Get a Private Health Insurance Quote in 60 Seconds
Navigating the UK private medical insurance market can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr simplifies the process. Our instant quote tool delivers personalised private health cover options in just 60 seconds.
WeCovr's instant quote tool explained
Finding the right private medical insurance (PMI) often involves lengthy forms, confusing jargon, and long waits for a response. We believe securing peace of mind about your health should be fast, transparent, and straightforward.
That’s why we developed the WeCovr instant quote tool. It’s a powerful, user-friendly platform designed to cut through the complexity. In about the time it takes to make a cup of tea, you can receive and compare tailored quotes from the UK's leading private health insurance providers.
Our tool is built on three core principles:
- Speed: Your time is valuable. The entire process takes around 60 seconds.
- Simplicity: We ask only the essential questions in plain English. No confusing medical jargon.
- Clarity: You receive a clear, side-by-side comparison of policies, helping you understand exactly what you're getting for your money.
This guide will walk you through how the tool works, how to interpret your quote, and how to make an informed decision about your private health cover.
Why Consider Private Medical Insurance in the UK?
The National Health Service (NHS) is a national treasure, providing exceptional care to millions, especially in emergencies. However, the system is facing unprecedented pressure. For non-urgent, elective treatments, waiting lists have grown significantly in recent years.
According to the latest NHS England data, the waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at several million people. Many of these individuals are waiting for procedures that could dramatically improve their quality of life, such as joint replacements or cataract surgery. The median waiting time for treatment can be several months, a period often filled with discomfort and uncertainty.
This is where private medical insurance provides a valuable alternative. It is not a replacement for the NHS—which remains the best port of call for accidents and emergencies—but a complementary service for planned, non-emergency care.
Key Benefits of UK Private Health Insurance:
- Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment: Significantly reduce the waiting time for specialist consultations, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and surgical procedures.
- Choice and Control: You can often choose the specialist who treats you and the hospital where you receive your care from a pre-approved list.
- Comfort and Privacy: Recover in a private, en-suite room, offering a more comfortable and peaceful environment.
- Access to Specialist Drugs and Therapies: Some advanced cancer drugs or treatments that may have limited availability on the NHS can be accessible through a PMI policy.
- Flexible Appointment Times: Schedule appointments at times that suit you, minimising disruption to your work and family life.
A Critical Distinction: It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond to treatment. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy.
How to Get Your Instant Quote: A Step-by-Step Guide
Our 60-second quote process is designed to be intuitive. Here’s a breakdown of the simple steps you’ll take.
Step 1: Tell Us About Yourself (20 seconds)
We only need a few key details to generate an accurate initial quote. This information is essential for insurers to calculate your personal risk profile.
- Your Date of Birth: Age is the single most significant factor in determining your premium. Health risks naturally increase as we get older.
- Your Postcode: The cost of private medical care varies across the UK. Treatment in Central London, for example, is more expensive than in other parts of the country.
- Smoker Status: Insurers view smoking as a significant health risk, which is reflected in the premium.
- Who to Cover: Let us know if the policy is just for you, you and your partner, or your entire family.
Step 2: Choose Your Core Cover Level (20 seconds)
Next, you’ll select the foundation of your policy. Insurers typically offer different tiers of cover to suit various needs and budgets.
| Cover Level | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive | The highest level of cover. Includes in-patient, day-patient, and extensive out-patient care (consultations, diagnostics, and therapies). Often includes mental health cover as standard. | Those seeking maximum peace of mind and minimal financial surprises. |
| Mid-Range | A balanced option. Includes full in-patient and day-patient care but may have limits on out-patient cover (e.g., up to £1,000 per year). | Individuals and families who want solid protection without paying for the most extensive benefits. |
| Basic / Diagnostics | An entry-level plan. Covers in-patient and day-patient treatment and may include some initial diagnostic tests to speed up a diagnosis. Out-patient treatment is often excluded. | People on a tighter budget who primarily want cover for major surgical procedures once a condition is diagnosed. |
Step 3: Customise Your Policy (20 seconds)
This is where you can fine-tune your cover to balance protection with affordability.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250, and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750. A higher excess leads to a lower monthly premium.
- Hospital List: Insurers have different lists of approved hospitals. A standard list includes hundreds of quality private hospitals across the UK. You can often reduce your premium by choosing a more restricted local list or increase it to include premium hospitals in Central London.
- Six-Week Option: This is a cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of your specialist's recommendation, you will use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private policy kicks in. This can significantly reduce your premium.
Step 4: See Your Personalised Quotes!
Instantly, our tool will display a selection of quotes from top UK insurers. You'll see the monthly premium, the provider, and the key features of each policy laid out clearly, allowing for an easy and effective comparison.
Understanding Your Private Health Insurance Quote
Your results page is more than just a list of prices. It’s a snapshot of the private health insurance market tailored to you. Here's how to decode the information presented.
| Element of Quote | What It Means | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | The insurance company offering the policy (e.g., Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality). | Each has different strengths, customer service reputations, and benefit structures. WeCovr provides impartial advice on all of them. |
| Monthly Premium | The amount you will pay each month to keep your cover active. | This is the headline figure, but it's crucial to check what's included for that price. The cheapest is not always the best. |
| Core Cover | The non-negotiable benefits included, such as in-patient and day-patient care. | Ensure this meets your minimum requirements. All credible policies will cover hospital fees, specialist fees, and diagnostics for in-patient stays. |
| Out-patient Cover | Cover for consultations and tests that do not require a hospital bed. | Check the limit. Is it "full cover" or capped at a certain amount (e.g., £500, £1,000, £1,500)? This is a key area where policies differ. |
| Optional Extras | Additional benefits you can add, such as dental, optical, or enhanced mental health cover. | Consider what's important to you. Adding these will increase the premium but can offer excellent value if you use them. |
Example Quote Comparison
Imagine a 40-year-old non-smoker in Manchester looking for mid-range cover with a £250 excess. Their results might look something like this:
| Feature | Provider A (Aviva) | Provider B (AXA Health) | Provider C (Vitality) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | £65 | £68 | £62 |
| Excess | £250 | £250 | £250 |
| Out-patient Cover | Up to £1,000 | Full Cover | Up to £1,500 |
| Mental Health | Included (Standard Pathway) | Add-on | Included (with limits) |
| Hospital List | National (Expert Select) | National | National |
| Unique Benefit | Access to Aviva app | Doctor@Hand GP app | Wellness Programme |
This table shows that while Provider C is the cheapest, Provider B offers full out-patient cover, which might be more valuable in the long run. This is the kind of detail a PMI broker like WeCovr can help you analyse to find the best value, not just the lowest price.
Factors That Influence Your Private Health Insurance Premium
Understanding what drives the cost of your premium empowers you to make smart choices. Here are the main factors:
- Age: This is the most significant factor. As we age, the statistical likelihood of needing medical treatment increases.
- Location: Your postcode influences your premium because the cost of private treatment varies regionally. London and the South East are typically the most expensive areas.
- Cover Level: A comprehensive policy with full out-patient cover and no excess will cost more than a basic policy with a high excess.
- Excess: As mentioned, choosing a higher excess is a direct way to lower your monthly premium. Common excess levels range from £100 to £1,000.
- Underwriting Type: This is a crucial choice that affects what is covered.
- Moratorium (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition for which you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment in the 5 years before the policy start date. If you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
- Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your medical history and explicitly lists what is and isn't covered from day one. This provides certainty but can be more time-consuming.
- No Claims Discount (NCD): Similar to car insurance, most PMI providers reward you for not making a claim. Your premium may be discounted at renewal each year you don't claim, up to a maximum level.
- Lifestyle: Being a smoker or having a high BMI can lead to higher premiums with some insurers.
The WeCovr Advantage: More Than Just a Quote
Using our instant quote tool is just the first step. At WeCovr, we provide a complete service designed to support you throughout your private healthcare journey.
- Independent, Expert Advice: We are an FCA-authorised broker, not an insurer. Our loyalty is to you, our client. We provide impartial advice to help you find the policy that truly fits your needs from a wide panel of leading providers.
- No Hidden Fees: Our service is completely free for you to use. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium price. You won't pay a penny more for our expert guidance.
- Exclusive Member Benefits: When you arrange your private medical insurance through WeCovr, you gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a fantastic tool to help you proactively manage your health. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover.
- High Customer Satisfaction: We pride ourselves on the quality of our service, a fact reflected in the excellent feedback we receive from our clients on independent review websites.
- Lifetime Support: Our relationship doesn't end once you've bought a policy. We're here to help with annual reviews to ensure your cover remains competitive and suitable for your changing needs. We can also provide guidance during the claims process.
Health and Wellness: Proactive Steps to Manage Your Health
While private medical insurance provides a safety net, the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. A healthier lifestyle not only improves your quality of life but can also have a positive long-term impact on your insurance premiums. Some providers, like Vitality, even directly reward healthy habits.
A Balanced Diet
Good nutrition is the cornerstone of health. Focus on a diet rich in whole foods:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for at least five portions a day for a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
- Lean Protein: Crucial for muscle repair and function. Sources include chicken, fish, beans, and lentils.
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, and wholewheat bread provide sustained energy and fibre.
- Healthy Fats: Found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, these are vital for brain health.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Our CalorieHero app can be an invaluable partner in your nutritional journey, helping you track your intake and make healthier choices effortlessly.
Regular Physical Activity
The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend that adults aim for:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week (e.g., brisk walking, cycling, dancing).
- OR 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week (e.g., running, swimming, sports).
- Plus, strength-building activities on two or more days a week that work all major muscle groups.
The Importance of Sleep
Sleep is not a luxury; it's a biological necessity. Consistently poor sleep is linked to a higher risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and poor mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night by creating a relaxing bedtime routine and a dark, quiet, and cool sleeping environment.
Mental Wellbeing
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Many PMI policies now offer excellent mental health support. Proactive steps you can take include:
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Even 10 minutes a day can reduce stress and improve focus.
- Connecting with Others: Maintain strong social ties with friends and family.
- Taking Time for Hobbies: Engaging in activities you enjoy is a powerful way to de-stress.
The Critical Point: What Private Health Insurance Does NOT Cover
For transparency, it's essential to be clear about the limitations of private medical insurance. Understanding the exclusions prevents disappointment at the point of claim.
| Typically Covered (Acute Conditions) | Typically NOT Covered (Common Exclusions) |
|---|---|
| Joint Replacement Surgery (e.g., hip, knee) | Pre-existing Conditions (symptoms or treatment prior to policy start) |
| Cataract Surgery | Chronic Conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma, hypertension) |
| Cancer Treatment (diagnosed after policy start) | Accident & Emergency (A&E) Services |
| Hernia Repair and other common surgeries | Routine Pregnancy and Childbirth |
| Diagnostic Scans (MRI, CT, PET) as part of a claim | Cosmetic Surgery (unless medically necessary, e.g., post-accident) |
| Specialist Consultations | Rehabilitation for Drug or Alcohol Abuse |
| Mental Health Support (if included in your plan) | Experimental or Unproven Treatments |
Understanding Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions
This is the most common area of confusion, so it’s worth repeating:
- Pre-existing Condition: Any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy began. These are not covered, at least not initially. A moratorium underwriting approach may allow for cover after a 2-year clear period.
- Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-term and cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and asthma. PMI is designed to return you to your previous state of health, which isn't possible with a chronic condition. Day-to-day management of these conditions remains with your NHS GP. However, a PMI policy may cover an acute flare-up of a chronic condition in some circumstances.
Do I need a GP referral to use my private health insurance?
Can I add my family to my private health insurance policy?
What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?
Moratorium (Mori) is the most popular method. You don't declare your medical history upfront. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. If you then go 2 continuous years without symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover. It's quick and simple to set up.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) requires you to complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then reviews your history and provides a policy document that clearly states any permanent exclusions. This provides absolute clarity from day one but takes longer to arrange.
Is private health insurance worth it if I have the NHS?
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Related guides
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!
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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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!