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Does PMI Cover Stress, Anxiety and Depression

Does PMI Cover Stress, Anxiety and Depression 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker with over 800,000 policies of various types issued, WeCovr is frequently asked if private medical insurance in the UK covers mental health conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression. The answer is complex, but this guide provides the clarity you need to protect your mental wellbeing.

How mental health is treated by private health insurers in the UK

Historically, private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK has had a complicated relationship with mental health. For many years, policies either excluded mental health treatment entirely or offered very limited cover. The focus was almost exclusively on physical ailments.

Thankfully, the landscape has changed dramatically. Insurers now widely recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health. Today, the majority of comprehensive PMI policies offer some level of mental health support. However, the extent and type of cover can vary enormously between providers and policy tiers.

The key thing to understand is that PMI is designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses that are curable and have a clear end to their treatment. It does not typically cover chronic conditions, which are long-term and require ongoing management rather than a cure. This distinction is the single most important factor in determining whether your policy will cover a condition like stress, anxiety, or depression.

The Growing Importance of Mental Health Cover in the UK

The shift in the insurance industry reflects a broader societal change and a pressing need. Mental health issues are incredibly common, and accessing timely support through the NHS can be challenging.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), rates of depression among adults in Great Britain have remained high in recent years. In early 2023, around 1 in 5 adults (21%) experienced some form of depression. This highlights a significant and ongoing public health challenge.

NHS waiting times for mental health services further underscore the value of private options. Data from NHS England often shows that while many people are seen within a few weeks for initial talking therapies, waiting lists for more specialist psychiatric care or specific therapies can stretch for many months, and in some areas, even longer.

This is where private medical insurance UK can be a lifeline. It provides a pathway to bypass these queues, offering rapid access to diagnosis and treatment, which can be crucial for preventing an acute mental health issue from becoming a chronic one.

What Does PMI Typically Cover for Mental Health?

When a PMI policy includes mental health cover, it usually provides access to a range of treatments for acute conditions. The level of cover you have—whether basic, mid-range, or comprehensive—will determine what's included and what the financial limits are.

Here’s a breakdown of common treatments covered:

Treatment TypeDescriptionTypical PMI Coverage
Psychiatric CareAssessment, diagnosis, and treatment by a consultant psychiatrist. This is often required to access other therapies.Often covered under both inpatient and outpatient benefits.
Talking TherapiesSessions with a qualified therapist, such as a psychologist or counsellor.Includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), counselling, and psychotherapy. Limits often apply (e.g., a set number of sessions or a financial cap).
Inpatient TreatmentAdmission to a private hospital or clinic for intensive mental health treatment.Usually included in mid-range to comprehensive plans. Cover is often for a limited period, such as 28-45 days per policy year.
Day-Patient TreatmentAttending a hospital or clinic for a day of structured therapy and treatment without staying overnight.A common feature of most plans that offer mental health support.
Outpatient TreatmentConsultations and therapy sessions that do not require a hospital stay. This is the most common route for treating conditions like anxiety and depression.Cover is usually defined by a financial limit (e.g., £1,000 to £2,000) or a set number of sessions.

Example of Cover Levels

  1. Basic Plan: Might only offer access to a mental health helpline or a limited number of digital therapy sessions. It is unlikely to cover inpatient or extensive outpatient care.
  2. Mid-Range Plan: Often includes a financial limit for outpatient therapies (e.g., £1,500) and may provide some cover for inpatient or day-patient treatment.
  3. Comprehensive Plan: Typically offers more generous outpatient limits, full cover for inpatient stays (up to a set number of days), and access to a wider range of specialists and facilities.

It's vital to check the policy details carefully. Some insurers have a separate "pot" of money for mental health, while others group it with overall outpatient limits. An expert PMI broker can help you decipher these details to avoid any surprises.

The Crucial Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Mental Health Conditions

This is the most critical concept to grasp when considering PMI for mental health. UK health insurance is built on the principle of treating acute conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples in mental health could include a sudden bout of anxiety after a traumatic event or a short-term depressive episode that can be resolved with a course of therapy.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics:
    • Needs ongoing or long-term monitoring.
    • Requires management and control rather than a cure.
    • Continues indefinitely.
    • Has no known cure.
    • Is likely to recur.

Insurers will almost always exclude chronic mental health conditions. If a psychiatrist determines that your depression or anxiety is a long-term, manageable condition rather than a short-term, curable one, your PMI policy will likely cease to cover the treatment. The insurer's view is that ongoing management of such conditions falls under the responsibility of the NHS or must be self-funded.

Real-Life Scenario:

Sarah develops severe anxiety after being made redundant. Her GP refers her to a psychiatrist, who diagnoses her with an acute anxiety disorder. Her PMI policy covers the psychiatric consultation and a course of 10 CBT sessions. The therapy is successful, and she makes a full recovery. Her treatment was fully covered because the condition was acute.

In contrast, David has had ongoing, low-level depression for over a decade. He has learned to manage it with lifestyle changes and occasional GP support. He takes out a PMI policy, but his long-term depression would be considered chronic and therefore would not be covered.

Understanding Pre-existing Conditions and Underwriting

Alongside the acute vs. chronic rule, the other major hurdle is pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy start date.

All standard PMI policies in the UK exclude pre-existing conditions, at least for an initial period. This is managed through two main types of underwriting:

1. Moratorium Underwriting

This is the most common type of underwriting. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the last five years.

The cover for these conditions can be reinstated if you meet two criteria:

  • You serve a continuous two-year period on the policy.
  • During that two-year period, you have not had any symptoms, treatment, medication, or advice for that specific condition.

How it applies to mental health: If you saw your GP for stress two years before taking out a policy, you would need to go two full years on the policy without any advice or treatment for stress before it could potentially be covered.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply, declaring your entire medical history. The insurer's underwriting team then reviews your application and will state explicitly what is and isn't covered from day one.

How it applies to mental health: If you declare a history of anxiety on your FMU application, the insurer will likely place a permanent exclusion on it. The benefit of FMU is clarity—you know exactly where you stand from the start. The downside is that past mental health issues are very likely to be excluded forever.

Working with an experienced broker like WeCovr is invaluable here. We can help you understand which type of underwriting is best for your circumstances and navigate the complexities of declaring past conditions.

How Leading UK Insurers Compare on Mental Health Cover

While specific policy details change, it's helpful to see how some of the best PMI providers in the UK generally approach mental health. The table below provides an illustrative overview based on their typical mid-range and comprehensive offerings.

InsurerTypical Approach to Mental Health CoverKey Features & Limits (Examples)
BupaStrong focus on mental health, often integrated into core cover on comprehensive plans.Offers cover for talking therapies, psychiatric care, and inpatient treatment. The "Mental Health and Wellbeing" benefit often provides access to support without needing a GP referral.
AvivaProvides a "Mental Health Pathway" on many policies, guiding members to the right support.Outpatient mental health treatment is often an optional add-on. Comprehensive plans can include significant cover for therapy and psychiatric treatment.
AXA HealthMental health cover is usually an optional add-on to core policies, allowing for flexibility.Once added, the benefit can be extensive, covering inpatient, day-patient, and outpatient care. They often provide access to a dedicated team of counsellors.
VitalityKnown for its wellness-focused approach. Mental health cover is well-integrated, with incentives for proactive care.Offers a "Talking Therapies" benefit, often providing a set number of therapy sessions. Higher-tier plans include more comprehensive psychiatric cover. Points can be earned for mindfulness and other wellbeing activities.

Important Note: This table is for guidance only. Policy benefits, limits, and terms are subject to change and depend on the specific plan you choose. Always read the policy documents and consult with a broker for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Beyond a Doctor's Referral: Value-Added Benefits and Wellness Support

Modern private health cover is about more than just paying for treatment when you're ill. The best PMI providers now include a wealth of value-added benefits designed to help you stay healthy and get support quickly, often without needing a GP referral or making a claim.

These benefits are particularly powerful for managing day-to-day stress and early-stage anxiety before they become a major problem.

Common Value-Added Benefits:

  • Digital GP Service: 24/7 access to a private GP via phone or video call. This allows you to discuss concerns like stress or low mood quickly and discreetly.
  • Mental Health Helplines: Confidential phone lines staffed by trained counsellors. You can call anytime for in-the-moment support for issues related to stress, anxiety, family, or work.
  • Wellness and Mindfulness Apps: Many insurers now partner with apps like Headspace, Calm, or their own proprietary platforms to offer guided meditation, mindfulness exercises, and mental fitness programmes.
  • Health and Lifestyle Advice: Access to experts who can provide guidance on sleep, nutrition, and exercise—all of which are crucial for maintaining good mental health.

At WeCovr, we enhance this support even further. Our clients not only get expert advice on choosing the right PMI policy but also receive:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you understand the vital link between diet and mental wellbeing.
  • Exclusive discounts: When you purchase PMI or life insurance through us, you can get discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your family and finances more affordably.

These wellness tools empower you to take a proactive approach to your mental health, providing a valuable first line of defence.

Practical Tips for Supporting Your Mental Health

While insurance provides a crucial safety net, your daily habits play the biggest role in your mental resilience. Here are some evidence-based tips for managing stress and promoting positive mental wellbeing:

  1. Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. A consistent sleep schedule, a dark and quiet room, and avoiding screens before bed can make a huge difference to your mood and ability to cope with stress.
  2. Move Your Body: Regular physical activity is one of the most effective anti-anxiety and anti-depressant strategies available. A brisk 30-minute walk each day is enough to boost endorphins and clear your head.
  3. Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein supports brain health. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and walnuts) and magnesium (like leafy greens and nuts) can be particularly beneficial. Use an app like CalorieHero to track your intake and ensure you're getting the right nutrients.
  4. Connect with Others: Social connection is a powerful buffer against stress. Make time for friends and family, join a club, or volunteer. Talking about how you feel with someone you trust can be incredibly helpful.
  5. Practise Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking five minutes to focus on your senses can help ground you in the present moment and reduce feelings of anxiety about the future.

How a PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Cover

Navigating the private medical insurance market can be overwhelming. The terminology is confusing, the policies are complex, and every insurer claims to be the best. This is where an independent, expert PMI broker becomes your most valuable asset.

Here’s how WeCovr can help:

  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from across the UK market to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
  • Expert, Jargon-Free Advice: Our specialists understand the nuances of mental health cover. We can explain the difference between acute and chronic conditions, the implications of underwriting, and what those financial limits really mean.
  • Tailored Recommendations: We take the time to understand your personal circumstances, health history, and what's important to you before recommending a policy.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is completely free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra. In fact, we can often find deals that are better than going direct.
  • Ongoing Support: Our relationship doesn't end when you buy the policy. We are here to help you at renewal or if you need to make a claim.

With high customer satisfaction ratings and a commitment to transparent advice, WeCovr is dedicated to helping you find the private health cover that gives you true peace of mind.

Do I need to declare a past mental health issue when applying for PMI?

Yes, you must be honest about your medical history. If you choose Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you will need to declare it on the application form. If you choose Moratorium underwriting, you don't declare it upfront, but the condition will be automatically excluded for at least two years. Hiding a condition can lead to your policy being cancelled and claims being denied.

Can I get private health insurance if I already have anxiety or depression?

You can still get private health insurance, but it is highly unlikely to cover your existing anxiety or depression. All standard UK policies exclude pre-existing conditions. The policy would cover you for new, unrelated acute conditions that arise after you join, but treatment for your ongoing mental health condition would be excluded.

Will claiming for mental health treatment increase my future premiums?

Making a claim of any kind, including for mental health, is likely to affect your renewal premium. Insurers adjust premiums based on age, medical inflation, and claims history. However, the cost of not getting timely treatment for a mental health issue can be far greater. Using value-added benefits like helplines or digital GPs usually does not count as a claim and will not affect your premium.

What is the difference between psychiatry and psychology cover in PMI?

In PMI, a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication. A consultation with a psychiatrist is often the first step required by an insurer. A psychologist or therapist provides talking therapies like CBT or counselling but cannot prescribe medication. Policies usually have separate or combined limits for consultations with a psychiatrist and sessions with a therapist.

Ready to find a private health insurance policy that truly supports your mental wellbeing?

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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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