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Group and Corporate PMI in the UK Benefits for Employees

Group and Corporate PMI in the UK Benefits for Employees

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. This guide explains the significant benefits of employer-provided PMI for employees, demystifying how these increasingly popular schemes work and what they mean for your health.

Employer-provided PMI explained and why group schemes are gaining in popularity

Employer-provided Private Medical Insurance (PMI), often called a group or corporate health scheme, is a health insurance policy purchased by a company to provide private healthcare access for its employees. It acts as a highly valued employee benefit, sitting alongside pensions and other workplace perks.

So, why the recent surge in popularity? The answer lies in a combination of factors, most notably the unprecedented pressure on our cherished National Health Service (NHS).

According to the latest NHS England data, the referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list remains a significant concern, with millions of people waiting for routine consultant-led treatment. In mid-2024, this figure stood at around 7.5 million. This landscape has prompted employers to seek alternative ways to ensure their staff can access medical care quickly, minimising health-related anxiety and time off work.

For employees, this means a company-funded PMI scheme is no longer a 'nice-to-have' but a profoundly important benefit that offers peace of mind and tangible health advantages.

What Exactly is Group Private Medical Insurance?

Understanding how your workplace health cover operates is the first step to making the most of it. It’s simpler than you might think.

A Simple Definition for Employees

Think of a group PMI policy as a single health insurance umbrella that covers a whole team of people – the employees of a company. Instead of each individual applying for and paying for their own policy, the employer handles the entire process.

The primary goal is to give you and your colleagues faster access to diagnosis and treatment for acute medical conditions that arise after you join the policy. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

How Does a Group Scheme Work?

The process from feeling unwell to receiving private treatment is typically very straightforward:

  1. See Your GP: Your journey almost always begins with your NHS GP. If you have a health concern, you visit them as usual.
  2. Get a Referral: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist, they will provide you with an 'open referral' letter. This means they recommend a type of specialist (e.g., a dermatologist or cardiologist) rather than a specific named doctor.
  3. Contact Your PMI Provider: You then call the dedicated helpline for your company's insurance provider (like Bupa, Aviva, or Vitality). You'll provide your policy details and information from the referral letter.
  4. Authorisation and Booking: The insurer will check that your condition is covered under the policy and authorise the claim. They will then provide you with a list of approved specialists and private hospitals, allowing you to book an appointment at a time and location that suits you.
  5. Treatment and Payment: You attend your appointments and receive treatment. The hospital and specialists bill the insurance company directly, meaning you don't have to handle invoices (though you will be responsible for any 'excess' on your policy).

The Core Benefits of Group PMI for UK Employees

Being a member of a group PMI scheme offers a wealth of advantages that directly impact your health, wellbeing, and finances.

1. Faster Access to Specialist Treatment

This is arguably the most significant benefit. While the NHS provides excellent emergency care, waiting times for non-urgent diagnostics and surgery can be lengthy. Group PMI allows you to bypass these queues for eligible conditions.

  • Real-World Impact: A need for a routine knee operation could mean a wait of many months on the NHS. With PMI, you could see a specialist within days and be scheduled for surgery within weeks, dramatically speeding up your recovery and return to normal life.

2. Greater Choice and Control

Your health policy gives you a level of control that isn't always possible within the public system. You can often choose:

  • The Specialist: Your insurer will provide a list of approved consultants, giving you the ability to research and select a doctor you feel comfortable with.
  • The Hospital: You can choose from a nationwide network of private hospitals, opting for one that is convenient for home or work, or one with a reputation for a particular specialism.
  • The Appointment Time: Private appointments offer flexibility, allowing you to schedule them around your work and family commitments.

3. Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments

Private medical insurance can sometimes provide access to breakthrough drugs, treatments, or surgical techniques that are not yet approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for widespread NHS use, often due to cost considerations. This can be particularly crucial in fields like oncology (cancer treatment).

4. Enhanced Mental Health Support

Modern PMI policies place a huge emphasis on mental wellbeing. Most group schemes now include valuable mental health support as standard, such as:

  • Digital GP Services: Access to a GP via phone or video call, often 24/7, for quick advice and prescriptions.
  • Therapy Sessions: Cover for a set number of sessions with a psychologist or therapist for conditions like anxiety, stress, and depression.
  • 24/7 Helplines: Confidential support lines staffed by trained counsellors.

This proactive support helps employees address mental health concerns early before they escalate.

5. Peace of Mind and Reduced Financial Worry

Knowing you have a safety net in place for unexpected health issues provides immense peace of mind. You don't have to worry about the potential cost of private treatment, which can run into thousands or even tens of thousands of pounds. This reduces stress for both you and your family during an already difficult time.

Understanding Your Group PMI Policy: What's Covered (and What's Not)?

It's vital to know the scope of your cover. While policies vary between insurers and the level chosen by your employer, most follow a similar structure.

Typical Inclusions in a Standard Group PMI Policy

Most comprehensive policies are built around "core cover" and may include optional extras selected by your employer.

Coverage TypeDescription
In-patient & Day-patientCovers tests and treatment where you need to be admitted to a hospital bed, either overnight (in-patient) or for the day (day-patient). This includes surgery, hospital accommodation, and nursing care.
Out-patient CoverCovers diagnostic tests and consultations with a specialist where you are not admitted to hospital. Policies usually have an annual limit for this, e.g., £1,000 per year.
Comprehensive Cancer CoverThis is a cornerstone of most policies. It typically covers the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, often with no financial or time limits.
Mental Health SupportAs mentioned, this often includes access to counselling, therapy sessions (e.g., CBT), and psychiatric care, though the extent of cover can vary.
Digital GP24/7 access to a GP by phone or video app for consultations, advice, and prescriptions.

The Critical Exclusions: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to understand about private medical insurance in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover new, short-term (acute) conditions that arise after your policy begins. It is generally NOT designed to cover long-term (chronic) or pre-existing conditions.

  • Acute Condition: An illness or injury that is short-lived and expected to be cured with treatment (e.g., a cataract, joint injury, or hernia). PMI covers this.
  • Chronic Condition: A long-term condition that cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or arthritis). PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions. However, it may cover an acute flare-up of a chronic condition.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any medical condition for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment in the years leading up to the policy start date (usually the last 5 years). Standard PMI excludes these.

There is, however, a major exception to the pre-existing condition rule, which is a key benefit of larger group schemes. This relates to the type of "underwriting" used.

Common Optional Extras Your Employer Might Choose

To enhance the core policy, employers can add other benefits. Check your policy documents to see if you have:

  • Dental and Optical Cover: Contributes towards routine check-ups, glasses, and dental treatment.
  • Therapies Cover: Includes treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.
  • Extended Mental Health Cover: Provides access to more therapy sessions or in-patient psychiatric treatment.
  • Worldwide Travel Insurance: Combines your health and travel cover into one convenient policy.

How Does Group PMI Underwriting Affect Me?

"Underwriting" is the process an insurer uses to assess risk and decide what it will and will not cover. For group schemes, the method used depends largely on the size of the company.

Underwriting TypeHow It WorksBest For...Impact on Pre-existing Conditions
Medical History Disregarded (MHD)The insurer disregards everyone's previous medical history. No medical questionnaires are required to join.Larger companies (typically 20+ employees).This is the gold standard. It can cover eligible pre-existing conditions, making it a hugely valuable benefit.
Moratorium (Mori)No medical questions upfront. Any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining is excluded for the first 2 years of the policy. If you remain symptom-free for that condition for a continuous 2-year period after joining, it may become eligible for cover.Small to medium-sized businesses.Pre-existing conditions are initially excluded. Cover may be possible later, subject to the "2-year rule".
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)Each employee completes a full health questionnaire. The insurer then lists specific exclusions for each member based on their medical history.Very small businesses (2-5 employees) or individuals.Pre-existing conditions are explicitly and permanently excluded from the outset.

If your company has MHD underwriting, it is a significant perk, as it's the only common way to get private medical cover for a condition you already have.

The Financial Side: Costs, Tax, and 'Benefit in Kind'

While your employer pays for the policy, there are some financial implications for you as an employee.

Is Group PMI Free for Employees?

For the most part, yes. Your employer pays the monthly or annual premium for your cover. If you choose to add your family (a spouse, partner, or children), you will almost certainly have to pay the additional premium for them, though this is often at a discounted corporate rate.

Understanding 'Benefit in Kind' (BIK) Tax

Because your employer is paying for a personal benefit for you, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) considers it a 'Benefit in Kind' – a non-cash benefit that forms part of your total remuneration. As such, it is subject to income tax.

  • How it Works: The cost of your individual premium (the amount the company pays for you) is reported to HMRC by your employer on a P11D form. This amount is then added to your taxable income for the year.
  • Simple Example:
    • Your annual PMI premium costs your employer £700.
    • You are a basic-rate taxpayer (20%).
    • The extra tax you will pay is 20% of £700 = £140 per year (or about £11.67 per month).
    • If you are a higher-rate taxpayer (40%), you would pay £280 per year.

This small extra tax is a very low price for access to private healthcare that could otherwise cost thousands.

What About Policy Excess?

An 'excess' is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if your policy has a £100 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £100 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,900.

Employers choose an excess level to help manage the overall cost of the policy premium. A higher excess leads to a lower premium. The excess is usually applied either per claim or per policy year.

The Rise of Corporate Wellness: PMI is More Than Just Medical Cover

Modern private health cover has evolved far beyond simply paying for hospital stays. Insurers now provide a suite of tools and incentives to encourage a proactive approach to health and wellbeing.

Digital GPs and 24/7 Helplines

The ability to speak to a doctor on a video call at 8pm on a Sunday is a game-changer for busy people. It saves time, reduces anxiety, and helps you get advice quickly without taking time off work to visit a surgery.

Gym Discounts and Wellness Apps

Many insurers partner with popular gym chains to offer discounted memberships. They also provide sophisticated wellness apps that reward you for healthy behaviour like hitting step counts, practising mindfulness, or getting enough sleep.

This is a philosophy we share at WeCovr. That's why we provide our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help them build and maintain healthy habits.

Proactive Health Screenings

Some premium-level schemes include a budget for regular health screenings. These tests can help detect potential issues like high cholesterol, blood pressure, or certain cancer markers at an early stage, enabling preventative action.

A Quick Note on Healthy Living

Your PMI policy is a brilliant backstop, but the best strategy is always prevention. Small, consistent lifestyle choices make a huge difference:

  • Diet: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
  • Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running) a week.
  • Sleep: Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It is fundamental to both physical and mental recovery.
  • Stress Management: Incorporate activities like mindfulness, walking in nature, or hobbies to manage daily stress.

How an Expert PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

While your employer makes the final decision on a policy, understanding the market is complex. This is where an independent and impartial PMI broker adds immense value to your employer.

A specialist broker like WeCovr works for the client (your employer), not the insurance companies. Our role is to:

  • Scan the Entire Market: We compare policies and prices from all the leading UK insurers to find the best fit for the company's budget and employee needs.
  • Provide Expert Advice: We explain the complex differences in underwriting, cancer cover, and mental health pathways, ensuring the chosen policy offers genuine value.
  • Handle the Administration: We manage the setup and renewal process, saving the company time and hassle.
  • Offer Support: We act as a point of contact for any high-level queries about the scheme.

Our service is provided at no direct cost to our clients, as we are compensated by a commission from the insurer that is chosen. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through WeCovr can benefit from discounts on other types of cover, adding even more value. WeCovr's commitment to clear, expert advice has earned us consistently high satisfaction ratings from our clients.

Real-Life Scenarios: How Group PMI Helps Employees

Let's look at a few examples of how a company PMI scheme works in practice.

  • Scenario 1: Sarah, the Marketing Manager. Sarah develops persistent knee pain that makes her daily commute difficult. Her GP suspects a torn meniscus and refers her for an MRI and an orthopaedic consultation. The NHS waiting time is 8 months. Using her company PMI, Sarah gets an MRI scan the same week and sees a top surgeon the week after. She has keyhole surgery within three weeks and is back at work, pain-free, after a short recovery period supported by private physiotherapy sessions included in her cover.

  • Scenario 2: David, the Software Engineer. David finds himself feeling overwhelmed and anxious due to a heavy workload. He's struggling to sleep and concentrate. He feels hesitant to talk to his manager. He remembers his PMI scheme includes a 24/7 mental health helpline. He makes a confidential call and is referred for a course of six virtual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions. The therapy gives him practical tools to manage his anxiety, improving his wellbeing and productivity without him ever needing to take time off.

  • Scenario 3: Maria and her Family. Maria's employer offers the option to add family members to the PMI scheme, and she pays extra to include her husband and two children. Her youngest son, aged four, is suffering from recurrent ear infections, and a specialist recommends he has grommets fitted. The waiting list for the procedure at their local hospital is over a year. Through the family's PMI policy, the procedure is carried out at a private hospital a month later, resolving his discomfort and preventing potential long-term hearing issues.

Can I add my family to my company's PMI scheme?

Generally, yes. Most employers that offer group PMI also provide the option for employees to add their spouse, partner, and dependent children to the policy. However, the employer will usually only pay the premium for the employee. You will be responsible for paying the additional cost for your family members, although this is often at a favourable corporate rate.

What happens to my private health cover if I leave my job?

When you leave your employer, your cover under the group scheme will cease. However, most insurers offer a 'continuation option'. This allows you to switch to an individual PMI policy with the same insurer without going through fresh medical underwriting. This is a valuable benefit as it means any conditions that were covered by the group scheme will continue to be covered on your new personal policy. You will, of course, be responsible for paying the full premium yourself.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for new (acute) conditions that arise after you take out a policy; it therefore typically excludes pre-existing and chronic conditions. The major exception is for large corporate schemes with 'Medical History Disregarded' (MHD) underwriting. On an MHD scheme, the insurer agrees to ignore past medical histories, meaning pre-existing conditions can be eligible for cover, making it an incredibly valuable employee benefit.

Is cancer treatment always covered on a group PMI policy?

Comprehensive cancer cover is a fundamental feature of most modern group PMI policies and is often cited by employees as one of the most important benefits. This cover typically includes the cost of diagnosis, surgery, and treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies. While the level of cover is usually extensive, it's always important to check the specific terms of your policy, as some lower-cost plans may have certain limits.

A group private medical insurance policy is one of the most valuable and reassuring benefits an employer can offer. It provides a direct route to fast, high-quality healthcare, protecting both your physical and mental wellbeing.

If you are an employee wanting to understand your cover better, or an employer considering setting up a scheme, expert advice is essential.

Contact the friendly, expert team at WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation discussion and quote. We'll help you navigate the private medical insurance UK market to find the perfect solution.

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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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