Login

Genomics and Future-Proofing PMI Innovation in Personalised Care

Genomics and Future-Proofing PMI Innovation in Personalised...

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr offers this guide to the future of private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores how genomics is set to revolutionise personalised care and what it means for your private health cover options.

Forward-looking analysis of technologies being adopted for advanced care options

The landscape of healthcare is changing at a breathtaking pace. No longer is medicine a one-size-fits-all solution. We are entering the era of personalised care, where treatments and preventative strategies are tailored to your unique genetic makeup. At the heart of this revolution is genomics, the study of your complete set of DNA.

For those considering private medical insurance in the UK, understanding these advancements is crucial. Forward-thinking PMI providers are beginning to integrate these technologies, offering policyholders access to cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments that may not be widely available on the NHS. This article will explore the technologies shaping the future of medicine and how you can ensure your private health cover is ready for what comes next.

What is Genomics and Why Does It Matter for Your Health?

To grasp the future of healthcare, we first need to understand the basics. Think of your DNA as the detailed instruction manual for your body. Genomics is the science of reading that entire manual, not just a single page (which would be genetics).

TermSimple ExplanationWhy It's Important for Your Health
GenomicsThe study of a person's complete set of genes (the genome), including how they interact with each other and the environment.It can predict your risk of developing certain diseases, help doctors choose the most effective drugs, and design treatments unique to you.
PharmacogenomicsThe study of how your genes affect your body's response to specific medicines.It prevents dangerous side effects and ensures you get medication that works best for you from the very start, avoiding trial and error.
Liquid BiopsyA simple blood test that can detect tiny fragments of tumour DNA circulating in the bloodstream.It allows for early cancer detection and monitoring of treatment effectiveness without the need for invasive surgical biopsies.
Gene TherapyA technique that uses genes to treat or prevent disease. It can involve replacing a faulty gene or adding a new gene to fight illness.It offers the potential to cure previously untreatable genetic disorders and certain types of cancer.

Understanding your genomic profile gives you and your doctors unprecedented power. It shifts the focus from simply reacting to illness to proactively managing your health and preventing disease before it starts.

A Critical Note on PMI and Pre-existing Conditions

Before we delve deeper, it's essential to understand a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and arise after your policy begins.

PMI does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. A chronic condition is one that is ongoing, like diabetes or asthma. A pre-existing condition is any ailment, illness, or injury you had symptoms of or received advice or treatment for before your policy started. This is a crucial distinction to remember as we discuss genetic predispositions.

The Current State of Genomics in UK Healthcare and PMI

The UK is a world leader in genomics, largely thanks to the pioneering NHS Genomic Medicine Service. Launched in 2018, its ambition is to embed genomic medicine into routine NHS care.

According to NHS England, the service has already delivered over 1.5 million genomic tests, helping to diagnose rare diseases and match cancer patients with personalised treatments. The goal is to sequence 500,000 whole genomes by 2025, providing a wealth of data to improve patient outcomes.

However, access can be dependent on specific clinical criteria and NHS trust availability. This is where private medical insurance can play a vital role.

How PMI Providers are Responding

Leading private health cover providers are not standing still. While full genomic sequencing for healthy individuals is not yet a standard benefit, many are enhancing their offerings, particularly in cancer care.

  • Advanced Cancer Cover: Many top-tier policies now include access to genetic testing to guide oncology treatments. If you are diagnosed with cancer, your PMI might cover tests to determine which chemotherapy or targeted drug therapy will be most effective for your specific tumour type.
  • Specialist Consultations: A comprehensive PMI policy can provide fast access to consultants and genetic specialists who can interpret test results and recommend a personalised care plan.
  • Experimental Treatments: Some policies offer cover for treatments that may not yet be approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) but are showing promise in clinical trials, including some gene therapies.

Providers like Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality are increasingly vocal about their commitment to personalised medicine, often including these benefits in their more comprehensive plans. Navigating these options can be complex, which is why consulting an expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare policies and find the one that best suits your future health needs.

How Genomic Technologies are Revolutionising Personalised Care

The theoretical promise of genomics is now becoming a clinical reality. Several key technologies are at the forefront of this change, offering new hope for patients and new avenues for private healthcare.

1. Pharmacogenomics: The Right Drug, for the Right Person, at the Right Time

Imagine being prescribed a new medication with the certainty that it will work effectively and with minimal side effects. That is the power of pharmacogenomics.

  • Real-World Example: Warfarin is a common blood thinner, but the effective dose varies dramatically between individuals due to genetic factors. A simple genetic test can help a doctor prescribe the perfect starting dose, reducing the risk of dangerous bleeding or clotting. In the UK, it's estimated that adverse drug reactions are responsible for 1 in 16 hospital admissions, a figure that pharmacogenomics aims to drastically reduce.

While not yet standard practice for all prescriptions, private consultants accessed through PMI are more likely to use this testing for complex conditions or high-risk drugs.

2. Liquid Biopsies: A Revolution in Cancer Detection

For decades, diagnosing cancer has often required an invasive surgical biopsy. Liquid biopsies are changing the game.

How it Works:

  1. You provide a simple blood sample.
  2. The lab analyses the blood for circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) released by cancer cells.
  3. The presence and genetic makeup of this ctDNA can confirm a cancer diagnosis, identify its specific mutations, and even detect recurrence long before a scan could.

The potential is enormous. A 2021 NHS-Galleri trial, involving 140,000 volunteers, is exploring the effectiveness of a liquid biopsy test in detecting over 50 types of cancer before symptoms appear. As this technology matures, expect leading PMI providers to be among the first to offer it as a screening or diagnostic benefit.

3. Gene Therapies: Correcting Disease at its Source

Gene therapy is one of the most exciting frontiers in medicine. It represents a potential cure for diseases that were once life sentences.

UK Approved Gene Therapies Include:

  • Luxturna: Treats a rare inherited retinal disease that causes blindness.
  • Zolgensma: A one-time treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in infants.
  • Libmeldy: Treats the rare genetic disorder metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD).

These treatments are extraordinarily expensive, with some costing over £2 million per dose. While the NHS has pathways to fund them in specific cases, access can be limited. High-end private medical insurance policies with generous limits for advanced treatments may become a crucial route for patients to access these life-changing therapies in the future.

Future-Proofing Your Health: Integrating Wellness and Genomics

The true power of genomics lies not just in treating disease, but in preventing it. By understanding your genetic predispositions, you can make targeted lifestyle changes to mitigate your risks.

  • Genetic Risk: You might learn you have a higher-than-average genetic risk for Type 2 diabetes.
  • Personalised Action: This knowledge empowers you to be extra vigilant with your diet, focus on maintaining a healthy weight, and engage in regular physical activity.

This proactive approach to health is something we champion at WeCovr. That's why, in addition to helping you find the right PMI, we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. By logging your meals and activity, you can take practical, data-driven steps to manage your health in line with any genetic insights you may have.

The WeCovr Approach: Holistic Wellbeing

We believe that health management is about more than just insurance. It's about a complete ecosystem of support.

  • Smart Tools: Use CalorieHero to make informed decisions about your diet and exercise.
  • Expert Advice: Our team helps you navigate the complex world of private medical insurance UK to find a policy that fits your life.
  • Value for Money: When you purchase PMI or life insurance through us, you can also access discounts on other types of cover, creating a comprehensive safety net for you and your family.

The rise of genomics also brings important questions.

  • Data Privacy: Who has access to your genetic data? In the UK, strict GDPR and data protection laws govern its use. Insurers are currently prohibited from using predictive genetic test results to set premiums or determine cover for most policies.
  • Psychological Impact: How do you cope with learning you have a high risk for a disease with no cure? Access to genetic counselling, often available through PMI, is vital.
  • The "Worried Well": There is a risk of over-testing and causing unnecessary anxiety. It's crucial to approach genetic testing with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

How to Choose a PMI Policy with Future Innovations in Mind

When you're comparing private health insurance, it's no longer enough to just look at hospital lists and excess levels. You need to consider how a policy is positioned for the future of medicine.

Key Policy Features to Look For:

  1. Cancer Cover Level: Look beyond the basics. Does the policy specifically mention funding for genetic testing to guide treatment? Does it cover targeted therapies or immunotherapies?
  2. Treatment Clauses: Check the wording around "experimental" or "unproven" treatments. A forward-looking policy may have more flexible criteria for funding promising new therapies.
  3. High-Cost Drug and Treatment Lists: Some providers maintain lists of advanced, high-cost drugs they will fund. Review these if possible.
  4. Mental Health Support: As genetic information becomes more common, access to counselling and mental health services is more important than ever.
  5. Annual Benefit Limits: Advanced treatments are expensive. Ensure your policy has a high, or preferably unlimited, annual benefit limit to avoid shortfalls.

Why an Expert PMI Broker is Essential

The PMI market is complex and constantly evolving. The differences in wording between two policies can mean the difference between having a £500,000 treatment covered or not.

This is where a specialist PMI broker is invaluable. An independent expert can:

  • Analyse the Fine Print: They understand the nuances of policy documents and can highlight clauses related to advanced and future treatments.
  • Compare the Whole Market: They have access to policies from a wide range of providers, not just the big names.
  • Tailor Advice to You: They take the time to understand your personal concerns, budget, and health priorities to recommend the most suitable options.
  • Save You Time and Money: They do the research for you, at no extra cost, as they are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

Based on consistently high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr provides this expert, impartial service, ensuring you get the best possible cover for your needs.

Summary Table: The Future of Personalised Medicine and PMI

Technology / TrendImpact on Your HealthPotential Role of PMI
PharmacogenomicsSafer, more effective medication with fewer side effects.Covering the cost of tests to guide prescribing for complex conditions.
Liquid BiopsiesEarly detection of cancer from a blood test, and non-invasive monitoring.Funding for screening high-risk individuals or as a primary diagnostic tool.
Gene TherapiesPotential cures for inherited diseases and some cancers.Providing access to exceptionally high-cost, one-off treatments.
Proactive ScreeningUsing genetic risk scores to guide lifestyle and preventative measures.Offering "health and wellbeing" benefits that include genetic screening and coaching.
Digital Health & AIAI-powered diagnostics and personalised health apps to manage wellbeing.Integrating digital health tools and apps into the insurance offering (like CalorieHero).

The future of healthcare is personal, predictive, and preventative. While the NHS will continue to be the bedrock of UK healthcare, a robust private medical insurance policy will be the key for many to unlock the full potential of these incredible innovations, providing faster access, more choice, and peace of mind.


Do I need to declare a family history of a genetic condition when applying for PMI?

Generally, yes. During the application process, insurers will ask about your medical history and often the medical history of your immediate family (parents and siblings). You must answer these questions honestly. However, under the ABI's Code on Genetic Testing and Insurance, insurers cannot require you to undergo a predictive genetic test or use the results of such a test to set premiums, except for life insurance policies over a certain value.

If a genetic test shows I'm at high risk for a future illness, will PMI cover it?

This is a complex area. Private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions that arise *after* your policy starts. If a genetic test reveals a high risk *before* you have any symptoms, the condition is not yet active. If you later develop symptoms of that condition, it would likely be covered as a new, acute condition. However, if you had symptoms or sought advice *before* taking out the policy, it would be classed as a pre-existing condition and excluded from cover. It's vital to get advice from a PMI broker on this topic.

Will my private health cover pay for a genetic test like 23andMe?

Standard private health insurance policies do not typically cover direct-to-consumer lifestyle genetic tests. PMI is designed to cover diagnostics and treatments that are medically necessary to investigate or treat symptoms of an acute condition. A test requested by a specialist consultant to diagnose a condition or guide treatment (e.g., in cancer care) is much more likely to be covered than a test taken out of personal curiosity.

To prepare for the future of healthcare and ensure you have the best possible protection, speak to an expert.

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today and future-proof your health.


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.