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Health Insurance for Uber Drivers, Deliveroo Riders, and Freelancers




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TL;DR

WeCovr's guide to protecting gig economy workers with affordable UK private health cover As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures facing the UK's gig economy workers. This guide explores how private medical insurance (PMI) provides a vital safety net for Uber drivers, Deliveroo riders, and freelancers, ensuring you can get back on your feet—and back to earning—without delay. The freedom of being your own boss is one of the great attractions of the gig economy.

Key takeaways

  • NHS Waiting Lists: As of early 2025, the number of people in England waiting for routine hospital treatment stands at over 7.5 million. The median waiting time can be several months for common procedures like hip or knee replacements, hernia repairs, or cataract surgery—all conditions that could prevent you from working.
  • The Financial Domino Effect: An extended wait for treatment doesn't just mean physical discomfort. It means lost income, dipping into savings, and potentially falling into debt. For a freelancer, a three-month wait for a minor operation could be financially devastating.
  • The Diagnosis: After visiting their GP, they are referred to a specialist. The wait for this initial consultation on the NHS could be weeks or even months.
  • The Wait: After the consultation, they are placed on the waiting list for surgery. The target is 18 weeks, but for many, the wait is longer.
  • The Impact: During this time, the pain and discomfort make it difficult to lift heavy parcels or ride a bike for long periods. Their earnings drop significantly. They are forced to use their savings, intended for a house deposit, to cover their rent and bills.

WeCovr's guide to protecting gig economy workers with affordable UK private health cover

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures facing the UK's gig economy workers. This guide explores how private medical insurance (PMI) provides a vital safety net for Uber drivers, Deliveroo riders, and freelancers, ensuring you can get back on your feet—and back to earning—without delay.

The freedom of being your own boss is one of the great attractions of the gig economy. You set your hours, you choose your work, and your earning potential is in your hands. But this independence comes with a trade-off: you are the business. If you're too ill or injured to work, your income stops. Unlike traditional employees, there's no statutory sick pay, no company health scheme, and no one to cover your shift.

This is where private health insurance becomes not just a perk, but a crucial tool for financial survival. With NHS waiting lists remaining a significant challenge, can you afford to wait months for treatment while your bills pile up?

Why Gig Workers Need Health Insurance More Than Most

For the UK's growing army of self-employed professionals—numbering around 4.3 million in early 2025 according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS)—health is wealth. Your ability to drive, ride, code, or consult is directly linked to your physical and mental wellbeing.

The reality of relying solely on the NHS can be daunting. While we are incredibly fortunate to have it, the system is under immense pressure.

  • NHS Waiting Lists: As of early 2025, the number of people in England waiting for routine hospital treatment stands at over 7.5 million. The median waiting time can be several months for common procedures like hip or knee replacements, hernia repairs, or cataract surgery—all conditions that could prevent you from working.
  • The Financial Domino Effect: An extended wait for treatment doesn't just mean physical discomfort. It means lost income, dipping into savings, and potentially falling into debt. For a freelancer, a three-month wait for a minor operation could be financially devastating.

Let's look at a simple, real-world example:

Scenario: A self-employed courier needs a hernia repair.

  1. The Diagnosis: After visiting their GP, they are referred to a specialist. The wait for this initial consultation on the NHS could be weeks or even months.
  2. The Wait: After the consultation, they are placed on the waiting list for surgery. The target is 18 weeks, but for many, the wait is longer.
  3. The Impact: During this time, the pain and discomfort make it difficult to lift heavy parcels or ride a bike for long periods. Their earnings drop significantly. They are forced to use their savings, intended for a house deposit, to cover their rent and bills.

With private medical insurance, the timeline changes dramatically. You could see a specialist within days and have the surgery scheduled within a couple of weeks, minimising your time off work and protecting your income.

Financial Impact of a 4-Month Wait for NHS TreatmentWith Private Medical Insurance
Potential Lost Earnings (at £500/week): £8,000Typical PMI Monthly Premium: £40 - £80
Time to Treatment: 4-6 months+Time to Treatment: 2-4 weeks
Financial Stress: HighFinancial Stress: Low
Outcome: Significant income loss, savings depleted.Outcome: Minimal income loss, quick return to work.

What Exactly is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Think of PMI as your personal health service, ready to act when you need it. It's an insurance policy you pay for each month or year that covers the cost of private healthcare for eligible conditions. The core purpose of private medical insurance in the UK is to diagnose and treat acute conditions quickly.

It is absolutely vital to understand what PMI does—and does not—cover.

Acute vs. Chronic Conditions: The Golden Rule of PMI

This is the most important distinction in the world of UK health insurance.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken arm, appendicitis, cataracts, joint pain requiring replacement, or a hernia. PMI is designed for these.
  • Chronic Condition: An illness that cannot be cured and needs long-term monitoring and management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. Standard PMI policies do not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Pre-existing Conditions

Similarly, PMI is designed to cover new, unforeseen medical problems that arise after you take out your policy. Any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the years leading up to your policy start date is considered "pre-existing" and will usually be excluded from cover.

When you apply, you'll choose an underwriting method that determines how these pre-existing conditions are handled.

Underwriting MethodHow it WorksBest For...
MoratoriumYou don't declare your full medical history upfront. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go 2 continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.People with a clean bill of health or minor past issues who want a quick and simple application process.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire, disclosing your entire medical history. The insurer assesses this and lists any specific conditions that will be permanently excluded from your policy.People who want complete clarity on what is and isn't covered from day one, or those with a more complex medical history.

A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can talk you through these options to help you decide which is right for your circumstances.

What Does PMI for Freelancers Actually Cover?

A good PMI policy is flexible. You start with a core foundation and then add optional extras to build a plan that suits your job, lifestyle, and budget.

Core Cover: The Essentials

Almost all policies include in-patient and day-patient cover as standard. This is for treatment that requires a hospital bed, either overnight (in-patient) or for the day (day-patient).

Core cover typically includes:

  • Hospital Charges: The cost of the private hospital room, nursing care, and meals.
  • Specialist Fees: Fees for the surgeons, anaesthetists, and other specialists involved in your care.
  • Diagnostic Tests: Scans like MRI, CT, and PET, plus X-rays and blood tests while you're in hospital.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of most policies, often providing comprehensive cover for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. Some providers offer access to cutting-edge drugs not yet available on the NHS.

Optional Extras: Tailoring Your Cover

This is where you can customise your policy to protect against the specific risks you face as a gig worker.

  • Out-patient Cover: This is arguably the most valuable add-on. It covers the costs of diagnosis before you're admitted to hospital. This includes specialist consultations and diagnostic tests. Without it, you would still need to rely on the NHS for your initial diagnosis, which can involve a long wait.
  • Therapies Cover: Essential for drivers and riders! This covers a set number of sessions with a physiotherapist, osteopath, or chiropractor. If a bad back is stopping you from driving, this benefit can get you treatment and back on the road in days.
  • Mental Health Cover: The stress and uncertainty of freelance life can take a toll. This option provides cover for consultations with psychiatrists and psychologists, and treatment at a private facility if needed.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: This can help with the costs of routine check-ups, fillings, new glasses, or contact lenses.
  • Travel Cover: Some policies allow you to add European or worldwide travel insurance to your plan.

Keeping it Affordable: How to Tailor Your PMI Policy

The biggest myth about private health cover is that it's unaffordable. For a healthy person in their 30s or 40s, a comprehensive policy can be surprisingly cheap—often less than a daily coffee or a monthly phone contract.

Here are the key levers you can pull to design a policy that fits your freelance budget:

  1. Choose Your Excess

    • What it is: The amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim you make each year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750.
    • The Impact: The higher your excess, the lower your monthly premium. Options typically range from £0 to £1,000. Choosing a £500 excess can significantly reduce your costs.

  2. Select a Hospital List

    • What it is: Insurers group private hospitals into tiers based on their cost, with central London hospitals being the most expensive.
    • The Impact: By choosing a list that excludes the priciest hospitals and focuses on your local private facilities, you can make substantial savings. Ask yourself: "Am I realistically going to travel to a top London hospital for routine treatment?"

  3. Add the '6-Week Option'

    • What it is: This is a very popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within six weeks of when it should take place, you agree to use the NHS. If the waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in.
    • The Impact: This can reduce your premium by 20-30%. It acts as a safety net to protect you from the longest NHS waits, while still giving you access to private care when it's most needed.

  4. Limit Your Out-patient Cover

    • What it is: Instead of unlimited out-patient cover, you can choose a set annual limit, for example, £500, £1,000, or £1,500.
    • The Impact: This provides enough cover for the most likely diagnostic needs (a couple of consultations and a scan) while keeping your premium down.

By using a combination of these options, an expert adviser at WeCovr can build a high-quality, affordable plan that gives you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Who are the Best PMI Providers for Gig Workers?

The UK private health insurance market is competitive, with several excellent providers offering plans well-suited to the self-employed. Here's a look at some of the leading names we work with:

ProviderKey Features for Gig WorkersWellness BenefitsCost-Saving Options
AXA HealthStrong core cover, excellent cancer care pathways, and a reputation for fast claims processing. Their 'Personal Health' plan is highly customisable.Access to a 24/7 online GP service (Doctor@Hand), and a strong focus on mental health support.Guided options (where AXA helps choose the specialist) can reduce premiums. Good range of excess and hospital list choices.
AvivaKnown for their 'Expert Select' option which offers a 'treatment guarantee'. They are also highly rated for their straightforward digital experience and claims process.Access to the Aviva DigiCare+ app, which includes services like an annual health check, mental health support, and nutrition advice.The 6-week option is available, along with a wide range of excess levels. 'Expert Select' is a lower-cost alternative to full hospital choice.
BupaThe UK's best-known health insurer. Offers extensive hospital lists and comprehensive mental and physical health cover. Their 'Bupa By You' plan is very flexible.Access to digital GP consultations, helplines for any health query, and rewards for healthy living through their Bupa Touch app.Bupa Fundamental is their budget-friendly option. A full range of excesses and hospital network options is available.
VitalityUnique in its approach, Vitality actively rewards you for being healthy. Great for active individuals like couriers or those who enjoy fitness.The Vitality Programme tracks your activity (steps, gym visits) and rewards you with cinema tickets, coffee, and even lower premiums.The more you engage with the wellness programme, the lower your renewal premium can be. Also offers standard excess and hospital options.
The ExeterA mutual society known for its excellent service and flexible underwriting, often being a great choice for those in manual trades or with some prior health issues.Offers Healthwise, a member benefits app with remote GP appointments, physiotherapy, and mental health support included as standard.Excellent range of cost-containment options, including a £2,000 excess for maximum savings.

Comparing these providers and their countless policy variations can be overwhelming. This is where using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr is invaluable. We do the hard work for you, comparing the entire market to find the best private health cover for your specific needs and budget, all at no cost to you.

More Than Just Health: A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing

As a freelancer, your wellbeing strategy needs to go beyond just fixing problems as they arise. It's about proactive protection for both your health and your income.

The Perfect Partner: Income Protection Insurance

While PMI pays for your private medical bills, it doesn't pay your rent. That's the job of Income Protection Insurance. If you're signed off work by a doctor due to illness or injury, an income protection policy will pay you a tax-free monthly income (usually 50-60% of your typical earnings) until you're well enough to return to work.

For a gig worker, having both PMI and Income Protection creates the ultimate safety net:

  • PMI gets you treated quickly.
  • Income Protection replaces your lost earnings while you recover.

At WeCovr, we believe in a holistic approach to protection. That's why we offer our clients discounts on other types of cover, such as Income Protection or Life Insurance, when they purchase a PMI policy with us.

Proactive Wellness for Gig Economy Life

Staying healthy on the job can be tough. Here are some simple, practical tips:

For Drivers (Uber, Private Hire):

  • Set Up Your Seat: Adjust your seat so your knees are slightly lower than your hips. Use a lumbar support cushion to maintain the natural curve of your lower back.
  • Take Micro-Breaks: Every hour, get out of the car for 2-3 minutes. Stretch your legs, back, and neck.
  • Stay Hydrated: Keep a large bottle of water with you. Dehydration can cause headaches and fatigue, impairing your concentration.
  • Healthy Snacking: Pack nuts, fruit, and protein bars to avoid relying on unhealthy service station food.

For Riders (Deliveroo, Just Eat, Uber Eats):

  • Bike Fit: Ensure your bike is correctly set up for your height to avoid knee and back pain.
  • Fuel Your Body: Your work is physically demanding. Focus on complex carbohydrates (oats, wholemeal bread) for sustained energy and protein for muscle repair.
  • Active Recovery: On your days off, gentle activity like walking or swimming can help your muscles recover better than complete rest.
  • Be Seen, Be Safe: Invest in high-quality lights and reflective gear. Your safety is paramount.

To support your health journey, all WeCovr clients get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a simple, effective tool to help you manage your diet and energy levels, which is crucial when your job is so physically demanding.

Getting Your Personalised PMI Quote is Simple

You've worked hard to build your freelance career. Taking the step to protect it is easier than you think. With WeCovr, there are no confusing forms or endless call centres.

Here’s how our simple, expert-led process works:

  1. Get in Touch: Contact us through our website or give us a quick call.
  2. A Friendly Chat: You'll speak to a dedicated, UK-based PMI expert. There's no pressure and no obligation.
  3. Understanding You: We'll ask about your job, your lifestyle, your budget, and what's most important for you to cover.
  4. We Do the Research: We then search the market, comparing policies from all the leading insurers to find the perfect match.
  5. Clear, Simple Quotes: You'll receive a shortlist of personalised quotes, explained in plain English, so you can make an informed decision.

As an FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings and a track record of arranging over 900,000 policies, our advice is impartial, expert, and completely free for you to use.


As a freelancer, is private health insurance a tax-deductible expense?

Generally, for sole traders, private medical insurance is considered a personal expense and is not tax-deductible. However, if you operate as a limited company, the company can pay for the policy as a business expense. This is then treated as a 'P11D benefit-in-kind', which means you will have to pay some income tax on the value of the premium, but the company can usually claim corporation tax relief. We always recommend speaking to a qualified accountant for advice specific to your business structure.

Will my private health insurance premium go up every year?

It is very likely that your premium will increase at each annual renewal. There are two main reasons for this. The first is your age; as we get older, the statistical risk of needing medical treatment increases. The second is 'medical inflation'—the rising cost of new medical technology, drugs, and hospital fees, which tends to be higher than general inflation. However, you are not tied to your provider. A key benefit of using a broker like WeCovr is that we can review the market for you each year to ensure you are still on the most competitive plan, potentially by switching insurers or adjusting your cover.

Do I have to get a GP referral to use my private medical insurance?

Yes, in almost all cases, the private treatment pathway begins with your NHS GP. If you have a medical concern, you would first see your GP who will assess you. If they believe you need to see a specialist, they will write you an 'open referral' letter. You then provide this letter to your insurance provider, who will use it to authorise your claim and provide you with a list of recognised private specialists you can see. Some insurers now offer their own digital GP services which can sometimes provide referrals, speeding the process up even more.

What's the difference between private medical insurance (PMI) and a healthcare cash plan?

This is a great question as they cover very different needs. PMI is designed for significant, unexpected medical events (acute conditions) like surgery, cancer treatment, and serious diagnostic procedures. Its purpose is to bypass waiting lists for major treatments. A healthcare cash plan, on the other hand, is for everyday, routine healthcare costs. You pay a monthly fee and can then claim money back for things like dental check-ups, eye tests, prescription charges, and physiotherapy sessions, up to a set annual limit. They are complementary products; a cash plan helps with your routine maintenance, while PMI is there for the big, unexpected issues.

Don't let an unexpected health issue derail your freelance career. Protect your health and your income with the right private medical insurance. Contact WeCovr today for your free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.

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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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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.

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