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How Much is Private Health Insurance for Over 60s UK

How Much is Private Health Insurance for Over 60s UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies arranged, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex. This is especially true when you're over 60 and thinking more about your health and wellbeing.

WeCovr explains the real costs of PMI for over 60s, plus ways to reduce premiums

Entering your 60s is often a time of reflection. You might be enjoying retirement, spending more time with family, or pursuing new hobbies. It's also a time when prompt access to healthcare becomes a greater priority. With NHS waiting lists remaining a significant concern, many are turning to private health insurance for peace of mind and faster treatment.

But what does it actually cost? In this definitive guide, we’ll break down the average costs of private health cover for the over-60s, reveal the factors that influence your premium, and share expert tips on how to secure the best possible cover without breaking the bank.

Why Consider Private Medical Insurance in Your 60s?

While the NHS provides excellent care, it is under undeniable pressure. According to recent NHS England data, the median waiting time for non-emergency consultant-led treatment can stretch for several months, with millions of people on the waiting list. For those in their 60s and 70s, waiting for procedures like hip replacements, cataract surgery, or diagnostic scans can significantly impact quality of life.

Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you a choice when you need it most. The key benefits include:

  • Speed of Access: Bypass long waiting lists for eligible consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments.
  • Choice and Control: Select your consultant, specialist, and the hospital where you receive your treatment from a pre-approved list.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Recover in a private en-suite room, offering a more comfortable and peaceful environment.
  • Access to Specialist Care: Gain access to certain drugs, treatments, and therapies that may not be routinely available on the NHS due to funding decisions.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a plan in place to get you back on your feet quickly is invaluable.

Understanding What Private Health Insurance Covers (and What It Doesn't)

This is the most critical point to understand before you consider a policy. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a joint replacement, hernia repair, or removing cataracts).
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or arthritis).

Crucially, PMI does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy starts (typically the last 5 years).

Here’s a simple breakdown of what is generally included versus what is excluded.

Usually Covered by PMIUsually Not Covered by PMI
In-patient and day-patient treatment (e.g., surgery)Pre-existing medical conditions
Consultations with specialistsChronic conditions (like diabetes, arthritis, asthma)
Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, and PET scans)A&E / Emergency services
Comprehensive cancer cover (a core feature of most policies)Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary)
Therapies (physiotherapy, osteopathy after surgery)Normal pregnancy and childbirth
Mental health support (varies by policy)Organ transplants, drug abuse, self-inflicted injuries

An expert PMI broker, like the team at WeCovr, can help you navigate the specific terms of each insurer to ensure you understand exactly what you are covered for.

How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost for Over 60s? A Detailed Look at Premiums

The question on everyone's mind is, "What's the price?" The cost of PMI increases with age because the statistical risk of needing medical treatment also rises. However, the premium is highly individual.

To give you a realistic idea, we've compiled some illustrative monthly premium estimates for non-smokers in 2025. These are based on a mid-range policy with a £250 excess and a standard UK hospital list.

AgeBasic Cover (Est. Monthly Premium)Comprehensive Cover (Est. Monthly Premium)
60£85 - £125£160 - £260
65£110 - £160£190 - £310
70£140 - £210£260 - £420
75£180 - £270£330 - £550+

Disclaimer: These figures are for guidance only. Your actual quote will depend on the specific factors listed below. The best way to get an accurate price is to get a personalised quote.

The Key Factors That Determine Your PMI Premium Over 60

Your premium isn't just a number plucked from thin air. It's calculated based on several risk factors. Understanding these will help you see where you can make adjustments to find a more affordable price.

  1. Your Age: As shown above, this is the most significant factor. The older you are, the higher the premium.
  2. Your Location: Where you live in the UK matters. Private healthcare costs are higher in major cities, especially London, so a policy for someone in the capital will be more expensive than for someone in a more rural area.
  3. Level of Cover: Policies are not one-size-fits-all.
    • Basic: Covers the essentials, mainly in-patient and day-patient treatment.
    • Mid-Range: Adds a set amount of out-patient cover for diagnostics and consultations.
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive in-patient and out-patient cover, often including therapies, mental health support, and other benefits.
  4. Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if your excess is £500 and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £500 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,500. A higher excess will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  5. Hospital List: Insurers have tiered hospital lists. A policy covering only local hospitals will be cheaper than one that gives you access to premium hospitals in Central London.
  6. Underwriting Type: This is how the insurer assesses your medical history.
    • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had in the 5 years before the policy began. These exclusions can be lifted if you remain symptom-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then assesses your history and tells you exactly what is excluded from day one. This provides certainty but can take longer to set up.
  7. Lifestyle: While less direct than with life insurance, smoking has a major impact on health insurance premiums. Being a non-smoker will secure you a much better price.

10 Proven Ways to Reduce the Cost of Your Private Health Insurance Premium

Feeling concerned about the potential costs? Don't be. There are many practical ways to make private health cover more affordable.

  1. Increase Your Excess: This is the quickest win. Moving your excess from £100 to £500 or £1,000 can reduce your premium by 20-40%. Choose an amount you'd be comfortable paying if you needed to claim.
  2. Opt for a 6-Week Wait Option: This is a brilliant cost-saving feature. With this option, if the NHS can provide the necessary in-patient treatment within six weeks of it being recommended, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private policy kicks in. As it reduces the likelihood of a claim, it significantly cuts your premium.
  3. Select a Limited Hospital List: Do you really need access to every private hospital in the country? Choosing a list that covers quality hospitals in your local area is a smart way to save money.
  4. Review Your Out-patient Cover: Comprehensive out-patient cover is expensive. Consider reducing the limit (e.g., to £1,000 per year) or removing it entirely if you are happy to pay for initial consultations and diagnostic scans yourself, keeping the insurance for the big-ticket costs like surgery.
  5. Pay Annually: Most insurers offer a discount of around 5% if you pay your premium for the year upfront instead of in monthly instalments.
  6. Build a No-Claims Discount: Just like with car insurance, most PMI providers reward you for not making a claim. You can build up a discount of up to 60-75% over several years, which helps keep renewal costs down.
  7. Take Advantage of Wellness Programs: Some providers, like Vitality, actively reward you for healthy living. By tracking your activity, you can earn points that lead to lower premiums at renewal, as well as other perks.
  8. Compare Providers Every Year: Don't just auto-renew! The market is competitive. What was a great deal last year might be beaten by another provider this year. This is where a broker is invaluable.
  9. Consider Guided Consultant Lists: Some insurers, like AXA Health, offer a 'guided' option. They will give you a choice of 3-5 pre-approved specialists for your condition, which helps them manage costs and pass the savings on to you.
  10. Use an Expert Broker Like WeCovr: This is perhaps the most effective tip. A good broker doesn't cost you anything—they are paid a commission by the insurer you choose. They will:
    • Compare policies from all the leading UK providers.
    • Explain the complex jargon in plain English.
    • Help you tailor a policy to your exact needs and budget.
    • Ensure you're not paying for cover you don't need.

Health and Wellness for Over 60s: Taking Control of Your Wellbeing

Private health insurance is a safety net, but the best strategy is to invest in your health every day. Staying active and healthy not only improves your quality of life but can also help keep your insurance premiums manageable.

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, including plenty of fruit, vegetables, lean protein, and fibre. Staying hydrated is also key. To help our clients on their wellness journey, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered CalorieHero app for all health and life insurance customers.
  • Regular Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. Activities like yoga or tai chi are fantastic for maintaining balance and flexibility.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Good quality sleep is vital for physical and mental regeneration. Aim for 7-8 hours per night and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
  • Stay Socially Connected: Maintaining strong social ties with friends, family, and community groups is proven to boost mental health and overall resilience.

As a WeCovr client, you can also benefit from discounts on our other insurance products, such as travel or home insurance, helping you save money across the board.

Comparing Top UK Private Health Insurance Providers for Over 60s

The UK market is home to several excellent insurers, each with unique strengths. Here is a brief overview to help you understand the landscape.

ProviderKey Strengths for Over 60sThings to Consider
BupaA household name with an extensive hospital network and a strong reputation for cancer care.Tends to be one of the more premium-priced options.
AXA HealthExcellent mental health support and innovative 'Guided' options to help reduce costs.The guided consultant list may not appeal to those who want complete freedom of choice.
AvivaOften very competitive on price and offers a 'BacktoBetter' service for musculoskeletal issues.Hospital lists and out-patient limits need to be reviewed carefully to ensure they match your needs.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with reduced premiums and other perks.The best value is unlocked by actively engaging with the wellness programme.
The ExeterKnown for their community-rated pricing on some plans, which can be beneficial for older members.May have more limited hospital lists compared to the larger providers.

The "best" provider is entirely personal. It depends on your budget, your location, and what you value most in a policy. A broker's role is to match your personal circumstances to the right provider. Based on high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr excels at finding that perfect fit for our clients.

Do I need to declare my pre-existing conditions for private health insurance?

Generally, yes, but how you do it depends on the underwriting type. With 'Full Medical Underwriting', you provide a full history upfront. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, you don't, but any condition you've had in the 5 years before your policy starts is automatically excluded for at least the first 2 years of your policy. It is crucial to understand that standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

Can I get private health insurance if I'm over 70 or 80?

Absolutely. While some insurers have upper age limits for new applicants (often around 75 or 80), many have no upper age limit at all. The premiums will be higher, reflecting the increased risk, but cover is certainly available. An expert broker can quickly identify which insurers are best suited for applicants over 70.

Is cancer care included in private health insurance for over 60s?

Yes, comprehensive cancer cover is a core and highly valued feature of almost every private medical insurance policy in the UK. This typically includes diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, as well as access to specialist drugs and treatments not always available on the NHS. The level of cover can vary, so it's important to check the policy details.

Why should I use a broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr costs you nothing but offers significant advantages. Instead of getting one price from one insurer, we compare the entire market to find you the best value. We provide impartial, expert advice to help you tailor a policy to your specific needs, ensuring you understand all the terms and don't pay for benefits you won't use. We do the hard work for you.

Take the Next Step with WeCovr

Choosing the right private medical insurance is a significant decision, but it doesn't have to be a difficult one. With the right guidance, you can find a policy that provides both excellent cover and outstanding value, giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Ready to explore your options? The expert, friendly team at WeCovr is here to help. We'll compare leading UK providers to find a policy that fits your health needs and your budget.

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


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.


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