Health Insurance vs Life Insurance What Do You Need

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

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of personal protection can be confusing. This article breaks down the essentials of private medical insurance and life insurance in the UK, helping you decide which cover is right for you. WeCovr compares these key protections and when to consider each Deciding between health insurance and life insurance often feels like a complex choice, but their purposes are fundamentally different.

Key takeaways

  • Health Insurance is for living. It’s designed to protect your health and wellbeing by giving you fast access to private medical treatment if you fall ill.
  • Life Insurance is for legacy. It’s designed to protect your family’s financial future if you were no longer around to provide for them.
  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This covers costs if you are admitted to a hospital for surgery or procedures, including hospital fees, specialist charges, and nursing care.
  • Comprehensive Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of most PMI policies, often providing access to specialist drugs and treatments that may not be available on the NHS.
  • Virtual GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, allowing you to get medical advice and prescriptions quickly.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of personal protection can be confusing. This article breaks down the essentials of private medical insurance and life insurance in the UK, helping you decide which cover is right for you.

WeCovr compares these key protections and when to consider each

Deciding between health insurance and life insurance often feels like a complex choice, but their purposes are fundamentally different. Think of it this way:

  • Health Insurance is for living. It’s designed to protect your health and wellbeing by giving you fast access to private medical treatment if you fall ill.
  • Life Insurance is for legacy. It’s designed to protect your family’s financial future if you were no longer around to provide for them.

They are not competing products; they are complementary shields. One protects your quality of life now, while the other secures your family's quality of life later. In this guide, we'll explore each one in detail so you can make an informed decision about what you and your loved ones truly need.

What is Health Insurance (Private Medical Insurance)?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI), often called private health cover, is a policy you buy to cover the costs of private healthcare in the UK. Its primary benefit is to help you bypass long NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment, giving you more control over when and where you receive care.

A Closer Look at UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

The NHS provides excellent care, especially for emergencies. However, for non-urgent but necessary procedures, known as elective care, waiting times can be substantial. According to NHS England data from late 2024, the referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list contained around 7.6 million treatment pathways. PMI offers a valuable alternative for those who want quicker access to specialists and treatment.

It’s crucial to understand what PMI is for. It is designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond to treatment, after which you return to your previous state of health.

Important Note on Exclusions: Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you already had before your policy began) or chronic conditions (long-term, manageable illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure). Emergency treatment (A&E) also remains the responsibility of the NHS.

What Does Private Health Cover Typically Include?

PMI policies are modular, meaning you can build a plan that suits your needs and budget. A core policy usually includes:

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This covers costs if you are admitted to a hospital for surgery or procedures, including hospital fees, specialist charges, and nursing care.
  • Comprehensive Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of most PMI policies, often providing access to specialist drugs and treatments that may not be available on the NHS.
  • Virtual GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, allowing you to get medical advice and prescriptions quickly.

You can then enhance your cover with optional extras:

  • Out-patient Cover: For diagnostic tests, scans (MRI, CT), and consultations with specialists before you are admitted to hospital.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counsellors, therapists, and psychiatrists.
  • Therapies: Coverage for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: Contributions towards routine check-ups, treatments, and eyewear.

Who Needs Health Insurance?

While PMI is a personal choice, it is particularly valuable for certain individuals:

  • The Self-Employed: If you run your own business, lengthy time off due to illness can mean a direct loss of income. PMI can get you diagnosed and treated faster, helping you get back to work sooner.
  • Families with Children: Parents often want the peace of mind that comes with fast access to paediatric specialists if their child gets sick.
  • Those Concerned About Waiting Lists: If the thought of waiting months for a hip replacement, cataract surgery, or a hernia repair worries you, PMI can provide a swift solution.
  • Anyone Wanting More Choice: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare, allowing you to choose your specialist and select a hospital that is convenient for you.

Real-Life Example: Take David, a 52-year-old self-employed electrician suffering from severe hip pain. The NHS waiting list for a hip replacement in his area is 14 months. This long wait would significantly impact his ability to work and earn a living. With his private medical insurance policy, David was able to see a specialist within a week, have his surgery at a private hospital a month later, and begin his recovery.

What is Life Insurance?

Life insurance is a contract between you and an insurer. In exchange for your regular payments (premiums), the insurer promises to pay out a tax-free sum of money to your designated beneficiaries if you pass away during the policy's term. Its sole purpose is to provide a financial safety net for your loved ones, ensuring they aren't left with a financial burden.

Understanding Life Insurance in the UK

The payout from a life insurance policy can be used for anything your beneficiaries need. Most commonly, it's used to:

  • Pay off a mortgage or other large debts.
  • Cover everyday family living expenses.
  • Fund children's future education.
  • Pay for funeral costs.
  • Leave an inheritance.

It's the ultimate financial backup plan for those you leave behind.

Types of Life Insurance Explained

There are several types of life insurance, each suited to different needs. Here's a simple breakdown:

Type of CoverHow It WorksBest For...
Level Term InsuranceThe payout amount (sum assured) and your premiums remain fixed for the entire policy term (e.g., 25 years).Covering an interest-only mortgage or providing a stable lump sum for your family's future living costs.
Decreasing Term InsuranceThe payout amount reduces over time, typically in line with a repayment mortgage. It's often the most affordable option.Specifically protecting a repayment mortgage, ensuring the loan is cleared if you die.
Whole of Life InsuranceThis policy covers you for your entire life, guaranteeing a payout whenever you die, as long as you keep paying the premiums.Covering a future inheritance tax bill or leaving a guaranteed legacy for your loved ones.
Family Income BenefitInstead of a single lump sum, this policy pays out a regular, tax-free income to your family until the end of the policy term.Replacing your lost salary to cover ongoing monthly bills and household expenses.

Who Needs Life Insurance?

Life insurance isn't for everyone, but it is considered essential if you have financial dependants. Key life events that should prompt you to consider it include:

  • Buying a Property: A policy can ensure your partner or family can pay off the mortgage and stay in the family home.
  • Having Children: It provides the financial resources to support your children's upbringing, from daily costs to university fees.
  • Getting Married or Entering a Civil Partnership: It protects your partner from inheriting your personal debts or facing a sudden drop in household income.
  • Being the Main Earner: If your family relies heavily on your salary, life insurance is critical to replace that lost income.

Real-Life Example: Sarah and Tom have a £300,000 repayment mortgage and a three-year-old daughter. They take out a joint decreasing term life insurance policy. Five years later, Tom tragically passes away. The insurance pays out a lump sum that clears the remaining mortgage balance, giving Sarah the financial security to grieve and raise their daughter without the fear of losing their home. (illustrative estimate)

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

While both are types of insurance, they protect you and your family in completely different ways. This table highlights their key differences:

FeatureHealth Insurance (PMI)Life Insurance
Primary PurposeTo cover the cost of private medical treatment for you while you're alive.To provide a financial payout to your dependants after you die.
Who Benefits?The policyholder (you).Your named beneficiaries (e.g., family, partner, estate).
When Does It Pay Out?When you need eligible medical treatment for a new, acute condition.Upon the death of the policyholder (or diagnosis of a terminal illness).
What It CoversPrivate hospital fees, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, surgery, cancer care.A tax-free lump sum or regular income to be used for any purpose.
Key ExclusionsPre-existing conditions, chronic conditions, emergency care, cosmetic surgery.Typically suicide within the first 12 months, and non-disclosure of health issues.
Main Cost FactorsYour age, health, lifestyle (smoking), level of cover, excess, and location.Your age, health, lifestyle (smoking), cover amount, policy term, and type of cover.
Is it a Necessity?A valuable choice for faster, more convenient healthcare, supplementing the free NHS.Often considered essential for anyone with a mortgage or financial dependants.

Do I Need Both Health and Life Insurance?

For many people in the UK, the answer is yes. They are not an either/or choice because they protect against entirely different risks.

  • Health Insurance protects your ability to earn. By getting you treated faster, it helps you recover and return to work, safeguarding your income.
  • Life Insurance protects your family if you can't earn again. It provides the capital to replace your income permanently if you pass away.

Having both creates a robust financial and personal safety net. If you fall ill, your health insurance helps you get better. And if the worst should happen, your life insurance ensures your family is looked after financially.

Expert brokers like WeCovr can help you assess your overall protection needs. We can often find providers who offer discounts for taking out multiple types of cover, making comprehensive protection more affordable.

What About Critical Illness Cover? The 'Third Pillar' of Protection

There's a third key player in personal protection: Critical Illness Cover (CIC). This product often bridges the gap between health and life insurance.

  • What is it? Critical Illness Cover pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a specific list of serious illnesses defined in the policy. Common examples include heart attack, stroke, and certain types and stages of cancer.
  • How is it different? While PMI pays the hospital for your treatment, CIC pays the lump sum directly to you. You can use this money for anything you need – to cover lost income while you recover, adapt your home, pay for specialist care not covered elsewhere, or simply reduce financial stress.

CIC can be bought as a standalone policy or, more commonly, combined with a life insurance policy. It provides a financial cushion to help you cope with the life-changing impact of a serious diagnosis.

Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider for Your Situation

To figure out what you need, ask yourself these questions:

Consider Health Insurance if...

  • ✅ You are worried about NHS waiting times for surgery or specialist consultations.
  • ✅ You are self-employed and a long period of illness would severely impact your finances.
  • ✅ You want more control over your healthcare, including choosing your specialist and hospital.
  • ✅ Your employer doesn't provide it as a benefit, and you value the peace of mind it offers.

Consider Life Insurance if...

  • ✅ You have a mortgage or other significant debts that would fall to your partner.
  • ✅ You have a spouse, partner, or children who depend on your income.
  • ✅ You want to ensure your children's financial future is secure (e.g., for university).
  • ✅ You want to leave a tax-free inheritance or cover funeral expenses.

Consider Both if...

  • ✅ You have financial dependants AND you want to protect your own health and earning ability. This is the most comprehensive approach to personal protection.

How WeCovr Can Help You Navigate Your Options

Choosing the right insurance can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. As an independent and FCA-authorised PMI broker, WeCovr is here to provide expert, impartial advice.

  • We Compare the Market: We work with a wide panel of the UK's leading insurers to find the best policy for your specific needs and budget.
  • Expert Guidance at No Cost: Our service is completely free for you. We are paid by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without any extra fees.
  • Added Value for Our Clients: When you arrange a policy through us, you'll get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to support your health goals. We also offer discounts on other policies when you buy your private health cover or life insurance through us.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to finding the right protection for every client.

A Note on Wellness and Prevention

While insurance provides a crucial safety net, the best strategy is always to invest in your own health and wellbeing. A healthier lifestyle not only improves your quality of life but can also lead to lower insurance premiums.

  • Balanced Diet: Aim for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, stay hydrated, and limit processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats.
  • 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 swimming) a week.
  • Quality Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal physical and mental health.
  • Stress Management: Make time for relaxation. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or even simple hobbies can significantly reduce stress levels.

Taking proactive steps to manage your health is the first and most important form of protection you can have.

Can I get health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Generally, standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are medical issues you had before the policy started. PMI is specifically designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you join. Policies also exclude chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes). While some specialist policies might exist, they are not the norm for mainstream PMI.

Is health insurance or life insurance tax-deductible in the UK?

For individuals purchasing their own policies, the premiums for both health and life insurance are paid from your post-tax income and are not tax-deductible. The key tax benefit is that the payouts are typically tax-free. A life insurance or critical illness cover payout is paid as a tax-free lump sum. For PMI taken out by a company for an employee, it is considered a taxable P11D benefit in kind for the employee.

How much insurance cover do I actually need?

The amount of cover you need is a highly personal decision. For life insurance, a common guideline is to secure a lump sum that is 10 times your annual salary, but a more accurate calculation should factor in your mortgage, other debts, and your family's future living and education costs. For private health cover, the level depends on whether you want a basic plan for in-patient care only, or a comprehensive policy that includes out-patient diagnostics, therapies, and mental health support. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you perform a needs analysis to find the right level of cover for your circumstances.

Does my age affect my insurance premiums?

Yes, age is a primary factor in determining premiums for both health and life insurance. As you get older, the statistical risk of claiming on either type of policy increases, which means insurers charge higher premiums. This is why it is generally more cost-effective to take out cover when you are younger and in good health, as you can lock in lower rates for the term of the policy.

Ready to find the right protection for you and your family? Health and life insurance serve different but equally vital purposes. Let us help you make sense of it all.

Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts guide you to the best private medical insurance and life insurance options in the UK.

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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