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Health Insurance Jargon Explained Decoding Your Policy Documents

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
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TL;DR

Struggling to understand your private medical insurance documents? You're not alone. As an FCA-authorised UK broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr is here to translate the jargon.

Key takeaways

  • 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, hernias, or the need for a joint replacement. PMI is designed for these.
  • 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 progressive, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard UK PMI policies do not cover the long-term management of chronic conditions.
  • How it works: You don't need to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the five years before your policy start date.
  • The "Rolling" Moratorium: These exclusions can be lifted. If you go for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that specific pre-existing condition, it may become eligible for cover. This is often called the "2-1-2" rule (a two-year symptom-free period on a policy that has been active for at least one year, covering conditions that were present up to two years before starting).
  • How it works: You complete a detailed questionnaire about your medical history and that of your family. Based on your answers, the insurer decides what to cover. They will apply specific exclusions to your policy for any pre-existing conditions they identify. These exclusions are usually permanent.

Struggling to understand your private medical insurance documents? You're not alone. As an FCA-authorised UK broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr is here to translate the jargon. This guide decodes the complex terms in your PMI policy, helping you make informed decisions about your health.

Plain-English guide to PMI terminology including excesses, moratoriums, underwriting, network providers, and policy limit structures that confuse customers

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers peace of mind and faster access to treatment, but the policy documents can feel like they're written in another language. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every key term, transforming you from a confused customer into a confident policyholder.

Understanding the Basics: What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Private Medical Insurance, often called private health cover, is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

Think of it as a way to complement the services offered by our National Health Service (NHS). While the NHS provides excellent care, it faces significant pressures. For instance, according to NHS England data from early 2024, the referral-to-treatment waiting list involved over 7.5 million treatment pathways. PMI gives you an alternative, allowing you to bypass long waiting lists for eligible conditions and receive treatment more quickly.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to grasp in UK private medical 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, hernias, or the need for a joint replacement. PMI is designed for these.
  • 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 progressive, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard UK PMI policies do not cover the long-term management of chronic conditions.

If you develop a condition that is initially diagnosed as acute but later becomes chronic, your PMI policy will typically cover the initial diagnostic tests and treatment to stabilise it. However, the ongoing, long-term management will then revert to the NHS.

The Application Process: Underwriting Explained

Underwriting is the process an insurer uses to assess your health and medical history to decide whether to offer you cover and on what terms. It determines what will and won't be covered, particularly concerning conditions you've had in the past. There are two main types for new policies in the UK.

1. Moratorium Underwriting

This is the most common type of underwriting for individuals and families because it's quick and straightforward.

  • How it works: You don't need to complete a detailed medical questionnaire. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the five years before your policy start date.
  • The "Rolling" Moratorium: These exclusions can be lifted. If you go for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts without needing any treatment, advice, or medication for that specific pre-existing condition, it may become eligible for cover. This is often called the "2-1-2" rule (a two-year symptom-free period on a policy that has been active for at least one year, covering conditions that were present up to two years before starting).

Real-Life Example: Sarah took out a policy with moratorium underwriting on 1st November 2025. Two years prior, she had some physiotherapy for minor knee pain. For the first two years of her policy (until 1st November 2027), any issues with her knee will be excluded. However, if her knee causes her no trouble at all during this period (no pain, no check-ups, no medication), then from 1st November 2027, she could be covered for new knee problems.

Moratorium UnderwritingDescription
Pros✅ Fast and simple application process.
✅ No need to disclose your full medical history upfront.
✅ Pre-existing conditions can eventually become covered.
Cons❌ Lack of certainty at the start of the policy.
❌ The insurer will investigate your medical history at the point of a claim, which can sometimes lead to delays or disputes.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

This method provides more certainty from day one but requires more effort during the application.

  • How it works: You complete a detailed questionnaire about your medical history and that of your family. Based on your answers, the insurer decides what to cover. They will apply specific exclusions to your policy for any pre-existing conditions they identify. These exclusions are usually permanent.
  • Clarity from the Outset: Your policy documents will clearly list any conditions that are not covered. There are no grey areas.

Real-Life Example: David applies for a policy with FMU. He declares that he had treatment for a slipped disc five years ago. The insurer reviews this and adds a specific exclusion to his policy stating, "No cover for any treatment related to the lumbar spine." David knows from day one that he cannot claim for his bad back, but he is covered for everything else as per the policy terms.

Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)Description
Pros✅ Complete clarity from the start about what is and isn't covered.
✅ The claims process can be faster as medical history is already declared.
✅ Premiums can sometimes be lower if you have a clean bill of health.
Cons❌ Long and detailed application process.
❌ Exclusions for pre-existing conditions are usually permanent.
❌ You must be very thorough with your disclosures to avoid invalidating your policy.

Switching Providers: Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME)

If you already have a PMI policy and want to switch to a new insurer, you can often do so on a 'CPME' basis. This means the new insurer agrees to continue with the same underwriting terms and exclusions you had with your old provider, ensuring you don't lose cover for conditions that had become eligible under a moratorium.

Decoding Your Policy Costs: Premiums, Excesses, and Limits

Understanding the financial side of your policy is crucial. Your costs are primarily determined by three things: your premium, your excess, and your policy limits.

Premiums

Your premium is the regular amount you pay (usually monthly or annually) to keep your health insurance active. Insurers calculate this based on several risk factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older, as the likelihood of needing treatment rises.
  • Location: Treatment costs vary across the UK. Living in or near major cities like London, where private hospital costs are higher, will typically result in higher premiums.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive policy with extensive outpatient cover and optional extras will cost more than a basic inpatient-only plan.
  • Excess Level: Choosing a higher excess will lower your premium.
  • Lifestyle: Some insurers may ask about smoking status or BMI, which can influence the price.

Excess (or Deductible)

The excess is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim before the insurer pays the rest. It's a way of sharing the cost and helps keep premiums affordable.

  • How it works: You can typically choose an excess amount, for example, £0, £100, £250, £500, or more.
  • Per Claim vs. Per Year: Most policies apply the excess per policy year. This means you only pay it once per year, regardless of how many claims you make. Some policies may apply it per claim, which can be less cost-effective if you need treatment for multiple unrelated conditions.

Real-Life Example: You have a policy with a £250 excess per policy year. You need a knee operation costing £4,500. You pay the first £250 directly to the hospital, and your insurer pays the remaining £4,250. If you need another, unrelated treatment later in the same policy year, you will not have to pay the excess again. (illustrative estimate)

Choosing a higher excess is a great way to reduce your monthly premium. If you are healthy and don't expect to claim, a £500 or £1,000 excess could save you a significant amount. (illustrative estimate)

Policy Limits

Policy limits define the maximum amount your insurer will pay out for your treatment. These limits can be structured in several ways, and it's vital to check what your policy offers.

Limit StructureHow It WorksExample
Overall Annual LimitA total cap on the value of all claims you can make in a single policy year.Your policy has a £1 million annual limit. Most policies have very high limits like this, often described as 'unlimited' for core cover.
Outpatient Cover LimitA specific financial limit for outpatient services like consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans.Your policy provides £1,000 for outpatient cover per year. A single MRI scan can cost £500-£800, so this can be used up quickly.
Therapies LimitA limit on the number of sessions or financial value for therapies like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.Your policy might cover up to 8 physiotherapy sessions per year.
Mental Health LimitA specific financial cap for psychiatric treatment, either as an inpatient or outpatient.Your policy may have a £10,000 limit for mental health treatment.

When comparing policies, always look beyond the headline price and examine these limits closely. A cheaper policy might have a very low outpatient limit, which could leave you with unexpected costs.

Accessing Treatment: Networks, Specialists, and Claims

Once you have a policy, how do you actually use it? The process involves hospital networks and getting your claim authorised.

Hospital Networks

Insurers don't work with every single private hospital in the UK. They create "hospital networks"—a list of approved facilities where you can receive treatment.

  • Why they exist: By negotiating prices with a select group of hospitals, insurers can manage costs and keep premiums down.
  • Network Tiers: Insurers often offer different network tiers. A standard list might include hundreds of quality private hospitals across the UK. An "extended" or "premium" list might add more prestigious, high-cost hospitals, particularly in Central London.
  • Cost Savings: You can often reduce your premium by choosing a more restricted hospital network that excludes the most expensive facilities. If you don't live near London, there's little point in paying extra to include top London hospitals in your plan.

The Claims Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making a claim is usually a straightforward process, but you must follow the correct steps to ensure your treatment is covered.

  1. See Your GP: Your journey almost always starts with your NHS GP. If you have a symptom, you visit your GP for an initial diagnosis. If they feel you need to see a specialist, they will provide an 'open referral' letter.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: With your referral letter, you call your insurer's claims line. You will need your policy number and details of your condition.
  3. Get Pre-Authorisation: This is a critical step. The insurer will check your policy to confirm you are covered for the condition and the required treatment. They will then provide you with an authorisation number and help you find an approved specialist from their list. Never book treatment without getting pre-authorisation, or your claim may be rejected.
  4. Receive Treatment: You attend your appointment with the specialist at a hospital from your chosen network. All costs are typically billed directly to your insurer.
  5. Pay Your Excess: If an excess applies to your policy, the private hospital will usually bill you for this amount directly.

Key Policy Terms You'll Encounter

Here is a glossary of other common terms you will find in your policy documents.

TermPlain-English ExplanationExample
InpatientYou are admitted to hospital and occupy a bed for one or more nights.A hip replacement surgery requiring a three-night hospital stay.
Day-patientYou are admitted to hospital for a planned procedure and occupy a bed, but you are discharged on the same day.A cataract removal or an endoscopy.
OutpatientYou visit a hospital or clinic for a consultation, test, or scan, but you are not admitted to a hospital bed.Seeing a specialist dermatologist or having an MRI scan.
Benefit / Level of CoverThe specific treatments, services, and financial amounts your policy includes.A "mid-range" benefit level might include full inpatient cover but a £1,000 limit for outpatient services.
No Claims Discount (NCD)A discount applied to your premium at renewal if you haven't made a claim in the preceding policy year. It works like car insurance; making a claim will typically reduce your NCD level.You might start with a 0% NCD and build it up to 70% over several claim-free years.
Six-Week OptionA popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks of it being recommended, you agree to use the NHS. If the waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in.You need a hernia operation. The NHS waiting list is 12 weeks, so your insurer authorises private treatment immediately.

Optional Extras and Added Value Benefits

Most private medical insurance UK providers allow you to tailor your policy with optional extras. These increase your premium but provide more comprehensive cover.

Common Optional Add-ons:

  • Mental Health Cover: Extends cover beyond the basic provision for psychiatric treatment, including access to therapists and psychologists.
  • Dental & Optical Cover: Provides money back towards routine check-ups, dental treatments (like fillings), and the cost of glasses or contact lenses. This is often a cash-back benefit.
  • Therapies Cover: Increases the limits for treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.

Beyond paid-for extras, insurers compete by offering a wealth of value-added benefits at no extra cost. These are designed to help you stay healthy and manage your wellbeing proactively.

  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, allowing you to get medical advice and prescriptions quickly without leaving home.
  • Wellness Programmes: Access to health and wellbeing advice, stress-counselling helplines, and fitness tracking apps.
  • Discounts and Rewards: Many insurers partner with gyms, health food brands, and travel companies to offer their members exclusive discounts.

As a WeCovr client, you get even more. In addition to the benefits from your chosen insurer, we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Furthermore, customers who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance.

The UK private health cover market is vast and complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy combinations. Trying to navigate this alone can be overwhelming. This is where an independent broker like WeCovr can be invaluable.

As an FCA-authorised broker, our job is to act on your behalf, not for the insurers.

  • Expert Advice: We demystify the jargon and help you understand what level of cover is right for your unique circumstances and budget.
  • Market Comparison: We use our expertise and technology to compare policies from a wide range of leading UK insurers, ensuring you get the best possible terms and price.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, impartial advice without paying a penny extra.
  • Ongoing Support: We are here to help you at renewal or if you need to make a claim, acting as your advocate.

With high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr has a proven track record of helping thousands of UK customers find the right protection.


Do I need to declare every past illness for a moratorium policy?

No, for a moratorium policy, you do not need to provide a full medical history upfront. The policy automatically excludes any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the five years preceding the policy start date. The insurer will investigate your medical history only if you make a claim to determine if the condition is pre-existing.

What happens if an acute condition becomes chronic?

Private medical insurance will typically cover the costs of initial diagnosis and treatment to manage the acute phase of the condition. For example, if you are diagnosed with Crohn's disease, your policy would cover the diagnostic tests and initial consultations to get the condition under control. However, once it is deemed a long-term, chronic condition requiring ongoing management, care will revert to the NHS.

Can I change my excess or hospital network mid-policy?

Generally, you can only make changes to your core policy components, such as your excess level or hospital network, at your annual renewal date. This is the point at which you and the insurer agree to the terms for the following year. Adding or removing optional extras can sometimes be done mid-term, but you should always check with your provider.

Is private medical insurance in the UK tax-deductible?

For individuals buying their own policy, private medical insurance premiums are not tax-deductible. If your employer provides PMI as a benefit-in-kind, HMRC considers it a taxable benefit, and you will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium. For a business buying PMI for its employees, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense.

Feeling clearer about PMI jargon but still want expert guidance? The team at WeCovr is ready to help. As independent, FCA-authorised brokers, we compare plans from across the UK's leading providers to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget, all at no cost to you.

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote today and take control of your health journey.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 experienced 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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