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Dental & Optical Add-Ons Are They Worth the Extra Cost

Dental & Optical Add-Ons Are They Worth the Extra Cost 2025

As an FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr knows the UK market inside and out. A common question we hear is: "Should I add dental and optical cover to my policy?" It’s a smart question. Let's explore when it's worth the extra cost.

WeCovr explains when to include dental and optical cover in PMI

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is your health safety net, designed to give you fast access to high-quality medical care for acute conditions. But what about your teeth and eyes? Standard PMI policies typically don't cover routine check-ups, fillings, or new glasses. For that, you need to consider an 'add-on' or 'option'.

Deciding whether to include dental and optical cover is a personal choice that hinges on your individual needs, your family's health, and your budget. It's a classic cost-benefit calculation. You're weighing the certainty of a fixed monthly premium against the potential for unexpected, and often costly, dental or optical bills.

At WeCovr, we believe in empowering you with clear information. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the right decision for you and your loved ones.

What Exactly Are Dental and Optical Add-Ons?

Think of your core private health cover as the main course. Dental and optical add-ons are the side dishes you can choose to complete your meal. They are optional extras that you pay a higher monthly premium for, which in turn provides cover for a range of treatments for your teeth and eyes.

These add-ons are not standalone insurance policies. They are integrated into your main PMI plan and are offered by the same provider, such as Aviva, Bupa, or Vitality.

Typically, these add-ons work on a cashback or reimbursement basis:

  1. You visit your dentist or optician.
  2. You pay for the treatment or service upfront.
  3. You submit the receipt to your insurance provider.
  4. The insurer reimburses you up to the annual limits set out in your policy.

It’s crucial to understand that these add-ons come with specific limits and levels of cover. They aren't an unlimited pass for all treatments.

Understanding the NHS Baseline for Dental and Optical Care in the UK

Before you can decide if private cover is worth it, you need to understand what you're already entitled to through the NHS. The NHS provides excellent care, but it isn't always free, and access can sometimes be a challenge.

NHS Dental Services

In England, NHS dental treatment is categorised into three main bands. (Prices are illustrative for 2025 and are subject to change by the government).

BandIncludesIllustrative Cost (2025)
Band 1Examination, diagnosis (including X-rays), scale and polish (if needed), preventive care (e.g., fluoride varnish).~£26.80
Band 2Everything in Band 1, plus further treatments like fillings, root canal work, or tooth removal.~£73.50
Band 3Everything in Bands 1 and 2, plus complex procedures like crowns, dentures, and bridges.~£319.10

Source: NHS England pricing structure.

The biggest challenge with NHS dentistry isn't always the cost, but access. The British Dental Association has highlighted significant difficulties for patients trying to find an NHS dentist accepting new adult patients, creating what many call 'dental deserts' in parts of the UK. This lack of access often forces people to turn to private dentists, where costs are considerably higher.

NHS Optical Services

NHS optical services are more limited for most adults.

  • Free Eye Tests: You are entitled to a free NHS eye test if you are under 16, aged 60 or over, are registered as partially sighted or blind, have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma, or meet certain other criteria (e.g., receiving certain benefits).
  • Optical Vouchers: If you qualify, the NHS provides vouchers towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. The value of the voucher depends on the strength of your prescription.

For most working-age adults, an eye test will cost between £20-£30, and the cost of glasses can range from under £50 to several hundred pounds, depending on the frames and lenses chosen.

How Do PMI Dental Add-Ons Work?

When you opt for a dental add-on, you'll usually find it's structured in tiers. More comprehensive cover costs more.

Here's a breakdown of what you might find:

Level 1: Routine Cover (The Basics) This is the entry-level option, designed to help with predictable costs.

  • Check-ups: Covers the cost of your six-monthly or annual examination.
  • Scale and Polish: Includes professional cleaning by a hygienist.
  • X-rays: Covers diagnostic imaging.
  • Minor Fillings: May cover a small contribution towards simple fillings.

Level 2: Mid-Range Cover (Routine + Restorative) This level includes everything in Level 1, plus cover for more significant work.

  • Fillings: Higher limits for fillings.
  • Extractions: Removal of teeth.
  • Root Canals: Treatment for infected tooth pulp.
  • Crowns, Bridges, Dentures: A contribution towards major restorative work.

Level 3: Comprehensive Cover (Including Major & Emergency) The top tier of cover.

  • Higher Annual Limits: Significantly more money available per year for all treatments.
  • Orthodontics: Some policies may offer a contribution towards teeth straightening for adults or children, though this is less common and often has strict criteria.
  • Dental Emergencies: Cover for urgent treatment needed due to an accident or sudden pain.
  • Dental Implants: May offer a contribution towards the high cost of implants.

A Crucial Point on Pre-existing Conditions: It's vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance, including any add-ons, is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. If you have a long-standing issue with a tooth that needs a crown, a PMI dental add-on is unlikely to cover it. The cover is for future, unforeseen problems.

How Do PMI Optical Add-Ons Work?

Optical cover is generally simpler than dental. It's designed to contribute towards the regular costs associated with maintaining your vision.

What's Typically Included?

  • Eye Tests: Reimbursement for the cost of a private eye test, usually once every one or two years.
  • Glasses/Spectacles: A fixed amount towards the cost of new prescription glasses. For example, a policy might offer £150-£200 per two-year period.
  • Contact Lenses: A contribution towards the cost of prescription contact lenses.

What's Usually Excluded?

  • Laser eye surgery (this is often a separate, high-cost benefit on premium PMI plans, not part of a standard optical add-on).
  • Non-prescription sunglasses.
  • Cosmetic treatments.

The value here is in its consistency. If you know you and your family will all need new glasses every two years, an optical add-on can help budget for that predictable expense.

The Core Question: Is the Extra Cost Worth It?

This is the million-dollar (or perhaps, hundred-pound) question. The answer depends entirely on your circumstances. Let's run through some scenarios to help you decide.

A Simple Cost-Benefit Analysis

Imagine a dental and optical add-on costs you an extra £30 per month, which is £360 per year.

What would that £360 need to cover to be "worth it"?

  • Private Dental Check-up & Hygienist: ~£120
  • One Small Filling: ~£90
  • Private Eye Test: ~£25
  • Contribution to Glasses (£200 value): Let's say you get this every two years, so the annual value is £100.

Total Annual Private Cost: £120 + £90 + £25 + £100 = £335

In this very specific scenario, the £360 premium is slightly more than your expected costs. However, it provides peace of mind. What if you needed a root canal, which can cost £500-£1,000 privately? The insurance would then represent a significant saving.

Conversely, if you have good teeth, find an NHS dentist, and only need new glasses every three years, the £360 annual cost might feel like poor value.

Scenario 1: When Dental & Optical Cover Makes Financial Sense

You should strongly consider adding these options if you fall into one of these categories:

  1. Families with Children:

    • Children often need regular check-ups.
    • Orthodontic (braces) needs can arise. While full cover is rare, some PMI add-ons provide a contribution which can be very helpful against costs that can run into thousands.
    • The convenience of booking family appointments at a private clinic can be a huge time-saver.

  2. Those Unable to Find an NHS Dentist:

    • If you live in a 'dental desert' and your only option is to go private, this add-on becomes almost essential. It helps you budget for guaranteed private care without facing a huge one-off bill.

  3. Individuals with a History of Dental Issues:

    • Important Caveat: This applies to new issues. As mentioned, pre-existing conditions aren't covered. However, if you generally have 'weak' teeth and know that you're likely to need fillings or other restorative work in the future, the add-on acts as a sensible budgeting tool.

  4. Higher Earners Who Value Convenience:

    • For busy professionals, the ability to get a quick private appointment that fits their schedule can be more valuable than the monetary saving itself. The add-on simplifies the process and cost.

Scenario 2: When You Might Not Need an Add-On

It might be better to save the premium and 'pay as you go' if:

  1. You Have Stable NHS Dental Access:

    • If you are registered with a reliable NHS dentist and are happy with the service, the costs are capped and predictable. The extra premium for a private add-on may not be justified.

  2. You Have a Tight Budget:

    • If you're looking for the most affordable private medical insurance UK has to offer, your priority should be the core policy covering major health events like cancer care or surgery. Dental and optical are 'nice-to-haves' that can be cut to make the essential cover more affordable.

  3. You Have Excellent Dental and Optical Health:

    • If you rarely need fillings and your eyesight is stable, you might only spend £50-£100 a year on check-ups. Paying a £300+ premium in this case doesn't add up financially.

  4. You Prefer a Standalone Cash Plan:

    • Health cash plans are a different type of product. You pay a monthly fee and can claim back cash for NHS and private dental/optical costs. They can sometimes offer better value for money if routine care is your only concern. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can discuss these alternatives with you.

Comparison: PMI Add-On vs. Standalone Plan vs. Pay As You Go

FeaturePMI Add-OnStandalone Dental/Cash PlanPay As You Go
IntegrationPart of your main health insurance policy. One provider, one payment.A separate policy from a specialist provider.No policy, no monthly cost.
Best ForConvenience and covering a mix of routine and unexpected major treatments.Budgeting for predictable routine costs (NHS or private).People with low dental/optical needs or good NHS access.
CostAdds £20-£50+ per month to your PMI premium.Typically £10-£40 per month.Pay only for what you use, when you use it.
Cover FocusOften provides higher limits for major restorative work (crowns, bridges).Usually focused on reimbursement for routine check-ups, hygienist visits, and glasses.Unlimited, but funded entirely from your own pocket.
SimplicityHigh. Everything is managed under one policy.Medium. You have a separate policy and provider to deal with.High. No paperwork, just pay the bill.

Major UK PMI Providers and Their Dental & Optical Offerings

Most major UK providers offer these add-ons, though the specifics vary.

  • Aviva: Often provides a range of dental and optical options that can be added to their Healthier Solutions policies, with clear annual limits.
  • Bupa: Bupa By You policies allow for the addition of a dental plan, which can cover routine care, treatment, and even emergencies.
  • AXA Health: Their Personal Health plans typically include options to add dental and optical cover, often on a cashback basis.
  • Vitality: Known for its wellness-oriented approach, Vitality often links dental and optical benefits to healthy living activities, providing rewards and discounts.

The key is not to assume they are all the same. The annual limits, the types of treatment covered, and the monthly cost can differ significantly. This is where working with an experienced PMI broker is invaluable. WeCovr can compare the fine print from each leading provider to find the plan that truly fits your needs.

Wellness Corner: Proactive Steps for Dental and Oral Health

Insurance is there for when things go wrong, but the best strategy is prevention. A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your need for dental and optical treatments.

  • Diet is Key: Sugary foods and acidic drinks (like fizzy pop and fruit juices) are the biggest enemies of tooth enamel. A balanced diet rich in calcium (dairy, leafy greens) and vitamin D helps build strong teeth and bones. For eye health, foods rich in antioxidants, Omega-3, and vitamins C and E—like fish, nuts, and colourful vegetables—are beneficial.
  • Master Your Brushing Technique: Brush for two minutes, twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste. Don't rinse with water straight after brushing, as this washes the protective fluoride away.
  • Don't Forget to Floss: Flossing or using interdental brushes removes plaque from between teeth, where a regular toothbrush can't reach. This is crucial for preventing gum disease.
  • The 20-20-20 Rule: To reduce digital eye strain, every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps your eye muscles relax.
  • Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV damage, which can contribute to cataracts and other eye conditions later in life.

By taking these simple steps, you're not just saving money on future treatment; you're investing in your long-term health and wellbeing.

The WeCovr Advantage: Getting It Right

Navigating the world of private health cover can be complex. The options, exclusions, and pricing structures can feel overwhelming. This is where we come in.

As an independent and FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies. We provide impartial, expert advice to help you build the perfect policy.

  • Market-Wide Comparison: We compare plans from all the best PMI providers to find the right cover at the right price.
  • No Extra Cost: Our advice and services are completely free to you. We are paid by the insurer, but our guidance remains 100% impartial.
  • Value-Added Benefits: When you arrange a policy through us, you gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support your health goals. Furthermore, our clients often receive discounts on other types of insurance, such as life or income protection cover.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on clear, honest advice has earned us high ratings from our clients. We're here to build a long-term relationship based on trust.

Choosing whether to add dental and optical cover is a significant decision. Let us help you make it with confidence.

Will my dental and optical add-on cover pre-existing conditions?

No, this is a critical point to understand. Standard UK private medical insurance, including dental and optical add-ons, does not cover pre-existing conditions. This means any dental or optical issue you have been treated for or sought advice on in the years before your policy starts will be excluded. The cover is for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy is in force.

Is there a waiting period before I can claim on my dental or optical cover?

Yes, most insurers apply an initial waiting period, or 'moratorium', before you can claim for certain treatments. For routine dental and optical care, this might be around 3-4 months. For major dental work like crowns or bridges, the waiting period could be longer, sometimes up to 12 months. This is to prevent people from taking out a policy to cover treatment they already know they need.

Are there annual limits on how much I can claim?

Absolutely. All dental and optical add-ons come with annual financial limits. For example, a policy might offer up to £250 for routine dental care, £750 for restorative work, and £150 for optical expenses per policy year. It's essential to check these limits when comparing policies, as they directly impact the value you can receive from the add-on. A cheaper premium often means lower annual limits.

Can I use any dentist or optician I want?

Generally, yes. Most PMI add-ons in the UK give you the freedom to choose any registered dentist or optician for your treatment. However, some insurers may have a network of 'partner' or 'approved' specialists. While you can usually go outside this network, staying within it might sometimes offer administrative benefits, like direct billing, so you don't have to pay upfront. Always check your policy documents for any network restrictions.

Ready to find the right health insurance policy for you?

The decision is easier with an expert on your side. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today, and let our specialists compare the market to find the perfect cover for your needs and budget.

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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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