WeCovr.

Login

Health Insurance for the Self-Employed in the UK

Health Insurance for the Self-Employed in the UK 2025

When you're self-employed, your health isn't just personal—it's your business's most critical asset. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we understand that waiting for treatment means lost income. This guide explores private medical insurance in the UK, designed specifically for you.

WeCovr's complete 2025 guide for freelancers, contractors, and sole traders

Being your own boss offers incredible freedom, but it also comes with unique responsibilities. Unlike traditional employment, there's no sick pay, no employer-funded health plan, and no one to cover for you when you're unwell. Every day you're unable to work is a day of lost earnings.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) becomes an essential tool for the modern self-employed professional in the UK. It's not a luxury; it's a strategic investment in your continuity and peace of mind.

Why is Health Insurance So Crucial for the Self-Employed?

For the UK's 4.25 million self-employed individuals (ONS, 2023), time is literally money. An unexpected illness or injury can have a devastating financial impact. While we are all incredibly fortunate to have the NHS, it is facing unprecedented pressures.

  • NHS Waiting Lists: As of early 2025, the NHS referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list in England remains substantial, with millions of cases waiting to start treatment. The median waiting time can be several months, a period most freelancers simply cannot afford to be out of action.
  • No Statutory Sick Pay: If you're a sole trader or freelancer, you are not entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). While you might be eligible for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), it is often not enough to cover business and personal overheads.
  • Protecting Your Income: Private health cover gives you faster access to specialists, diagnostic tests, and treatment. This means a quicker diagnosis, a faster recovery, and a speedier return to your clients and your income stream.

Think of it this way: a few months of waiting for a routine operation like a hernia repair or knee surgery could cost you thousands in lost earnings, far exceeding the annual cost of a PMI policy.

What is Private Medical Insurance (and What Isn't It)?

In simple terms, private medical insurance is a policy you pay for that covers the costs of private healthcare for specific conditions. Its primary purpose is to work alongside the NHS, allowing you to bypass waiting lists for eligible treatments.

The most critical thing to understand is that UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain requiring surgery, cataracts, hernias, or specific diagnostic procedures.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

Crucially, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover chronic conditions or pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any ailment you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began.

Condition TypeIs it Covered by Standard PMI?Examples
AcuteYesBone fractures, appendicitis, gallstones, joint replacement, most cancers.
ChronicNoDiabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis.
Pre-existingNoA knee injury you had treated two years ago; anxiety you saw a GP about before your policy started.

PMI is also not intended for emergencies. For things like a suspected heart attack, stroke, or serious accident, you should always call 999 and rely on the NHS emergency services.

How a PMI Policy Works: A Real-Life Example

Let's imagine Sarah, a freelance graphic designer.

  1. The Problem: Sarah develops persistent shoulder pain, making it difficult to use her mouse and tablet for long hours. Her work slows down, and she risks missing deadlines.
  2. The GP Visit: She visits her NHS GP, who suspects a rotator cuff injury and refers her to a specialist. The GP mentions the current waiting list to see an NHS orthopaedic consultant is around 20 weeks.
  3. Using Her PMI: Sarah calls her PMI provider. They confirm her policy covers this type of condition.
  4. Fast-Tracked Treatment: The insurer provides a list of approved private specialists. Sarah sees one the following week. An MRI scan, also covered by her policy, is done a few days later, confirming the diagnosis.
  5. The Solution: The specialist recommends a course of physiotherapy. Her policy's therapies add-on covers the sessions. Within six weeks, Sarah's pain is managed, her mobility is restored, and she is back to working at full capacity.

Without PMI, Sarah could have faced nearly five months of reduced income and growing anxiety. With it, she protected her health and her livelihood.

How Insurers Assess Your Health: Underwriting Explained

When you apply for PMI, the insurer needs to understand your medical history to determine what they will and won't cover. This process is called underwriting. There are two main types for individuals:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting (Mori): This is the most common and straightforward option. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a "wait and see" approach. They will not cover any condition you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the five years before your policy started. However, if you go for a continuous two-year period after your policy begins without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your entire medical history. The insurer then reviews this and tells you from day one exactly what is excluded from your policy. It provides more certainty but involves more paperwork initially.

FeatureMoratorium (Mori)Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Upfront ProcessQuick and easy. No medical forms.Longer. Requires a full health questionnaire.
ExclusionsAutomatically excludes conditions from the last 5 years.Exclusions are listed specifically in your policy documents.
Claim ProcessCan be slower as the insurer may need to check your medical history at the point of a claim.Generally faster as exclusions are already defined.
Best ForPeople with a clean bill of health or those who prefer less initial admin.People who want absolute clarity on what's covered from the start.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you decide which underwriting method is best for your personal circumstances.

Customising Your Policy: Core Cover and Optional Extras

No two freelancers are the same, and your health cover can be tailored to match your needs and budget. Policies are built from a core foundation with optional extras.

Core Cover (Typically Included as Standard)

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This is the heart of any PMI policy. It covers costs when you are admitted to hospital for a bed overnight (in-patient) or for a planned procedure where you don't stay overnight (day-patient). This includes surgery, hospital accommodation, nursing care, specialist fees, and medication.
  • Cancer Cover: Most policies offer comprehensive cancer cover, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical procedures. This is often one of the most valued components of a PMI policy.
  • Out-patient Cover: This is the most common add-on. It covers diagnostic tests and consultations with a specialist that do not require a hospital bed. For example, the initial consultation and MRI scan in Sarah's case would be covered by this. You can often choose a limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited) to manage your premium.
  • Therapies Cover: Covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, often up to a set number of sessions. Essential for those in physically demanding roles or who suffer from musculoskeletal issues.
  • Mental Health Cover: Increasingly vital for the self-employed, who can face isolation and high-pressure environments. This add-on provides cover for consultations with psychologists or psychiatrists and may include psychiatric treatment.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: Helps with the costs of routine check-ups, dental treatments, and prescription eyewear.
  • Hospital List Choice: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. A "local" list is cheaper, while a "national" list including prestigious London hospitals will increase the premium. Choosing the right list is a key way to control costs.

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost for a Freelancer in 2025?

The cost of your premium depends on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Living in London or the South East is typically more expensive due to higher hospital costs.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers pay more than non-smokers.
  • Level of Cover: The more optional extras you add, the higher the cost.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will significantly lower your monthly premium.

Here is an illustrative table of potential monthly costs for a non-smoker. These are estimates and your actual quote will vary.

AgeBasic Cover (High Excess, Local Hospitals)Comprehensive Cover (Low Excess, National Hospitals)
30£35 - £50£60 - £85
40£45 - £65£80 - £110
50£60 - £90£115 - £160

Smart Ways to Reduce Your Premiums

  1. Increase Your Excess: Choosing a £250 or £500 excess is one of the easiest ways to make your policy more affordable.
  2. The 6-Week Option: A popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of when it is recommended, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private policy kicks in. This can reduce your premium by 20-30%.
  3. Review Your Hospital List: Do you really need access to every hospital in the UK, including the most expensive ones in Central London? Opting for a more local list can provide significant savings.
  4. Talk to a Broker: An independent PMI broker like WeCovr can compare the entire market for you, finding a policy that balances cost and benefits perfectly. Our service is free to you, as we are paid by the insurer.

Is Self-Employed Health Insurance a Tax-Deductible Expense?

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

  • For Sole Traders and Partnerships: Unfortunately, HMRC generally considers a personal health insurance policy to be a personal expense, not a business one. Therefore, you cannot claim the premiums as a tax-deductible expense against your income.
  • For Limited Company Directors: If you operate as a limited company, the company can pay for your health insurance policy. In this case, the premium is considered an allowable business expense and can be offset against the company's corporation tax bill. However, it is treated as a P11D benefit-in-kind for the director. This means you will have to pay income tax on the value of the benefit, and the company will have to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions.

While there's a tax implication, many directors still find it a worthwhile and tax-efficient way to arrange cover. We always recommend speaking to your accountant for advice specific to your business.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

The UK private medical insurance market is home to several excellent providers, each with its own strengths.

ProviderKey Feature / FocusBest For...
AvivaStrong core product with a solid reputation and a large hospital network. Often highly rated for its cancer cover.Someone looking for straightforward, comprehensive cover from a trusted household name.
AXA HealthExcellent mental health pathways and flexible out-patient options. Strong focus on customer support.Freelancers who prioritise mental health support and want a highly customisable policy.
BupaThe UK's best-known health insurer. Offers direct access to services without a GP referral for certain conditions.Individuals who value brand recognition and want the option to bypass their GP for faster access.
VitalityUnique wellness-based model that rewards healthy living with premium discounts, Apple Watches, and other perks.Active individuals who are motivated by rewards and want their insurance to double as a wellness programme.

Comparing these providers and their dozens of policy variations can be overwhelming. This is where using a specialist broker is invaluable. WeCovr partners with all these leading insurers and more, giving us a complete view of the market. We can help you navigate the options to find the perfect fit, ensuring you don't pay for benefits you don't need.

The WeCovr Advantage: Holistic Health Support

When you arrange your private medical insurance through WeCovr, you get more than just a policy. You get a partner in your health and wellbeing.

  • Expert, Free Advice: Our FCA-authorised specialists provide impartial advice to help you compare quotes and understand the small print.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: We pride ourselves on our service, and our high ratings on customer review platforms reflect our commitment to helping clients.
  • Complimentary CalorieHero App: All our health and life insurance clients receive free access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered nutrition and calorie tracking app, helping you build healthy habits.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: When you take out a PMI or life insurance policy with us, you can often get discounts on other types of cover, such as income protection—another vital safety net for the self-employed.

Beyond Insurance: A Wellbeing Guide for Freelancers

Protecting your health goes beyond insurance. As a freelancer, proactive self-care is a core business strategy.

  • Ergonomics: Your workspace matters. Invest in a good chair, position your screen at eye level, and ensure your wrists are straight when typing. Regular breaks to stretch are essential to prevent repetitive strain injury (RSI).
  • Mental Boundaries: The line between work and life can blur when you're self-employed. Set clear working hours, create a dedicated workspace, and schedule downtime. Avoid the temptation to be "always on."
  • Combat Isolation: Freelancing can be lonely. Make time for networking, join a co-working space once a week, or schedule calls with other freelancers to maintain social connections.
  • Smart Nutrition: It's easy to rely on caffeine and snacks when you're busy. Plan simple, healthy meals. Batch cooking on a Sunday can save you time and money during the week. Use an app like CalorieHero to stay mindful of your intake.
  • Prioritise Sleep: A lack of sleep cripples productivity and harms long-term health. Aim for 7-9 hours per night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and keep screens out of the bedroom.

By combining a robust private medical insurance policy with healthy daily habits, you build a powerful defence for both your personal wellbeing and your business's future.

Can I get health insurance with a pre-existing medical condition?

Generally, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions you have received treatment, medication, or advice for in the years leading up to your policy start date. It is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you join. However, some policies may cover a pre-existing condition after a set moratorium period (usually two years) has passed without any symptoms or treatment for it.

Do I need a GP referral to use my private health insurance?

In most cases, yes. The typical process is to visit your NHS GP first, who will assess your symptoms and provide an open referral to a specialist if needed. You then give this referral to your insurer, who will authorise the treatment with an approved private consultant. Some insurers are now offering 'Digital GP' services or direct access for specific conditions like cancer or mental health, which can speed up the process.

Can I add my family to my self-employed health insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. You can easily add your partner and children to your personal private medical insurance policy. This creates a single family policy with one renewal date and direct debit, which is often simpler to manage. While it may not always be cheaper than separate policies, it provides peace of mind that your entire family has access to the same level of private healthcare.

Ready to protect your health and your freelance business?

Don't let an unexpected health issue derail your career. Take control today. Get a free, no-obligation quote from a WeCovr expert. We'll compare the UK's leading insurers to find a policy that gives you fast access to the best care, at a price that works for you.

Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London