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Do Children Need Private Health Insurance in the UK

Do Children Need Private Health Insurance in the UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr knows that navigating the world of private medical insurance in the UK can be complex. For parents, the question of whether to secure private health cover for their children is one of the most important decisions they'll face.

WeCovr explains why many parents still buy PMI for kids

The United Kingdom is blessed with the National Health Service (NHS), a world-class institution providing comprehensive healthcare free at the point of use. For children, in particular, the care provided for emergencies, serious illnesses, and routine check-ups is second to none. So, the question naturally arises: is private medical insurance (PMI) for a child a necessary expense or a luxury?

While the NHS remains the bedrock of paediatric healthcare, an increasing number of parents are choosing to supplement this with private cover. This decision isn't about replacing the NHS but rather about gaining an extra layer of choice, speed, and comfort when dealing with non-urgent health issues. In this guide, we'll explore the compelling reasons behind this trend and provide the clarity you need to decide what's best for your family.

The NHS and Children's Healthcare: A Foundation of Excellence

Before we delve into the private sector, it's essential to acknowledge the strengths of the NHS for paediatric care. For any parent whose child has had an accident or a sudden, serious illness, the NHS emergency services are, without question, the first and best port of call.

  • Emergency Care: A&E departments are equipped to handle any childhood emergency, from broken bones to severe infections.
  • Critical Illness: Treatment for serious conditions like childhood cancers or congenital heart defects is delivered by world-leading specialists within the NHS.
  • Routine Care: Vaccinations, developmental checks, and GP appointments are all readily available and form the backbone of preventative healthcare for children in the UK.

Private health insurance is not designed to replace this. In fact, most private hospitals in the UK do not have paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) or A&E departments, meaning all true emergencies are rightly handled by the NHS.

So, Why Do Parents Consider Private Health Insurance for Their Children?

If the NHS is so comprehensive, what motivates a parent to pay for private cover? The reasons are nuanced and centre on the treatment of acute conditions that are not life-threatening but can significantly impact a child's quality of life, development, and a family's peace of mind.

The primary driver is the growing pressure on NHS resources, which has led to longer waiting lists for specialist consultations and elective procedures. According to recent NHS England data, while the median waiting time for treatment is around 15 weeks, hundreds of thousands of patients, including children, wait significantly longer for certain specialisms.

Here are the key benefits that parents seek through PMI.

1. Faster Access to Specialists and Diagnosis

For a parent, watching a child suffer from a persistent but non-urgent condition is distressing. This could be anything from recurring ear infections (glue ear), skin conditions like eczema or severe acne, to digestive problems or suspected allergies. While the NHS will provide excellent care, the waiting time to see a paediatric specialist can be lengthy.

Example: The Grommets Case A common childhood issue is "glue ear," where fluid builds up in the middle ear, causing hearing difficulties. This can affect speech development and performance at school. The standard treatment is the insertion of tiny tubes called grommets, a minor surgical procedure. While effective, the NHS waiting list for this elective surgery can be many months long. With PMI, a child could see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist within days and have the procedure scheduled in a matter of weeks, potentially preventing months of developmental delays.

2. Choice of Consultant and Hospital

The NHS assigns you to a specific consultant and hospital based on your location and their availability. Private medical insurance gives you control. You can:

  • Choose your specialist: You can research and select a consultant renowned for their expertise in your child's specific condition.
  • Choose your hospital: You can opt for a hospital that is closer to home, easier to get to, or has a reputation for outstanding patient care and facilities. This flexibility can significantly reduce the stress associated with hospital visits.

3. Enhanced Comfort and Privacy

A hospital stay can be a daunting experience for a child and their parents. Private healthcare aims to make this as comfortable as possible.

FeatureNHS Ward (Typical)Private Hospital Room (Typical)
AccommodationShared ward with several other children.Private, en-suite room.
Parent StaysA fold-out chair or bed next to the child's bed, if space permits.A proper bed for one parent to stay overnight comfortably in the same room.
Visiting HoursOften restricted to specific times.More flexible, allowing family to visit more freely.
FacilitiesShared bathroom facilities.Private bathroom, TV, and often a better menu selection.

This enhanced comfort isn't just a luxury; it can have a tangible impact on a child's recovery and a parent's ability to cope during a stressful time.

4. Access to Advanced Drugs and Treatments

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidance on which drugs and treatments are available on the NHS, based on their clinical and cost-effectiveness. Occasionally, a newer, more advanced drug or a specific type of therapy may be approved for use in the private sector before it is funded by the NHS. A comprehensive PMI policy may provide cover for these licensed, evidence-based treatments that aren't yet standard on the NHS.

5. Prompt Access to Mental Health Support

This is one of the most significant drivers for parents seeking private cover today. Waiting times for NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are a well-documented national issue. Reports from organisations like the Children's Commissioner for England and mental health charities consistently highlight that many children wait months, and in some cases over a year, to receive an assessment, let alone treatment.

For conditions like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or neurodevelopmental assessments (like ADHD or Autism), these delays can have a profound impact on a young person's education, social development, and overall well-being.

Private medical insurance can provide a vital lifeline, offering:

  • Fast-track referrals to child psychologists or psychiatrists.
  • Cover for a set number of therapy sessions, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
  • Digital mental health support through apps and online platforms.

What Does Private Medical Insurance for Children Cover?

Understanding the scope of cover is crucial. PMI policies are designed for acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond quickly to treatment.

What is an Acute Condition? An illness, injury or disease that is likely to respond quickly to treatment which aims to return you to the state of health you were in immediately before suffering the illness, injury or disease, or which leads to your full recovery. Examples: infections, joint pain requiring surgery, hernias.

What is a Chronic Condition? A disease, illness or injury which has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it is likely to come back, or it requires palliative care. Examples: asthma, diabetes, eczema.

Crucial Point: Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

This is the single most important limitation to understand. PMI is there for new health problems that arise after you take out the policy.

Here is a general breakdown of what's typically included and excluded:

Typically Covered (For Acute Conditions)Typically Excluded
In-patient and day-patient treatment (tests and surgery requiring a hospital bed).Pre-existing conditions (illnesses you knew about before taking the policy).
Out-patient consultations with specialists.Chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and most allergies.
Diagnostic tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and X-rays.Emergency treatment (this is handled by the NHS A&E).
Cancer treatment (often a core benefit, with extensive cover).Routine GP services, vaccinations, and developmental checks.
Mental health support (level of cover varies by policy).Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary).
Physiotherapy and other therapies (often as an add-on).Unproven or experimental treatments.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you understand the nuances of each provider's policy wording to ensure you know exactly what is and isn't covered.

How to Get Private Health Insurance for a Child

There are three main ways to arrange private health cover for your children:

  1. Add them to a parent's policy: This is usually the most common and cost-effective method. Insurers often offer discounts for adding children to an existing individual or family policy.
  2. Take out a standalone 'child-only' policy: Fewer insurers offer this, and it can sometimes be more expensive than a family plan. However, it can be a good option for grandparents wishing to buy a policy for a grandchild, or for separated parents.
  3. Through a company health insurance scheme: If a parent has PMI through their employer, they can often add their children (and partner) to the policy, sometimes at a preferential corporate rate.

How Much Does PMI for a Child Cost?

The cost of private medical insurance for a child is influenced by several factors:

  • Age: Premiums are generally very low for young children and increase with age.
  • Location: Costs are typically higher in Central London and the South East due to higher hospital charges.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive policy with full out-patient cover, therapy add-ons, and a low excess will cost more than a basic policy that only covers in-patient treatment.
  • Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£250, £500, or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospital lists. A policy that gives you access to every private hospital in the UK will be more expensive than one with a more restricted network.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums (for a single child)

These are example costs for guidance only. Your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances.

ScenarioEstimated Monthly Premium
Added to a parent's mid-range policy (outside London, £250 excess)£20 - £40
Standalone child-only mid-range policy (outside London, £250 excess)£30 - £55
Added to a comprehensive parent's policy (London access, zero excess)£60 - £90+

Choosing the Right Underwriting for Your Child's Policy

When you set up a policy, the insurer needs to know about your child's medical history to determine what they will exclude. This process is called underwriting.

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't have to fill out a detailed medical questionnaire. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical conditions your child has had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the 5 years before the policy start date. However, if your child then goes 2 continuous years on the policy without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that condition, the exclusion may be lifted. It's simple and quick to set up.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With this option, you complete a detailed health questionnaire for your child. The insurer assesses their medical history and tells you upfront exactly what is excluded from cover. It provides certainty from day one but can take longer to arrange.

An experienced PMI broker can advise on which underwriting method is most suitable for your child's specific health history.

Beyond Treatment: The Added Value of Modern PMI

Today's private medical insurance is about more than just paying for hospital bills. The best PMI providers include a suite of value-added benefits designed to support your family's overall health and wellbeing.

  • 24/7 Virtual GP: Get a video or phone appointment with a private GP, often within hours. This is incredibly useful for parents needing quick advice or a prescription without waiting for a local NHS GP appointment.
  • Health and Wellness Apps: Many policies now include subscriptions to mindfulness, fitness, and nutrition apps.
  • Discounts and Rewards: Insurers often partner with gyms, health food brands, and other services to offer their members discounts.
  • Second Opinion Services: If your child receives a serious diagnosis, some policies provide access to a world-leading expert for a second medical opinion.

At WeCovr, we enhance this value further. When you arrange a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us, we provide complimentary access to CalorieHero, our advanced AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support your family's healthy lifestyle goals. Furthermore, our clients benefit from exclusive discounts on other types of insurance cover they may need.

Is PMI for Children Worth It? A Balanced View

The decision to buy private medical insurance for your child is a personal one, weighing peace of mind against financial cost.

Pros of PMI for ChildrenCons of PMI for Children
✅ Speed: Fast access to specialists, diagnostics, and treatment for non-urgent issues.❌ Cost: It is an ongoing monthly expense for the family budget.
✅ Choice: Freedom to choose your preferred consultant and hospital.❌ Exclusions: Does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions, or emergencies.
✅ Comfort: Private room, better facilities, and flexible visiting hours.❌ NHS is Excellent: The NHS already provides superb free care for serious illnesses and emergencies.
✅ Mental Health: Quicker access to CAMHS support, bypassing long NHS waits.❌ Potential for Over-medicalisation: Easy access could lead to unnecessary tests or treatments.
✅ Added Benefits: Access to virtual GPs, wellness apps, and other perks.❌ Complexity: Policies can be complex to understand without expert guidance.

Ultimately, PMI for children is not about a lack of faith in the NHS. It's about creating a safety net. It provides an alternative pathway for conditions where waiting can cause distress, discomfort, or developmental setbacks. It's for parents who value the ability to say, "I want my child to be seen as quickly as possible," and are in a financial position to make that happen.

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Best PMI Provider

The UK private medical insurance market is crowded with providers, each offering different levels of cover, benefits, and pricing. Trying to compare them on your own can be overwhelming.

This is where WeCovr comes in. As an independent, FCA-authorised PMI broker, our service is dedicated to you, the client.

  • We listen: We take the time to understand your family's specific needs and budget.
  • We compare: We use our expertise and technology to compare policies from across the market, including leading names like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality.
  • We explain: We demystify the jargon and explain the pros and cons of each option in plain English.
  • We save you money: We find the most suitable cover at the most competitive price.
  • Our service is free: We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get our expert advice at no cost to you.

Protecting your child's health is your number one priority. Let us help you make the most informed choice about how to do it.


Do I need to declare my child's past illnesses when applying for health insurance?

Yes, it is crucial to be honest and thorough. If you choose 'Full Medical Underwriting', you will need to declare all previous conditions on a health questionnaire. If you opt for 'Moratorium' underwriting, any condition your child has had in the five years prior to the policy start date will be automatically excluded for at least the first two years. Failing to disclose information can invalidate your policy.

Are routine vaccinations or dental check-ups covered by children's PMI?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance is designed to cover unforeseen acute illnesses and injuries. Routine, preventative treatments like vaccinations, health checks, and standard dental/optical care are not typically included in core policies. However, some insurers offer dental and optical cover as an optional add-on for an extra premium, which would cover treatments beyond routine check-ups.

Can I get a private health insurance policy just for my child?

Yes, some UK insurers do offer 'child-only' policies. This can be a useful option for grandparents or separated parents who wish to provide cover. However, it is often more cost-effective to add a child to a parent's existing or new policy, as many providers offer discounts for family plans. An expert broker can compare both options for you.

If my child needs emergency care, should I use my private medical insurance?

No. In any medical emergency, you should always call 999 or go directly to your nearest NHS A&E department. Private hospitals are not equipped to handle emergencies. Private medical insurance is for planned, non-emergency diagnosis and treatment after you have been stabilised and referred by a GP or the NHS.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the perfect health cover for your family.

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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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