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Excess vs Co-Pay UK and International PMI Differences

Excess vs Co-Pay UK and International PMI Differences 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 800,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr is dedicated to demystifying private medical insurance. This guide explores the crucial differences between excess and co-pay in the UK and international markets, helping you make an informed choice for your health.

Comparing the UK approach to patient contributions with international practices

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel like learning a new language. Two terms that often cause confusion are 'excess' and 'co-payment'. While they both refer to the portion of a medical bill you pay yourself, they function very differently.

In the UK, the 'excess' model reigns supreme. Conversely, in many international health insurance markets, such as the United States and the UAE, 'co-payment' (or 'co-pay') is the standard.

Understanding this distinction is vital, whether you're choosing a domestic UK policy or arranging international private medical insurance for life as an expat. This comprehensive guide will break down what each term means, why different systems favour one over the other, and how to decide which structure best suits your personal and financial circumstances.

What Are Patient Contributions in Health Insurance?

Patient contributions are simply the part of your private healthcare costs that you agree to pay out-of-pocket, with the rest being covered by your insurer. Insurers use these mechanisms for two main reasons:

  1. To reduce premiums: By agreeing to share some of the cost, you lower the insurer's potential payout, which in turn reduces the price of your policy.
  2. To discourage small or frivolous claims: Requiring a patient contribution ensures that policyholders have a financial stake in their healthcare decisions, which can help manage the overall cost of claims for the insurer.

The two most common forms of contribution are excess and co-payment.

The UK Model: Why is Excess the Standard?

In the UK private health cover market, the excess (sometimes called a deductible) is the default method for patient contributions.

An excess is a fixed amount of money you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment per policy year or, less commonly, per claim. Once you have paid this amount, your insurer will cover the remaining eligible costs, up to the limits of your policy.

A Critical Point on UK PMI: Before we go further, it's vital to understand a fundamental rule of UK private medical insurance. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses or injuries you already had) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or hypertension that require ongoing management rather than a cure). PMI is for new, curable health issues.

How Does Excess Work in UK PMI? A Real-Life Example

Let's imagine you have a PMI policy with a £250 excess per policy year.

  1. First Claim: In March, you need physiotherapy for a new back injury. The total cost of the treatment is £800. You pay the first £250 directly to the hospital or clinic. Your insurer then pays the remaining £550. Your excess for the year is now fully paid.
  2. Second Claim: In September of the same policy year, you need a consultation with a dermatologist for a new skin condition, costing £400. Because you have already paid your annual excess, your insurer covers the full £400. You pay nothing more.
  3. Next Policy Year: When your policy renews, the excess resets. If you need treatment again, you will have to pay the first £250 of your claim in that new policy year.

The key takeaway is that with an annual excess, you pay a set amount once per year, regardless of how many claims you make.

Common UK Excess Levels and Their Impact on Premiums

Choosing your excess level is one of the most direct ways to control the cost of your private medical insurance UK premium. The higher your excess, the lower your monthly or annual premium will be.

Here's a table illustrating the typical relationship between excess and premium cost.

Excess LevelTypical Premium Reduction (Approx.)Who It's Good For
£00% (Base Price)Those wanting maximum peace of mind and no upfront costs when claiming.
£1005-10%Individuals who want a lower premium but a very manageable excess.
£25015-20%A popular, balanced option for many families and individuals.
£50025-35%Healthy individuals who don't expect to claim often and want significant premium savings.
£1,000+40-50%+Primarily for those who see PMI as a safety net for major issues and can comfortably afford the high excess.

Expert Tip: Many people choose an excess of £250 or £500. This provides a good balance between a noticeable premium discount and an amount that won't cause financial hardship if a claim is needed. An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can run quotes with different excess levels to show you the exact savings.

The International Model: The Common Use of Co-Payment

Outside the UK, particularly in healthcare systems like the USA, co-payment is a much more common feature of health insurance policies.

A co-payment (or co-pay) is a fixed fee you pay for a specific medical service each time you use it. Unlike an excess, it's not a one-off annual amount. You pay it every time you visit a doctor, fill a prescription, or receive a specific treatment.

How Does Co-Pay Work? An International Example

Imagine you have an international health insurance policy with the following co-pay structure:

  • GP Visit: $25 co-pay
  • Specialist Consultation: $50 co-pay
  • Prescription Drugs: $15 co-pay

Throughout the year, your healthcare usage might look like this:

  • You visit a specialist for a consultation. The total bill is 300.Youpayyour∗∗300. You pay your **50 co-pay** at the reception desk. The insurer covers the remaining $250.
  • The specialist gives you a prescription. You go to the pharmacy. You pay your $15 co-pay for the medication.
  • Two months later, you see the specialist again for a follow-up. The bill is 200.Youpayanother∗∗200. You pay another **50 co-pay**.

With a co-pay system, your out-of-pocket costs are directly tied to how frequently you use medical services.

Co-Insurance vs. Co-Pay: A Common Point of Confusion

It's easy to mix up co-pay and co-insurance, but they are different.

  • Co-Pay: A fixed amount (£20, £50, etc.) you pay per service.
  • Co-Insurance: A percentage of the total cost of the service (e.g., 20%) that you pay.

For example, if a hospital stay costs £10,000 and you have a 10% co-insurance clause, you would pay £1,000. Co-insurance is less common in standard UK PMI but can be found in some international policies, often in combination with a deductible (excess).

Head-to-Head Comparison: UK Excess vs. International Co-Pay

To make the differences crystal clear, let's compare the two models side-by-side across several key factors.

FeatureUK Excess ModelInternational Co-Pay Model
When You PayOn your first claim(s) of the policy year, until the excess amount is met.Every time you use a specific, covered medical service.
How Much You PayA pre-agreed fixed sum (e.g., £250, £500) for the entire policy year.A smaller, pre-agreed fixed fee per service (e.g., £25 per consultation).
PredictabilityHigh. You know your maximum out-of-pocket cost for the year is your excess amount.Lower. Your total annual cost depends entirely on how often you need care.
Impact on UsageEncourages you to consider whether a small claim is worth "using up" your excess.Discourages overuse of services, as each visit has a direct cost.
Best For...Someone who wants certainty about their maximum annual cost and may have multiple treatments for one condition.Someone who uses healthcare services infrequently but wants a low barrier to a single visit.
Administrative SimplicitySimple. You and the insurer track one annual figure.More complex. Requires tracking and payment for every single interaction.
Typical MarketUnited KingdomUSA, UAE, parts of Europe and Asia.

The Rise of Hybrid Models: Co-Pay Options in the UK

While excess is the UK standard, the market is evolving. Some of the best PMI providers are now introducing co-pay options, often called "cost-share" or "shared responsibility" arrangements.

These are typically offered as an option for specific types of treatment, most commonly therapies. This includes:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Osteopathy
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Psychological therapy

For example, a policy might have a £500 main excess for surgeries and specialist consultations, but also a 25% co-pay for any physiotherapy claims. This means if you have 10 physiotherapy sessions costing £80 each (£800 total), you would pay 25% of that cost, which is £200.

This hybrid approach allows insurers to offer more competitive premiums while still providing comprehensive cover for major medical events. It gives consumers more choice in how they structure their policy and share costs.

International PMI (IPMI) for UK Expats and Globetrotters

If you're a UK citizen planning to live, work, or travel abroad for an extended period, a standard UK PMI policy won't be suitable. You'll need International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI).

This is where understanding co-pays becomes essential. IPMI policies are designed to work with healthcare systems all over the world, many of which are built around co-payments.

An IPMI policy might feature:

  • An annual excess (deductible).
  • Co-pay options for outpatient care (GP and specialist visits).
  • Co-insurance for major inpatient treatment (hospital stays).

Navigating these complex international policies can be challenging. An expert broker like WeCovr is invaluable here. We specialise in both UK PMI and IPMI, and can help you find a policy that provides seamless, comprehensive cover whether you're in London, Dubai, or Singapore.

How to Choose the Right Contribution Level for You

Deciding between a high excess, a low excess, or a policy with co-pay elements depends on three key factors: your finances, your health, and your mindset.

1. Assess Your Financial Situation

  • High Excess (£1,000+): This is a good choice if you have readily available savings to cover the excess and your main goal is to significantly lower your monthly premium. You see insurance as a safety net for large, unexpected costs.
  • Medium Excess (£250-£500): If you can comfortably afford to pay this amount without it causing financial stress, it offers a great balance of premium savings and accessible care.
  • Low/Zero Excess (£0-£100): If you prefer to budget with a fixed monthly cost and want to avoid any surprise bills when you claim, a low excess is the best option, though your premium will be higher.

2. Consider Your Health and Likelihood of Claiming

Be honest with yourself. While you can't predict the future, you can consider your general health and lifestyle.

  • If you are young, fit, and healthy with no family history of serious illness, you might feel comfortable opting for a higher excess.
  • If you have a young family or participate in sports where injuries are more likely, a lower excess might provide better peace of mind.

3. A Wellness Bonus: Proactive Health Can Lower Your Long-Term Costs

Regardless of your policy structure, the best way to manage healthcare costs is to stay healthy. Many modern PMI policies actively encourage this.

  • Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables is fundamental to good health. Using an app to track your intake can be a powerful tool. WeCovr is pleased to offer complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, to all our life and health insurance clients.
  • Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's essential for immune function, mental health, and physical recovery.
  • Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Regular exercise reduces your risk of many conditions that could lead to a PMI claim.

By investing in your wellness, you not only feel better but also reduce your likelihood of needing to claim, making a higher-excess policy a more financially sound choice over the long term.

WeCovr's Expert Approach to Finding Your Perfect PMI Policy

Choosing the right private medical insurance can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. As an independent, FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies.

Our service is provided at no cost to you. We take the time to understand your unique needs, budget, and health circumstances. We then compare policies from the UK's leading private health cover providers to find the perfect match.

Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings because we provide clear, unbiased advice. We can:

  • Explain the pros and cons of different excess and co-pay options.
  • Generate quotes instantly to show you how changing your excess affects your premium.
  • Help you understand the finer details of policy documents, ensuring there are no surprises.
  • Offer discounts on other types of cover, such as life insurance or income protection, when you buy a policy through us.

We are committed to making private healthcare accessible and understandable for everyone.


Does a higher excess always guarantee a cheaper PMI policy?

Yes, generally speaking. A higher excess means you agree to take on a larger portion of the initial cost of treatment, which reduces the financial risk for the insurer. In return, they offer you a lower premium. The relationship is direct: the higher the excess you are willing and able to pay, the lower your monthly or annual premium will be. It's one of the most effective ways to manage the cost of your private health cover.

Can I change my excess level during my policy year?

Typically, you can only change your excess level at your annual policy renewal. You cannot change it mid-term, especially not after you have started a claim. When your renewal documents arrive, you will have the opportunity to review your cover and request to either increase your excess (to lower your new premium) or decrease it (if you want lower out-of-pocket costs when you claim).

What happens if my treatment costs less than my excess?

If the total cost of your eligible treatment is less than your chosen excess, you will pay the full amount yourself. For example, if your excess is £500 and your treatment costs £350, you would pay the £350 bill directly. You would not need to formally claim from your insurer, but it's often wise to inform them. In this scenario, you would still have £150 of your annual excess left to pay towards your next claim in that same policy year.

Is co-pay becoming more common in the UK?

Yes, we are seeing a trend where UK insurers are introducing co-payment options, though they are still much less common than the standard excess model. These are often presented as "cost-sharing" options and are usually applied to specific outpatient treatments like physiotherapy or mental health support. This hybrid approach gives consumers more flexibility to design a policy that balances cost and cover in a way that suits them.

Ready to find the right private medical insurance policy for you? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts guide you through the options.

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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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