Login

Health Screenings Are They Covered by Private Medical Insurance

Health Screenings Are They Covered by Private Medical...

At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we know that navigating private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. A common question we hear is whether policies cover preventative health screenings. This guide explains which policies offer check-ups and preventative services, helping you make an informed choice.

Which policies provide full check-ups, screenings, and preventative services?

The straightforward answer is that most standard, entry-level private medical insurance (PMI) policies in the UK do not cover routine health screenings or check-ups. Their primary function is to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions that arise after your policy has started.

However, the private health cover market is evolving. A growing number of insurers now offer health screenings and preventative services in two main ways:

  1. As a standard feature on more comprehensive, higher-tier policies.
  2. As an optional add-on benefit that you can choose to include in your policy for an additional premium.

This shift reflects a growing understanding that prevention and early detection are just as important as treatment. Insurers are increasingly offering services designed to keep you healthy, not just to fix things when they go wrong.

The Core Purpose of Private Medical Insurance Explained

To understand why screenings aren't always included, it's vital to grasp the fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK.

PMI is designed to be a complementary service to the NHS, not a replacement. Its main goal is to provide fast access to diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like hernias, joint pain requiring replacement, or cataracts.
  • A chronic condition, on the other hand, is a long-term illness that can be managed but not cured. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

Crucially, standard private medical insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions or the ongoing management of chronic conditions. PMI is for new, unexpected health issues that occur after you take out your policy. This is why preventative services, which are routine and predictable, traditionally fall outside the scope of a standard insurance contract.

What Types of Health Screenings Are Available?

When we talk about "health screenings," it can mean a wide range of tests and checks. These are typically categorised by their complexity and what they aim to detect.

1. Basic Health Checks

These are often called "health MOTs" or "wellness checks" and provide a general overview of your health. They usually include:

  • Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement
  • Blood pressure check
  • Cholesterol test (finger-prick test)
  • Blood sugar level test
  • Lifestyle questionnaire about diet, exercise, and smoking habits

2. Cancer Screenings

These are targeted tests designed to detect specific cancers at an early stage, often before symptoms appear.

  • Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast to detect signs of breast cancer. The NHS invites women aged 50 to 71 for screening every three years.
  • Cervical Screening (Smear Test): A test to check the health of the cervix and prevent cervical cancer. The NHS invites women aged 25 to 64.
  • Prostate Cancer Screening (PSA Test): A blood test to measure Prostate-Specific Antigen levels. There is no national NHS screening programme for this, but men over 50 can request a test.
  • Bowel Cancer Screening: The NHS offers home testing kits for people aged 60 to 74 (and is gradually expanding this to people in their 50s) to detect early signs of bowel cancer.

3. Heart & Vascular Screenings

These focus on assessing your cardiovascular health and risk of heart disease or stroke.

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of your heart to check for problems.
  • Coronary Angiogram: A more advanced test to check for blockages in the arteries supplying the heart. This is usually diagnostic rather than a routine screening.

4. Comprehensive "Executive" Health Assessments

These are the most thorough type of screening, combining many of the tests above with more advanced diagnostics. They can take several hours and might include:

  • Detailed blood analysis
  • Resting and exercise ECGs
  • Lung function tests
  • Ultrasound scans of various organs
  • In-depth consultation with a doctor

How UK Insurers Approach Health Screenings and Preventative Care

The UK's leading PMI providers have different strategies for incorporating preventative care. While policy specifics change regularly, here is a general overview of the common approaches.

Insurer (Illustrative)General Approach to Health ScreeningsHow It Typically Works
BupaOften included in comprehensive plans like 'Bupa By You Comprehensive' or available as an add-on. They have a strong focus on preventative health.May offer a specified health assessment every one or two years, or cover for specific cancer screenings, depending on the policy level.
AXA HealthIntegrates wellness benefits into many policies. Some plans include a contribution towards a health check or full cover for one.Often part of their 'Guided' options on higher-tier plans. They also provide significant online health resources and virtual GP access.
AvivaHigher-tier policies (often labelled 'Healthier Solutions') may include a "Health MOT" benefit. Focus is on promoting early diagnosis.The benefit is usually available after a policy has been active for a set period, like one year. The scope of the check depends on the plan.
VitalityA unique model that rewards healthy behaviour. Customers earn points for activities like walking, working out, or getting a flu jab.Points unlock rewards, including a heavily discounted or free annual "Vitality Healthcheck". This makes preventative care an earned benefit.
WPAKnown for its flexible and modular approach. Health screening benefits can often be selected as an optional extra.This allows customers to tailor their policy, adding a screening benefit only if they value it, which helps manage the premium cost.

Disclaimer: This table is for illustrative purposes only. Policy features, benefits, and names change frequently. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's essential to speak with an expert PMI broker like WeCovr.

The Financial Case for Health Screenings: Is It Worth It?

Paying extra for a health screening benefit might seem like an unnecessary expense, but the long-term view often proves its value.

The Cost of Paying Privately

If you were to pay for a health screening out-of-pocket, the costs can be substantial:

  • Basic Health Check: £150 – £400
  • Advanced Cancer Screening (e.g., full CT scan): £1,000 – £2,500
  • Comprehensive Executive Health Assessment: £600 – £3,000+

The annual or monthly premium increase for adding a wellness benefit to your PMI policy is often a fraction of these costs, making it a financially sound decision if you plan to have regular check-ups.

The Incalculable Value of Early Detection

The most compelling argument is not financial but medical. Detecting serious illnesses early dramatically improves treatment outcomes.

A Real-World Example: Bowel Cancer According to Cancer Research UK, the survival statistics for bowel cancer highlight the power of early diagnosis:

  • Stage 1: More than 90% of people survive for five years or more.
  • Stage 4 (advanced): Only around 10% of people survive for five years or more.

A screening can detect pre-cancerous polyps or cancer at Stage 1, when treatment is simpler, less invasive, and far more likely to be successful. Waiting until symptoms like unexplained weight loss or abdominal pain appear often means the cancer has progressed to a later stage.

By investing in a PMI policy that covers screenings, you are investing in the best possible chance of catching a serious condition early.

Beyond Screenings: The Modern PMI Wellness Toolkit

The best PMI providers today offer far more than just treatment and screenings. Their goal is to become a holistic health partner, providing a suite of tools to help you stay well.

These value-added services are often included as standard, even on more basic policies:

  1. Digital GP Services: Get a GP appointment via phone or video call, often 24/7, from anywhere in the world. This helps you get medical advice quickly without waiting for an NHS appointment.
  2. Mental Health Support: This is a major focus for modern PMI. Most policies now offer a direct line to mental health professionals, including counsellors and cognitive behavioural therapists, without needing a GP referral. Given that NHS waiting times for mental health services can be lengthy, this is an invaluable benefit.
  3. Nutrition and Fitness Support: Many insurers provide access to online resources, dietician consultations, and discounts on gym memberships to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
  4. Expert Second Opinions: If you are diagnosed with a serious condition, some policies allow you to have your case reviewed by a world-leading expert to confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan.

At WeCovr, we enhance this further. When you purchase a Private Medical or Life Insurance policy through us, you receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. Furthermore, our clients often benefit from discounts on other types of insurance, providing even greater value.

How a PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Cover

The private medical insurance UK market is filled with hundreds of policy combinations, varying levels of cover, and confusing jargon. Trying to find the right one on your own can be overwhelming. This is where an independent, expert broker comes in.

Here’s how WeCovr can help:

  • We Understand the Market: We live and breathe PMI. Our specialists know the intricate details of policies from all the major UK insurers. We know which ones offer comprehensive screening benefits and which ones provide the best value for your specific needs.
  • Personalised, Unbiased Advice: We take the time to understand you—your age, lifestyle, health concerns, and budget. We then compare the market to find the policy that is the perfect fit. We are not tied to any single insurer, so our advice is completely impartial.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice and support without paying a penny extra.
  • We Handle the Hassle: From comparing quotes to completing the application and explaining the fine print, we do the heavy lifting for you. We're here to answer your questions and provide support for the life of your policy.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to providing clear, helpful, and effective guidance.

Practical Wellness Tips for a Healthier Life

While insurance is a crucial safety net, the best way to manage your health is through proactive daily habits. Here are some simple, evidence-based tips.

  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Aim for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats. Using an app like CalorieHero can make tracking your nutrition simple and effective.
  • Stay Active: 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) per week. Find an activity you enjoy to make it a sustainable habit.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a range of health issues, including a weakened immune system and an increased risk of chronic disease. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and a dark, quiet, cool sleeping environment.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a significant negative impact on your physical and mental health. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Make time for hobbies and social connections that you find fulfilling.
  • Don't Ignore Symptoms: While screenings are vital for prevention, it's just as important to listen to your body. If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, contact your GP or use your PMI's digital GP service without delay.

Do I need to declare the results of a health screening to my private medical insurer?

Yes, absolutely. Your insurance policy is a contract based on good faith. You must declare any new diagnoses, investigations, or symptoms that arise from a health screening. Failing to do so could be considered non-disclosure and may invalidate your policy, especially if you later try to claim for a related condition. The results may affect your future underwriting or premiums at renewal.

Are NHS health checks the same as the screenings offered by private medical insurance?

Not exactly. The NHS Health Check is an excellent free programme offered to adults in England aged 40-74. It's designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. However, private screenings available through PMI can often be more comprehensive, may be available at a younger age, and can include a wider range of tests, such as advanced cancer markers or detailed fitness assessments. They offer a different, often deeper, level of insight.

Why don't all private health cover policies cover screenings as standard?

The primary reason is cost and the fundamental principle of insurance. PMI is designed to cover unforeseen risks (acute conditions), not predictable, routine events. Including comprehensive screenings for every policyholder as standard would significantly increase the base premium for everyone, making it unaffordable for many. By offering it as an optional add-on or on higher-tier plans, insurers give customers the choice to pay for the benefit if they value it.

Can I get a PMI policy just for health screenings and check-ups?

No, this is not possible in the UK. The core purpose of any private medical insurance policy is to provide cover for the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions. Health screenings and other preventative services are offered as an additional benefit on top of this core cover, not as a standalone product. You must have the core medical insurance in place to be able to add a wellness or screening benefit.

Choosing the right private medical insurance is a vital decision for your health and financial wellbeing. While the primary benefit remains fast access to high-quality treatment, the inclusion of preventative screenings on many modern policies offers an invaluable tool for long-term health management.

Ready to explore your options and find a policy that protects both your present and future health?

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect private health cover for you and your family.


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.