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Dementia with Lewy Bodies Private Care

Dementia with Lewy Bodies Private Care 2026

As an FCA-authorised UK broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explains how private medical insurance can assist with the crucial early diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies, providing clarity and peace of mind when you need it most.

WeCovr explains this type of dementia and how private healthcare helps with diagnosis

Navigating the uncertainty of a potential dementia diagnosis is one of the most challenging experiences a family can face. When symptoms are complex and overlapping, as they are with Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), getting a swift and accurate diagnosis is paramount. While the NHS provides exceptional care, waiting lists for specialist consultations and diagnostic scans can be lengthy.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) can play a vital role. It offers a pathway to faster access to the UK’s leading neurologists and cutting-edge diagnostic tools, helping you get the answers you need without the long delays. In this guide, we will explore what DLB is, the challenges of diagnosis, and precisely how private health cover can help.

What is Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)?

Dementia with Lewy Bodies is the third most common type of dementia, after Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. It's estimated to affect over 100,000 people in the UK.

DLB is caused by tiny, abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein that develop inside brain cells. These deposits are named "Lewy bodies" after the neurologist who first discovered them. These deposits disrupt the brain's normal functioning, affecting chemicals that carry messages between brain cells. This disruption leads to a progressive decline in thinking, reasoning, and independent function.

A key feature of DLB is that it doesn't just affect memory. It presents a unique and challenging combination of symptoms that can fluctuate dramatically, even from one hour to the next.

Core Symptoms of Dementia with Lewy Bodies:

  • Problems with thinking and concentration: Similar to Alzheimer's, but with more pronounced issues with attention, planning, and problem-solving.
  • Fluctuating alertness: People with DLB can have periods of lucidity mixed with episodes of confusion, drowsiness, or staring into space for long periods.
  • Visual hallucinations: Seeing things that are not there is a very common and often early symptom. These are typically detailed and recurring, such as seeing people or animals in the room.
  • Parkinson's-like movement problems: These can include slow movement, muscle stiffness, tremors, and a shuffling walk.
  • Sleep disturbances: A condition called REM sleep behaviour disorder, where a person acts out their dreams, is a strong indicator of DLB and can appear years before other symptoms.

Comparing DLB, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's Disease

The symptoms of DLB often overlap with both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, which can make it difficult to diagnose correctly in the early stages. Understanding the key differences is crucial for getting the right support.

FeatureDementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)Alzheimer's DiseaseParkinson's Disease
Primary Early SymptomFluctuating cognition, visual hallucinations, movement problems.Memory loss, particularly for recent events.Movement problems (tremor, stiffness, slowness).
MemoryMemory problems may appear later and be less severe than in early Alzheimer's.Significant memory loss is a hallmark early symptom.Memory is often preserved in the early stages.
MovementParkinson's-like symptoms (stiffness, shuffling) often appear within a year of cognitive decline.Movement problems are not a feature of early Alzheimer's.Movement symptoms are the defining feature from the start.
HallucinationsCommon, early, and often detailed visual hallucinations.Can occur, but usually in the later stages.Can occur, often as a side effect of medication.
FluctuationsSignificant, unpredictable changes in alertness and confusion are very common.Cognitive function is generally more stable day-to-day.Fluctuations are less common and often related to medication timing.

The Challenge of Diagnosing DLB on the NHS

The NHS is the cornerstone of healthcare in the UK, but it is under significant pressure. For conditions like DLB that require specialist input, the patient journey can be long.

  1. Initial GP Appointment: The first step is visiting your GP. They will listen to your concerns, perform initial memory tests, and rule out other causes for your symptoms, such as infections or vitamin deficiencies.
  2. Referral to a Specialist: If dementia is suspected, the GP will refer you to a specialist. This could be a neurologist, a psychiatrist specialising in older adults, or a dedicated memory clinic.
  3. Waiting for the Appointment: This is often the longest part of the process. According to recent NHS England data, the target for seeing a specialist after a GP referral is 18 weeks. However, for in-demand specialisms like neurology, waiting times can often be much longer, sometimes stretching for many months.
  4. Diagnostic Tests: Once you see the specialist, they may order further tests to help confirm the diagnosis. These can include brain scans (like an MRI or a DaTscan) and detailed neuropsychological tests. These tests also have their own waiting lists.

This prolonged uncertainty is incredibly stressful for both the individual and their family. Delays can mean missing the window for early interventions, support planning, and access to treatments that can help manage symptoms.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Speeds Up Diagnosis

This is where having a private medical insurance UK policy can make a profound difference. PMI is designed to work alongside the NHS, providing you with faster access to private healthcare when you develop new, eligible symptoms.

Here's how PMI helps with a suspected DLB diagnosis:

  1. Fast-Track GP Referral: Many PMI policies offer a digital GP service, allowing you to get a consultation within hours. If the private GP agrees a specialist is needed, they can provide an open referral letter immediately.
  2. Quick Access to Specialists: With a referral, you can book an appointment with a leading private neurologist or dementia specialist, often within days or a couple of weeks, bypassing the long NHS waiting list.
  3. Rapid Diagnostic Testing: The specialist can then refer you for any necessary diagnostic scans. In the private sector, an MRI, CT, or specialised DaTscan can typically be arranged within a week.
  4. A Swift, Comprehensive Diagnosis: By compressing the timeline from months to weeks, PMI allows you to get a definitive diagnosis and a clear management plan from a top expert much faster. This gives you and your family the clarity needed to plan for the future.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you compare policies from the UK's top insurers to find one that offers excellent diagnostic cover and access to an extensive network of specialists and hospitals.

Important: The Role of PMI for Chronic & Pre-existing Conditions

This is the most critical point to understand about private medical insurance. Standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions, not chronic or pre-existing ones.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract, a hernia, a joint replacement).
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, and dementia).

Dementia with Lewy Bodies is a chronic condition.

Therefore, while PMI is invaluable for covering the diagnosis of the new symptoms that lead to a DLB diagnosis, it will not cover the long-term care and management of the condition itself.

PMI Covers (for new, eligible symptoms)PMI Does Not Cover
✅ Initial specialist consultations (neurologist)❌ Long-term management of DLB
✅ Diagnostic brain scans (MRI, CT, DaTscan)❌ Ongoing prescriptions for dementia medication
✅ Neuropsychological assessments❌ Care home fees or in-home nursing
✅ Second opinions on a diagnosis❌ Respite care or occupational therapy

Think of it this way: PMI pays for the detective work to find out what's wrong. Once the condition is identified as chronic, ongoing care typically reverts to the NHS or must be funded privately (self-funded). This distinction is vital for managing expectations.

What Diagnostic Tests Can PMI Cover for Suspected DLB?

When you see a private specialist through your health insurance, they have a range of advanced tools at their disposal. A policy with good diagnostic cover may pay for:

  • Consultations: Initial and follow-up appointments with a consultant neurologist or psychiatrist.
  • MRI Scans (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): These detailed scans can help rule out other causes of symptoms, such as tumours or strokes, and can show patterns of brain shrinkage that may suggest a type of dementia.
  • CT Scans (Computed Tomography): A faster type of scan, also used to look at the brain's structure and rule out other conditions.
  • DaTscan (Dopamine Transporter Scan): This is a highly specialised and important test for diagnosing DLB. It involves injecting a small amount of a radioactive substance that highlights the dopamine system in the brain. In DLB and Parkinson's, there is a loss of dopamine cells, which shows up clearly on a DaTscan. This can help distinguish DLB from Alzheimer's disease.
  • Neuropsychological Testing: In-depth tests of memory, concentration, language, and problem-solving skills conducted by a clinical psychologist to pinpoint specific areas of cognitive difficulty.

Choosing the Right Private Health Cover

When looking for a private health cover policy to ensure you have access to rapid diagnostics, here are a few things to consider:

  1. Level of Outpatient Cover: Diagnosis primarily happens in an outpatient setting. Ensure your policy has a generous limit for outpatient consultations and tests. Some cheaper policies may limit this, so it's important to check the details.
  2. Hospital List: Check which hospitals and diagnostic centres are covered by the insurer. You'll want a policy with a broad network that includes centres with advanced scanning facilities.
  3. Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. It automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last five years.
    • Full Medical Underwriting: You declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer will then state what is and isn't covered from the start. This provides more certainty.
  4. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium, but make sure it's an amount you are comfortable paying.

Navigating these options can be complex. A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can demystify the process, comparing the market for you to find the best PMI provider that matches your needs and budget, all at no extra cost to you.

Living Well with a DLB Diagnosis: Health & Wellness Tips

Receiving a DLB diagnosis is life-changing, but it's not the end. The focus shifts to managing symptoms and maintaining the best possible quality of life. Here are some practical tips.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is crucial for brain health. Focus on a Mediterranean-style diet rich in:

  • Fruits and vegetables: Packed with antioxidants.
  • Oily fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Nuts, seeds, and legumes.
  • Whole grains.

Hydration is also key, as dehydration can worsen confusion and other symptoms.

To help manage nutrition and diet, WeCovr provides all our health and life insurance customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It makes it simple to monitor your diet and ensure you're getting the right nutrients.

Physical Activity

Gentle, regular exercise can improve mood, sleep, and motor function.

  • Walking: A daily walk is excellent for both physical and mental health.
  • Tai Chi or Yoga: These can help with balance and reduce the risk of falls.
  • Seated exercises: If mobility is limited, chair-based exercises can help maintain strength.

Sleep Hygiene

Sleep problems are a major issue in DLB. Establishing a good routine can help:

  • Consistent Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
  • Comfortable Environment: Ensure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Avoid Stimulants: Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially in the evening.

Managing the Environment

Creating a safe and calm environment is essential.

  • Good Lighting: This can help reduce visual hallucinations and prevent falls.
  • Reduce Clutter: A clear, simple living space is easier and safer to navigate.
  • Labeling: Label cupboards and drawers to help with orientation and independence.
  • Routine: A predictable daily routine can reduce anxiety and confusion.

WeCovr's Added Value

At WeCovr, we believe in providing more than just an insurance policy. When you arrange private medical insurance or life insurance through us, you not only get expert, impartial advice but also a range of added benefits:

  • Complimentary CalorieHero App: As mentioned, you get free access to our AI nutrition app to support your health goals.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: If you take out PMI with us, we can offer you discounts on other essential cover, such as life insurance or income protection, helping you build a comprehensive financial safety net for your family.
  • Dedicated Support: We're here for you throughout the life of your policy, not just at the point of sale.

Our commitment to customer service is reflected in our consistently high satisfaction ratings on independent review websites.


Can I get private medical insurance if I already have a dementia diagnosis?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Dementia is a chronic, pre-existing condition, and it would therefore be excluded from cover. The value of PMI lies in getting a policy while you are healthy to cover the diagnosis of any future, unforeseen conditions.

Does private health cover pay for dementia care homes?

No, standard private medical insurance does not cover the costs of any form of long-term care, including care homes, nursing homes, or at-home carers. This type of "social care" is funded separately, either by the individual (self-funded) or through local authority support, depending on your financial situation.

What is the first step if I'm worried about my memory or a loved one's symptoms?

The first and most important step is to book an appointment with a GP. They can perform an initial assessment, rule out other reversible causes for the symptoms, and make a referral to a specialist if needed. Whether you use the NHS or a private GP service, this should always be your starting point. Keeping a diary of symptoms can be very helpful to share with the doctor.

Take the First Step Towards Peace of Mind

Facing the possibility of a serious diagnosis is daunting, but you don't have to face it alone or endure long waits for answers. Private medical insurance offers a path to rapid specialist assessment and diagnosis, giving you clarity and control when it matters most.

Let WeCovr help you navigate your options. Our expert advisors can compare policies from across the market to find the right cover for your needs and budget, completely free of charge.

Get your free, no-obligation quote today and secure faster access to the UK's best healthcare.

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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.

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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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