
Looking for private medical insurance in the UK that goes beyond just treatment? WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies of various kinds, explains how policies with free health assessments can offer invaluable preventative care, giving you peace of mind and control over your long-term wellbeing.
Private medical insurance (PMI) is often seen as a safety net for when things go wrong—a fast track to diagnosis and treatment for unexpected illnesses. However, a growing number of UK policies are shifting focus from purely reactive care to proactive, preventative health. One of the most valuable features in this space is the inclusion of regular health assessments and screenings.
This comprehensive guide explores which policies offer these benefits, what the checks typically involve, and how you can use them to stay one step ahead of potential health issues.
Before we delve into the benefits of health screenings, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of the UK private health cover market. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses that are curable and arise after you take out the policy.
PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.
Health assessments are a preventative benefit to spot new potential issues early, not to manage existing long-term ones.
A private health assessment, sometimes called a health screening or a "medical MOT," is a series of tests and checks designed to give you a comprehensive overview of your current health. It is not a diagnostic tool for an existing symptom; rather, it’s a proactive measure to identify potential risk factors or early signs of disease when you feel perfectly well.
Think of it this way: if you have chest pains, you see a doctor for a diagnosis. A health assessment is what you do before you have chest pains to check your cholesterol and blood pressure, helping you to avoid developing problems in the first place.
These assessments are typically offered as a value-added benefit on mid-tier and comprehensive private medical insurance UK plans. They are rarely included in budget or entry-level policies.
The availability and scope of health assessments vary significantly between insurers. They are often linked to the level of cover you choose, with more comprehensive plans offering more frequent and in-depth screenings. Here’s a breakdown of what some of the UK's leading providers typically offer.
| Provider | Typical Health Assessment Benefit | How It Works | Common Tier Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bupa | Bupa Be.Well | A points-based system. You complete online questionnaires to earn points, which can be redeemed for health checks. You may need a year of membership to qualify. | Included on most comprehensive plans, but access varies. |
| Aviva | Health Check | Often offered every one or two years on higher-tier "Healthier Solutions" plans. The depth of the check can depend on the specific policy level. | Higher-tier and corporate plans. |
| AXA Health | Health Screen / Health Check | Usually available as an optional add-on or included in their most comprehensive plans. Access can be age-dependent. | Optional add-on or included in top-tier plans. |
| Vitality | Vitality Healthcheck | A core part of their "shared value" model. Members earn points for completing an annual Healthcheck, which can unlock rewards and discounts. | Available to all members annually. |
| The Exeter | Healthwise / Wellbeing Services | While not a full physical MOT, they often provide access to services like a second medical opinion or mental health support, which are preventative in nature. | Included on most plans. |
Important Note: The specifics of these benefits can change. When choosing a policy, it’s crucial to check the latest terms and conditions. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can compare the fine print for you, ensuring you get the preventative benefits you value most at no extra cost to you.
While the exact components of a health assessment depend on the insurer, your age, and your gender, most comprehensive screenings include a core set of tests. The appointment is usually split into two parts: a consultation with a nurse or doctor and a series of physical tests.
Here’s what you can generally expect:
The assessment almost always begins with a detailed conversation about your lifestyle. Be prepared to discuss:
A nurse will take a series of fundamental measurements:
A small blood sample can reveal a huge amount about your health. Common tests include:
A urine sample is tested for protein, blood, and sugar, which can be early indicators of kidney problems or diabetes.
After the tests, you’ll usually sit down with the clinician to discuss your results. You'll receive a detailed, personalised report explaining what each result means, where you sit on the "healthy" spectrum, and practical advice for making improvements.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the UK's biggest killers. According to the British Heart Foundation, around 7.6 million people are living with heart and circulatory diseases in the UK. This is why cardiovascular checks are a cornerstone of any good health assessment.
The key tests include:
Real-Life Example: Sarah, a 45-year-old marketing manager, felt fit and healthy. Her PMI policy included a health assessment. The blood test revealed significantly high cholesterol, a risk she was unaware of as she had no symptoms. Her report included a referral to a dietitian and a plan to increase her exercise. By making these changes, she was able to lower her cholesterol within six months, drastically reducing her future risk of a heart attack.
Cancer is a major concern for many people. The NHS has an excellent screening programme for breast, cervical, and bowel cancer, but these are offered at specific ages. Some private health cover policies offer access to certain cancer screenings either as part of a health assessment or as a separate benefit.
It's crucial to understand the difference:
What might be included?
| Type of Cancer | Screening Test | Who Is It For? |
|---|---|---|
| Prostate Cancer | PSA Blood Test | Men, typically over 50 (or 45 with family history). |
| Bowel Cancer | Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) | Checks for hidden blood in a stool sample. Often for people over 50. |
| Breast Cancer | Mammogram | Some comprehensive policies may offer a mammogram for women over 40, which is earlier than the NHS programme begins (usually at 50). |
| Cervical Cancer | Smear Test / HPV Test | This is almost always covered by the NHS, but some policies may offer it privately if there's a clinical need. |
According to Cancer Research UK, 1 in 2 people in the UK will get cancer in their lifetime. Early detection dramatically improves survival rates, making these screening benefits incredibly valuable.
Having a policy with a health assessment is one thing; making the most of it is another. Here’s how to maximise the value of your preventative benefits.
At WeCovr, we believe in a holistic approach to health. That’s why, in addition to finding you the best private medical insurance UK policy for your needs, we provide extra value.
For many, the peace of mind alone is worth the premium. A clean bill of health from a comprehensive assessment is reassuring, while an early warning sign can be life-changing, empowering you to take action before a minor issue becomes a major one.
Consider the cost of a standalone private health assessment, which can range from £200 for a basic check to over £1,000 for a highly advanced screening. When this is included in your annual PMI policy, it represents significant added value.
While policies with these benefits are more expensive than basic plans, they reframe insurance from a simple cost into an investment in your long-term wellbeing. With high customer satisfaction ratings, our clients frequently tell us that these preventative features are among the most valued aspects of their private health cover.
Navigating the world of private medical insurance can be complex. The differences between policies are often hidden in the small print, and it can be hard to know if you're getting good value.
As an independent, FCA-authorised PMI broker, WeCovr works for you, not the insurers.
We'll help you find a policy that not only protects you when you're ill but also actively helps you stay healthy.
Take control of your long-term health today. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr and let our experts find the perfect private medical insurance policy with the preventative benefits you deserve.






