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Dental and Optical Add Ons Are They Worth the Extra

As a broking firm that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr knows that navigating private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. One of the most common questions we hear is about add-ons: are they a savvy investment in your health, or just an unnecessary expense?

Last updated Oct 6, 2026

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TL;DR

As a broking firm that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr knows that navigating private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. One of the most common questions we hear is about add-ons: are they a savvy investment in your health, or just an unnecessary expense? This guide demystifies the most popular PMI extrasdental and optical coverto help you decide if they're right for you.

Key takeaways

  • A hernia requiring surgery.
  • Joint pain that needs investigation and a potential hip replacement.
  • The diagnosis and treatment of most cancers.
  • Cataract surgery.
  • Inpatient and Day-patient: This covers treatment where you need to be admitted to a hospital bed, either overnight (inpatient) or for the day (day-patient). This is the absolute core of any PMI policy.

As a broking firm that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr knows that navigating private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. One of the most common questions we hear is about add-ons: are they a savvy investment in your health, or just an unnecessary expense?

This guide demystifies the most popular PMI extras—dental and optical cover—to help you decide if they're right for you.

A costbenefit look at most major add-ons and when they make sense for you

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is designed to give you peace of mind, offering fast access to high-quality medical care when you need it most. But a standard policy is a specific tool for a specific job. It's built to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions.

Think of your core PMI policy as the foundation of a house. It's strong, essential, and covers the big, unexpected problems like the need for surgery or specialist consultations. Add-ons, like dental and optical cover, are the extra rooms you can build onto that foundation. They cater to more routine, predictable health needs that fall outside the scope of standard PMI.

The central question is one of value. Are you better off paying a little extra each month to have these costs covered, or simply paying for them out-of-pocket as they arise? This article will provide a detailed cost-benefit analysis to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding the Core of Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Before we can properly evaluate add-ons, it’s crucial to understand what a standard private health cover policy in the UK actually includes—and, more importantly, what it excludes.

What Standard PMI Covers: Acute Conditions

The primary purpose of private medical insurance is to cover the cost of treating acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Examples include:

  • A hernia requiring surgery.
  • Joint pain that needs investigation and a potential hip replacement.
  • The diagnosis and treatment of most cancers.
  • Cataract surgery.

Cover is typically broken down into three levels:

  1. Inpatient and Day-patient: This covers treatment where you need to be admitted to a hospital bed, either overnight (inpatient) or for the day (day-patient). This is the absolute core of any PMI policy.
  2. Outpatient (illustrative): This covers consultations, diagnostic tests (like MRI scans), and therapies that do not require a hospital bed. This is often offered as an optional extra or with different levels of cover (e.g., a £1,000 annual limit).

The Critical Exclusions: Chronic and Pre-existing Conditions

This is the single most important concept to grasp about UK PMI. Standard policies do not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • Chronic Condition: A condition that has no known cure and needs ongoing management, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. PMI is not designed to cover the day-to-day management of these illnesses.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, injury, or symptom you had in the years before your policy began (typically the last five years). If you sought medical advice, medication, or treatment for it, it will be excluded, usually for the first two years of your policy.

This is why everyday dental check-ups and routine eye tests are not included as standard—they are predictable, preventative maintenance, not a response to an unexpected, acute illness.

Demystifying Dental Insurance Add-Ons

With millions of people in the UK struggling to access an NHS dentist, private dental care is becoming a necessity for many. A dental add-on to your PMI policy aims to make these costs more manageable.

A dental add-on is essentially a cashback plan. You pay for your treatment upfront, then submit a claim to your insurer to be reimbursed up to the limits of your policy.

What Does a Dental Add-on Typically Cover?

Cover is usually split into different levels or categories:

  • Routine Dental: This is for preventative care. It covers things like:
    • Dental check-ups
    • Scale and polish (hygienist appointments)
    • X-rays
    • Minor fillings
  • Major/Restorative Dental: This covers more significant and expensive procedures needed to restore the health of your teeth. It includes:
    • Crowns, bridges, and dentures
    • Root canals (endodontics)
    • Extractions
  • Dental Injuries: This covers treatment needed as a direct result of an accident (e.g., a blow to the face that damages a tooth). The benefit limits are often much higher for injuries.
  • Dental Emergencies: This provides cover for immediate pain relief, such as for a dental abscess.

It's vital to note that cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening or veneers for aesthetic reasons, is almost always excluded.

The Cost vs. Benefit Analysis

So, is it worth the money? Let's break it down.

The Cost: A dental add-on will typically increase your monthly PMI premium by £15 to £40 per person, depending on the level of cover chosen. For a family of four, this could be an extra £60 to £160 per month. (illustrative estimate)

The Benefit: The policy will reimburse you for your private dental costs, but only up to set annual limits. These limits are key to working out the value.

A typical policy might offer:

  • Routine Cover (illustrative): 100% reimbursement up to £250 per year.
  • Major Dental (illustrative): 50-80% reimbursement up to £500 - £750 per year.
  • Dental Injury (illustrative): 100% reimbursement up to £5,000 per incident.

Let's compare this to paying out-of-pocket for common private treatments.

TreatmentAverage UK Private CostTypical Add-On Contribution (Illustrative)Your Out-of-Pocket Cost with Add-On
Routine Check-up & Clean£70 – £120100% up to annual limit£0
Standard Filling£90 – £20080% of cost£18 – £40
Crown£650 – £1,00050% up to annual limit (e.g., £325)£325 – £675
Root Canal (Molar)£400 – £80050% up to annual limit (e.g., £200)£200 – £600

Source: Average costs are based on market analysis of UK private dental charges in 2024/2025. These are illustrative and vary by location and practice.

The Calculation:

  • Low User (illustrative): If you only have two check-ups and cleans a year (£140 - £240), a basic add-on costing £180/year (£15/month) could see you break even or save slightly.
  • Medium User (illustrative): If you have two check-ups and need one filling, your total private cost could be around £400. An add-on costing £300/year (£25/month) would save you £100, plus you have the safety net for major work.
  • High User (illustrative): If you need a crown, the add-on provides a significant contribution. The £325-£500 you get back towards a £700 crown makes the annual premium of, say, £360 look very worthwhile.

When a Dental Add-On Makes Sense

  1. You Can't Find an NHS Dentist: This is the leading reason. If your only option is private care, an add-on helps you budget and removes the fear of a large, unexpected bill.
  2. You Have a Family: Children's dental needs can be unpredictable. A family plan, while more expensive, pools risk. Some policies offer specific benefits for orthodontics, though this is often a specialist feature with its own limits and waiting periods.
  3. You Value Peace of Mind: You prefer the predictability of a fixed monthly cost over the risk of a sudden £800 bill for a root canal.
  4. You Have a History of Dental Issues: If you know you are prone to needing fillings or more complex work, the maths will likely work in your favour.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

  1. You Have a Reliable NHS Dentist: If you are happy with your NHS service and can get appointments, the cost of an add-on will almost certainly be higher than your subsidised patient charges.
  2. You Have Excellent Dental Health: If you rarely need more than a check-up, you might be better off putting £20 a month into a savings account to cover the costs yourself.
  3. Your Employer Offers a Dental Plan: Check your workplace benefits first. Many corporate schemes offer excellent, subsidised dental cover.

Seeing Clearly: The Value of Optical Add-Ons

Similar to dental cover, an optical add-on helps you budget for the routine costs of maintaining your vision. It's another cashback-style benefit.

What Does an Optical Add-on Cover?

The cover is usually very straightforward:

  • Eye Tests: Reimbursement for the cost of a private sight test, typically once every one or two years.
  • Glasses & Contact Lenses: A fixed contribution towards the cost of new prescription eyewear.

It's important to understand that this is not "unlimited" cover. It's a contribution, not a blank cheque. Laser eye surgery is generally not covered by a basic optical add-on; it's a specialist procedure that may be covered under some high-end PMI policies, but often only if there's a strong clinical need.

The Cost vs. Benefit Analysis

Optical add-ons are generally less expensive than dental ones.

The Cost: A typical optical add-on might increase your PMI premium by £5 to £15 per person, per month.

The Benefit: The claim limits are modest but useful.

  • Eye Test (illustrative): 100% reimbursement, usually capped at around £30-£50.
  • Glasses/Lenses (illustrative): A contribution of £150 to £250, typically claimable once every two years.

Let's run the numbers against average private costs.

Service / ProductAverage UK Private CostTypical Add-On Contribution (Illustrative)Your Out-of-Pocket Cost with Add-On
Private Eye Test£25 – £40100% (once every two years)£0
Prescription Glasses£100 – £500+£200 (once every two years)£0 – £300+
Contact Lenses (Annual Supply)£150 – £300+£200 (once every two years)£0 – £100+

The Calculation: Let's assume the add-on costs £8/month, which is £192 over two years. (illustrative estimate) In that two-year period, you get:

  • Illustrative estimate: One eye test reimbursed (£30)
  • Illustrative estimate: A contribution to glasses (£200)

Total benefit = £230. (illustrative estimate) Total cost = £192. (illustrative estimate) Net gain = £38. (illustrative estimate)

In this scenario, you come out slightly ahead. The value increases if you choose more expensive designer frames or complex lenses, as the £200 contribution becomes more significant.

When an Optical Add-On Makes Sense

  1. Your Whole Family Wears Glasses: For a family of four, all needing regular updates to their eyewear, the cumulative benefit can easily outweigh the premium.
  2. You Prefer Designer Frames or Advanced Lenses: If you like to get new, fashionable frames every two years or require varifocals or thinning for a high prescription, the contribution is a welcome subsidy.
  3. You Use Daily Disposable Contact Lenses: The annual cost of these can be high, and an optical plan can significantly offset it.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

  1. You Have Perfect Vision: This is self-explanatory.
  2. You Are Entitled to Free NHS Eye Tests: In the UK, you are eligible for free NHS tests if you are over 60, under 16 (or 16-18 in full-time education), or have conditions like diabetes or glaucoma.
  3. You Buy Budget Glasses: If you use low-cost online retailers and your glasses only cost £50, paying £192 in premiums over two years for a £200 benefit that you don't fully use doesn't make sense.
  4. You Rarely Update Your Glasses: If your prescription is stable and you only get new glasses every five years, you'll pay far more in premiums than you'll ever claim back.

Beyond Teeth and Eyes: Other Common PMI Add-Ons

While dental and optical are the most common, insurers offer a range of other valuable enhancements.

  • Mental Health Cover: Standard PMI often provides limited mental health support. A dedicated add-on can be transformative, offering extensive cover for therapy, counselling, and psychiatric consultations. Given the long NHS waiting lists for mental health services, this is one of the fastest-growing and most valuable add-ons available.
  • Therapies Cover: Most core PMI policies include some physiotherapy. A therapies add-on extends this to cover more sessions or a wider range of treatments, such as osteopathy, chiropractic, and podiatry. This is ideal for active individuals or those with recurring musculoskeletal issues.
  • Wellness & Lifestyle Benefits: Some providers, like Vitality, build their entire model around this. These add-ons offer proactive health benefits, such as discounted gym memberships, free health screenings, and even cashback for hitting activity goals. These can be hugely motivating and offer a tangible return on your premium even if you never make a medical claim.

WeCovr champions this proactive approach to health. That's why our clients not only get regulated guidance on their insurance but also receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. We also offer discounts on other types of insurance, like life or income protection, when you arrange your PMI with us, creating a holistic and cost-effective approach to your wellbeing.

How to Decide: A Practical Checklist for UK Consumers

Feeling overwhelmed? Use this simple checklist to guide your decision.

  1. Audit Your Health Spending: Look back at the last two years. How much did you actually spend on private dental care and glasses? Compare this figure to the annual cost of the add-on.
  2. Check Your Entitlements: Are you or your family members eligible for free NHS eye tests or dental treatment? Don't pay for something you can get for free.
  3. Do the Maths: Create a simple spreadsheet. In one column, write the annual premium for the add-on. In another, list the maximum benefit you can claim. Does the value proposition hold up for your likely usage?
  4. Consider Your Peace of Mind: For some, the real benefit isn't financial. It's the psychological comfort of knowing that a sudden cost may be covered. How much is that peace of mind worth to you?
  5. Factor in Your Family: Add-ons often provide better value for families than for individuals, as the likelihood of one member needing treatment in any given year is much higher.
  6. Speak to a Regulated Broker: This is the most effective step. A PMI specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners does all this hard work for you. We'll analyse your unique circumstances, compare complex policies from all the main PMI providers, and find a package where the numbers truly add up. Our advice is regulated and comes with no separate broker fee.

Comparing How Major Providers Structure Add-Ons

The market is varied, and each insurer packages its add-ons differently. This complexity is why comparing policies can be so difficult without expert guidance.

Provider (Illustrative)Dental & Optical StructureKey Feature
AXA HealthOften sold as a combined "Dentist and Optician Cashback" option.Simple, tiered cashback model. Easy to understand claim limits.
BupaCan be a "Dental Choice" add-on to PMI or a standalone "Bupa Dental Care" plan.Strong integration with their own network of Bupa-branded dental practices.
Aviva"MyHealth" policy is highly modular. You add a "Dental and Optical" benefit.Offers great flexibility to 'pick and mix' the cover you want.
VitalityCan be added as an optional benefit.Often linked to their wellness programme; you may get better benefits by being active.

This table shows that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best provider for you depends entirely on your needs, budget, and how you prefer to manage your health.

Can I add dental and optical cover to my policy later?

Generally, you can only add or remove major options like dental and optical cover at your annual renewal date. Insurers are unlikely to allow you to add the cover mid-term, especially if you have just discovered you need expensive treatment. When you do add it at renewal, the insurer may apply new underwriting terms.

Is cosmetic dentistry, like teeth whitening, covered by a dental add-on?

No, cosmetic procedures are almost universally excluded from dental insurance add-ons. Cover is designed for treatments that are clinically necessary to maintain dental health, such as fillings, crowns, and treating gum disease. Teeth whitening, composite bonding for aesthetic reasons, and veneers are not covered.

Do I still need to pay an excess on my dental or optical claims?

Typically, no. Dental and optical add-ons operate on a cashback basis with set annual limits, and they are usually not subject to the main policy excess. Your excess is for claims on your core hospital and specialist cover. However, you should always read the policy documents carefully, as terms can vary between insurers.

How does a WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners help me choose the right add-ons?

An WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners acts as your personal advisor. We start by understanding your specific needs, budget, and health history. We then use our market knowledge to compare policies from all leading UK insurers, analysing the fine print of each add-on to see which offers good value for you. We present you with clear, jargon-free options, saving you time and ensuring you don't overpay for cover you don't need. This service is provided with no separate broker fee.

The Final Verdict

So, are dental and optical add-ons worth the extra?

The answer is a definite "it depends".

They are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For a family reliant on private dental care, a dental add-on can be a financial lifeline. For a glasses-wearer who loves designer frames, an optical add-on is a smart subsidy.

But for an individual with healthy teeth and 20/20 vision who is happy with their NHS access, they are an unnecessary cost.

The key is to move away from a vague sense of "needing cover" and towards a clear, calculated decision based on your personal circumstances. By auditing your costs, understanding the benefits, and doing the maths, you can find the right answer for you.

Ready to find out if add-ons make sense for your private medical insurance?

Let us do the hard work for you. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our friendly experts will compare the available market to build the perfect, cost-effective health insurance plan for you and your family.

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.

Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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:
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👉 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!

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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.

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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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

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

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

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

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.

Key guides

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