As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr offers expert guidance on private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK. This guide is designed specifically for IT contractors, exploring how a private health policy can be a crucial tool for safeguarding your health and income.
WeCovr explains how IT contractors can benefit from PMI
In the dynamic world of IT contracting, your health is your most valuable asset. Any unexpected illness or injury can mean significant downtime, lost income, and project delays. While the NHS provides excellent care, long waiting lists for non-urgent procedures can be a major concern for professionals who rely on being fit and available.
Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful solution. It's not a replacement for the NHS, but a complementary service designed to give you faster access to diagnosis and treatment for acute medical conditions. For an IT contractor, this means getting back to work—and back to earning—as quickly as possible.
Why IT Contractors Are a Unique Case for Health Insurance
Contracting in the IT sector offers fantastic flexibility and high earning potential. However, it also comes with a unique set of pressures and risks that make health insurance particularly valuable.
- No Sick Pay: Unlike permanent employees, if you don't work, you don't get paid. An extended period off for a knee operation or diagnostic tests could wipe out months of savings.
- High Opportunity Cost: Your daily rate is high. Every day spent waiting for an NHS appointment is a day of lost income. If your day rate is £500, a two-month wait for a procedure could represent a potential loss of over £20,000.
- Project-Critical Roles: Clients depend on you to deliver. Unexpected absence can damage your professional reputation and jeopardise future contracts.
- The Physical Strains of IT: Long hours sitting at a desk, repetitive strain injuries (RSI), eye strain, and back problems are common occupational hazards. PMI can provide swift access to physiotherapy and specialist consultations to manage these issues before they become debilitating.
- The Mental Demands: Tight deadlines, complex problem-solving, and the pressure to stay current with technology can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Modern PMI policies offer robust mental health support, often accessible without a long wait.
According to recent NHS England statistics from early 2025, the median waiting time for non-urgent consultant-led treatment can be several months. For a contractor, this waiting period is not just an inconvenience; it's a direct threat to your business continuity.
Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in the UK
Before diving into the benefits, it's essential to understand what PMI is and, crucially, what it is not.
Think of PMI as a health plan that covers the cost of private medical care for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health.
Examples of what PMI typically covers:
- Consultations with specialists (e.g., cardiologists, orthopaedic surgeons).
- Diagnostic tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and endoscopies.
- In-patient and day-patient treatment in a private hospital.
- Surgical procedures (e.g., hernia repair, cataract surgery, hip replacement).
- Cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Mental health support and therapy.
What PMI Does Not Cover: The Critical Exclusions
This is the most important part to understand. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for new, treatable conditions. It does not cover:
- Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before you took out the policy. Some policies may cover them after a set period (see 'Moratorium Underwriting' below), but never from day one.
- Chronic Conditions: Long-term illnesses that cannot be cured, only managed. This includes conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. While the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition might be covered, the ongoing management will be handled by the NHS.
- Accident & Emergency (A&E): If you have a medical emergency like a heart attack, stroke, or serious injury, you must go to an NHS A&E department. PMI does not have its own emergency services.
- Routine Maternity Care: Standard pregnancies and childbirth are typically handled by the NHS.
- Cosmetic Surgery, unless medically necessary.
PMI works in partnership with the NHS, giving you a choice of when and where you are treated for eligible conditions.
The Top 5 Benefits of PMI for IT Contractors
For a self-employed professional, the return on investment from a PMI policy is measured in more than just health outcomes—it's measured in time, control, and peace of mind.
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Minimise Downtime and Protect Your Income
This is the number one benefit. Instead of waiting weeks or months for an NHS appointment, you can often see a specialist and get diagnostic scans within days. This speed can be the difference between a minor disruption and a major financial hit.
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Flexibility, Choice, and Control
As a contractor, you value control over your schedule. PMI gives you that control over your healthcare. You can:
- Choose your specialist or consultant.
- Select a hospital from your insurer's approved list.
- Schedule appointments and treatments at times that suit you, minimising disruption to your work commitments.
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Access to Advanced Treatments and Drugs
The UK has strict processes for approving new drugs and treatments for NHS use. Sometimes, a breakthrough cancer drug or a novel surgical technique may be available privately long before it's available on the NHS. A comprehensive PMI policy can provide access to these cutting-edge options.
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Enhanced Mental Health Support
The IT industry can be a high-pressure environment. Leading PMI providers now offer excellent mental health pathways, including:
- Direct access to telephone or video counselling sessions without a GP referral.
- Cover for psychiatric consultations and therapy.
- Digital tools and apps for mindfulness and stress management.
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Comfort and Privacy
When you're recovering from an illness or operation, a comfortable environment can make a world of difference. Private hospitals typically offer a private en-suite room, more flexible visiting hours, and better food choices, allowing you to rest and recover in a peaceful setting.
How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost for an IT Contractor?
The cost of a PMI policy is highly individual. Insurers calculate your premium based on several factors:
- Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
- Location: Treatment costs are higher in some areas, like Central London, so premiums are also higher.
- Lifestyle: Smokers will pay significantly more than non-smokers.
- Level of Cover: A basic policy will be cheaper than a comprehensive one with optional extras like dental or travel cover.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
To give you a clearer idea, here is an illustrative table of potential monthly costs for a non-smoking IT contractor.
| Age | Location | Level of Cover | Excess | Estimated Monthly Premium |
|---|
| 30 | Manchester | Core Cover | £500 | £45 - £65 |
| 30 | Central London | Comprehensive | £250 | £80 - £110 |
| 45 | Bristol | Core Cover | £500 | £70 - £95 |
| 45 | Central London | Comprehensive | £250 | £130 - £180 |
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates for illustrative purposes only (as of mid-2024). Your actual premium will depend on your specific circumstances and the insurer you choose. The best way to get an accurate price is to get a personalised quote.
A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can compare the market for you, finding a policy that balances cost and benefits to suit your specific needs and budget, all at no extra cost to you.
Choosing the Right PMI Policy: A Contractor's Checklist
Navigating the PMI market can be complex. Here are the key elements to consider.
1. Underwriting Options Explained
Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will cover. The two main types are:
| Underwriting Type | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Moratorium (Mori) | You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before the policy start date. If you then remain symptom-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy begins, that condition may become eligible for cover. | Quicker to set up. Less paperwork. | Can be uncertainty about what is covered. Claim process can be slower as the insurer investigates your history at that point. |
| Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) | You complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer reviews your medical history and tells you exactly what is excluded from day one. | Complete clarity from the start. You know exactly what isn't covered. Faster claims process. | Takes longer to set up. Exclusions are often permanent. |
Most policies are built around a core foundation with optional add-ons.
- Core Cover (Standard): Typically includes in-patient and day-patient treatment, surgery, and cancer care.
- Optional Extras:
- Outpatient Cover: This is a vital add-on. It covers diagnostic tests and specialist consultations that don't require a hospital bed. Without it, you would have to pay for these yourself or wait for them on the NHS.
- Therapies Cover: Includes treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care – essential for desk-related ailments.
- Mental Health Cover: Extends the basic mental health support to include more comprehensive psychiatric and therapeutic care.
- Dental and Optical Cover: Helps with routine check-ups, glasses, and dental treatment.
3. The "Excess" and the "6-Week Option"
- Excess: The fixed amount you pay towards a claim each year (e.g., £0, £100, £250, £500). Choosing a higher excess is a simple way to reduce your monthly premium. You only pay it if you make a claim.
- 6-Week Option: A popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS waiting list for the in-patient treatment you need is less than six weeks, you agree to use the NHS. If it's longer, your private cover kicks in. This can significantly lower your premium because it removes the risk of claims for treatments with shorter NHS waits.
Can I Claim PMI as a Business Expense? Tax for Contractors
This is a key question for contractors operating through their own limited company. The answer is nuanced.
- Paying Through Your Limited Company: Yes, you can pay for your PMI policy as a legitimate business expense. The company can claim corporation tax relief on the premium.
- The Catch: Benefit-in-Kind (BIK): Because you, the director, are receiving a personal benefit from the company, HMRC treats the policy as a 'benefit-in-kind'. This means you will have to declare the value of the premium on a P11D form and pay personal income tax on it. Your company will also have to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions on the value of the premium.
- Paying Personally: If you pay for the policy from your post-tax personal income, there are no business tax implications or relief.
Which is better? It often still makes financial sense to pay through the business, despite the BIK tax, but it depends on your tax bracket and company's financial position. We strongly recommend you speak to your accountant to determine the most tax-efficient method for your specific circumstances.
WeCovr's Added Value for IT Professionals
Choosing WeCovr as your expert health insurance broker provides more than just market comparison. We understand the specific needs of professionals like you.
- Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our job is to understand your requirements and find the best private health cover from across the UK's leading providers.
- No-Fee Service: Our advice and support are completely free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium price. You pay the same price or less than going direct.
- Exclusive WeCovr Benefits:
- Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All WeCovr PMI and Life Insurance clients get free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It's a perfect tool for busy contractors looking to manage their diet and energy levels.
- Discounts on Other Cover: Once you're a WeCovr client, you can benefit from discounts on other essential policies, such as income protection insurance or life insurance, creating a complete financial safety net.
A Proactive Approach to Health: Wellness Tips for IT Contractors
Your PMI policy is there for when things go wrong, but the best strategy is to stay healthy in the first place.
- Ergonomics is Key: Invest in a good quality, adjustable chair, an external monitor at eye level, and an ergonomic keyboard and mouse. This can prevent chronic back, neck, and wrist pain.
- The 20-20-20 Rule: To combat digital eye strain, every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Move Every Hour: Set a timer to get up, stretch, and walk around for a few minutes every hour. It improves circulation and re-energises your mind.
- Hydrate and Fuel Smartly: Avoid sugar crashes from snacks and energy drinks. Opt for water, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
- Protect Your Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed to improve sleep quality, which is vital for cognitive function and problem-solving.
- Set Boundaries: The "always-on" culture of contracting can be draining. Define your working hours and stick to them. Make time for hobbies and social activities to decompress.
Comparing Top UK PMI Providers
The UK has a competitive market with several excellent providers, each with different strengths. A PMI broker can help you compare them in detail.
| Provider | Key Feature / Focus | Best For... |
|---|
| AXA Health | Excellent core cover and a flexible, modular approach. Strong mental health support. | Contractors wanting a customisable plan with strong fundamentals. |
| Aviva | The 'Expert Select' hospital list can offer good value. Strong digital GP service. | Those looking for a balance of comprehensive cover and value for money. |
| Bupa | A very well-known brand with an extensive network of hospitals and facilities. | Individuals who value a large, established network and direct access services. |
| Vitality | Focuses on rewarding healthy living. Earn points and get discounts for being active. | Tech-savvy contractors who are motivated by rewards and happy to engage with a wellness programme. |
| The Exeter | Known for excellent customer service and considering health conditions other insurers may decline. | Contractors who may have minor pre-existing health issues. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I have a pre-existing condition. Can I still get private medical insurance?
Generally, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any health issue for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment before your policy start date. However, if you choose 'moratorium' underwriting, it's possible for a past condition to become eligible for cover after you have been on the policy for a continuous two-year period without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition. It's crucial to discuss your history with a broker to understand your options.
What is the difference between Private Medical Insurance and Income Protection?
This is a common and important question. They cover two different risks.
Private Medical Insurance (PMI) pays for the cost of your private medical treatment to help you get better, faster.
Income Protection Insurance pays you a regular, tax-free monthly sum if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It replaces a portion of your lost earnings. For a contractor, having both provides a complete safety net: PMI pays for the treatment, and Income Protection pays your bills while you recover. You can find out more on our
income protection for IT contractors page.
Can I add my family to my health insurance policy?
Yes, absolutely. Most insurers allow you to add your partner and/or children to your policy. While this will increase the premium, it is often more cost-effective and easier to manage than taking out separate policies for each family member. Some insurers even offer discounts for family plans.
Do I always need a GP referral to use my PMI?
In most cases, yes. The typical claims journey starts with a visit to your NHS or private GP. If they believe you need to see a specialist, they will provide an 'open referral'. You then contact your insurer with this referral to get your claim authorised and choose a specialist from their approved list. However, many modern policies now offer 'direct access' for certain conditions like mental health or physiotherapy, allowing you to bypass the GP referral and speed up access to care.
Ready to protect your health and your contracting business? The right private medical insurance UK policy provides invaluable peace of mind.
Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will compare the market to find the best PMI provider and policy for your unique needs as an IT contractor.