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Health Insurance Myths Busted Common Misconceptions About Private Medical Insurance




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TL;DR

Navigating the world of private medical insurance in the UK can be complex, but with an expert guide, it becomes clear. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we're here to separate fact from fiction, ensuring you make informed decisions about your health. Fact-checking widespread PMI myths including A&E coverage, GP visit costs, automatic acceptance beliefs, and lifetime coverage assumptions Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a powerful tool for taking control of your health, but it's surrounded by a surprising number of myths.

Key takeaways

  • Acute Conditions: These are diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint problems requiring replacement, or hernias.
  • Emergencies (A&E): Private hospitals in the UK are not equipped to handle life-threatening emergencies. They do not have Accident & Emergency departments. For incidents like a heart attack, stroke, or major trauma from an accident, your first and only port of call is an NHS A&E department. The NHS is unparalleled in its ability to provide immediate, critical care.
  • Routine GP Visits: Standard PMI policies do not cover the cost of your regular appointments with your NHS General Practitioner. The NHS GP remains your primary point of contact for day-to-day health concerns.
  • Virtual GP Services: These 24/7 digital services allow you to have a video or phone consultation with a private GP, often within hours. This is a fantastic benefit for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or a referral, but it's an enhancement, not a replacement for your local NHS surgery.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any ailment for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment in the years leading up to your policy's start date (typically the last 5 years).

Navigating the world of private medical insurance in the UK can be complex, but with an expert guide, it becomes clear. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we're here to separate fact from fiction, ensuring you make informed decisions about your health.

Fact-checking widespread PMI myths including A&E coverage, GP visit costs, automatic acceptance beliefs, and lifetime coverage assumptions

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a powerful tool for taking control of your health, but it's surrounded by a surprising number of myths. These misconceptions can prevent people from getting the right cover—or from getting cover at all. Let's bust these common myths with hard facts, helping you understand what PMI truly offers.

Myth 1: "Private Health Insurance Covers All Medical Needs, Including A&E and GP Visits"

This is perhaps the most pervasive myth of all. Many people assume a health insurance policy is an all-access pass to any medical service, but this isn't the case.

The Fact: PMI is specifically designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. Its primary purpose is to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

Let's break this down:

  • Acute Conditions: These are diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint problems requiring replacement, or hernias.
  • Emergencies (A&E): Private hospitals in the UK are not equipped to handle life-threatening emergencies. They do not have Accident & Emergency departments. For incidents like a heart attack, stroke, or major trauma from an accident, your first and only port of call is an NHS A&E department. The NHS is unparalleled in its ability to provide immediate, critical care.
  • Routine GP Visits: Standard PMI policies do not cover the cost of your regular appointments with your NHS General Practitioner. The NHS GP remains your primary point of contact for day-to-day health concerns.

However, the line is becoming more flexible. Many modern policies now include valuable add-ons, such as:

  • Virtual GP Services: These 24/7 digital services allow you to have a video or phone consultation with a private GP, often within hours. This is a fantastic benefit for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or a referral, but it's an enhancement, not a replacement for your local NHS surgery.

Here’s a simple table to clarify what’s typically handled by PMI versus the NHS:

ServiceTypically Handled by NHSTypically Handled by PMI
Emergency Care (A&E)✅ Yes (Exclusively)❌ No
Routine GP Appointments✅ Yes❌ No (Except for virtual GP add-ons)
Chronic Condition Management✅ Yes (Exclusively)❌ No
Elective Surgery (e.g., hip replacement)✅ Yes (with waiting list)✅ Yes (quickly)
Diagnostic Tests (MRI, CT scans)✅ Yes (with waiting list)✅ Yes (quickly)
Specialist Consultations✅ Yes (with waiting list)✅ Yes (quickly)
Cancer Treatment✅ Yes✅ Yes (often with more drug choices)

Understanding this distinction is the first step to appreciating PMI's true value: providing speed, choice, and comfort for non-emergency, eligible treatment.

Myth 2: "My Pre-Existing Conditions Will Be Covered Immediately"

This is a critical misunderstanding that can lead to disappointment and rejected claims. It is the single most important concept to grasp before you buy a policy.

The Fact: Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for unforeseen future health problems. It does not cover pre-existing conditions. It also does not cover chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any ailment for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment in the years leading up to your policy's start date (typically the last 5 years).
  • Chronic Condition: A long-term health issue that requires ongoing management and has no known cure. Examples include diabetes, asthma, hypertension, and Crohn's disease. Management of these conditions remains with the NHS.

Insurers use a process called "underwriting" to assess your health history and determine what they will and won't cover. There are two main types:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common and straightforward method. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they apply a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the 5 years before your policy began. However, if you then go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts without having any symptoms, treatment, medication, or advice for that specific condition, the insurer may automatically start covering it.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With this method, you complete a detailed health questionnaire as part of your application. The insurer assesses your medical history and explicitly lists any conditions that will be excluded from your cover from day one. These exclusions are usually permanent. While it involves more paperwork, FMU provides absolute clarity on what's covered from the outset.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you understand which underwriting option is best for you and can even approach insurers who may be more lenient with certain minor past conditions.

FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Application ProcessQuick and simple, no health forms.Detailed health questionnaire required.
Clarity on CoverLess clarity at the start; cover is decided at the point of a claim.Full clarity from day one; exclusions are written on your policy documents.
Covering Old ConditionsPre-existing conditions from the last 5 years can become eligible for cover after a 2-year trouble-free period.Exclusions are typically permanent.
Best ForPeople with few or no recent health issues who want a quick start.People with a more complex medical history who want certainty about what is covered.

Myth 3: "Getting PMI is Automatic – Everyone is Accepted"

While PMI is accessible to many, it's not an automatic "yes" for everyone. Insurers are businesses that manage risk, and the application process is their way of assessing that risk.

The Fact: Your acceptance and the price you pay are based on several personal factors. Insurers don't just accept everyone for any policy without conditions.

Key factors that influence your application and premium include:

  • Age: This is the most significant factor. As we get older, the statistical likelihood of needing medical treatment increases, so premiums rise accordingly.
  • Medical History: As discussed under Myth 2, your past health plays a huge role.
  • Lifestyle: Smokers or vapers will always pay a higher premium than non-smokers, sometimes by as much as 30-50%.
  • Location: The cost of private medical care varies across the UK, with costs in Central London being the highest. Your postcode can affect your premium.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with a central London hospital list will cost far more than a basic plan with a local hospital list.

While an outright decline is rare, an insurer might:

  • Apply specific exclusions: "We will cover you, but not for anything related to your past back problems."
  • Charge a "loading": This means they increase your premium to reflect a higher perceived risk.
  • Offer a policy that is prohibitively expensive.

This is where using a specialist PMI broker is invaluable. We can match your specific health profile and budget to the provider most likely to give you the most favourable terms.

Myth 4: "My Premiums Will Stay the Same for Life"

It's a lovely thought, but unfortunately, it's a complete myth. Your PMI premium is not fixed for life.

The Fact: You should expect your premiums to increase every year at renewal. Understanding why helps manage expectations.

There are three primary drivers of premium increases:

  1. Ageing: As you move into a new age bracket, your premium will increase. This is the biggest and most predictable factor. The increases are often steeper once you are over 50.
  2. Medical Inflation: The cost of private healthcare—including new drugs, advanced scanning technology, and specialists' fees—rises much faster than general inflation. This rate, often cited as being between 7% and 10% per year, is passed on to consumers through their premiums.
  3. Claims History: If you make a claim on your policy, your premium is likely to increase at the next renewal. The size of the increase can depend on the value and frequency of your claims. Most insurers offer a No Claims Discount, which you build up over years and which a claim will reduce or remove.

Illustrative Annual Premium Increases by Age (For a Mid-Range Policy)

Age BracketIllustrative Annual PremiumReason for Typical Increase
30-39£600 - £900Small, age-related increases.
40-49£900 - £1,400Age-related increases become more noticeable.
50-59£1,400 - £2,200Significant age-related jumps as health risks increase.
60-69£2,200 - £3,500+Premiums rise steeply with age and higher claims probability.

Note: These figures are purely illustrative for 2025 and will vary significantly based on insurer, location, and level of cover.

Myth 5: "PMI is a Complete Replacement for the NHS"

This belief stems from a misunderstanding of the UK's unique healthcare landscape. Unlike some other countries, private healthcare here complements the public system.

The Fact: PMI is a partner to the NHS, not a replacement. You will still rely on and use the NHS.

Think of it as having two tools in your healthcare toolkit.

  • The NHS is your foundation: It's there for everything from your GP and A&E to the management of long-term chronic conditions and maternity care. It's comprehensive and available to everyone. Its major drawback is waiting times for non-urgent care.
  • PMI is your fast-track pass: It's for bypassing the NHS waiting lists for eligible acute conditions. It gives you choice over your specialist and hospital and provides a more comfortable, private setting for your treatment.

A Real-World Example:

Sarah, 45, develops severe hip pain. Her NHS GP suspects she needs a hip replacement. The NHS waiting list for an initial consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon is 18 weeks, and the wait for the surgery itself could be over a year.

With her PMI policy, Sarah gets a private referral. She sees a top-rated surgeon of her choice the following week. An MRI scan is done two days later. The surgery is scheduled and performed in a private hospital within a month of her initial GP visit. She recovers in a private room.

If Sarah were to be in a serious car accident, she would be taken to an NHS A&E. Her PMI would not be involved. Her ongoing high blood pressure is also managed entirely by her NHS GP.

PMI fills the gaps where the NHS is under the most pressure—elective care waiting times—which, according to the latest NHS England statistics, remain stubbornly high, affecting millions of people.

Myth 6: "All Health Insurance Policies Are Basically the Same"

This is like saying all cars are the same. While they might all have four wheels and an engine, the difference between a basic city runabout and a luxury SUV is enormous. The same is true for the private medical insurance UK market.

The Fact: Policies differ hugely in price and scope. Customising your policy is key to getting the right cover at a price you can afford.

The main variables you can control are:

  1. Level of Cover:

    • Basic: Covers you for treatment when you are admitted to hospital as an in-patient or day-patient.
    • Mid-Range: Includes the above, plus a set limit for out-patient services like specialist consultations and diagnostic scans (e.g., £1,000 per year).
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive (often unlimited) out-patient cover and usually includes therapies like physiotherapy.

  2. The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £4,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the rest. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.

  3. Hospital List: Insurers have tiered hospital lists. A policy that gives you access to every private hospital in the country, including the prestigious ones in Central London, will be the most expensive. Choosing a list that includes quality local hospitals but excludes the most expensive London facilities can be a great way to save money.

  4. The Six-Week Wait Option: This is a clever cost-saving feature. If you add this to your policy, it means that for any eligible treatment, if the NHS can provide it within six weeks, you will use the NHS. If the waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in. Given that many NHS waits are much longer than this, it offers a great balance between saving money and ensuring timely care.

Policy LevelIn-Patient/Day-PatientOut-Patient CoverTherapies (e.g., physio)
Basic✅ Fully Covered❌ Not Included❌ Not Included
Mid-Range✅ Fully Covered✅ Covered (up to a limit, e.g., £1,000)🟨 Optional Add-on
Comprehensive✅ Fully Covered✅ Fully Covered✅ Included

Myth 7: "I'm Young and Healthy, So PMI is a Waste of Money"

It's easy to think of insurance as something for 'later in life', but this overlooks the immediate benefits and long-term wisdom of starting early.

The Fact: Getting cover while you're young and healthy is the smartest time to do it. Acute illness and injury, especially musculoskeletal issues, can affect anyone at any age.

Here's why PMI is valuable for younger people:

  • Lowest Premiums: You will never get a cheaper policy than when you are young and have a clean bill of health. Locking in cover before any health issues develop means you avoid future exclusions.
  • Mental Health Support: The pressure on NHS mental health services is immense. Most modern PMI policies offer excellent, fast-tracked mental health support, from counselling sessions to psychiatric care, which is a vital resource for many younger adults.
  • Sports Injuries & Musculoskeletal Issues: If you're active, injuries can happen. Whether it's a torn ligament from football or back pain from sitting at a desk, PMI provides rapid access to diagnostics (MRI scans) and therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy) to get you back on your feet quickly.
  • Beat the Queues: NHS waiting lists are not just for the elderly. A surprise diagnosis for something like a hernia or gallstones could leave you in discomfort and unable to work for months while you wait for treatment. PMI resolves this in weeks. As of late 2024, the NHS referral-to-treatment waiting list in England stood at over 7.5 million cases.

How a Specialist Broker Like WeCovr Demystifies PMI

Trying to compare the dozens of policies from providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality can be overwhelming. This is where a dedicated, independent PMI broker becomes your greatest asset.

At WeCovr, we provide a human touch backed by deep industry knowledge. Our service is provided at no cost to you; we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

Here’s how we help:

  • Market Comparison: We compare policies from across the market to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.
  • Tailored Advice: We listen to your priorities—be it mental health cover, a specific hospital list, or budget constraints—and recommend the most suitable options.
  • Application Support: We guide you through the application process, ensuring you understand the underwriting and the terms of your cover.
  • Annual Reviews: We don't just disappear after you buy. At renewal, we can re-broke the market for you to ensure you're still on the best possible deal.
  • Added Value: As a WeCovr client, you get more than just insurance advice. You'll receive complimentary access to our AI-powered diet and calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Plus, clients who take out PMI or life insurance with us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover, like home or travel insurance. Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings on independent review websites.

Proactive Health: A Companion to Your Insurance

While having a great insurance policy is a fantastic safety net, the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. Many PMI providers actively encourage this with wellness programmes and discounts.

Here are some tips to stay healthy:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A Mediterranean-style diet has been consistently linked to better heart health and longevity.
  • Consistent Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a host of issues, from a weakened immune system to poor mental health. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and minimise screen time before bed.
  • Regular Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) a week.
  • Mind Your Mind: Don't neglect your mental wellbeing. Practices like mindfulness, spending time in nature, and maintaining strong social connections are powerful buffers against stress and anxiety.

Do I need to declare every single cough and cold I've ever had on my PMI application?

No, you don't. Insurers are interested in "material" medical history. This means conditions for which you have sought medical advice, received a diagnosis, or taken prescribed medication. For example, you must declare treatment for back pain or a consultation for anxiety. You do not need to declare a common cold or a minor, self-treated ailment that resolved quickly. If you are completing Full Medical Underwriting, be honest and thorough; if in doubt, it's better to declare it.

Can I add my family to my private medical insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most insurers allow you to add your partner and dependent children to your policy. It's often more cost-effective and convenient to have everyone on a single policy rather than individual ones. Each person's medical history will be underwritten separately, but it's a straightforward process.

What happens if I want to switch my private medical insurance provider for a better price?

You can switch providers, and it's a common way to manage premium increases. It's crucial to do this on a "Continued Personal Medical Exclusions" (CPME) basis. This means your new insurer agrees to offer the same level of cover as your old one, without adding new exclusions for conditions that developed while you were with your previous insurer. A broker is essential for managing this process correctly to ensure you don't lose valuable cover.

Is mental health treatment covered by private health insurance?

Increasingly, yes. Most mid-range and comprehensive policies now include a good level of mental health cover. This can range from a set number of therapy or counselling sessions to full cover for in-patient psychiatric treatment. It has become a key feature of the best PMI provider plans, as insurers recognise the importance of mental wellbeing. However, cover levels vary significantly, so it's vital to check the policy details.

Ready to find the right health cover, free from myths and confusion?

The world of PMI is easier to navigate with an expert by your side. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, professional team will help you compare the UK's leading insurers and build a policy that gives you peace of mind.

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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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