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Health Insurance for Contractors IR35 Implications and Coverage Options

Health Insurance for Contractors IR35 Implications and...

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside out. For contractors, navigating IR35 and finding the right health cover can be complex, but getting it right is crucial for protecting your health and your business.

How IR35 status affects health insurance options for contractors, tax treatment differences, and optimal policy structures for contract workers

For the UK's vibrant community of contractors, freelancers, and consultants, freedom and flexibility are paramount. You are your own boss, your own finance department, and your own HR manager. But this autonomy comes with a responsibility to arrange your own benefits, and one of the most critical is health insurance.

Unlike permanent employees who are often automatically enrolled in a company health scheme, contractors must navigate this landscape alone. The decision is made more complex by the off-payroll working rules, known as IR35. Your IR35 status—whether you are 'inside' or 'outside'—directly impacts not only how you are taxed but also the most tax-efficient way to secure private medical insurance.

This guide will demystify the process, exploring:

  • The fundamental differences between being 'inside IR35' and 'outside IR35'.
  • The health insurance options available to you based on your status.
  • The crucial tax implications of each choice.
  • How to build the optimal private health cover to protect your income and wellbeing.

Understanding IR35: A Quick Refresher for UK Contractors

Before diving into health insurance specifics, let's quickly clarify what IR35 means. The off-payroll working rules (IR35) are designed by HMRC to assess whether a contractor is, for all intents and purposes, a 'disguised employee' of their client.

If a contractor's working relationship with a client mirrors that of a permanent employee, they are deemed to be 'inside IR35'. If they operate as a genuine independent business, they are 'outside IR35'.

This distinction is vital because it determines who is responsible for handling tax and National Insurance contributions.

StatusWho Determines It?Tax & NI TreatmentKey Characteristics
Inside IR35The end client (for medium/large businesses)Tax and National Insurance are deducted at source by the fee-payer (client or agency), just like an employee.High degree of client control, fixed hours, contractor integrated into the client's organisation.
Outside IR35The contractor's own limited company (Personal Service Company - PSC).The contractor's PSC receives the gross payment and is responsible for all taxes, typically paying Corporation Tax and managing salary/dividends.Contractor has control over how and when work is done, can provide a substitute, and works for multiple clients.

Your IR35 status creates two very different pathways for arranging private medical insurance.

Health Insurance Options: Inside IR35 vs. Outside IR35

Your IR35 determination directly influences how you can purchase and pay for private health cover. Let's break down the scenarios.

For Contractors 'Inside IR35' (Deemed Employees)

Being deemed 'inside IR35' places you in a tricky position. You are taxed like an employee but rarely receive any of the associated benefits, such as sick pay, holiday pay, or inclusion in a group private medical insurance scheme.

For you, the options are straightforward but less flexible:

  1. Join the End-Client's Scheme (Unlikely): In very rare cases, an end client or recruitment agency might offer to include you in their group PMI scheme. However, this is not common as it can blur the lines of employment status further.
  2. Purchase a Personal Health Insurance Policy: This is the most common route for 'inside IR35' contractors. You buy a policy for yourself (and your family, if needed) and pay for it from your net income—the money that hits your bank account after tax and NI have been deducted.

The key takeaway for 'inside IR35' contractors is that health insurance is a personal expense, with no scope for tax relief through your business.

For Contractors 'Outside IR35' (Genuine Businesses)

If you operate 'outside IR35' through your own limited company (PSC), you have far more flexibility and a significant tax-efficiency advantage.

You have two main choices:

  1. Purchase a Business Health Insurance Policy: Your limited company can purchase a policy for you as the director/employee. The company pays the premiums directly to the insurer. This is often the most tax-efficient method.
  2. Purchase a Personal Health Insurance Policy: You can still opt to buy a policy personally, paying for it from the post-tax salary and dividends you draw from your company.

For most 'outside IR35' contractors, a business health insurance policy is the preferred route due to its significant tax advantages. An expert PMI broker, such as WeCovr, can help you compare providers and set up the right business policy for your limited company.

The Tax Implications of Health Insurance for Contractors

Understanding the tax treatment is essential for making the most cost-effective decision. The difference between paying personally and paying through your limited company can be substantial.

Here’s a clear comparison:

FeaturePersonal Health InsuranceBusiness Health Insurance ('Outside IR35')
Who Pays?You, the individual.Your limited company.
Source of FundsPost-tax income (net salary/dividends).Pre-tax company revenue.
Corporation TaxNo impact. The company has already paid Corporation Tax on the profits used for your salary/dividends.The premium is an allowable business expense, reducing your company's profit and thus its Corporation Tax bill.
Benefit in Kind (BIK)?No.Yes. The premium is treated as a taxable benefit (P11D benefit).
Personal TaxNo further tax is due.You, the director, must pay Income Tax on the value of the premium at your marginal rate (20%, 40%, or 45%).
National InsuranceNo further NI is due.Your company must pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions on the value of the premium (currently 13.8%).

Real-Life Example: The Financial Difference

Let's imagine a contractor, Alex, who runs a limited company and is 'outside IR35'. The annual premium for their private medical insurance is £1,200.

  • Scenario 1: Alex pays personally. To withdraw £1,200 in post-tax income, Alex's company might need to generate profits of around £1,500-£2,000, depending on how they extract the money (salary vs. dividends) and their personal tax situation.

  • Scenario 2: Alex's company pays.

    1. The company pays the £1,200 premium directly.
    2. This £1,200 is deducted as a business expense, saving the company Corporation Tax. At 19%, this is a saving of £228.
    3. The company must pay Class 1A NI on the benefit: £1,200 x 13.8% = £165.60.
    4. Alex, a higher-rate taxpayer (40%), must pay Income Tax on the benefit: £1,200 x 40% = £480.
    5. Total cost to the company: £1,200 (premium) + £165.60 (NI) - £228 (Corp Tax saving) = £1,137.60.
    6. Total cost to Alex personally: £480.

Even though it seems complex, paying through the business is almost always more efficient. The combined cost is often lower than extracting the equivalent amount of cash to pay for a personal policy.

Structuring Your Health Insurance Policy as a Contractor

Whether you buy a personal or business policy, the core components are the same. A good policy is not just a safety net; it's a tool to keep you healthy, productive, and earning.

A critical point to remember: Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond quickly to treatment. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy.

Key Coverage Options to Consider

  • Core Cover (Inpatient & Day-patient): This is the foundation of any policy. It covers treatment where you need a hospital bed, including surgery, accommodation, and nursing care.
  • Outpatient Cover: This is a vital add-on that covers consultations, diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans), and procedures that don't require a hospital bed. For contractors, quick diagnosis is key to minimising downtime.
  • Mental Health Cover: The pressure of deadlines, client management, and financial uncertainty can take a toll. Comprehensive mental health support, covering therapy and psychiatric care, is an invaluable investment in your resilience.
  • Therapies: This add-on covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care—essential for dealing with the musculoskeletal issues that can come from long hours at a desk.
  • Dental & Optical: Usually available as optional extras, these can help you budget for routine check-ups and unexpected dental work.

How to Manage Costs and Tailor Your Plan

You can customise your plan to balance comprehensive cover with an affordable premium.

  1. Choose Your Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. A higher excess (e.g., £250 or £500) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  2. Select a Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. Choosing a more limited network that still provides excellent local options can reduce costs.
  3. The 6-Week Wait Option: This is a popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private policy kicks in. This can cut premiums by up to 30%.
  4. Build a No-Claims Discount: Just like with car insurance, you can earn a discount for every year you don't make a claim, making your policy more affordable over time.

Navigating these options can be daunting. A specialist PMI broker can be a huge asset, helping you compare the market and design a policy that perfectly fits your needs and budget.

Why Private Medical Insurance is a Smart Move for Contractors

For a contractor, time is literally money. Any period of illness or injury means a direct loss of income. Private medical insurance is a strategic business investment that mitigates this risk.

  • Minimise Downtime, Maximise Earnings: The primary benefit is speed. NHS waiting lists for consultant-led treatment can be long. According to NHS England data from 2024, millions of people are on waiting lists. PMI allows you to bypass these queues, get a diagnosis, receive treatment, and get back to work weeks or even months sooner.
  • Peace of Mind and Reduced Stress: Knowing you have a plan in place to deal with health issues removes a significant source of anxiety. This mental freedom allows you to focus on your clients and your business.
  • Access to Choice and Control: PMI gives you control over your healthcare. You can often choose the specialist who treats you and the hospital where you are treated, at a time and place that suits your schedule.
  • Enhanced Wellbeing and Perks: Modern PMI isn't just for when you're ill. Many providers include a wealth of wellbeing benefits:
    • 24/7 Digital GP: Get a GP appointment via video call within hours, day or night.
    • Mental Health Support Lines: Access to confidential counselling and support services.
    • Wellness Programmes: Discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and healthy food to encourage a proactive approach to health.
    • Exclusive App Access: When you arrange a policy through WeCovr, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you stay on top of your diet and fitness goals.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for UK Contractors

The UK private medical insurance market is dominated by several major players, each with its own strengths and focus.

ProviderKnown ForPotential Contractor Benefit
BupaExtensive network and strong brand recognition.Comprehensive cover and a wide choice of hospitals.
AXA HealthFocus on clinical excellence and customer service.Strong mental health pathways and digital tools.
AvivaLarge, established insurer with a wide product range.Often offers competitive pricing and good core cover.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that rewards healthy living.Incentives and discounts can appeal to proactive contractors.

This is just a snapshot. The "best" provider is entirely subjective and depends on your specific needs, location, and budget. This is why comparing the market is so important.

The WeCovr Advantage: Expert Guidance for Contractors

Choosing the right health insurance as a contractor involves navigating a maze of IR35 rules, tax law, and complex policy options. This is where WeCovr can make a real difference.

As an independent, FCA-authorised broker, our loyalty is to you, not the insurance companies.

  • IR35 & Tax-Efficiency Experts: We understand the unique challenges you face. We can explain the pros and cons of personal vs. business policies in the context of your IR35 status, ensuring you choose the most tax-efficient route.
  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We don't just work with one or two insurers. We compare policies and prices from across the UK market to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Our service costs you nothing.
  • Tailored Policy Design: We'll help you build a plan from the ground up, selecting the right level of outpatient cover, therapies, and cost-containment options to create a policy that works for you.
  • More Than Just Health Cover: We value our clients. When you take out a private medical insurance or life insurance policy with us, we can offer you exclusive discounts on other essential cover, such as income protection or critical illness insurance.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly, praising our clear, friendly, and professional advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I pay for my family's health insurance through my limited company?

Yes, if you are 'outside IR35', your limited company can pay for private medical insurance for you and your family. The entire premium is an allowable business expense for Corporation Tax purposes. However, the full value of the premium for all individuals on the policy will be treated as a Benefit in Kind (BIK) for you, the employee/director. This means you will pay personal income tax on that amount, and your company will pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions.

Does private medical insurance in the UK cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy has started. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the years before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses that require ongoing management, like diabetes or hypertension). Some policies may offer to cover pre-existing conditions after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment, which is known as 'moratorium underwriting'.

What happens to my business health insurance if my contract status changes to 'inside IR35'?

This is a great question and a common concern for contractors. If you have a business health insurance policy and your next contract falls 'inside IR35', you can't continue to pay for it as a business expense in the same way. Most insurers will allow you to seamlessly switch your policy from a 'business' plan to a 'personal' one. You would then take over paying the premiums from your post-tax income. The key is to inform your insurer or broker as soon as your circumstances change to ensure your cover remains continuous.

Is business health insurance a tax-deductible expense in the UK?

Yes, for a limited company, the cost of the health insurance premiums is considered an allowable business expense. This means it can be deducted from your company's profits before calculating your Corporation Tax bill, thereby reducing your tax liability. However, it's crucial to remember that it is also a P11D Benefit in Kind, which triggers personal Income Tax for the employee and Class 1A National Insurance for the company.

Ready to secure your health, protect your income, and find the most tax-efficient health insurance for your contracting business?

The team of experts at WeCovr is here to help. Get a free, no-obligation quote today and let us compare the market to find the perfect private medical insurance UK policy for you.

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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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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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