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General & Medical vs Exeter Best PMI for Families




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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that choosing private medical insurance for your family in the UK is a significant decision. We are here to compare two excellent smaller providers, General & Medical and The Exeter, to help you find the perfect fit. WeCovr compares how these smaller providers serve UK families When considering private health cover, many families naturally think of the industry giants like Bupa or AXA.

Key takeaways

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint pain requiring a hip replacement, cataracts, or hernias).
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). These are not covered by PMI and are managed through the NHS.
  • Pre-existing conditions you have had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the years before your policy starts are also typically excluded.
  • Flexibility: Their policies are known for being highly customisable. You start with a core foundation and add the extras you need.
  • Family-Oriented: They have a long history of offering schemes for individuals, families, and businesses, with a clear understanding of what different groups require.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that choosing private medical insurance for your family in the UK is a significant decision. We are here to compare two excellent smaller providers, General & Medical and The Exeter, to help you find the perfect fit.

WeCovr compares how these smaller providers serve UK families

When considering private health cover, many families naturally think of the industry giants like Bupa or AXA. However, the UK's private medical insurance market is rich with specialist providers who often offer a more tailored service, unique benefits, and a different ethos.

Two such providers are General & Medical and The Exeter. Whilst they may not have the same household name recognition, they both have a long-standing reputation for providing quality cover and excellent customer care. For families, who have unique and evolving health needs, a smaller, more focused insurer can sometimes be the ideal choice.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down how these two providers stack up, looking at everything from core cover and family-specific benefits to cost and customer service. Our goal is to give you the clarity you need to make an informed decision for your family's health and wellbeing.

A Crucial Note on UK Private Medical Insurance

Before we dive in, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint pain requiring a hip replacement, cataracts, or hernias).
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). These are not covered by PMI and are managed through the NHS.
  • Pre-existing conditions you have had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the years before your policy starts are also typically excluded.

Understanding this distinction is the key to having the right expectations for what your private health cover can do for you.

Meet the Contenders: A Quick Overview

Let's get to know our two providers. They come from different backgrounds but share a commitment to providing high-quality health insurance.

About General & Medical

Founded in the 1980s, General & Medical has built a strong reputation as a specialist provider of private medical insurance. They pride themselves on offering a wide range of flexible and modular policies, allowing customers to build a plan that precisely matches their needs and budget.

Key characteristics of General & Medical include:

  • Flexibility: Their policies are known for being highly customisable. You start with a core foundation and add the extras you need.
  • Family-Oriented: They have a long history of offering schemes for individuals, families, and businesses, with a clear understanding of what different groups require.
  • Established Service: With decades of experience, they have refined their processes and offer a range of support services alongside their core insurance products.

About The Exeter

The Exeter has a unique structure that sets it apart: it's a Friendly Society. This means it is owned by its members (the policyholders), not by external shareholders. Any profits are reinvested back into the business to improve products and services or are returned to members. This mutual ethos is at the heart of everything they do.

Key characteristics of The Exeter include:

  • Mutual Status: As they are member-owned, their focus is entirely on providing the best value and service to their policyholders.
  • Member-First Benefits: This ethos translates into tangible benefits, such as their comprehensive Healthwise app, which is available to all members.
  • Strong Heritage: Founded in 1927, The Exeter has a near-century-long history of protecting its members through sickness and ill health. They have a deep specialism in income protection as well as health insurance.

Core Cover Compared: The Foundation of Your Policy

All PMI policies are built on a foundation of core cover, which primarily deals with treatment you receive whilst admitted to a hospital. This is known as inpatient or day-patient care.

  • Inpatient: You are admitted to a hospital and stay overnight.
  • Day-patient: You are admitted to a hospital or clinic for a procedure but do not stay overnight.

Both General & Medical and The Exeter offer comprehensive cover for these treatments as standard, but there are nuances in what is included.

FeatureGeneral & Medical (Typical Mid-Tier Plan)The Exeter (Health+ Policy)What This Means for Families
Inpatient & Day-Patient FeesCovered in fullCovered in fullBoth providers ensure that if a family member needs surgery or hospital treatment, the costs for specialists and the hospital itself are paid.
Hospital ListChoice of tiered hospital lists (e.g., Signature, First Choice, Freedom)Choice of a national list of quality-assessed hospitals or a more restricted list for a lower premium.A broader list gives you more choice, which can be crucial for accessing a specific paediatric specialist, but it will increase your premium.
Cancer CoverComprehensive cancer cover as standard, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.Comprehensive cancer cover is standard, with no time or financial limits on chemotherapy and radiotherapy.This is non-negotiable for most families. Both providers offer robust cancer care, providing immense peace of mind.
NHS Cash BenefitYes, typically around £100-£250 per night.Yes, typically around £150 per night.If you choose to use the NHS for inpatient treatment, the insurer pays you a tax-free cash sum. This can help cover incidental costs like travel or childcare.
Parent AccommodationUsually covered for a parent to stay with a child under a certain age (e.g., 12).Covered for one parent to stay in the hospital with an insured child under 18.A huge benefit. The Exeter's higher age limit of 18 is a significant advantage for families with teenagers.

The Takeaway: Both providers offer a solid foundation of core cover. The Exeter's more generous parent accommodation policy gives it a slight edge for families with older children. The key decision for a family will be choosing the right hospital list to balance choice against cost.

Outpatient Cover: The Key to Faster Diagnosis & Treatment

Outpatient cover is arguably one of the most valuable parts of a family PMI policy. It covers the steps you take before being admitted to a hospital, such as seeing a specialist or having diagnostic tests. For parents worried about a child's health, this can mean getting answers in days rather than waiting weeks or months.

This is almost always an optional add-on, with different levels of cover available.

How General & Medical and The Exeter Structure Outpatient Cover

  • General & Medical: Often uses a modular approach. You can choose different levels of cover for consultations, diagnostics, and therapies separately, or opt for a package with a set overall limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited).
  • The Exeter: Typically offers set outpatient levels (e.g., Standard, Full). 'Full' cover will pay for all eligible consultations and tests in full, whilst 'Standard' may have limits, for instance covering diagnostics in full but limiting specialist consultations.

Here’s how they compare on the key outpatient services:

FeatureGeneral & MedicalThe ExeterWhy This Matters for Families
Specialist ConsultationsOptional add-on, with various limits.Optional add-on, with different levels available.This gets you fast access to paediatricians, dermatologists, ENT specialists, etc., bypassing long NHS waiting lists.
Diagnostic Tests (MRI, CT, PET scans)Usually covered in full if outpatient cover is selected.Usually covered in full if outpatient cover is selected.Crucial for a swift diagnosis. Both providers are strong here, recognising the importance of advanced diagnostics.
Therapies (Physiotherapy, Osteopathy)Optional add-on, often with a set number of sessions or a cash limit.Optional add-on. Their Healthwise app also provides access to online physiotherapy assessments.Essential for active families dealing with sports injuries or musculoskeletal issues. The Exeter's digital physio is a great initial triage tool.
Mental Health CoverOptional add-on, with different levels of cover for psychiatric treatment.A key strength. Cover is often included for outpatient mental health consultations, with a strong focus on getting members quick access to support.Mental health is a growing concern for families. The Exeter's integrated and robust mental health support is a standout feature.

The Takeaway: Both offer excellent, flexible outpatient options. The best choice depends on your priorities. If you want maximum flexibility to build a bespoke plan, General & Medical's modular system is appealing. If strong, integrated mental health support and digital tools are a priority, The Exeter's offering is very compelling.

Family-Specific Benefits: Who Goes the Extra Mile?

Beyond the core components of inpatient and outpatient care, the best PMI providers for families offer benefits that acknowledge the unique challenges of parenting.

Adding Children to a Policy

One of the first questions parents ask is how to cover their children.

  • General & Medical: Straightforward to add children to a policy. They often run promotions, such as "add a child for free" for the first year, which can offer significant savings.
  • The Exeter: Also simple to add children. Their community-rated pricing for children under 20 (meaning the price is the same regardless of their individual claims history) can make cover more affordable and predictable.

Newborn and Adopted Children

What happens when your family grows?

  • General & Medical: You typically need to inform them within a set period (e.g., 3 months) to add your newborn or newly adopted child to the policy without further medical underwriting.
  • The Exeter: Offers a "newborn cash benefit" of around £100 on the birth or adoption of a child, a small but welcome gesture. They also make it simple to add new family members.

Digital & Remote Healthcare

For a busy parent, being able to access a GP from home at 10 pm is a game-changer.

  • General & Medical: Provides access to a 24/7 remote GP service, allowing you to get medical advice, prescriptions, and referrals without leaving your home.
  • The Exeter: This is a major strength. Their Healthwise app, available to all members, provides:
    1. 24/7 Remote GP: Unlimited consultations via phone or video.
    2. Second Medical Opinion Service: Get a second opinion on a diagnosis or treatment plan from a world-leading expert.
    3. Mental Health Support: Direct access to counsellors and therapists.
    4. Registered Dietitian Consultations & Life Coaching: A fantastic wellness benefit.
    5. Online Physiotherapy: Digital assessment and guided recovery programmes.

Healthwise is more than just a GP app; it's a comprehensive health and wellbeing hub included as standard. This provides enormous day-to-day value for a family.

Underwriting: Deciding How Your Medical History is Assessed

When you apply for PMI, the insurer needs to know about your medical history to decide what they can cover. There are two main ways they do this:

  1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring all your past conditions. The insurer then assesses this and may place specific exclusions on your policy from day one. The benefit is certainty—you know exactly what is and isn't covered.
  2. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is a simpler, faster option. You don't complete a full health declaration. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition for which you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice in the 5 years before your policy started. However, if you then go for 2 continuous years on the policy without needing treatment, medication, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. The benefit is speed and simplicity.

Which is Right for Your Family?

  • Moratorium is often a good choice for generally healthy families who want to get cover in place quickly.
  • Full Medical Underwriting can be better for families where a member has a complex medical history. It takes longer, but it provides absolute clarity on what's covered from the outset, avoiding potential disputes later.

Both General & Medical and The Exeter offer both underwriting options, allowing you to choose the path that best suits your family's circumstances. A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can talk you through the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

Cost of Family Private Medical Insurance: An Illustrative Guide

The cost of a family PMI policy depends on several factors:

  • Ages: The age of the adults is a primary driver of cost.
  • Location: Healthcare costs vary across the UK, so a policy in Central London is more expensive than one in rural Scotland.
  • Level of Cover: Adding comprehensive outpatient cover, therapies, and choosing a top-tier hospital list will increase the premium.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim (e.g., £100, £250, £500). A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.

To give you an idea, let's look at a hypothetical example.

Scenario: A family of four living in Bristol. Two adults aged 40, one child aged 10, and one child aged 7. They want a mid-tier policy with £1,000 of outpatient cover and a £250 excess.

ProviderEstimated Monthly Premium (Illustrative)Key Considerations
General & Medical£170 - £220This price is highly dependent on the specific modules chosen. Promotions (e.g., free cover for one child) could reduce this.
The Exeter£180 - £230The premium includes access to the comprehensive Healthwise app. Community rating for children can keep their portion of the premium stable.

Disclaimer: These figures are purely illustrative for 2025 and are not a quote. The actual premium for your family will depend on your specific circumstances, chosen cover, and underwriting. The only way to get an accurate price is to get a personalised quote.

Keeping Your Family Healthy: Tips and Ideas

A great health insurance policy is a safety net, but the best approach is to build a foundation of health and wellbeing. Here are some simple, effective tips for UK families:

  • Get Active Together: You don't need expensive gym memberships. The UK's beautiful parks, woodlands, and National Trust properties are perfect for weekend walks and bike rides. A 2022 ONS survey found that 61.4% of adults in England were physically active, but consistency is key. Aim for 30 minutes of fun, family-based activity each day.
  • The 5-a-Day Challenge: Make eating fruit and vegetables a fun game. Create a chart and use stickers to track who hits their five-a-day. Blending fruit into smoothies or hiding grated vegetables in pasta sauces are classic parent hacks.
  • Prioritise Sleep: According to the NHS, most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep, whilst teenagers need 8-10 and younger children even more. A consistent bedtime routine—free from screens for at least an hour beforehand—can dramatically improve mood, concentration, and immune function for the whole family.
  • Digital Detox: Schedule regular screen-free time. A weekly board game night, cooking a meal together, or simply reading in the same room can foster connection and reduce the mental strain associated with constant digital stimulation.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a fantastic tool to help your family understand their dietary habits and make healthier choices together.

WeCovr's Verdict: General & Medical or The Exeter for Your Family?

So, after this deep dive, which provider should you choose? As with most things in private medical insurance, there is no single "best" provider—only the best provider for you.

Here’s our expert summary to help you decide:

Choose General & Medical if:

  • You want maximum flexibility and customisation. Their modular policy design allows you to hand-pick the exact benefits you want and avoid paying for those you don't.
  • You are a savvy shopper looking for promotional offers, as they frequently have deals like free cover for children that can provide excellent value.
  • You want a straightforward, no-fuss policy from a long-established specialist in the PMI field.

Choose The Exeter if:

  • You value the mutual ethos of a company that is owned by and run for its members.
  • Strong mental health support and comprehensive digital health tools are a top priority. Their Healthwise app is a market-leading benefit that provides incredible day-to-day value.
  • You want the reassurance of a provider with a near-century of experience and a clear focus on member wellbeing over shareholder profit.

Ultimately, the right decision requires balancing your family's specific health needs against your budget. This is where working with an independent PMI broker like WeCovr is invaluable. We don't just give you prices; we take the time to understand your family's requirements and compare policies from across the market, including from these excellent specialist providers. Plus, when you buy PMI or Life Insurance through us, you can get discounts on other types of cover, adding even more value.

Can I add my newborn baby to my family health insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most UK private medical insurance providers, including General & Medical and The Exeter, make it easy to add a newborn to your policy. You typically need to notify them within a set timeframe after the birth (usually one to three months) to add your baby without them needing to be medically underwritten. Some providers may even offer a short period of free cover for your new arrival.

Does family private health insurance cover routine dental and optical care?

Generally, standard private medical insurance policies do not cover routine check-ups for dental and optical care. These are usually handled by separate dental or optical insurance plans or cashback plans. However, some PMI policies may cover more significant surgical procedures related to dental (e.g., removal of impacted wisdom teeth) or optical health (e.g., cataract surgery), so it's important to check the policy details.

What is 'moratorium' underwriting and is it right for my family?

Moratorium underwriting is a way of starting a policy without a full medical questionnaire. It automatically excludes cover for any condition you have sought advice or treatment for in the last 5 years. If you then remain free of symptoms, treatment, and advice for that condition for 2 continuous years after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover. It's often suitable for healthy families who want a quick and simple application process. However, if your family has a known, complex medical history, 'Full Medical Underwriting' may be better as it provides upfront certainty about what is covered.

Why should I use a broker like WeCovr instead of going directly to an insurer?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr costs you nothing extra but provides significant advantages. We offer a whole-of-market comparison, not just a single provider's view. Our experts can help you navigate complex options like hospital lists, excess levels, and underwriting to find the policy that truly fits your family's needs and budget. We save you time, remove the confusion, and ensure you get the right cover at a competitive price.

Ready to find the best private medical insurance for your family?

Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our friendly experts will compare policies from leading UK providers to find the perfect protection for the people who matter most.

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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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