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Health Insurance for Contractors and Freelancers

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 20, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures of self-employment. This guide explores how private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK offers a vital safety net, ensuring your health doesn't become a business liability. We'll demystify your options and help you find the right cover.

Key takeaways

  • Bypassing NHS Waiting Lists: The NHS is a national treasure, but it's currently facing unprecedented pressure. According to NHS England data, the waiting list for routine treatments stood at over 7.5 million in early 2025. For a contractor, waiting months for a diagnosis or treatment like a hip replacement or hernia surgery isn't just an inconvenience—it's months of lost income. PMI gives you the choice to bypass these queues and be seen in a matter of weeks.
  • Protecting Your Income: Every day you're unable to work due to illness is a day you're not earning. Private health cover is designed to get you diagnosed and treated swiftly, minimising downtime and protecting your financial stability. It's the difference between a minor blip and a major business crisis.
  • Choice and Control: PMI puts you in the driver's seat. You can often choose the hospital where you're treated, the specialist who treats you, and a time for your surgery that fits around your life and work commitments. This level of control is invaluable when you're managing your own schedule.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some advanced cancer drugs or treatments, while approved by medical bodies, may not be available on the NHS due to cost. Many comprehensive PMI policies provide access to these, offering you the very best care available.
  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint pain requiring replacement, hernias, or appendicitis.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures of self-employment. This guide explores how private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK offers a vital safety net, ensuring your health doesn't become a business liability. We'll demystify your options and help you find the right cover.

WeCovr explains tailored PMI options for independent workers

The life of a contractor or freelancer is one of freedom and flexibility. You're the boss, you set the hours, and you reap the rewards of your hard work. But this independence comes with a trade-off: you are your business's most critical asset. If you fall ill or get injured, there's no sick pay, no employer-funded health plan, and no one to cover your workload.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) becomes more than just a "nice-to-have"—it becomes a crucial part of your business continuity plan. It's an investment in your health, ensuring that you can get back to work, and back to earning, as quickly as possible.

Why Private Health Insurance is a Game-Changer for UK Contractors and Freelancers

For the UK's thriving community of independent workers, estimated by the ONS to be around 4.2 million people, the absence of an employer safety net is a significant reality. You're responsible for your own pension, your own holidays, and, most importantly, your own income if you're unable to work.

Let's look at why PMI is so valuable:

  1. Bypassing NHS Waiting Lists: The NHS is a national treasure, but it's currently facing unprecedented pressure. According to NHS England data, the waiting list for routine treatments stood at over 7.5 million in early 2025. For a contractor, waiting months for a diagnosis or treatment like a hip replacement or hernia surgery isn't just an inconvenience—it's months of lost income. PMI gives you the choice to bypass these queues and be seen in a matter of weeks.

  2. Protecting Your Income: Every day you're unable to work due to illness is a day you're not earning. Private health cover is designed to get you diagnosed and treated swiftly, minimising downtime and protecting your financial stability. It's the difference between a minor blip and a major business crisis.

  3. Choice and Control: PMI puts you in the driver's seat. You can often choose the hospital where you're treated, the specialist who treats you, and a time for your surgery that fits around your life and work commitments. This level of control is invaluable when you're managing your own schedule.

  4. Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some advanced cancer drugs or treatments, while approved by medical bodies, may not be available on the NHS due to cost. Many comprehensive PMI policies provide access to these, offering you the very best care available.

What Exactly is Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and How Does It Work?

At its core, private medical insurance is a policy you pay for monthly or annually that covers the cost of private healthcare for specific conditions. However, it's essential to understand what it is—and what it isn't.

PMI is for Acute Conditions, Not Chronic or Pre-existing Ones

This is the single most important concept to grasp. UK private health cover is designed to treat acute conditions.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint pain requiring replacement, hernias, or appendicitis.
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. This includes conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard PMI policies do not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury you had before your policy started. These are also typically excluded, at least for an initial period.

Think of PMI as your express lane back to health for new, curable issues that arise after you take out your policy.

The Typical PMI Journey

  1. You feel unwell: You develop a new symptom, like a persistent pain in your knee.
  2. Visit your NHS GP: Your journey almost always starts with your GP. They are the gatekeeper to specialist care.
  3. Get a referral: Your GP believes you need to see a specialist (e.g., an orthopaedic consultant) and gives you an 'open referral'.
  4. Contact your insurer: You call your PMI provider, explain the situation, and provide the referral details.
  5. Claim authorised: The insurer checks your policy, confirms the condition is covered, and authorises the consultation and any subsequent tests or treatment.
  6. Receive private treatment: You book an appointment with a private specialist at a hospital covered by your plan, often within days or weeks.

How to Customise Your Health Insurance Policy as a Contractor

One of the best things about modern private health cover is its flexibility. You don't buy a one-size-fits-all product; you build a policy that fits your specific needs and budget. As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr helps contractors navigate these choices every day.

Here are the main levers you can pull to tailor your cover:

1. Choose Your Underwriting Type

This determines how the insurer assesses your medical history.

Underwriting TypeHow It WorksProsCons
Moratorium (Most Popular)You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. This exclusion is lifted if you go 2 full years on the policy without needing treatment, advice, or medication for that condition.Quick and easy to set up. Less paperwork. Pre-existing conditions can eventually be covered.Can be a "grey area" at the point of claim, as the insurer will investigate your history then.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire, disclosing your full medical history. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one.Certainty from the start. You know precisely what is excluded. Can sometimes be cheaper if you are in perfect health.Lengthy application process. Exclusions are often permanent and won't be reviewed.

For most contractors, moratorium underwriting is the simplest and most popular route.

2. Select Your Level of Cover

Level of CoverWhat It Typically IncludesBest For...
Basic / In-patientCovers costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed overnight (in-patient) or for the day for a procedure (day-patient). This is the core of any policy, covering surgery, hospital fees, specialist fees, and nursing care.Contractors on a tight budget who want a safety net for major medical events, like surgery.
ComprehensiveIncludes everything in a basic policy, plus out-patient cover. This pays for specialist consultations, diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans), and scans that don't require a hospital admission. It's the key to getting a fast diagnosis.Freelancers who want complete peace of mind, from the first diagnostic test right through to treatment. This is the most popular level of cover.
Added ExtrasYou can often add on further benefits, such as:
• Therapies Cover: Physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic care.
• Mental Health Cover: Access to psychiatrists and therapists.
• Dental & Optical: Routine check-ups and treatment.		Individuals with specific needs. Therapies cover is highly recommended for anyone with a physical job or who sits at a desk all day. Mental health cover is increasingly vital.

3. Use Policy Options to Manage Your Premium

  • Excess: This is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the first claim you make in a policy year. For example, with a £250 excess, you pay the first £250 of a claim, and the insurer pays the rest. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Insurers group private hospitals into tiers. A plan with a "local" list covering hospitals near you will be cheaper than a "national" list that includes premium central London hospitals. Be realistic about where you'd be willing to travel for treatment.
  • The "Six-Week Option": This is a brilliant cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of when it's recommended, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in. This one feature can reduce your premium by up to 25%.

Comparing the Best UK Private Health Insurance Providers for Independent Workers

The UK PMI market is competitive, with several excellent providers offering plans well-suited to the self-employed. Here’s a brief overview.

ProviderKey Features for Contractors & FreelancersUnique Selling Point
AvivaStrong core cover, excellent cancer care promise ("Cancer Care Promise"), and a high level of standard out-patient cover on their 'Healthier Solutions' policy.Often highly rated for customer service and claims handling. Their "Expert Select" option simplifies choosing a specialist.
AXA HealthFlexible policies with clear pathways. Their "Personal Health" plan is easy to tailor. They offer excellent mental health support and a 24/7 GP service.A strong focus on member support services, including dedicated nurse helplines and proactive health information.
BupaThe UK's best-known health insurer. Their "Bupa By You" policy is highly customisable. Strong on cancer cover and offers direct access to some services without a GP referral.Brand recognition and a vast network of partner hospitals and clinics. Their "Direct Access" feature is a major plus.
The ExeterA friendly society that specialises in insurance for the self-employed. They have a deep understanding of contractors' needs and offer great value.Known for excellent customer service and a community-focused approach. A great choice for those new to PMI.
VitalityA unique approach that rewards you for being healthy. You earn points for activity, which unlocks discounts on your premium, coffee, cinema tickets, and more.The "Active Rewards" programme. It can make insurance more engaging and affordable if you lead a healthy lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This table is a guide. The "best" provider is the one whose policy and price are right for your individual circumstances. Working with a broker like WeCovr allows you to compare them all in one place, with expert guidance.

What Determines the Cost of Your Private Health Cover?

Insurers use several factors to calculate your premium. Understanding them helps you see where you can make savings.

  • Age: This is the biggest factor. Premiums increase as you get older because the statistical likelihood of claiming increases.
  • Location: Living in or near major cities, especially London, usually means higher premiums due to the higher cost of private treatment there.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers pay more than non-smokers.
  • Cover Options: As discussed, the level of cover, excess, and hospital list you choose are the main drivers of your final price.

Example Monthly Premiums for a UK Contractor

These are illustrative costs for a non-smoker on a comprehensive policy with a £250 excess and a standard national hospital list.

Age BracketEstimated Monthly Premium
30-39£45 - £65
40-49£60 - £90
50-59£85 - £140

Your exact quote will depend on your unique details. The only way to get an accurate price is to get a personalised quote.

Is Private Medical Insurance Tax Deductible for Contractors and Freelancers?

This is a common and important question. The answer depends on your business structure.

  • For Sole Traders: If you operate as a sole trader, HMRC generally considers private medical insurance a personal expense, not a business one. This means you cannot claim the premiums as a tax-deductible expense against your income. You pay for it out of your post-tax earnings.

  • For Limited Companies: If you run your own limited company, the company can pay for your health insurance premium. The cost is considered an allowable business expense and can be offset against the company's corporation tax bill.

However, there's a catch. The premium paid by the company is treated as a 'benefit in kind' for the director/employee. This means:

  1. The company must report it on a P11D form.
  2. The individual (you) will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium at their marginal rate (20%, 40%, or 45%).
  3. The company will have to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions (currently 13.8%) on the value of the premium.

The Verdict: While it's a taxable benefit, many contractors still find it more efficient to have their limited company pay the premium. It's always wise to discuss this with your accountant to understand the most tax-efficient structure for you.

Wellness for the Self-Employed: More Than Just Insurance

Being a successful contractor isn't just about avoiding major illness; it's about maintaining peak physical and mental performance every day. Your health is your wealth, and a proactive approach is key.

  • Fuel Your Body: Long hours and tight deadlines can lead to poor food choices. Plan your meals, stay hydrated, and prioritise nutrient-dense foods to maintain energy and focus.
  • Stay Active: Even if you're desk-bound, build movement into your day. Use a standing desk, take regular screen breaks, go for a walk at lunchtime, and schedule time for more vigorous exercise. This helps combat stress and the physical strain of sedentary work.
  • Prioritise Sleep: For freelancers, the temptation to burn the midnight oil is strong. But consistent, quality sleep (7-9 hours) is non-negotiable for cognitive function, mood regulation, and a strong immune system.
  • Manage Mental Health: The isolation and pressure of self-employment can take a toll. Acknowledge the stress, build a support network of other freelancers, and don't hesitate to seek help if you're struggling. Many PMI policies now include excellent mental health support pathways.

WeCovr's Commitment to Your Wellbeing

We believe in a holistic approach to health. That's why, in addition to finding you the best PMI policy, we provide our health and life insurance clients with complimentary benefits to support their wellness journey:

  • Free access to CalorieHero: Our intuitive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app helps you stay on top of your diet and make healthier choices effortlessly.
  • Discounts on other cover: When you take out a PMI or life insurance policy through us, you can get discounts on other essential protection like income protection or critical illness cover, creating a complete financial safety net.

The Smart Way to Buy PMI: Why Use an Expert Broker like WeCovr?

You could go directly to an insurer, but you'd only get one price and one point of view. Using a specialist, independent broker like WeCovr offers significant advantages, especially in a complex market like health insurance.

  1. Impartial Expert Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our loyalty is to you, our client. We provide unbiased advice on which provider and policy truly meet your needs.
  2. Market-Wide Comparison: We do the legwork for you, comparing policies and prices from across the UK's leading insurers to find the optimal balance of cover and cost.
  3. No Cost to You: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, so you don't pay a penny more than going direct.
  4. Application and Claims Support: We help you with the paperwork and are here to offer guidance if you ever need to make a claim. We're your advocate in the insurance world.
  5. Trusted and Authorised: WeCovr is fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to excellent service.

Frequently Asked Questions about Health Insurance for Contractors

Do I need to declare pre-existing conditions for my PMI?

It depends on the type of underwriting you choose. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, you don't need to declare your medical history upfront, but any condition you've had in the last 5 years will be automatically excluded for the first 2 years of the policy. With 'Full Medical Underwriting', you must complete a detailed health questionnaire, and the insurer will tell you precisely what is excluded from the start. A broker can help you decide which is best for you.

Can I cover my family on my contractor health insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. All major UK private medical insurance providers allow you to add your partner and/or your children to your policy. While this will increase the premium, it's often more cost-effective and simpler to manage than having multiple individual policies. If your limited company pays the premium, this will also be a benefit in kind for tax purposes.

Is mental health treatment covered by private medical insurance?

Most comprehensive private health cover plans now offer a level of mental health support. This can range from access to telephone counselling services as standard, to full cover for specialist consultations with psychiatrists and sessions with therapists or psychologists as an optional add-on. Given the pressures of self-employment, it's a highly recommended part of any policy.

What happens to my policy if I stop being a contractor and take a permanent job?

Your private medical insurance policy is personal to you and completely portable. If you take a permanent role, you can simply continue paying the premiums personally. If your new employer offers a company health scheme, you will have a choice: you can either cancel your personal plan and join theirs, or you can keep your personal policy. Keeping your own policy ensures you retain the underwriting and cover history you have built up.

Ready to protect your health and your business?

Don't let an unexpected health issue derail your freelance career. Take control with a private medical insurance policy tailored to your needs as an independent worker.

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today.

Our friendly experts will compare the UK's top insurers to find the right cover for you at the best possible price. It's fast, simple, and completely free.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 experienced 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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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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