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How PMI Underwriting Really Works

Choosing private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex, but understanding one key conceptunderwritingmakes it much simpler. As an insurance PMI broker that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner can demystify this crucial choice for you and your family.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

Choosing private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex, but understanding one key conceptunderwritingmakes it much simpler. As an insurance PMI broker that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner can demystify this crucial choice for you and your family.

Key takeaways

  • Pre-existing conditions: Any illness, injury, or symptom you have (or have had) before the start of your policy.
  • Chronic conditions: Illnesses that are long-term and cannot be fully cured, such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis, or high blood pressure. These require ongoing management rather than a one-off treatment to return you to your previous state of health.
  • Price: An insurer's main goal is to price a policy accurately based on risk. With FMU, the risk is known, so the price can be tailored precisely. A healthy 30-year-old might get a very low price. A 50-year-old with a history of joint pain might get a policy with a knee exclusion and a standard price. With Moratorium, the risk is less known, so the insurer hedges its bets with a price that reflects the "average" risk, which can be slightly higher.
  • Claims: With FMU, the claims process is generally smooth. The decision of whether to cover something was effectively made when you took out the policy. With Moratorium, the underwriting happens at the point of claim. This means you submit your claim, and then the insurer's team begins its investigation. They will likely request access to your medical records to check if your symptoms are new or linked to a pre-existing condition from the five years before your policy began. This can add time and stress to the process.
  • PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

Choosing private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex, but understanding one key concept—underwriting—makes it much simpler. As an insurance PMI broker that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner can demystify this crucial choice for you and your family.

How PMI Underwriting Really Works

When you apply for private health cover, the insurer needs to assess the risk of you making a claim. This assessment process is called underwriting. It determines what the policy will and won't cover based on your medical history, and it directly influences the price you pay.

Think of it like this: the insurer is agreeing to cover the cost of future, unforeseen medical issues. To do that fairly, they need to know about past medical issues. The way they gather and use this information is what defines the type of underwriting.

In the UK, there are two main types for new policies:

  1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
  2. Moratorium Underwriting (Mori)

There's also a third option, Switch underwriting, for those who already have a policy and want to move to a new provider. Getting this choice right from the start is perhaps the most important decision you'll make when buying private medical insurance.

A Crucial Point: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions Are Not Covered

Before we dive into the details of underwriting, let's be crystal clear on a fundamental rule of standard private medical insurance in the UK:

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

It is not designed to cover:

  • Pre-existing conditions: Any illness, injury, or symptom you have (or have had) before the start of your policy.
  • Chronic conditions: Illnesses that are long-term and cannot be fully cured, such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis, or high blood pressure. These require ongoing management rather than a one-off treatment to return you to your previous state of health.

An acute condition, by contrast, is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. For example, a cataract operation, a hernia repair, or treatment for a joint injury are all acute.

Understanding this distinction is vital. No matter which underwriting option you choose, cover for chronic conditions will be excluded. The underwriting process simply determines how the insurer identifies and applies exclusions for your specific pre-existing conditions.

Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): The "Cards on the Table" Approach

Full Medical Underwriting is exactly what it sounds like. You provide the insurer with your complete medical history upfront by filling out a detailed health questionnaire.

You'll be asked about past consultations, treatments, investigations, and any symptoms you've experienced, often going back at least five years. You must be completely honest and thorough. The insurer may also ask for your permission to contact your GP for more information or to see your medical records.

Based on this information, the insurer's underwriting team will decide what to do. They might:

  • Cover you in full: If you have a clean bill of health.
  • Apply exclusions: They might state in writing that specific conditions or body parts will not be covered. For example, if you had knee trouble three years ago, they might place an exclusion on "all conditions related to the right knee."
  • Charge a higher premium: For certain minor historical issues, they might cover you but increase the price.
  • Decline your application: This is rare but can happen in cases of very complex or recent medical history.

The Pros of Full Medical Underwriting

  • Certainty: You know from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. There are no grey areas or surprises when you need to make a claim.
  • Potentially Cheaper: If you are in good health with a limited medical history, FMU can often be cheaper than a moratorium policy because the insurer has a complete picture of the risk they are taking on.
  • Possibility of Covering Some Pre-existing Conditions: In some cases, an insurer might agree to cover a minor pre-existing condition after a certain number of years have passed without symptoms or treatment, or they may offer cover for it in exchange for a higher premium. This is decided on a case-by-case basis.

The Cons of Full Medical Underwriting

  • Lengthy Application: The health questionnaire can be long and require you to recall medical details from years ago. It takes more time and effort.
  • Intrusive: Some people feel uncomfortable sharing their entire medical history.
  • Permanent Exclusions: The exclusions applied are often permanent and will remain on your policy for life, unless you specifically ask for them to be reviewed (and the insurer agrees).

Real-Life Example: Sarah and FMU

Sarah, a 45-year-old teacher, decides to get PMI. Ten years ago, she had physiotherapy for a shoulder injury after a fall. On her FMU application, she declares this. The insurer reviews her history and, because it was a long time ago and she has had no further issues, they offer her a policy with no exclusions for her shoulder. She has complete peace of mind.

Who is FMU Good For?

  • Individuals and families in good health with a straightforward medical history.
  • People who value absolute clarity and want to know exactly what's covered from the outset.
  • Those who have had a historical medical issue but want to see if an insurer might be willing to cover it.

Moratorium Underwriting (Mori): The "Wait and See" Approach

Moratorium underwriting is the most common type chosen in the UK because it's simpler and faster to set up.

With a moratorium policy, you don't complete a full health questionnaire. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any pre-existing medical conditions you have had in a set period before the policy started (typically the last five years).

The "moratorium" is a waiting period, usually two years. If you go for two continuous years after your policy starts without experiencing any symptoms, needing any treatment, medication, or advice for that pre-existing condition, the insurer may then agree to cover it in the future.

However, if the condition comes back or you need advice for it during that two-year moratorium period, the "clock" resets, and you'll need to go another two years trouble-free before it can be considered for cover.

The Pros of Moratorium Underwriting

  • Quick and Easy: The application process is very fast as there are no medical forms to fill in. You can often get cover in place the same day where available.
  • Less Intrusive: You don't need to disclose your entire medical history at the start.
  • Pre-existing Conditions Can Become Eligible for Cover: Unlike the often-permanent exclusions on an FMU policy, a moratorium offers a clear pathway for pre-existing conditions to become covered over time.

The Cons of Moratorium Underwriting

  • Uncertainty at the Point of Claim: The main drawback. You don't know for sure if a condition will be covered until you make a claim. At that point, the insurer will investigate your medical history to see if it's a new condition or related to something you had before.
  • Potentially Slower Claims: The claims process can be delayed while the insurer requests medical information from your GP to determine if your condition is pre-existing.
  • Can Be More Expensive: Because the insurer has less information upfront, they are taking on a slightly higher, unknown risk. This is often reflected in a slightly higher premium compared to an equivalent FMU policy for a healthy individual.

Real-Life Example: David and Moratorium

David, a 50-year-old accountant, took out a moratorium policy. Four years before, he'd seen his GP for occasional back pain. In the first year of his PMI policy, his back pain returns. When he tries to claim for physiotherapy, the insurer investigates and finds it's a pre-existing condition. The claim is declined. The two-year moratorium "clock" for his back pain now resets to zero.

Who is Moratorium Good For?

  • People who want to get cover in place quickly without a lot of paperwork.
  • Those who haven't had any significant medical issues in the last five years.
  • Individuals who are happy with the "wait and see" approach and understand that claims will involve a review of their medical history.

Comparison: Full Medical Underwriting vs. Moratorium Underwriting

FeatureFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)Moratorium Underwriting (Mori)
Application ProcessDetailed health questionnaire. Can be slow.No medical questions. Fast and simple.
Upfront KnowledgeTotal Clarity. You know exactly what is and is not covered from Day 1.Uncertainty. Cover is determined at the point of claim.
Pre-existing ConditionsUsually excluded permanently in writing.Automatically excluded for a set period (e.g., 2 years). May become eligible for cover later.
Claims ProcessGenerally faster, as underwriting is already done.Can be slower, as insurer needs to investigate medical history.
CostOften cheaper for healthy individuals.Can be slightly more expensive due to the unknown risk for the insurer.
Best For...People who want certainty and have a clear medical history.People who want a quick start and are comfortable with the "wait and see" approach.

An expert PMI broker, such as WeCovr, can walk you through both scenarios with your personal circumstances in mind, helping you compare quotes from the main PMI providers to see which underwriting type works out better for you financially and practically.

Switch Underwriting: Changing Your Insurer Without Losing Cover

What if you already have private medical insurance but you're not happy with the service, the premium has become too expensive, or another provider is offering a better deal? You might be hesitant to switch, fearing you'll lose cover for conditions that developed while you were with your original insurer.

This is where Switch underwriting comes in. It's a special method designed to make it easy to move from one PMI provider to another.

The most common form is Continued Medical Exclusions (CME). With CME, your new insurer agrees to take you on with the same medical exclusions you had on your previous policy. Any new conditions that you developed and were covered for under your old policy will continue to be covered by your new one.

You effectively carry your underwriting terms from your old policy to your new one. You don't get cover for things that were previously excluded, but importantly, you don't gain new exclusions for conditions that have arisen since you first took out cover.

The Pros of Switch Underwriting

  • Continuity of Cover: You can switch insurers to get a better price or better benefits without worrying about losing cover for conditions you've developed.
  • Access to a Competitive Market: It allows you to shop around each year to ensure you're getting good value, preventing you from being "locked in" to one provider.
  • Simple Process: It's usually a straightforward declaration form confirming your current policy details.

The Cons of Switch Underwriting

  • Exclusions Carry Over: Any exclusions on your original policy will follow you to the new one. You don't get a "fresh start".
  • Not Always Available: Not all insurers offer switch terms, and you usually need to have been with your previous insurer for a certain period.
  • Benefit for Benefit: Your new policy must typically have a comparable or lower level of benefits than your old one. You can't usually switch to a much more comprehensive policy.

Real-Life Example: The Henderson Family and Switching

The Henderson family have had a PMI policy with Insurer A for five years. During that time, Mrs Henderson developed a minor allergy which was covered and treated. Their renewal price from Insurer A is now £300 per month. They shop around and find a similar policy with Insurer B for £250 per month. By using a Switch/CME basis, they move to Insurer B. The original exclusions from Insurer A are carried over, and crucially, Mrs Henderson's allergy remains covered by her new policy.

Who is Switch Underwriting Good For?

  • Anyone with an existing private medical insurance UK policy who wants to find a better price or change provider.
  • People who have developed medical conditions while insured and want to protect their continuity of cover.

How Your Underwriting Choice Affects Price and Claims

The link between underwriting, price, and claims is direct.

  • Price: An insurer's main goal is to price a policy accurately based on risk. With FMU, the risk is known, so the price can be tailored precisely. A healthy 30-year-old might get a very low price. A 50-year-old with a history of joint pain might get a policy with a knee exclusion and a standard price. With Moratorium, the risk is less known, so the insurer hedges its bets with a price that reflects the "average" risk, which can be slightly higher.
  • Claims: With FMU, the claims process is generally smooth. The decision of whether to cover something was effectively made when you took out the policy. With Moratorium, the underwriting happens at the point of claim. This means you submit your claim, and then the insurer's team begins its investigation. They will likely request access to your medical records to check if your symptoms are new or linked to a pre-existing condition from the five years before your policy began. This can add time and stress to the process.

Proactive Health Management: A Wise Investment

While insurance is there for when things go wrong, taking proactive steps for your health is the best strategy of all. A healthier lifestyle can reduce your likelihood of needing to claim, which in turn helps to keep your future renewal premiums more manageable.

With NHS waiting lists in England reaching 7.54 million cases in September 2023, according to NHS England figures, taking control of your health has never been more important.

Simple Steps for Better Health

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. A balanced diet can help prevent a range of chronic conditions. As a bonus for our clients, when you take out a policy with WeCovr, we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, to make healthy eating easier.
  • Regular Exercise: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Regular activity is proven to boost mental and physical wellbeing.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a host of health problems, including weakened immunity and high blood pressure.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a significant physical impact. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can make a huge difference.

Taking out a PMI policy is a great way to protect your health, and combining it with a healthier lifestyle is the ultimate winning formula. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us may be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, like home or travel insurance.

Making the Right Choice for You

There is no single "best" type of underwriting; the right choice depends entirely on your personal circumstances, your attitude to risk, and your priorities.

If you value...Then consider...Because...
Certainty and ClarityFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)You'll know precisely what's covered from day one.
Speed and SimplicityMoratorium Underwriting (Mori)The application is quick and doesn't require a full medical declaration.
Saving Money on an Existing PolicySwitch UnderwritingYou can move to a cheaper provider without losing cover for conditions you've developed.

Navigating these options can be daunting. This is why working with a regulated, FCA-authorised broker is so highly recommended. We can provide regulated advice, compare the whole market for you, and ensure the policy you choose is perfectly aligned with your needs and budget. Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings for our clear, helpful, and transparent service.

Do I need to declare mental health conditions on a PMI application?

Yes, you absolutely must. On a Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) application, you must declare all previous consultations, treatments, or symptoms related to mental health, just as you would for a physical condition. With a Moratorium policy, any mental health conditions you've had in the five years prior to starting the policy would be automatically excluded until you have gone a two-year period without symptoms or advice. Honesty is crucial; non-disclosure can invalidate your policy.

What happens if a condition I had many years ago comes back?

This depends on your underwriting. With an FMU policy, if the condition was specifically excluded, it will not be covered. If it wasn't excluded (perhaps because it was very minor and a long time ago), it may be covered. With a Moratorium policy, if you had symptoms or treatment for it in the five years before your policy started, it will be excluded. If it was more than five years ago, it will generally be covered as it is not classed as a recent pre-existing condition.

Can I change my underwriting type from Moratorium to FMU later?

This is generally not possible with the same insurer. Once your policy has started on a moratorium basis, it will continue that way. However, you could choose to apply for a brand new policy with a different insurer on an FMU basis. In doing so, you would lose any continuity of cover you had built up, and any conditions that had arisen during your moratorium policy would now need to be declared as pre-existing conditions on your new FMU application.

Is private medical insurance worth it if it excludes my pre-existing conditions?

For many people, yes. While your known conditions won't be covered, a PMI policy protects you against the cost of treatment for all new, unforeseen acute conditions that could develop in the future. Given long NHS waiting times for diagnostics and treatment, having PMI provides valuable peace of mind and fast access to care for a vast range of potential future health issues, from joint replacements and cancer treatment to hernia repairs and cataract surgery.

Ready to explore your options and find the right private health cover for your needs?

The team of experts at A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner can help. We provide free, no-obligation advice and can compare policies and prices from all the leading UK insurers to find the right fit for you.

[Get Your Free, Personalised PMI Quote from WeCovr Today]

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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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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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

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

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

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

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.

Key guides

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