As an FCA-authorised broker with over 900,000 policies of various kinds arranged for our clients, WeCovr is dedicated to helping you navigate the world of affordable private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK. This is especially true for those planning for a healthy and secure retirement over 60.
WeCovr's comprehensive guide to securing affordable cover in retirement
Entering your 60s is a milestone. It's a time for enjoying the fruits of your labour, spending more time with family, and pursuing hobbies you've long put on hold. To do all this with peace of mind, having a robust plan for your health is essential.
While the NHS is a national treasure, many people in or approaching retirement are exploring private medical insurance for the choice, speed, and comfort it can provide. The big question is: can it be affordable?
The answer is a resounding yes. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding affordable, high-quality health insurance for over 60s in the UK. We'll demystify the jargon, show you the levers you can pull to manage costs, and provide actionable tips for a healthier, happier retirement.
Why Consider Private Health Insurance in Your 60s?
As we age, our healthcare needs naturally change. While the NHS provides excellent care, it is facing unprecedented pressures. For those over 60, private health cover is often about gaining control and peace of mind.
Key Motivations for Considering PMI:
- Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment: One of the main benefits is bypassing long waiting lists for specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and elective surgery. According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care was around 14.5 weeks in mid-2024, with hundreds of thousands waiting much longer. PMI can reduce this to a matter of weeks, or even days.
- Choice and Control: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare journey. You can often choose your specialist or surgeon and select a hospital that is convenient for you.
- Comfort and Privacy: Treatment in a private hospital typically means a private, en-suite room, more flexible visiting hours, and a quieter environment, which can significantly aid recovery.
- Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some advanced drugs or treatments may not be available on the NHS due to cost or other restrictions. A comprehensive PMI policy might provide access to these.
For many, it's not about replacing the NHS – which remains essential for accidents, emergencies, and chronic condition management – but about supplementing it for planned, acute care.
The Crucial Rule of Private Medical Insurance: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions
Before we explore affordable options, it is vital to understand the fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK. This is the single most important concept to grasp.
Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.
Let's break this down:
- Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include cataracts, hernias, joint replacements, and most infections.
- Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it requires management through drugs or tests, it has no known cure, or it is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, and Crohn's disease.
- Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before taking out your policy (typically the last 5 years).
Private health insurance does NOT cover the management of chronic conditions or pre-existing conditions. The NHS will always be your port of call for these. PMI steps in for new, treatable health concerns, ensuring you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
How to Make Health Insurance for Over 60s More Affordable
Many people assume PMI is prohibitively expensive in later life. While age is a significant factor in pricing, you have considerable control over the final cost. By customising your policy, you can strike the perfect balance between comprehensive cover and an affordable premium.
Here are the key levers you can pull to tailor your policy:
1. Choose a Higher Excess
An 'excess' is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. It works just like the excess on your car or home insurance. You only pay it once per policy year, per person, if you make a claim.
- How it works: If you have an excess of £500 and your private treatment costs £4,000, you would pay the first £500 and your insurer would pay the remaining £3,500.
- Impact on premium: Opting for a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000 instead of £100 or £0) can significantly reduce your monthly or annual premium. It's a direct trade-off: you accept more of the initial financial risk in exchange for lower regular payments.
2. Opt for a '6-Week Wait' Option
This is one of the most effective ways to lower your premium. With a 6-week wait option, you agree to use the NHS for inpatient treatment if the NHS waiting list for that procedure is less than six weeks.
- How it works: If you need a hip replacement and the NHS can perform it within six weeks, you'll have the surgery on the NHS. If the waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private medical insurance policy kicks in, and you can go private immediately.
- Why it's smart: This option leverages the strengths of both systems. Given that NHS waiting times for many elective procedures are currently well over six weeks, you are highly likely to be eligible for private treatment when you need it. This option protects you against long waits while substantially cutting your premium.
3. Limit Your Hospital List
Insurers have different 'tiers' of hospitals, often based on location and cost (with central London hospitals being the most expensive).
- How it works: Instead of choosing a comprehensive list that includes every private hospital in the country, you can opt for a more limited list that includes quality hospitals in your local area.
- Impact on premium: Removing the most expensive city-centre hospitals from your list can lead to notable savings without compromising the quality of care available to you. An expert broker can help you find a list that provides excellent local options at a lower price point.
4. Adjust Your Outpatient Cover
'Outpatient' cover relates to consultations and diagnostic tests that don't require a hospital bed. This is a key area where you can customise your policy.
| Level of Outpatient Cover | What it Typically Includes | Impact on Premium |
|---|
| Full Cover | All specialist consultations, diagnostic tests (MRI, CT scans), and therapies are covered in full. | Highest Premium |
| Capped Cover | Cover is limited to a set monetary value per year, for example, £500, £1,000, or £1,500. | Medium Premium |
| No Outpatient Cover | The policy only covers diagnosis and treatment once you are admitted to hospital (inpatient). You would pay for initial consultations and scans yourself. | Lowest Premium |
For many, a capped outpatient limit of around £1,000 offers a great compromise. It covers the most likely costs of diagnosis while keeping the premium manageable.
5. Consider a Guided Consultant List
Some insurers offer a 'guided' or 'expert-select' option. Instead of choosing any consultant you wish, the insurer provides a shortlist of 3-5 specialists they have vetted for quality and value.
- How it works: When you need to make a claim, the insurer recommends a handful of high-performing consultants for your condition. You still get a choice, but from a curated list.
- Impact on premium: Because the insurer can negotiate favourable rates with these consultants, they pass the savings on to you in the form of a lower premium. This is a growing trend in the private medical insurance UK market and offers an excellent way to save money without sacrificing quality.
By combining these options, you can design a policy that fits your budget. Working with a specialist broker like WeCovr is invaluable here, as we can quickly model these different scenarios across multiple insurers to find your ideal solution at no extra cost to you.
Understanding Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting
'Underwriting' is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide the terms of your policy. For those over 60, this is a particularly important choice.
1. Moratorium Underwriting (MORI)
This is the most common type. It's quick and simple as you don't have to declare your full medical history upfront.
- How it works: The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the 5 years before the policy start date.
- The "2-Year Rule": If you go for 2 continuous years without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that specific pre-existing condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
- Pros: Quick, less intrusive application process.
- Cons: Less certainty at the point of claim, as the insurer will investigate your medical history then.
2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire as part of your application, declaring your medical history.
- How it works: The insurer assesses your history and tells you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered. They will apply specific exclusions to your policy for any pre-existing conditions.
- Pros: Complete clarity from day one. You know precisely where you stand before you ever need to claim.
- Cons: A longer, more detailed application process.
For many over 60s, Full Medical Underwriting is the preferred choice. It provides certainty and avoids any potential disputes or disappointments when you need to make a claim.
What Does a Typical PMI Policy for Over 60s Cover?
While every policy is different, most are built around a core set of benefits, with optional extras you can add.
| Benefit Category | What's Included | Notes |
|---|
| Core Cover (Inpatient & Day-patient) | - Hospital charges (room, nursing)
- Surgeon and anaesthetist fees
- Specialist consultations while in hospital
- Diagnostic tests (scans, X-rays) in hospital
| This is the foundation of every PMI policy. It covers treatment that requires a hospital bed. |
| Optional: Outpatient Cover | - Specialist consultations
- Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, PET scans)
- Physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy
| Can be added in full, capped at a financial limit, or excluded entirely to manage cost. |
| Optional: Therapies | - Physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic
| Sometimes included within outpatient cover, sometimes as a separate add-on. Essential for musculoskeletal issues. |
| Optional: Mental Health Cover | - Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapy
| Increasingly important and offered by most major insurers. Cover can range from limited to comprehensive. |
| Standard: Cancer Cover | - Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery
- Biological therapies, hormone therapies
- Palliative care
| This is a cornerstone of modern PMI. The level of cover is a key differentiator between policies. |
| Standard: Digital GP & Wellness Services | - 24/7 remote GP appointments
- Health and wellness apps
- Mental health support lines
| Most insurers now include these valuable digital services as standard. |
| Typical Exclusions | - Pre-existing and chronic conditions
- Accident & Emergency treatment
- Normal pregnancy and childbirth
- Cosmetic surgery, unless reconstructive
- Self-inflicted injuries
| It's crucial to read your policy documents to understand what is not covered. |
Beyond Insurance: Proactive Steps to a Healthier Retirement
A health insurance policy is a safety net, but the best strategy is to invest in your health every day. A healthy lifestyle can not only improve your quality of life but may also contribute to lower insurance premiums over the long term.
Nutrition and Diet
- Balanced Diet: Focus on a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein (fish, chicken), and healthy fats (olive oil, nuts). This is linked to better heart health and cognitive function.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause confusion, constipation, and fatigue. Aim for 6-8 glasses of water a day.
- Monitor Your Intake: Understanding your calorie and nutrient intake is key. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you make informed choices.
Physical Activity
According to the NHS, adults aged 65 and over should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week.
- Mix it Up: Combine cardiovascular exercise (brisk walking, swimming, cycling) with strength training (using weights, resistance bands) and flexibility/balance exercises (yoga, tai chi).
- Start Small: If you're new to exercise, start with a 10-minute walk each day and gradually build up. Every little bit counts.
- Listen to Your Body: It's normal to have aches and pains, but don't push through sharp or unusual pain.
Sleep and Mental Wellbeing
- Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular routine, create a restful environment, and avoid screens before bed.
- Stay Socially Connected: Loneliness and social isolation are significant health risks. Make time for friends, family, and community groups.
- Keep Your Mind Active: Reading, puzzles, learning a new skill, or playing an instrument can help maintain cognitive function.
Health Screenings and Travel
- Regular Check-ups: Take advantage of NHS health checks and don't ignore any new or unusual symptoms.
- Travel Insurance: Remember that private medical insurance is for treatment in the UK only. For holidays abroad, you will still need comprehensive travel insurance.
The WeCovr Advantage: How an Expert Broker Helps You Save
Navigating the private health insurance market can be complex, especially with the various options available. This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable asset.
1. We Do the Shopping For You:
Instead of you spending hours getting quotes from individual insurers, we use our expertise and technology to compare policies from a wide panel of the UK's leading providers. This ensures you see the whole market, not just one or two options.
2. Expert, Unbiased Advice:
Our specialists understand the nuances of each policy. We can explain the real-world difference between a 6-week wait option from Aviva and one from Bupa, or how AXA Health's guided consultant lists compare to Vitality's. Our advice is tailored to your specific needs and budget. Based on customer satisfaction ratings, our clients consistently praise the clarity and support we provide.
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. This means you get expert advice and market comparison without it costing you a penny extra.
4. More Than Just Health Insurance:
At WeCovr, we believe in a holistic approach to your protection needs. That's why clients who purchase Private Medical Insurance or Life Insurance through us often receive discounts on other types of cover, such as home or income protection insurance, helping you save money across the board.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will my premiums for health insurance go up as I get older?
Yes, premiums for private medical insurance do increase with age. This is because, statistically, the likelihood of needing to claim for medical treatment increases as we get older. Insurers factor this increased risk into their pricing. However, other factors like your claims history and general medical inflation also affect your premium at renewal. This is why it's wise to review your cover annually with a broker to ensure it still offers the best value.
Do I need to have a medical examination to get health insurance over 60?
No, it is very rare for UK insurers to require a medical examination to take out a private health insurance policy. The underwriting process is based on your declaration of your medical history. If you choose 'Full Medical Underwriting', you will fill out a detailed health questionnaire. If you choose 'Moratorium' underwriting, you won't need to provide this detail upfront, but the insurer will investigate your history if you make a claim.
Can I get cover for a health condition I already have?
Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already have or have had symptoms for) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or arthritis) that require ongoing management. The NHS remains the provider of care for these conditions.
Is cancer covered by private medical insurance for over 60s?
Yes, comprehensive cancer cover is a central and extremely valuable feature of most modern private health insurance policies in the UK. This typically includes the costs of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, and often extends to advanced biological therapies and drugs that may not be available on the NHS. The extent of cancer cover can be a key differentiator between policies, so it's important to compare this aspect carefully.
Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind
Planning for your health in retirement is one of the most important investments you can make. While the options may seem complex, finding affordable and effective cover is entirely achievable with the right guidance.
Let WeCovr help you find the perfect policy. Our friendly, expert team is ready to provide a free, no-obligation market comparison tailored to your needs and budget.
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