Key takeaways
- Joint replacements (hip, knee)
- Hernia repair
- Cataract surgery
- Cancer treatment (this is often a very comprehensive part of core cover)
- Diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans for new symptoms
As an FCA-authorised expert with experience in over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps you navigate the complexities of private medical insurance in the UK. This guide breaks down the optional extras—dental, optical, and mental health—to help you decide what you truly need and what it might cost.
Estimate the cost of optional extras and when theyre worth it
Choosing the right private medical insurance (PMI) goes beyond the core policy. While standard plans are excellent for covering unexpected acute conditions, the real power to tailor your cover lies in the add-ons. Optional extras like dental, optical, and mental health cover can transform a basic policy into a comprehensive wellness plan.
But are they worth the extra monthly premium? This guide will help you calculate the potential costs and benefits, so you can build a policy that fits your life and your budget perfectly.
First, What Does a Core UK Private Medical Insurance Policy Cover?
Before we dive into the extras, it's crucial to understand the foundation of any PMI policy. Standard private health cover in the UK is designed to treat acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond quickly to treatment.
Think of things like:
- Joint replacements (hip, knee)
- Hernia repair
- Cataract surgery
- Cancer treatment (this is often a very comprehensive part of core cover)
- Diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans for new symptoms
Crucial Point: Standard PMI does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure that require ongoing management) or pre-existing conditions (any ailment you had before your policy started). The purpose of PMI is to handle new, unexpected health issues swiftly.
This is where add-ons become so valuable. They fill the gaps for routine and preventative care that core PMI isn't designed for.
The Dental Cover Add-On: Is It Worth a Bite?
NHS dental services are under immense pressure. A 2023 survey by the British Dental Association found that 9 out of 10 NHS dental practices across the UK were not accepting new adult patients. This has pushed many to consider private dental options, either by paying as they go or through an insurance add-on.
What Does a Dental Add-On Typically Cover?
Dental cover is usually offered in tiered levels. The more you pay, the more is covered.
- Level 1 (Routine): Covers preventative care like check-ups, scale and polish, and X-rays. It might contribute a small amount towards minor treatments.
- Level 2 (Routine & Restorative): Includes everything in Level 1 plus a higher contribution towards treatments like fillings, crowns, and root canals.
- Level 3 (Comprehensive): Offers the highest limits for major restorative work and may also include cover for dental injuries and emergencies.
Important: Cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening or veneers, is almost always excluded.
How Much Does a Dental Add-On Cost?
The cost is added on top of your core PMI premium and depends on the level of cover you choose.
Estimated Monthly Cost of Dental Add-Ons (per person)
| Level of Cover | Estimated Monthly Premium | What It's Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | £15 – £25 | Covering the cost of two annual private check-ups and hygiene appointments. |
| Mid-Range | £25 – £40 | Check-ups, hygiene, and a significant contribution towards one or two fillings or a crown. |
| Comprehensive | £40 – £60+ | Families, or individuals who anticipate needing more extensive dental work like bridges or multiple crowns. |
Note: These are 2025 estimates for a 40-year-old individual. Costs vary by insurer and location.
When is a Dental Add-On Worth It?
Let's do the maths.
Scenario: Paying Out-of-Pocket vs. A Mid-Range Add-On
- Mid-Range Add-On Annual Cost: £30/month x 12 = £360 per year
- Typical Private 'Pay-As-You-Go' Costs:
- 2 x Dental Check-ups: £120 (£60 each)
- 2 x Hygienist appointments: £150 (£75 each)
- 1 x White filling: £150
- Total Out-of-Pocket Cost: £420 per year
In this scenario, the add-on saves you £60 and provides the peace of mind that if you needed another filling or a more complex treatment, you'd have a higher claim limit to fall back on.
A dental add-on is likely worth it if:
- You cannot find an NHS dentist in your area.
- You and your family regularly attend private check-ups.
- You prefer the continuity of seeing the same private dentist.
- You want to budget for dental costs with a fixed monthly payment rather than face a large, unexpected bill.
The Optical Cover Add-On: A Clear Choice?
Like dental care, routine optical services are not included in core PMI. An optical add-on helps cover the predictable costs associated with maintaining your eyesight.
What Does an Optical Add-On Typically Cover?
This is usually a more straightforward benefit. It provides a set amount of money each year that you can claim back for:
- Eye Tests: Typically covers the full cost of a private eye examination.
- Glasses & Contact Lenses: A contribution towards the cost of new prescription eyewear. This benefit is usually available every one or two years.
Laser eye surgery is not covered by a standard optical add-on and is considered a cosmetic procedure by most insurers.
How Much Does an Optical Add-On Cost?
This is one of the most affordable extras you can add to your private medical insurance UK policy.
- Estimated Monthly Cost: £5 – £15 per person
When is an Optical Add-On Worth It?
This is a simple cost-benefit analysis.
Scenario: A Family of Four
- Optical Add-On Annual Cost: £10/month x 12 months = £120 per year
- Typical Out-of-Pocket Costs:
- 1 x Private Eye Test: £25 - £40
- Contribution towards glasses: £100 - £200
If you wear glasses or contact lenses and will definitely claim for a new pair each year, the add-on often pays for itself. The value multiplies for a family. If four family members each need an eye test and new glasses, the out-of-pocket cost could easily exceed £600, whereas the add-on might provide a benefit of £150 per person (£600 total) for a much lower premium.
An optical add-on is likely worth it if:
- You or your family members wear glasses or contact lenses and update them regularly.
- You want the freedom to choose from a wider range of frames without being limited by NHS vouchers.
- You spend long hours in front of screens and value regular check-ups for eye strain.
The Mental Health Cover Add-On: An Essential for Modern Life
Mental health has rightly become a priority for individuals and families across the UK. With NHS waiting lists for psychological therapies reaching record lengths (with some patients waiting over a year for treatment), private mental health cover is now one of the most sought-after PMI add-ons.
What Does a Mental Health Add-On Cover?
This is a powerful add-on that provides access to a range of private mental health services, bypassing long waits. Cover often includes:
- Outpatient Therapy: Access to a set number of sessions (e.g., 8-10 sessions) with a recognised psychologist or therapist for talking therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
- Psychiatric Consultations: Covers appointments with a specialist psychiatrist for diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Inpatient & Day-Patient Care: If more intensive treatment is needed, it covers the cost of staying in a private psychiatric hospital or attending a day-patient programme.
Important Note on Pre-existing Conditions: As with physical health, chronic or pre-existing mental health conditions are typically excluded. This add-on is designed to provide support for new conditions that arise after you take out the policy. It is a safety net, not a solution for a known, ongoing issue.
How Much Does a Mental Health Add-On Cost?
The price reflects the high cost and value of private therapy.
- Estimated Monthly Cost: £10 – £40+ per person
The cost can vary significantly based on the level of cover. A basic plan might only cover outpatient therapy, while a comprehensive plan will include extensive inpatient benefits.
When is a Mental Health Add-On Worth It?
The value here is less about a simple financial calculation and more about speed of access and quality of life.
Scenario: Seeking Therapy for Anxiety
- Without the Add-On (NHS): You visit your GP, get referred to NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT), and are placed on a waiting list. The wait could be weeks or, in many areas, several months.
- With the Add-On (Private): You visit your GP for a referral, contact your insurer, and can often be speaking to a qualified therapist within days.
The cost of a single private therapy session in the UK can range from £60 to over £150. If you need a course of 8 sessions, the out-of-pocket cost could easily be £480 - £1,200.
An add-on costing £25 per month (£300 per year) that covers a full course of therapy represents exceptional value and, more importantly, provides help when it is most needed.
A mental health add-on is likely worth it if:
- You value immediate access to mental health support.
- You work in a high-stress profession or have a lifestyle where you feel you are at risk of burnout or anxiety.
- You want the peace of mind of knowing that support is there for you and your family, should you ever need it.
- You want a choice of therapist and treatment type.
Other Popular PMI Add-Ons to Consider
While dental, optical, and mental health are the "big three," insurers offer other valuable extras:
- Therapies Cover: This covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic sessions. It's often included in core plans but can be extended as an add-on for more sessions. Essential for active people or those with recurring back or joint pain.
- Worldwide Travel Cover: This integrates your travel insurance with your health insurance, ensuring you are covered for medical emergencies wherever you are in the world.
- Wellness & Rewards Programmes: Many of the best PMI providers now offer programmes that reward you for healthy living. This can include discounted gym memberships, free coffee, or even cinema tickets for hitting activity goals.
How an Expert PMI Broker Can Help
Navigating these choices can be overwhelming. Each insurer packages their add-ons differently, with varying limits, excess options, and costs. This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr provides immense value.
An expert broker can:
- Understand Your Needs: We take the time to learn about your specific health priorities, lifestyle, and budget.
- Compare the Market: We analyse policies and add-on packages from a wide range of top UK insurers, saving you hours of research.
- Explain the Fine Print: We clarify the exclusions and benefit limits so there are no surprises when you need to claim.
- Find the Best Value: Our goal is to find you the most comprehensive cover for your budget, ensuring you're not paying for extras you don't need.
As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support your wellness goals. Plus, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance can receive exclusive discounts on other types of cover. Our commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in our consistently high ratings on customer review platforms.
Summary: Calculating Your Perfect Policy
To estimate your total cost, you simply add the cost of your chosen extras to your core premium.
Example Calculation for a 40-Year-Old
| Policy Component | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Core PMI Premium | £60 | For a comprehensive plan with a £250 excess. |
| Dental Add-On | £30 | Mid-range cover for routine and restorative work. |
| Mental Health Add-On | £25 | Comprehensive outpatient and good inpatient cover. |
| Optical Add-On | £8 | Standard cover for eye tests and glasses. |
| Total Estimated Monthly Premium | £123 | A fully comprehensive health and wellness plan. |
Ultimately, the decision to include add-ons comes down to a balance of risk, budget, and peace of mind. By carefully considering your personal and family needs against the potential costs and benefits, you can build a private health cover plan that truly works for you.
Is mental health support included as standard in UK private medical insurance?
Can I add dental or optical cover to my policy at any time?
Does private dental insurance cover pre-existing dental issues?
Are there waiting periods for using PMI add-ons?
Ready to build a health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored to you? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the best cover for your needs and budget.











