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How Private Health Insurance Helps You Beat NHS Delays

How Private Health Insurance Helps You Beat NHS Delays 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the stress caused by healthcare delays. This guide explains how private medical insurance in the UK provides a powerful solution, offering peace of mind and faster access to treatment when you need it most.

WeCovr explains how PMI reduces waiting time stress

Waiting for medical treatment can be one of life's most stressful experiences. The uncertainty, the discomfort, and the disruption to your daily life, work, and family can take a significant toll. While our National Health Service (NHS) is a national treasure, it is currently facing unprecedented demand, leading to record-long waiting lists for millions of people.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) steps in. It's not about replacing the NHS, but rather working alongside it. PMI offers a parallel route to diagnosis and treatment for specific conditions, allowing you to bypass long queues and get the expert care you need, faster. By taking control of your health journey, you can significantly reduce the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with waiting.

A Critical Point: What PMI Covers (and What It Doesn't)

Before we dive deeper, it's vital to understand a fundamental rule of UK private health insurance.

PMI is designed to cover 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 things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

Crucially, standard PMI policies do not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • Chronic Condition: A long-term illness that can be managed but not typically cured, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had before your policy started.

PMI also does not cover A&E emergencies, which remain the domain of the NHS.

The Reality of NHS Waiting Lists in 2025

To understand the value of private health cover, it's important to grasp the scale of the challenge facing the NHS. The figures paint a stark picture of a system under immense pressure.

According to the latest data from NHS England, the referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting list remains stubbornly high. As of mid-2024, the situation highlights a persistent challenge:

  • Total Waiting List: The overall number of treatment pathways on the waiting list stood at approximately 7.54 million.
  • Long Waits: Of those waiting, an estimated 3.2 million people had been waiting more than 18 weeks, the official target for starting treatment.
  • Extremely Long Waits: Over 300,000 patients had been waiting for more than a full year (52 weeks) for their treatment to begin.

These aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet; they represent individuals living with pain, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life.

Waiting Time MilestoneApproximate Number of Patients (Mid-2024 Data)Impact on Daily Life
Waiting over 18 weeks~ 3.2 millionProlonged pain, difficulty working, mental health strain
Waiting over 52 weeks (1 year)~ 303,000Severe impact on mobility, career, and family life
Waiting over 65 weeks~ 45,000Life put on hold, potential for condition to worsen

Source: NHS England, Referral to Treatment (RTT) Waiting Times Data.

Waiting for a diagnosis can be just as stressful. The waiting time for key diagnostic tests like MRI or CT scans can often stretch for many weeks, delaying the start of any potential treatment plan.

How Private Health Insurance Works: Your Fast-Track to Treatment

So, how does PMI actually help you jump the queue? The process is straightforward and designed for efficiency.

  1. See Your NHS GP: Your health journey almost always starts with your local GP. You discuss your symptoms, and they provide an initial assessment. The NHS remains your first port of call.
  2. Get a Referral: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist or have diagnostic tests, they will write you an open referral letter.
  3. Contact Your PMI Provider: Instead of joining the end of the NHS waiting list, you call your insurance provider's dedicated claims line. You'll explain the situation and provide your referral details.
  4. Authorisation is Granted: Your provider will check your policy details and authorise the consultation or tests. They will provide you with a list of approved specialists and private hospitals in your area.
  5. Book Your Appointment: You can then book an appointment at a time and place that suits you, often within days.
  6. Receive Prompt Treatment: Following your consultation, if treatment is required and covered by your policy, it will be authorised and scheduled promptly, usually within a few weeks. The bills are sent directly to the insurer.

This streamlined process puts you back in control, replacing a long and uncertain wait with a clear, fast, and proactive plan of action.

The Core Benefits: Speed, Choice, and Comfort

The most significant advantage of private medical insurance is speed. However, the benefits extend far beyond simply reducing your wait time.

1. Radically Reduced Waiting Times

The difference in waiting times between the NHS and the private sector can be dramatic. While the NHS measures waits in months and sometimes years, the private sector typically measures them in days and weeks.

NHS vs. Private Waiting Times: Illustrative Examples

Procedure / ScanAverage NHS Wait (from referral)Typical Private Sector Wait
Initial Specialist Consultation8 - 12 weeks+1 - 2 weeks
MRI / CT Scan4 - 8 weeksWithin 1 week
Hip or Knee Replacement18 - 52+ weeks4 - 6 weeks
Cataract Surgery18 - 40+ weeks3 - 5 weeks
Hernia Repair18 - 30+ weeks2 - 4 weeks

Note: These are illustrative figures. NHS waits vary by region and trust. Private waits depend on the specialist and hospital chosen.

Real-Life Example: Meet David, a 55-year-old self-employed builder suffering from severe hip pain. His GP suspects he needs a hip replacement.

  • The NHS Route: David is placed on a waiting list for an orthopaedic consultation, which takes 3 months. After the consultation, he is put on the surgical waiting list, with an estimated wait of 10 months. In total, he faces over a year of pain, unable to work properly, causing significant financial and emotional distress.
  • The PMI Route: David calls his insurer. He sees a private specialist within 10 days. An MRI scan is done 3 days later. His hip replacement surgery is scheduled and completed within 5 weeks of his initial GP visit. He is back on his feet and able to plan his return to work in a fraction of the time.

2. Choice and Control

With PMI, you have a level of choice that isn't possible on the NHS.

  • Choice of Specialist: You can research and choose the consultant you want to see, based on their reputation and specialism.
  • Choice of Hospital: Your policy will include a list of high-quality private hospitals. You can choose one that is convenient for you.
  • Choice of Timing: You can schedule appointments and surgery at times that fit around your work and family commitments.

3. Comfort and Privacy

Private hospitals are designed to provide a more comfortable and less stressful environment. Benefits often include:

  • A private room with an en-suite bathroom.
  • A television, phone, and Wi-Fi.
  • More flexible visiting hours for family and friends.
  • An à la carte menu.

4. Access to Advanced Treatments and Digital Services

Many modern PMI policies include valuable extras that enhance your healthcare experience:

  • Digital GPs: Get 24/7 access to a virtual GP via phone or video call, often with same-day appointments. This is perfect for quick advice, prescriptions, and onward referrals, easing the burden on your local NHS surgery.
  • Advanced Drugs & Treatments: Some policies provide cover for new, innovative drugs or treatments that have not yet been approved for widespread use on the NHS by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
  • Comprehensive Mental Health Support: With NHS waiting lists for mental health services also under strain, many PMI plans offer excellent, fast-track access to talking therapies, counselling, and psychiatric support.

How to Choose the Best Private Medical Insurance UK Policy

The UK PMI market is competitive, with many options available. Finding the right policy depends on your personal needs and budget. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can navigate the market for you, but here are the key factors to consider.

Key Policy Options That Affect Your Cover and Premium

FeatureWhat It IsHow It Affects Your Policy
Level of CoverThe range of treatments included. Can be basic (in-patient only), mid-range, or comprehensive (including out-patient diagnostics and therapies).Comprehensive cover is more expensive but provides more complete protection. Basic cover is more affordable.
ExcessThe fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim you make. For example, a £250 excess.A higher excess will significantly lower your monthly premium. You only pay it once per policy year, per person.
Hospital ListThe network of private hospitals you are allowed to use. These are often tiered by price (e.g., local network vs. nationwide including central London).Choosing a more limited or local hospital list is a great way to reduce your premium without sacrificing quality of care.
The '6-Week Option'A popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the in-patient treatment you need within 6 weeks of when it's required, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your PMI kicks in.This can reduce your premium by 20-30% as it removes the risk for the insurer for many non-urgent procedures.

Understanding Underwriting

This is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will cover.

  • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of, or sought treatment for, in the last 5 years. If you then go 2 full years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's quick and simple.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer assesses it and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. This provides more certainty but takes longer to set up.

An independent broker like WeCovr can explain these options in detail and help you decide which is best for your circumstances. Our advice comes at no extra cost to you.

Proactive Health: A WeCovr Philosophy

We believe that the best healthcare is proactive. While private medical insurance is there for when things go wrong, taking steps to manage your wellbeing can reduce the chances of needing it in the first place.

This is why we provide our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our cutting-edge AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. By making it easier to manage your diet and make healthier choices, you are investing in your long-term health.

Furthermore, we believe in rewarding our clients. When you take out a private medical insurance or life insurance policy with us, you become eligible for exclusive discounts on other types of cover you may need, helping you protect your family and finances more affordably.

Tips for Staying Healthy While You Wait

Whether you're on an NHS list or simply focused on wellness, here are some tips to help you stay in the best possible shape:

  • Nourish Your Body: Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Omega-3s found in oily fish can be particularly beneficial for joint health.
  • Stay Active (Sensibly): Gentle, regular exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can help manage pain, maintain mobility, and boost your mood. Always consult your GP about what's safe for your condition.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Pain and anxiety can disrupt sleep, which is vital for recovery. Create a calming bedtime routine, avoid screens before bed, and ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet.
  • Manage Stress: The stress of waiting is real. Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or even just spending time in nature can have a powerful positive impact on your mental state.

Get Expert Help from a PMI Broker

Choosing a private health insurance policy can feel complex. This is where WeCovr can make all the difference. As an independent and FCA-authorised broker, our loyalty is to you, not the insurance companies.

Our service includes:

  • A Full Market Comparison: We work with the UK's leading PMI providers to find the most suitable cover for your needs.
  • Personalised Advice: We take the time to understand your requirements and budget.
  • Saving You Money: We know how to tailor policies to get you the best possible price.
  • Ongoing Support: We are here to help if you ever need to claim or review your cover.

Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings because we make the process simple, transparent, and effective.


Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance policies in the UK are designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. They typically exclude pre-existing conditions (illnesses you've had in the last 5 years) and long-term chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma.

Do I still need the NHS if I have private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. You will still rely on the NHS for accident and emergency services, GP visits (though many policies offer a private digital GP service), and the management of any chronic conditions that are not covered by your policy.

How does the '6-week option' reduce my premium?

The 6-week option is a popular cost-saving feature. It means that if the treatment you need is available on the NHS within six weeks of your specialist confirming you need it, you will use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private medical insurance policy will kick in to cover the treatment privately. Because this reduces the number of potential claims, insurers offer a significant discount on your premium.

What is the difference between using a broker like WeCovr and going direct to an insurer?

Going direct means you only see the products from one company. An independent broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurer. We compare policies and prices from a wide range of leading UK providers to find the best fit for your specific needs and budget. Our expert advice is provided at no extra cost to you, and we can often find more suitable or better-value cover than you would find on your own.

Ready to beat the queues and gain the peace of mind that comes with fast access to healthcare?

Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote from WeCovr Today →


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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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