active, and PureGym.Vitality, Aviva
Mental Health SupportAccess to talking therapies, counselling sessions, and mindfulness apps, often without needing a GP referral.Bupa, AXA Health
Wearable Tech IncentivesEarn rewards, shopping vouchers, or even lower premiums for hitting daily step counts or activity goals tracked by your smartwatch.Vitality
Health ScreeningsAccess to regular health checks to catch potential issues early, from cholesterol tests to cancer screenings.Bupa, AXA Health
Nutrition & Diet SupportConsultations with nutritionists and access to healthy eating plans and resources.Most major providers

At WeCovr, we enhance this further. When you arrange a PMI or life insurance policy through us, we provide complimentary access to our cutting-edge AI calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. Plus, our clients often receive exclusive discounts on other types of insurance, helping you protect your health and finances in one place. Our commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in our consistently high ratings on major customer review platforms.

How to Choose the Best PMI Provider for Customer Service in 2026

With so much change, how do you pick the right provider? Look beyond the headline price and focus on the features that define a modern, customer-centric service.

Customer Service Feature Checklist:

  • ☑️ App-Based Claims: Can you manage your entire claims journey from your phone?
  • ☑️ 24/7 Virtual GP: Is on-demand GP access included as standard?
  • ☑️ Digital Specialist Finder: Does the insurer have an easy-to-use online tool to find consultants and hospitals?
  • ☑️ Fast Pre-Authorisation: What are the provider's stated turnaround times for authorising claims?
  • ☑️ Dedicated Case Management: For serious conditions like cancer, will you be assigned a dedicated nurse or case manager?
  • ☑️ Integrated Wellness Programme: Does the plan actively reward you for healthy living?
  • ☑️ Clear Customer Reviews: What do existing customers say about their claims experience on independent review sites?

Comparing the UK's Leading PMI Providers

While specific features vary, here’s a general overview of what the top providers are focusing on in their service delivery.

ProviderKey Customer Service StrengthsWellness Focus
AXA HealthStrong digital tools (Doctor@Hand), clear pathways for mental health support, comprehensive online member portal.Focus on mental wellbeing, health screenings, and expert support through their 'Health Gateway'.
BupaExtensive network of hospitals and consultants, dedicated cancer support teams, and a user-friendly app for finding care.Bupa's 'Live Well' programme offers a range of health information, tools, and health assessments.
VitalityMarket leader in wellness integration. The entire model is built around rewarding healthy behaviour with discounts and perks.The 'Vitality Programme' is the core offering, using points and status levels to incentivise activity, healthy eating, and check-ups.
AvivaStrong emphasis on digital access through the 'MyAviva' app and a wide range of hospital options (the 'Expert Select' network).Offers a 'Wellbeing' hub with resources and discounts, plus a stress counselling helpline as standard on many policies.

Note: This table is for illustrative purposes. Features and benefits can change and depend on the specific policy chosen. An independent broker can provide the most up-to-date and personalised comparison.

The sheer volume of choice can be overwhelming. Working with an experienced broker is the simplest way to cut through the noise. We compare the market for you, explaining the real-world differences in service and helping you secure the best possible private medical insurance in the UK for your unique circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Modern PMI

Will my private health cover premium go up if I make a claim?

Generally, yes. Making a claim is likely to increase your premium at your next renewal. Insurers operate on a risk basis, and a claim indicates a higher likelihood of future claims. Most insurers offer a No-Claims Discount (NCD), which you build up for each year you don't claim. Making a claim will typically reduce or remove your NCD, leading to a higher renewal price. However, this is weighed against the significant financial and wellbeing benefits of getting fast access to private treatment, which often costs thousands of pounds.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are the two main ways insurers assess your medical history.
  • Moratorium Underwriting (most common): This is a quicker way to get cover. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy starts. However, if you then go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any trouble from that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting: You complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer assesses your history and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. This provides more certainty but can take longer. An expert broker can help you decide which is best for you.

Can I use private medical insurance for mental health treatment?

Yes, most modern private medical insurance UK policies offer cover for mental health, although the level of cover varies significantly. Basic policies might only cover a limited number of therapy sessions, while more comprehensive plans can cover in-patient psychiatric treatment, specialist consultations, and a wider range of therapies. The move towards better customer service means many insurers now provide direct access to mental health support lines or apps without needing a GP referral, making it faster and easier to get help when you need it. It's crucial to check the specific mental health limits on any policy you are considering.

Is it cheaper to go direct to an insurer or use a broker like WeCovr?

Using a reputable, independent broker like WeCovr will not cost you any more than going direct to the insurer. In fact, it can often save you money. Brokers receive a commission from the insurer for introducing a new client, so our expert advice and support is complimentary for you. We have access to the whole market and can often find deals or policy combinations that are not available directly, ensuring you get the most suitable cover at a highly competitive price. We handle the comparisons and paperwork, saving you time and providing peace of mind.

The future of private medical insurance is bright. It's becoming faster, fairer, and more focused on you, the customer. The days of confusing paperwork and long waits are numbered, replaced by intuitive apps, instant decisions, and a genuine partnership in your long-term health.

Ready to explore how a modern PMI policy can give you peace of mind?

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr 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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