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Freedom Health vs The Exeter Affordable PMI Comparison

Freedom Health vs The Exeter Affordable PMI Comparison 2026

WeCovr examines two mid-size UK providers offering competitive alternatives to the Big Four

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance (PMI) landscape inside and out. While many consumers gravitate towards the "Big Four" providers, a closer look reveals that some of the most competitive and flexible policies come from specialist, mid-size insurers.

In this comprehensive guide, we put two such providers under the microscope: Freedom Health Insurance and The Exeter. Both offer compelling alternatives for savvy UK consumers seeking value, flexibility, and excellent service. We'll explore their core offerings, unique benefits, and pricing structures to help you decide which might be the right fit for your health and budget.

A Quick Refresher: Understanding UK Private Medical Insurance

Before we dive into the comparison, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of private health cover in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

The Critical Rule: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important point to understand about standard UK PMI:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: PMI does not cover medical conditions you had before you took out the policy.
  • Chronic Conditions: It also does not cover long-term conditions that require ongoing management rather than a cure, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These are typically managed by the NHS.

The purpose of PMI is to complement the excellent emergency and chronic care provided by the NHS by giving you faster access to diagnosis and treatment for new, eligible medical conditions that arise after your policy begins.

Introducing the Contenders: Freedom Health & The Exeter

While they may not have the same household name recognition as the market leaders, Freedom Health and The Exeter have carved out significant niches by excelling in specific areas.

Freedom Health Insurance

Founded in 2003, Freedom Health has built its reputation on flexibility and choice. Their approach is highly modular, allowing customers to construct a policy that precisely matches their needs and budget. They are known for their straightforward products and competitive pricing, particularly for those who are happy to self-refer or want a more stripped-back level of cover.

Key Characteristics:

  • Modular "Build-Your-Own" Policies: You start with a core product and add only the benefits you need.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: Their "Freedom Essentials" plan is one of the most affordable diagnostic plans on the market.
  • Direct Access: Policies are designed to be simple and easy to understand, without unnecessary frills.

The Exeter

With roots going back over a century as a friendly society, The Exeter’s ethos is built on mutuality and member-centric service. They are not-for-profit, meaning their focus is on providing value and excellent service to their members rather than generating dividends for shareholders. They are particularly well-regarded for their comprehensive cover and exceptional claims handling.

Key Characteristics:

  • Member-Focused: As a friendly society, they have a strong reputation for fairness and customer support.
  • Comprehensive Cover: Their flagship "Health+" policy is designed to be thorough and inclusive.
  • Innovative Pricing: They use community-rated schemes for some renewals, which can protect members from sharp premium hikes after making a claim.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Core Policy Features

Let's break down how the main policies from Freedom Health (Freedom Elite) and The Exeter (Health+) stack up against each other on the most important features.

FeatureFreedom Health (Freedom Elite)The Exeter (Health+)WeCovr's Analysis
Core CoverCovers in-patient and day-patient treatment costs, including hospital charges and specialist fees.Covers in-patient and day-patient treatment costs in full. Includes unlimited in-patient diagnostics.Both providers offer robust core protection. The Exeter's 'unlimited in-patient diagnostics' is a standout feature, removing any worry about hitting a financial limit for tests while admitted to hospital.
Out-patient CoverAn optional add-on. You can choose limits from £0 up to £1,500, or a "Full Cover" option.Standard on their core policy, with a generous £1,000 limit for consultations and tests.The Exeter includes a strong level of out-patient cover as standard, which is great for simplicity. Freedom's modular approach gives cost-conscious buyers the ability to remove it entirely to save money.
Cancer CoverComprehensive cancer cover is an optional add-on. You can choose different levels, including cover for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.Extensive cancer cover is included as standard. This covers diagnosis, surgery, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy.The Exeter’s inclusion of cancer cover as standard is a significant benefit. With Freedom, it's an add-on, which adds to the cost but also allows those with a lower risk appetite to opt-out and reduce their premium.
Mental Health CoverAn optional add-on. Provides cover for specialist consultations and up to 45 days of in/day-patient psychiatric treatment.Included as standard. Covers up to £1,000 for out-patient consultations with a psychologist or psychiatrist.The Exeter’s standard inclusion is a plus for mental health support. Freedom's add-on is more extensive for in-patient care but comes at an extra cost.
Hospital ListOffers a choice of hospital lists, including a more restricted list to reduce premiums.Provides a comprehensive list of UK private hospitals. You can add a "London Upgrade" for access to exclusive central London facilities.Both offer good flexibility. Freedom's tiered lists allow for more precise cost control, while The Exeter's approach is simpler for most customers.
Excess OptionsFlexible options ranging from £0 to £2,500.Wide range of excess options from £0 to £5,000.Both providers offer excellent flexibility, allowing you to choose a higher excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) to significantly lower your monthly premium.
No Claims DiscountA standard tiered system. Your premium is reduced for every year you don't claim, typically up to 60-70%.Uses a protected No Claims Discount and, for renewals, a 'community rating' approach.The Exeter's community rating is a game-changer. It means your renewal premium isn't just based on your own claims but on the claims of a wider group, protecting you from a single large claim causing a massive price hike.

Diving Deeper: Unique Selling Points

The table above gives a great overview, but the real difference lies in the unique products and philosophies of each insurer.

Freedom Health's Strengths: Ultimate Flexibility and Affordability

  1. Freedom Essentials Plan: This is Freedom's standout budget product. It's not a full PMI policy. Instead, it’s a "diagnostic" plan designed to get you answers quickly. It covers the costs of consultations and scans (like MRI and CT) to diagnose a problem. Once diagnosed, you would typically use the NHS for treatment, but armed with a swift private diagnosis. This is perfect for those who trust the NHS for treatment but want to skip the long diagnostic waiting lists.
  2. The Modular 'Elite' Policy: Freedom Elite truly lets you be the architect of your own plan. For example, a fit and healthy 40-year-old might choose:
    • Core Cover: For in-patient treatment only.
    • No Out-patient Cover: To save money, they are happy to use their NHS GP for initial consultations.
    • Full Cancer Cover: They want the peace of mind of comprehensive cancer care if needed.
    • £1,000 Excess: To keep monthly premiums low. This level of customisation is Freedom’s core strength.
  3. Self-Referral Options: Some of Freedom's benefits, like access to their private GP service, allow for self-referral, simplifying the process of getting medical advice.

The Exeter's Strengths: Comprehensive Cover and Member-First Service

  1. The 'Health+' Policy: This is a comprehensive, feature-rich product. By including a high level of out-patient cover, mental health support, and full cancer care as standard, The Exeter removes a lot of the guesswork. It’s designed for those who want to "set it and forget it," knowing they are well-covered.
  2. Community-Rated Renewals: This is arguably The Exeter’s most significant advantage. On a standard PMI policy, if you make a large claim (e.g., for a £20,000 knee replacement), your personal renewal premium can skyrocket. With The Exeter’s community-rated approach, your premium increase is influenced by the overall claims of a large pool of members, making it far more stable and predictable. This provides incredible peace of mind.
  3. Healthwise Member App: This is a superb added-value benefit. Included with every policy, the Healthwise app provides:
    • Remote GP Appointments: 24/7 access to a GP by phone or video call.
    • Mental Health Support: Access to qualified counsellors for short-term support.
    • Physiotherapy & Podiatry: Quick access to assessment and advice for musculoskeletal issues. This suite of services can help you manage minor health concerns quickly, often without needing to make a formal claim on your policy.

Cost Comparison: Illustrative Monthly Premiums

It is vital to remember that PMI premiums are highly personalised. They depend on your age, location, smoking status, chosen excess, and level of cover. The table below provides illustrative examples only to give you a rough idea of potential costs.

These quotes are hypothetical, generated for a non-smoker with a £500 excess in December 2025. For an accurate quote, speak to a specialist advisor.

ScenarioFreedom Essentials (Diagnostics Only)Freedom Elite (Mid-Range Cover)The Exeter Health+ (Comprehensive)
30-year-old individual, outside London~£25 / month~£45 / month~£55 / month
45-year-old couple, outside London~£80 / month~£130 / month~£155 / month
Family of four (40s parents, 2 kids), London~£140 / month~£220 / month~£270 / month

Analysis:

  • Freedom Essentials is consistently the most affordable option, reflecting its focus purely on diagnostics.
  • Freedom Elite offers a competitive mid-point, which can be made cheaper or more expensive depending on the modules you select.
  • The Exeter typically has a higher premium, which is justified by its comprehensive standard features, member benefits like the Healthwise app, and the long-term value of its community-rated renewal pricing.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can provide a detailed comparison of personalised quotes from these and other leading UK providers, ensuring you don't overpay for the cover you need.

Enhancing Your Wellbeing: Tips and Tools

Private medical insurance is for when things go wrong, but the best strategy is to stay healthy in the first place. Both providers offer tools to help, and you can supplement these with simple lifestyle habits.

  • Nutrition is Key: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is foundational to good health. According to the NHS, eating a healthy, balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk of developing chronic conditions.
  • Stay Active: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week. Regular exercise is proven to reduce stress and lower the risk of major illnesses.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep can impact everything from your immune system to your mental health.

As a WeCovr client, you get powerful tools to support your health journey. We provide all our health and life insurance customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered nutrition app that makes tracking your diet and calories simple and intuitive.

Furthermore, when you purchase a policy through WeCovr, you can unlock exclusive discounts on other types of insurance, from home to travel cover, providing even greater value.

So, Who Is Freedom Health Best For?

You might be a great fit for Freedom Health if:

  • You are on a tight budget: The Essentials plan offers a fantastic way to get fast diagnostics without the cost of a full PMI policy.
  • You want maximum control: You enjoy tweaking options and want to build a policy that covers exactly what you want and nothing more.
  • You are relatively young and healthy: You may be comfortable taking on more risk (e.g., a higher excess or no out-patient cover) in exchange for a lower premium.

And Who Is The Exeter Best For?

The Exeter could be the ideal choice if:

  • You prioritise comprehensive cover and simplicity: You want a policy that includes cancer cover, mental health support, and out-patient care as standard.
  • You value excellent customer service: Their reputation as a friendly society for fair treatment and smooth claims is a major draw.
  • You are concerned about future premium hikes: The community-rated renewal model offers unique long-term protection against steep price increases after a claim.
  • You are an older applicant: The Exeter has a strong track record of offering competitive terms to older individuals.

The WeCovr Verdict: Choosing Your Perfect Match

There is no single "best" private medical insurance provider. The right choice between Freedom Health and The Exeter depends entirely on your personal circumstances, priorities, and budget.

  • Freedom Health is the champion of flexibility and affordability.
  • The Exeter is the standard-bearer for comprehensive cover and member-first service.

Navigating these choices can be complex. Policy documents are filled with jargon, and comparing different benefit levels and add-ons is a daunting task. This is where using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr makes all the difference. Our expert advisors do the hard work for you. We take the time to understand your needs and then compare the entire market—including specialist providers like Freedom and The Exeter—to find the policy that offers you the best protection at the most competitive price. Our advice is completely free and impartial.


Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard private medical insurance policies in the UK are designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy has started. They do not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already have) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) that require ongoing management.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your medical history. With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. With Moratorium (Mori) underwriting, you don't declare your full history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the five years before your policy starts. These exclusions can be lifted if you then go a continuous two-year period on the policy without any issues relating to that condition.

How much does private medical insurance in the UK actually cost?

The cost varies significantly based on personal factors. A young, healthy individual might pay as little as £30 per month for basic cover, while a comprehensive policy for a family could be over £250 per month. Key factors influencing the price include your age, location, smoking status, the level of cover you choose (e.g., out-patient limits), and your chosen excess (the amount you agree to pay towards a claim).

Ready to Find Your Ideal Health Cover?

Don't navigate the complex world of private medical insurance alone. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our friendly experts will compare policies from Freedom Health, The Exeter, and all other leading UK insurers to find the perfect plan for you and 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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