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Health Insurance vs Life Insurance in the UK

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 protection policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of insurance can be confusing. This guide demystifies the two pillars of personal protection in the UK: private medical insurance and life insurance, helping you make an informed choice for your future. WeCovr compares two key types of protection and when to consider each In the UK, when we talk about protecting our health and our families, two terms frequently arise: Health Insurance and Life Insurance.

Key takeaways

  • Health Insurance (or Private Medical Insurance - PMI) is designed to protect you during your lifetime. It pays for the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions, helping you bypass NHS waiting lists and access care quickly. Think of it as insurance for your health.
  • Life Insurance is designed to protect your loved ones after you're gone. It pays out a lump sum or regular income to your beneficiaries upon your death, providing financial stability when they need it most. Think of it as insurance for your legacy.
  • See your GP: Your first port of call is usually your NHS GP. They will assess your symptoms and, if necessary, provide an 'open referral' to a specialist.
  • Contact your insurer: You inform your PMI provider about the referral. They will check that your policy covers the condition and authorise the next steps.
  • Receive private treatment: You can then book an appointment with a private specialist, have diagnostic tests, and receive treatment—all paid for by your insurer (up to your policy limits).

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 750,000 protection policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of insurance can be confusing. This guide demystifies the two pillars of personal protection in the UK: private medical insurance and life insurance, helping you make an informed choice for your future.

WeCovr compares two key types of protection and when to consider each

In the UK, when we talk about protecting our health and our families, two terms frequently arise: Health Insurance and Life Insurance. Whilst they both offer crucial financial safety nets, they serve fundamentally different purposes and protect you from very different life events.

  • Health Insurance (or Private Medical Insurance - PMI) is designed to protect you during your lifetime. It pays for the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions, helping you bypass NHS waiting lists and access care quickly. Think of it as insurance for your health.

  • Life Insurance is designed to protect your loved ones after you're gone. It pays out a lump sum or regular income to your beneficiaries upon your death, providing financial stability when they need it most. Think of it as insurance for your legacy.

Choosing between them—or deciding if you need both—depends entirely on your personal circumstances, your financial dependents, and what you want to protect. Let's dive deeper into each one.

What is Health Insurance (Private Medical Insurance)?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a type of insurance policy that covers the cost of private healthcare for treatable, short-term illnesses or injuries, known as acute conditions. It runs alongside the National Health Service (NHS), offering a complementary route to treatment.

PMI is not designed to replace the NHS, which provides excellent emergency care and manages long-term, incurable illnesses. Instead, it offers a choice—the choice to be treated more quickly, at a time and place that suits you.

How does Private Medical Insurance work in the UK?

When you take out a PMI policy, you pay a monthly or annual premium to an insurer. If you then develop an eligible medical condition, you follow a simple process:

  1. See your GP: Your first port of call is usually your NHS GP. They will assess your symptoms and, if necessary, provide an 'open referral' to a specialist.
  2. Contact your insurer: You inform your PMI provider about the referral. They will check that your policy covers the condition and authorise the next steps.
  3. Receive private treatment: You can then book an appointment with a private specialist, have diagnostic tests, and receive treatment—all paid for by your insurer (up to your policy limits).

The primary benefit is speed. With NHS waiting lists for non-urgent procedures reaching record highs—with the median wait being 14.8 weeks in April 2024 according to NHS England data—PMI can reduce that wait to just a few weeks.

Crucial Point: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and cannot be fully cured (e.g., diabetes, asthma, arthritis). A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury you had before the policy start date.

What does Private Medical Insurance typically cover?

Cover varies between providers and policy levels, but most standard UK PMI plans include a core set of benefits. At WeCovr, we help you compare these options to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

FeatureWhat's Typically IncludedWhat's Typically Excluded
Core CoverIn-patient & day-patient treatment (hospital stays)Pre-existing conditions
Surgery, anaesthetist & theatre feesChronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma)
Specialist consultationsRoutine pregnancy and childbirth
Cancer care (often extensive cover)Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary)
Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, PET scans)Emergency services (handled by the NHS)
Optional Add-onsOut-patient cover (consultations, tests not requiring a bed)Drug or alcohol rehabilitation
Mental health supportUnproven or experimental treatments
Dental and optical cover
Therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy)

Who should consider Health Insurance?

PMI is a valuable product for a wide range of people. You might consider it if you:

  • Want to avoid long waiting lists: If the thought of waiting months for a hip replacement or a knee operation is a concern, PMI offers a fast track.
  • Are self-employed or run a small business: For a freelancer or small business owner, long-term sickness can mean a devastating loss of income. Quick treatment means a quicker return to work.
  • Desire more choice and comfort: PMI gives you more control over which specialist treats you and which hospital you are treated in, often with the comfort of a private room.
  • Are a parent: Securing quick access to specialist paediatric care can provide enormous peace of mind for your family's health.

Real-Life Example: Meet Aisha, a 45-year-old self-employed consultant. She develops persistent knee pain that affects her ability to travel for work. Her NHS GP diagnoses a torn meniscus and refers her to an orthopaedic surgeon, warning of a potential 9-month wait for surgery. With her PMI policy, Aisha gets an appointment with a private specialist within a week, has an MRI scan three days later, and undergoes surgery the following week. She is back working within a month, having avoided a significant loss of earnings.

What is Life Insurance?

Life Insurance is a contract between you and an insurer. In exchange for your regular premium payments, the insurer promises to pay a specific sum of money to your chosen beneficiaries if you pass away during the policy's term. This payout is almost always tax-free.

Its purpose is simple but profound: to provide a financial cushion for your loved ones, ensuring they can cope financially after you're gone. This money can be used for anything, from clearing a mortgage to covering daily living costs or funding children's education.

How does Life Insurance work?

The mechanics are straightforward. You decide on two key things:

  1. The Cover Amount (Sum Assured) (illustrative): This is the amount of money that will be paid out. It could be £50,000 to cover a funeral or £500,000 to clear a mortgage and provide an income.
  2. The Term: This is how long you want the cover to last. It could be 25 years to match your mortgage, or until your children are financially independent.

If you die within this term, your insurer pays the agreed amount to your beneficiaries. If you outlive the term, the policy ends, and you get nothing back (for term insurance).

What are the main types of Life Insurance?

There are several types of life insurance, each suited to different needs. The most common in the UK are:

Type of Life InsuranceHow it WorksBest For...
Level Term InsuranceThe cover amount and your premium stay the same throughout the policy term. A £200,000 policy will pay out £200,000 whether you die in year 1 or year 20.Covering an interest-only mortgage, providing a lump sum for your family to live on, or covering large fixed debts.
Decreasing Term InsuranceThe cover amount reduces over the policy term, usually in line with a repayment mortgage. Your premium stays the same.Covering a repayment mortgage or other loan that decreases over time. It's typically the most affordable option.
Whole of Life InsuranceThe policy has no end date and is guaranteed to pay out whenever you die, as long as you keep paying the premiums.Leaving a fixed inheritance, covering funeral costs, or for estate planning purposes (e.g., covering an inheritance tax bill).

Who should consider Life Insurance?

Life insurance isn't just for the wealthy. It's a cornerstone of financial planning for anyone with dependents. You should strongly consider it if you:

  • Have a partner or spouse: It can help them maintain their standard of living.
  • Have dependent children: The payout can replace your lost income, ensuring they are cared for.
  • Have a mortgage: It can pay off the outstanding balance, allowing your family to stay in their home.
  • Have other debts: It can prevent your loved ones from inheriting your personal loans or credit card bills.
  • Want to cover funeral costs (illustrative): The average cost of a UK funeral is now over £4,000 (SunLife Cost of Dying Report 2024), and a policy can cover this expense.
  • Are a business owner: 'Key person' insurance can protect your business from the financial impact of losing a vital member of the team.

Real-Life Example: Consider David and Chloe, a couple in their 30s with two young children and a £250,000 repayment mortgage. They take out a decreasing term life insurance policy for the same amount over 25 years. Tragically, David passes away from a sudden illness ten years into the policy. The insurer pays out the remaining cover amount, which is enough to clear the mortgage entirely. This gives Chloe and the children financial security and stability at an incredibly difficult time. (illustrative estimate)

Health Insurance vs. Life Insurance: A Head-to-Head Comparison

While both are forms of 'protection', they operate in completely different arenas. Understanding these differences is key to building a robust financial plan.

Here's a direct comparison to make it clear:

FeatureHealth Insurance (PMI)Life Insurance
Primary PurposeTo cover the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions.To provide a financial payout to beneficiaries after your death.
Who Benefits?You, the policyholder, by getting faster access to healthcare.Your loved ones (beneficiaries), by receiving a financial sum.
When Does it Pay Out?During your lifetime, when you need eligible medical treatment.After your death, to support your family.
What Does it Pay For?Directly pays for hospital bills, specialist fees, diagnostic scans, etc.The lump sum can be used for anything: mortgage, bills, education, etc.
Key MetricAccess to care: Speed, choice of specialist, comfortable facilities.Financial security: A tax-free lump sum to protect your family's future.
Main Cost FactorsAge, medical history, lifestyle (smoking, alcohol), postcode, level of cover.Age, medical history, lifestyle, cover amount, policy term, type of cover.
The Core Question it Answers"How can I get treated quickly if I fall ill?""How will my family cope financially if I'm not here?"

As you can see, they are not competing products. They are complementary shields, each protecting you and your family from a different kind of risk.

Do I Need Both Health and Life Insurance?

For many people in the UK, the answer is yes. The need for one does not cancel out the need for the other. They work together to create a comprehensive safety net.

  • Life Insurance protects your family from the ultimate financial catastrophe: the loss of your income forever.
  • Health Insurance protects you and your family from the disruption and financial strain of illness while you are alive. It helps you get back on your feet—and back to earning—as quickly as possible.

Think about your life stage to understand your potential needs:

  1. Young and Single: You may not have dependents, so life insurance might seem less critical. However, private medical insurance could be a priority. An injury or illness could stop you from working and socialising, and PMI helps you recover faster.
  2. A Couple with a Mortgage: This is where both become vital. Life insurance is essential to ensure that if one of you dies, the other isn't left with an unmanageable mortgage. Health insurance is equally important, as a long illness could prevent one of you from working, making it difficult to pay that same mortgage.
  3. A Family with Young Children: This is the point of maximum dependency. You need a robust life insurance policy to provide for your children's future if the worst happens. PMI is also hugely valuable, offering peace of mind that you or your children can get prompt medical attention without long waits.
  4. Approaching Retirement: Your children may be independent and your mortgage paid off, so your need for a large life insurance policy might decrease. However, you might still want a smaller whole of life policy to cover funeral costs or leave an inheritance. This is also the age where health issues become more common, making PMI highly attractive, although premiums will be higher.

At WeCovr, we can help you assess your unique situation. We also offer discounts when you take out multiple types of cover, making comprehensive protection more affordable.

Critical Illness Cover: The Bridge Between Health and Life Insurance?

There is a third type of protection that sits between PMI and Life Insurance: Critical Illness Cover (CIC).

  • What is it? CIC pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, life-threatening condition listed on your policy. Common conditions include heart attack, stroke, and certain types and stages of cancer.
  • How is it different from PMI? PMI pays the hospital bills directly for your treatment. CIC gives the money directly to you to use as you see fit—you could adapt your home, pay off your mortgage, or cover lost income.
  • How is it different from Life Insurance? It pays out on diagnosis, not on death. You are there to use the money.

CIC is often sold as an optional add-on to a life insurance policy. It can be incredibly valuable, providing a financial lifeline during a period of serious illness when you may be unable to work.

How to Get the Best Cover: Tips from the WeCovr Experts

Navigating the insurance market can be daunting. Here are our top tips for securing the right protection at the best price.

1. Assess Your Needs Honestly

Before you look at any policies, think about what you're trying to achieve.

  • For Health Insurance: What are your priorities? Bypassing waiting lists? Access to cancer drugs not available on the NHS? Mental health support?
  • For Life Insurance: How much debt do you have? What are your family's monthly expenses? How long will your children be financially dependent?

2. Understand the Policy Details

The devil is in the detail. For PMI, check the out-patient limits, the hospital list, and the excess (the amount you pay towards a claim). For life insurance, ensure you understand the term and whether the cover is level or decreasing.

3. Compare the Market with a PMI Broker

Don't just accept the first quote you see. Prices and cover levels vary significantly between insurers. Using an independent broker like WeCovr costs you nothing, but gives you access to expert, impartial advice. We compare policies from leading UK providers to find the one that offers the best value for your specific needs.

4. Be Honest on Your Application

When applying for either type of insurance, you will be asked questions about your health and lifestyle. It is vital that you answer these truthfully. Failing to disclose information could lead to a future claim being rejected, rendering your policy useless when you or your family need it most.

5. Review Your Cover Regularly

Life changes. You might get married, have children, buy a bigger house, or change jobs. It's a good idea to review your protection policies every few years, or after any major life event, to ensure they still provide the right level of cover.

Beyond Insurance: Proactive Steps for a Healthier Life

Whilst insurance provides a financial safety net, the best strategy is to invest in your health proactively. Many insurers now reward healthy living with lower premiums and extra benefits. For instance, all WeCovr protection customers gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you stay on top of your wellness goals.

Here are some simple, evidence-based tips for a healthier life, as recommended by the NHS:

  • Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or swimming) a week.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Prioritise a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's crucial for both physical and mental health.
  • Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to unwind, whether it's through exercise, mindfulness, or hobbies. Chronic stress can have a significant impact on your long-term health.
  • Don't Smoke and Limit Alcohol: Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the UK. Limiting alcohol intake to the recommended 14 units per week can also significantly reduce health risks.

Taking small, consistent steps to improve your lifestyle not only reduces your risk of needing to claim on insurance but can also lead to a more fulfilling and energetic life.

Does private medical insurance in the UK cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance (PMI) policies in the UK are designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. They explicitly exclude pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before joining) and chronic conditions (long-term illnesses that can't be cured, like diabetes). Some insurers may offer cover after a set period (e.g., two years) without symptoms or treatment, but this is not guaranteed.

Can I have both health insurance and life insurance at the same time?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, many people have both as they serve entirely different purposes. Health insurance protects you by covering medical costs during your life, while life insurance protects your loved ones financially after you have passed away. They are complementary policies that form a comprehensive protection plan.

Is the payout from a UK life insurance policy tax-free?

In most cases, yes. The lump sum paid out from a life insurance policy is typically free from income tax and capital gains tax. However, it may be subject to inheritance tax if the value of your estate exceeds the tax-free threshold. A simple way to avoid this is to write your life insurance policy 'in trust', which legally separates it from your estate. A financial adviser or broker like WeCovr can help you with this.

Why should I use an insurance broker like WeCovr instead of going direct?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no extra cost to you. We provide impartial advice tailored to your needs, compare policies from a wide range of the best PMI providers in the UK, and can often find you better cover or a more competitive price than you would find going direct. We do the hard work of reading the small print so you don't have to, ensuring there are no nasty surprises when you need to claim.

Ready to secure your future?

Whether you've decided on health insurance, life insurance, or both, the next step is to find the right policy. At WeCovr, our expert advisors are here to help.

Get a free, no-obligation quote today and let us compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect protection for you and your family.

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
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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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