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Health Insurance After COVID-19 Whats Changed

Health Insurance After COVID-19 Whats Changed 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr explains the pivotal shifts in the UK's private medical insurance landscape following the COVID-19 pandemic. The world has changed, and so has our approach to health and wellbeing.

WeCovr explores how the pandemic has reshaped PMI in the UK

The COVID-19 pandemic was more than a public health crisis; it was a catalyst for a profound re-evaluation of health, wellness, and healthcare access in the United Kingdom. For many, it exposed the fragility of our health and the immense pressure on our cherished National Health Service (NHS).

This new awareness has fundamentally reshaped the private medical insurance (PMI) market. Policies that were once seen as a luxury are now viewed by millions as an essential part of a robust personal health strategy. In this guide, we'll delve into the key changes, what they mean for you, and how to navigate this new landscape to find the best possible cover.

The Post-Pandemic Health Landscape: A New Reality

To understand the changes in private health cover, we must first look at the environment in which it operates. The pandemic has left a lasting impact on the UK's healthcare system.

Unprecedented NHS Waiting Lists

The most significant factor driving interest in PMI is the strain on the NHS. While the service continues to provide world-class emergency care, the backlog for elective (planned) treatments has grown to historic levels.

  • The Scale of the Challenge: As of early 2025, NHS England's referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list continues to affect millions of patients. Figures consistently show a waiting list size of over 7 million, meaning a substantial portion of the population is waiting for consultations, diagnostics, or procedures.
  • The Human Impact: These aren't just numbers. Behind each statistic is a person waiting in discomfort or pain, unable to work, or facing anxiety about their condition. A 2024 report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlighted the link between long-term sickness and economic inactivity, a trend exacerbated by long healthcare waits.

This reality has prompted many to ask: "Is there a faster way to get seen?" For a growing number, private medical insurance is the answer.

A Heightened Awareness of Health

The pandemic made us all more conscious of our health and mortality. This has led to a proactive shift in how people manage their wellbeing:

  • Mental Health: The isolation of lockdowns and the anxiety of the pandemic brought mental health into sharp focus.
  • Preventative Care: There's a greater understanding that lifestyle choices—diet, exercise, sleep—are crucial for building resilience.
  • Desire for Control: Many people now seek more control over their healthcare journey, from choosing their specialist to deciding when and where they receive treatment.

The Surge in Demand for Private Medical Insurance UK

The combination of NHS pressures and a new health-conscious mindset has created a perfect storm, leading to a significant boom in the private health cover market.

Industry data from 2024 and 2025 shows a double-digit percentage increase in the number of individuals taking out new PMI policies. This isn't just a trend among high-earners; it's a movement across a broader demographic, including families, the self-employed, and small business owners who cannot afford lengthy periods of illness.

The primary drivers for this surge are clear:

  1. Speed of Access: Bypassing long waiting lists for initial consultations and diagnostic tests like MRI or CT scans.
  2. Choice and Control: The ability to choose your surgeon, hospital, and appointment times.
  3. Access to Advanced Treatments: Gaining access to drugs or treatments that may not be available on the NHS due to funding decisions.
  4. Comfort and Privacy: The benefit of a private room during a hospital stay.

How Have PMI Policies Evolved Since COVID-19?

Insurers have responded dynamically to these new demands. A PMI policy in 2025 looks quite different from its 2019 counterpart. The focus has shifted from simply covering treatment to providing a holistic health and wellness partnership.

Enhanced Mental Health Support: A Top Priority

Mental health is no longer an add-on; it's a core component of modern PMI. The "second pandemic" of mental health issues following COVID-19 forced insurers to radically improve their offerings.

What to expect from a modern policy:

  • Comprehensive Cover: Generous limits for psychiatric treatment, therapy sessions (e.g., CBT), and specialist consultations.
  • Digital Tools: Access to mental health apps like Headspace or Calm, often included as standard.
  • 24/7 Helplines: Confidential access to trained counsellors for immediate support with stress, anxiety, or depression.
  • Proactive Support: Pathways for early intervention, helping you get support before a condition becomes severe.

Example: Mental Health Benefits Comparison (Typical Features)

FeaturePre-Pandemic (Typical)Post-Pandemic (Standard)
Therapy SessionsLimited to 8-10 sessions, often after GP referralOften 10+ sessions, sometimes with self-referral
Digital SupportRareStandard inclusion of apps and online resources
Outpatient CoverOften a limited, specified cash benefitHigher financial limits for psychiatric consultations
Proactive CareMinimalStress helplines, wellness programmes included

The Rise of Virtual Healthcare: Your GP in Your Pocket

Perhaps the most visible change has been the universal adoption of digital GP services. Once a niche perk, virtual consultations are now a cornerstone of almost every private medical insurance policy in the UK.

Key Benefits:

  • Convenience: Book a video or phone appointment 24/7, often within hours, from anywhere.
  • Speed: Get a diagnosis, advice, or a prescription quickly without leaving your home.
  • Private Prescriptions: Get prescriptions sent directly to your local pharmacy or delivered to your door.
  • Onward Referrals: A digital GP can provide an open referral into your private medical insurance network, fast-tracking your access to a specialist.

This digital-first approach acts as an efficient gateway to your wider PMI benefits, saving you and the insurer time and money.

A Stronger Focus on Wellness and Preventative Care

Insurers now understand that it's better to help you stay healthy than to pay for expensive treatment later. This has led to a boom in wellness benefits designed to support a healthier lifestyle.

Common Wellness Perks:

  1. Gym Discounts: Significant savings on memberships at major UK gym chains.
  2. Health Screenings: Access to regular check-ups to catch potential issues early.
  3. Wearable Tech Integration: Link your policy to your Apple Watch or Fitbit to earn rewards for being active.
  4. Nutrition and Diet Support: Access to dieticians or nutrition apps to help you manage your diet.
  5. Smoking Cessation Programmes: Structured support to help you quit smoking for good.

At WeCovr, we enhance this by providing our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you take direct control of your dietary health.

COVID-19 and Long COVID Cover: Understanding the Nuances

A common question is how insurers handle COVID-related conditions.

  • Acute COVID-19: An acute infection with COVID-19 is treated like any other short-term infectious illness, such as flu or pneumonia. If your policy covers acute conditions and you require hospitalisation, your PMI would typically respond according to your policy terms.
  • Long COVID: This is more complex. Long COVID is a multi-system condition with a wide range of symptoms that can persist for months or years. Because of its long-term nature, it can be classified by insurers as a chronic condition.

This brings us to one of the most important principles of private medical insurance in the UK.

The Golden Rule of PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

It is absolutely vital to understand this distinction before you buy a policy. Misunderstanding this is the source of most complaints and frustrations.

UK Private Medical Insurance is designed to cover ACUTE conditions that arise AFTER your policy begins. It does NOT cover CHRONIC or PRE-EXISTING conditions.

Let's break this down in Plain English:

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, a cataract, or a joint replacement. PMI is designed for these.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. The NHS manages these conditions.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any condition for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before the start date of your policy. These are excluded from cover.

Why the exclusion? PMI works on the principle of risk, insuring against unforeseen future events. Covering known, ongoing (chronic) or past (pre-existing) conditions would make premiums unaffordably high for everyone. The system is designed to complement, not replace, the NHS, which provides excellent care for chronic conditions.

Regarding Long COVID, if it's diagnosed and managed as a long-term, chronic illness, it will likely fall outside the scope of standard PMI cover. However, some insurers may cover acute flare-ups of symptoms or diagnostic consultations to rule out other underlying causes. Always check the specific policy wording.

Choosing the Right PMI Policy in a Post-COVID World

With more choice and complexity in the market, making the right decision is more important than ever. A broker like WeCovr can be invaluable in navigating your options, but here are the key things to consider.

What to Look For in a Modern PMI Policy

Create a checklist and compare policies against it. Here’s what a strong post-pandemic policy should include:

  • 24/7 Digital GP Access: A non-negotiable for fast, convenient primary care.
  • Comprehensive Mental Health Cover: Look for high financial limits and easy access to therapy.
  • Full Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of PMI. Ensure it covers diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and access to the latest approved drugs.
  • Good Outpatient Cover: Check the limits for consultations and diagnostic tests before you are admitted to hospital. A low limit could leave you with unexpected bills.
  • Flexible Hospital List: Does the policy cover hospitals that are convenient for you? National lists are more expensive but offer more choice than local lists.
  • Wellness and Preventative Benefits: Check for gym discounts, health screenings, and other perks that add value.

How to Control the Cost of Your Premiums

Private health cover is more affordable than many people think, and you have several levers to control the price.

Cost-Control OptionHow It WorksImpact on Premium
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards the first claim each year (e.g., £250).A higher excess significantly lowers your premium.
6-Week Wait OptionYou agree to use the NHS if the waiting list for your treatment is less than 6 weeks. If it's longer, your PMI kicks in.Can reduce premiums by 20-30%. A very popular option.
Guided Consultant ListYou agree to choose a specialist from a shorter, curated list provided by the insurer.Lowers premium as the insurer has pre-agreed rates with these specialists.
Reduced Hospital ListYou choose a list that excludes expensive central London hospitals, or is limited to local facilities.Lowers premium by restricting choice to lower-cost hospitals.

Understanding Underwriting: Moratorium vs. FMU

When you apply, the insurer "underwrites" your policy. This means they assess your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover.

  1. Moratorium Underwriting (Most Common): This is the quicker, simpler option. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts, the exclusion may be lifted.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews your history and tells you upfront exactly what is excluded from cover permanently. It takes longer but provides complete clarity from day one.

Choosing the right underwriting method depends on your personal health history and preference for certainty. An expert PMI broker can advise on the best path for you.

Why Use an Expert Broker Like WeCovr?

Navigating the post-pandemic PMI market can be complex. The policies are more sophisticated, the options are wider, and the small print matters more than ever. This is where using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr makes all the difference.

  • Expertise and Insight: We live and breathe the UK private medical insurance market. We know the strengths and weaknesses of each provider and how their post-COVID policies stack up.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price (or often less) than going direct, but with expert guidance included.
  • Market Comparison: We compare policies from a wide range of leading UK insurers, saving you the time and hassle of getting multiple quotes. We present the options in a clear, easy-to-understand way.
  • Tailored Advice: We take the time to understand your specific needs, budget, and health concerns to recommend the policy that is genuinely right for you.
  • Ongoing Support: We are here to help not just at the start, but also at renewal or if you need to understand your claim options.
  • Added Value: As a WeCovr client, you get more. This includes discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection when you take out PMI, and access to our exclusive CalorieHero app. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the best outcomes for our clients.

Your Health is Your Greatest Asset

The pandemic taught us that investing in our health is the most important investment we can make. For many in the UK, long waits for treatment are no longer a viable option. Private medical insurance has evolved to become a comprehensive, accessible, and flexible tool for taking control of your healthcare.

From instant access to a digital GP to robust mental health support and proactive wellness benefits, today's policies offer more value than ever before. By understanding how the market has changed and working with an expert to navigate your choices, you can secure peace of mind and fast access to the best care when you need it most.


Does UK private health insurance cover Long COVID?

This is a complex area. Because Long COVID is often considered a long-term or chronic condition, it may not be covered by standard private medical insurance, which is designed for acute conditions (those that resolve with treatment). However, some policies may cover initial diagnostic tests to rule out other causes for your symptoms or provide access to services like physiotherapy or mental health support that form part of your benefits. It is crucial to check the specific wording of any policy.

Do I need to declare that I've had a COVID-19 infection when applying for PMI?

Generally, you must be honest about your medical history. If you choose Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you will be asked specific questions about past illnesses, and you should declare it. If you choose Moratorium underwriting, any pre-existing conditions from the last 5 years are automatically excluded, so a simple case of COVID-19 that has fully resolved may not need specific declaration unless you have ongoing symptoms (i.e., Long COVID), which would be considered a pre-existing condition.

Is private medical insurance worth it now the NHS is so busy?

For many people, yes. The primary benefit of private medical insurance is bypassing long NHS waiting lists for eligible, non-emergency treatment. With NHS waits at historic highs, PMI provides a fast track to see a specialist, get diagnosed, and receive treatment. The new generation of policies also includes valuable everyday benefits like digital GP access, wellness tools, and comprehensive mental health support, adding significant value beyond just hospital treatment.

Can I get private health cover if I have a pre-existing condition like asthma or diabetes?

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but it's important to understand what it will and won't do. The policy will exclude your pre-existing asthma or diabetes, and any related conditions. However, it will cover you for new, unrelated acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy (e.g., needing a hip replacement or cataract surgery). PMI complements the NHS, which will continue to manage your chronic conditions.

Ready to take control of your health? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the market for you and help you find the best private medical insurance for your needs and budget.


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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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