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Dental, Optical, and Add-On Benefits 2026 News

Dental, Optical, and Add-On Benefits 2026 News 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert analysis of the UK private medical insurance market. This guide explores the significant enhancements in dental, optical, and wellness add-ons for 2026, helping you decide if these valuable extras are right for you.

Coverage of enhanced add-ons for health insurance—analysis of whats new, which policies include extras, and claim statistics

Private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK is evolving. Once focused almost exclusively on covering the costs of treating acute medical conditions, today's policies are becoming comprehensive health and wellness solutions. A key driver of this change is the rise of enhanced 'add-on' benefits.

These optional extras, such as dental, optical, and mental health support, allow you to bolt on everyday healthcare coverage to your core PMI policy. They are designed to bridge the gap between reactive treatment for illness and proactive management of your overall health.

In 2026, the demand for these add-ons has never been higher, fuelled by pressures on NHS services and a growing public desire for preventative care. This article provides a detailed analysis of what's new, which policies offer the best value, and what the data tells us about their growing importance.

The Core of UK Private Medical Insurance: What It Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

Before we delve into the world of add-ons, it’s vital to understand the fundamental purpose of a standard private medical insurance policy in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover 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. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

The primary role of PMI is to provide you with prompt access to private diagnosis and treatment for these conditions, helping you bypass NHS waiting lists.

The Critical Exclusion: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important rule of UK private health cover: standard policies do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: These are any health issues you had before you took out the policy. This includes anything you've had symptoms of, received advice for, or been treated for, typically within the last five years.
  • Chronic Conditions: These are long-term conditions that cannot be cured but can be managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure. While PMI won't cover the routine management of these conditions, it may cover acute flare-ups depending on your policy terms.

Understanding this distinction is key. Your core PMI policy is for new, curable health problems that arise after your cover begins. The add-ons we will discuss are for routine, preventative, and everyday healthcare needs.

Why Consider Add-On Benefits for Your PMI Policy in 2026?

While core PMI provides a safety net for serious illness, add-ons offer tangible, day-to-day value. Here are the key reasons UK consumers are increasingly opting for them.

1. Unprecedented NHS Pressures

Waiting lists for routine services on the NHS have become a significant concern.

  • Dentistry: The term "dental desert" has become commonplace. A 2026 report by the British Dental Association (BDA) highlighted that millions of people are unable to get the NHS dental care they need, with many practices not accepting new adult patients. This pushes many towards private care, where costs can be high without insurance.
  • Optical Services: While eye tests are more accessible, waiting times for specialist NHS ophthalmology appointments can be lengthy. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has noted that delays can put patients at risk of irreversible sight loss.
  • Mental Health: NHS talking therapy services (IAPT) face overwhelming demand. NHS Digital figures from early 2026 show that while access is improving, many still face long waits for an initial appointment and subsequent treatment sessions.

2. A Shift Towards Proactive Health Management

There is a growing awareness that staying healthy is better than treating illness. Add-on benefits empower you to take control of your health.

  • Routine Check-ups: Dental and optical add-ons encourage regular check-ups, helping to spot issues like decay, gum disease, or glaucoma early.
  • Wellness Incentives: Many insurers now offer discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings, actively rewarding you for healthy living. This transforms your insurance from a passive product into an active health partner.

3. Financial Sense and Budgeting

Paying for private dental treatment or a new pair of glasses out-of-pocket can be a significant, often unexpected, expense. Add-ons allow you to manage these costs.

  • Predictable Costs: By paying a small additional premium each month, you can claim back a significant portion of your routine healthcare bills. This makes budgeting for your family's health much easier.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Bundling these benefits with your PMI can often be more convenient and sometimes more cost-effective than purchasing separate standalone dental or optical plans.

An expert PMI broker, such as WeCovr, can run a detailed cost-benefit analysis for you, comparing bundled PMI policies against separate plans to find the most economical solution for your circumstances.

A Deep Dive into Dental Cover: What's New for 2026?

Dental cover is arguably the most popular add-on, and for good reason. The cost of private dental care in the UK can be substantial, and this benefit provides a valuable financial cushion.

Insurers typically offer tiered levels of dental cover, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

Level of CoverWhat It Typically IncludesAverage Annual Limit
RoutineCheck-ups, scale and polish, X-rays, minor treatments like fillings.£250 - £500
RestorativeAll routine care, plus more complex treatments like crowns, root canals, and extractions.£500 - £1,000
Major/ComplexAll of the above, plus major work such as bridges, dentures, and sometimes a contribution towards implants.£1,000 - £5,000+
EmergencyProvides cover for urgent treatment needed to alleviate pain, often available 24/7.£150 - £300 per incident

What's New in Dental Benefits for 2026?

  • Increased Benefit Limits: In response to rising private dental fees, many insurers have increased their annual limits for 2026. A policy that offered a £750 limit for restorative work last year might now offer £1,000.
  • Focus on Prevention: Insurers are increasingly covering 100% of the cost of preventative treatments like check-ups and hygienist visits, actively encouraging members to catch problems early.
  • Orthodontic Contributions: While full orthodontic treatment (braces) is rarely covered for adults, more top-tier plans are offering a small contribution (e.g., £250-£500) towards the cost, which can be a welcome discount.
  • Cosmetic Treatment Exclusions Remain: It's important to note that purely cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening or veneers are almost always excluded from cover. The focus remains on dental health, not aesthetics.

Real-World Example: Sarah, a 45-year-old marketing manager, needed a crown on a molar. Her local private dentist quoted her £850. Her PMI policy, with a mid-tier dental add-on, had a £1,000 annual limit for restorative work. She paid the dentist and claimed back the full £850, less a small £50 excess. The add-on cost her an extra £18 per month, but saved her over £600 on this single procedure.

Seeing Clearly: The Latest in Optical Benefits for 2026

Optical benefits are another highly practical add-on. They provide cover towards the costs of maintaining your eye health and correcting your vision.

The structure is usually simpler than dental cover, offering a set amount you can claim back each year.

Benefit TypeWhat It Typically IncludesAverage Annual Limit
Eye TestsA fixed contribution towards the cost of a private sight test.£25 - £50
Glasses & LensesA contribution towards the cost of new prescription spectacles or contact lenses.£150 - £300

What's New in Optical Benefits for 2026?

  • Higher Limits for Glasses: The cost of frames and lenses, especially for complex prescriptions, has risen. Insurers are responding by nudging up their annual limits. A £150 benefit is now more commonly £200 or even £250 on premium policies.
  • Coverage for Advanced Eye Scans: Some insurers are now including contributions towards advanced diagnostic tests like OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans. These scans can help detect conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration much earlier.
  • Direct Settlement with Opticians: A growing trend is for insurers to partner with major optician chains (e.g., Specsavers, Vision Express). This allows for direct billing, meaning you don't have to pay the full amount upfront and claim it back later.

Did You Know? The College of Optometrists recommends a sight test every two years, or more frequently if advised by your optometrist. Regular tests are crucial not just for vision, but for detecting underlying health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even tumours.

Beyond Teeth and Eyes: The Rise of Enhanced Wellness and Therapy Add-Ons

The evolution of PMI is most apparent in the explosion of add-ons that go beyond traditional medical treatment. These benefits focus on your holistic wellbeing, covering mental, physical, and lifestyle health.

Mental Health Support

This is one of the fastest-growing areas of private health cover. Recognising the immense strain on NHS services, insurers have vastly improved their mental health offerings.

  • What's Covered: Cover can range from a set number of counselling or CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) sessions to full psychiatric cover, including consultations and in-patient care if needed.
  • What's New for 2026: The big shift is towards proactive and digital support. Most major providers now offer:
    • 24/7 Mental Health Helplines: Immediate access to trained counsellors.
    • Self-Referral: You often don't need a GP referral to access therapy, speeding up the process.
    • Digital Tools: Access to mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm, and dedicated platforms for online therapy.

According to the mental health charity Mind, approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year. Having swift access to support through your PMI can be life-changing.

Therapies Cover

This add-on covers treatments to help with musculoskeletal issues, recovery from injury, and management of pain.

  • What's Covered: The "big three" are typically:
    • Physiotherapy
    • Osteopathy
    • Chiropractic
  • Benefit Structure: Cover is usually provided as a set number of sessions per year (e.g., up to 10) or a total monetary limit (e.g., up to £500).
  • Why It's Valuable: For active individuals, sports enthusiasts, or anyone with a physically demanding job, this add-on provides rapid access to treatment that can prevent a minor niggle from becoming a chronic problem.

Lifestyle and Wellness Benefits

This is where insurers get creative, offering perks that actively encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Benefit TypeDescriptionExample Providers
Digital GP24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, with private prescription services.Aviva, AXA, Bupa
Gym DiscountsSignificant savings on memberships at major UK gym chains.Vitality, Bupa
Wearable TechDiscounts or cashback on devices like Apple Watch, Garmin, or Fitbit for tracking activity.Vitality
Wellness ProgrammesEarn points and rewards for healthy activities like walking, regular check-ups, and good nutrition.Vitality, WeCovr
Nutrition SupportAccess to consultations with registered nutritionists or dietitians.AXA, Bupa

As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. This is a perfect example of how modern insurance brokers are adding value, helping you manage your diet and achieve your health goals as part of your overall protection package.

Which UK Insurers Offer the Best Add-On Packages in 2026?

The "best" provider depends entirely on your personal priorities. Some excel in wellness rewards, while others offer more traditional, comprehensive cover. Here’s a high-level overview of the main players in the UK private medical insurance market.

ProviderKnown ForKey Add-Ons & FeaturesUnique Selling Point
AXA HealthComprehensive cover and strong mental health support.Excellent mental health pathways, extensive therapy options, robust dental and optical cover.Doctor@Hand digital GP service is highly rated.
AvivaFlexibility and strong digital integration.Wide range of dental/optical levels, "Expert Select" hospital list to manage costs, strong mental health support.Their "Aviva Digital GP" app is a core part of their offering.
BupaExtensive network and brand recognition.Comprehensive dental plans (Bupa Dental Care network), mental health cover, direct access to therapies.Huge network of Bupa-branded and partner facilities.
VitalityRewards-based wellness programme.Dental, optical, and mental health cover, plus a huge range of wellness benefits and rewards.The "Active Rewards" programme, which incentivises healthy living with discounts and perks.
The ExeterSpecialist focus and member-owned ethos.Good range of add-ons with clear terms, often favoured by the self-employed.Known for their clear underwriting and customer service.

Navigating the subtle differences between these providers' add-on packages can be complex. An independent PMI broker like WeCovr provides impartial advice, comparing the entire market to find the policy that gives you the benefits you'll actually use, at the best possible price. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right fit for every client.

Understanding the Cost: How Add-Ons Affect Your PMI Premium

It's simple: adding more benefits to your policy will increase your monthly premium. The key is to ensure you're paying for cover that you will use and that offers good value.

Let's look at a hypothetical example for a 40-year-old non-smoker in a mid-cost UK region:

  • Core PMI Policy (In-patient and Day-patient): £50 per month
  • + Routine Dental & Optical Add-on: + £15 per month (Total: £65)
  • + Therapies & Mental Health Add-on: + £10 per month (Total: £75)

In this scenario, a comprehensive plan with a full suite of popular add-ons costs £75 per month. If this person claims £200 for glasses and £300 for dental work in a year, they have already received £500 in value for an annual add-on cost of £300 (£25 x 12). This doesn't even account for the peace of mind and access to therapy.

Furthermore, purchasing your private medical insurance UK policy through WeCovr can unlock additional value. We often provide discounts on other types of cover, such as life insurance or income protection, when you arrange your health insurance with us.

Claiming for add-ons is typically more straightforward than claiming for major medical treatment. There are two main methods:

  1. Pay and Claim Back: This is the most common method for dental and optical benefits. You pay your dentist or optician, get a detailed receipt, and submit it to your insurer via an online portal or app. They then reimburse you directly to your bank account, up to your benefit limit.
  2. Direct Settlement: This is becoming more common, especially for therapies and mental health. The insurer has an approved network of providers. You get a pre-authorisation code from your insurer, and they settle the bill directly with the physiotherapist or counsellor.

Key Terms to Understand:

  • Annual Limit: The maximum amount you can claim for a specific benefit in a policy year.
  • Excess: A small, fixed amount you might have to pay towards a claim. For add-ons, this is often low (e.g., £50) or non-existent.
  • Waiting Period: When you first take out a policy, you may have to wait a short period (e.g., 1-3 months) before you can claim for routine dental or optical benefits. Emergency cover is often available immediately.

Always read your policy documents carefully to understand the specific limits, excesses, and claims process for your chosen add-ons.

Is it cheaper to buy dental and optical insurance separately?

Sometimes, but not always. While standalone plans exist, bundling these benefits with your private medical insurance can be more convenient and cost-effective. Insurers often offer preferential rates for add-ons compared to the cost of separate policies. An expert broker can compare both options to find the best value for your specific needs.

Does private health insurance cover cosmetic dentistry or laser eye surgery?

Generally, no. Standard PMI and its add-ons are designed to cover medically necessary treatments. Purely cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, or elective laser eye surgery are typically excluded. However, some treatments have a dual purpose (e.g., a crown that improves both function and appearance), which would be covered. Always check your policy wording for specifics.

Can I add benefits like dental or optical cover to my policy mid-term?

You can usually only add or remove benefits at your annual policy renewal. This is the time to review your cover with your broker and make sure it still meets your needs. Insurers do not typically allow changes mid-term to prevent people from adding cover only when they know they need to make a claim.

What is the difference between a PMI add-on and a health cash plan?

They are similar but distinct. A PMI add-on is part of a comprehensive insurance policy designed to cover major medical events. A health cash plan is a simpler, standalone product that gives you money back for a wider range of everyday health expenses, but the benefit limits are often lower. A PMI add-on is integrated into your main health insurance, while a cash plan is a separate policy entirely.

Take Control of Your Health in 2026

The landscape of private health cover has changed for the better. The wealth of add-on benefits available in 2026 allows you to build a policy that does more than just protect you when you're ill—it actively supports your day-to-day health and wellbeing.

From ensuring your teeth and eyes are in top condition to providing a vital lifeline for mental health support, these optional extras offer real, tangible value. The key is to choose wisely and build a plan that reflects your priorities.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our FCA-authorised experts will compare the entire market, explain your choices in plain English, and help you design a private medical insurance plan that’s perfect for you and your family, at no cost to you.


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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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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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