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How Private Health Insurance Treats Gender-Specific Conditions

How Private Health Insurance Treats Gender-Specific...

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. This guide offers clear, expert insight into how PMI treats gender-specific health conditions, helping you make an informed decision for your wellbeing.

Focus on prostate, testicular, breast, cervical health, and how cover differs

When considering private health cover, one of the most pressing questions is: "Will it be there for me when I need it most?" This is especially true for gender-specific conditions, which can be a source of significant anxiety. The good news is that private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to provide rapid access to diagnosis and high-quality treatment for these very conditions.

However, the level of cover, the treatments available, and the eligibility criteria can vary significantly between different policies and providers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down exactly what you can expect from a UK PMI policy when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the prostate, testes, breasts, and cervix.

Understanding the Golden Rules of UK Private Health Insurance

Before we dive into specific conditions, it's crucial to understand two fundamental principles of every standard UK private health insurance policy. Grasping these will save you a lot of confusion later.

1. PMI is for Acute Conditions, Not Chronic Ones

This is the most important distinction in the world of health insurance.

  • 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 a cataract, a hernia, or, crucially for this article, a new cancer diagnosis that can be treated and potentially cured.
  • A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that arise after your policy has started. They do not cover the day-to-day management of chronic conditions.

2. Pre-existing Conditions Are Not Covered (Initially)

A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before the start of your policy. Standard UK PMI policies will not cover these conditions from day one.

How they are excluded depends on your choice of underwriting:

  • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer then reviews it and tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from the outset. They may apply specific exclusions to your policy for any pre-existing conditions.

An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can help you decide which underwriting method is best for your personal circumstances.

Prostate Health and Private Medical Insurance

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the UK, with over 52,000 new diagnoses each year. Other conditions, like an enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH), also affect a vast number of men, particularly as they get older. PMI offers a powerful alternative to potentially long NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment.

What Does PMI Typically Cover for Prostate Health?

If you develop new symptoms—such as changes in urinary habits—after your policy begins, PMI provides a clear and rapid pathway to care:

  • Speedy Diagnosis: Your GP can provide an open referral, allowing you to see a private consultant urologist, often within days. Your policy will cover the consultation fees.
  • Advanced Diagnostics: PMI covers essential diagnostic tests to get a clear picture. This includes PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood tests, advanced MRI scans (like multi-parametric MRI), and biopsies if required. Accessing these privately can cut waiting times from months to weeks or even days.
  • Cutting-Edge Cancer Treatment: If prostate cancer is diagnosed, your policy will cover a comprehensive range of treatments, including:
    • Surgery: Including robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (using the Da Vinci system), which can offer greater precision and quicker recovery times.
    • Radiotherapy: Such as external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) or internal radiotherapy (brachytherapy).
    • Chemotherapy and Hormone Therapy: Covering the cost of drugs and their administration.
    • Specialist Drugs: Many policies offer access to new and innovative cancer drugs that may not yet be routinely available on the NHS.
  • Treatment for Benign Conditions: Medically necessary treatment for acute benign conditions like BPH is also covered. This can include procedures like TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) to relieve symptoms.

What Is Usually Not Covered?

  • Routine Screening: A PSA test without any symptoms is considered screening and is not typically covered. The NHS does not have a national screening programme for prostate cancer, and private insurers follow this lead.
  • Chronic Management: Ongoing, long-term monitoring of a stable prostate condition.
  • Pre-existing Issues: Any prostate symptoms or diagnoses you had before your policy started.

NHS vs. Private Care for Prostate Health: A Comparison

FeatureNHS CarePrivate Medical Insurance
Referral to SpecialistCan take several weeks or months, depending on location.Typically within a few days of GP referral.
Diagnostic Scans (MRI)Waiting times can be lengthy.Often performed within a week of consultation.
Choice of Hospital/SurgeonLimited choice, based on your local trust.Extensive choice from a national list of private hospitals and specialists.
Treatment OptionsExcellent standard of care, but access to the very latest tech can be limited by budgets.Access to advanced options like robotic surgery and newer drugs may be more readily available.
Comfort and PrivacyOften treated on a general ward.Private en-suite room for overnight stays.

Testicular Health and PMI Cover

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15-49 in the UK, with around 2,400 diagnoses each year. Although highly treatable, the key to a successful outcome is early diagnosis and treatment—an area where PMI truly excels.

What Does PMI Typically Cover for Testicular Health?

For a new lump or symptom discovered after your policy starts, PMI provides immediate peace of mind.

  • Rapid Diagnostics: Following a GP referral, you'll get a swift appointment with a urologist. Your policy will cover the consultation and any necessary diagnostic tests, which usually include:
    • An ultrasound scan of the scrotum.
    • Blood tests to check for specific tumour markers.
  • Prompt Treatment: If testicular cancer is confirmed, your policy will cover the full treatment pathway. This includes:
    • Surgery (Orchidectomy): The surgical removal of the affected testicle. This is the primary treatment and is carried out very quickly.
    • Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy: If the cancer has spread or is at risk of spreading, PMI covers the costs of subsequent treatment courses at specialist cancer centres.
    • Prosthetic Implants: The cost of a testicular prosthesis is often included as part of the initial surgical treatment.
  • Other Acute Conditions: Cover is also available for other acute testicular issues requiring intervention, such as the surgical treatment of painful epididymal cysts.

What Is Usually Not Covered?

  • Fertility Preservation: Storing sperm before cancer treatment is a common concern. While some top-tier, comprehensive policies may offer a small financial contribution towards this, it is not standard cover on most PMI plans. This is a critical point to check in your policy details.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any lumps, pain, or concerns you had investigated before taking out your policy will be excluded.

A Note on Wellness: All men should perform a regular self-examination. Familiarising yourself with what is normal for you is the best way to spot any changes early. If you find a lump, swelling, or persistent ache, see your GP immediately.

Breast Health and Private Health Cover

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, affecting around 57,000 people annually, including a small number of men. The journey from finding a lump to getting a diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, and PMI is structured to significantly reduce this anxiety-inducing waiting period.

What Does PMI Typically Cover for Breast Health?

PMI offers a 'gold standard' pathway for breast concerns that arise after your policy starts.

  • One-Stop Breast Clinics: Most insurers provide access to rapid diagnostic clinics. Following a GP referral for a new symptom (like a lump, skin change, or discharge), you can often get an appointment on the same day or within 48 hours. Here, you will typically have:
    1. A consultation with a consultant breast surgeon.
    2. A mammogram and/or ultrasound scan.
    3. A biopsy or fine-needle aspiration if needed. The goal is to provide a diagnosis, or reassurance, in a single visit.
  • Comprehensive Cancer Treatment: If a breast cancer diagnosis is made, your policy will cover a wide range of treatments tailored to you:
    • Surgery: Including lumpectomy (tumour removal) or mastectomy (breast removal).
    • Reconstructive Surgery: This is a key benefit. Most policies cover breast reconstruction performed at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later date. This is not considered 'cosmetic' but an integral part of the treatment.
    • Radiotherapy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, and Targeted Therapies: Your policy will cover the costs of treatment at a private hospital or cancer centre, including expensive drugs that may be subject to delays or restrictions on the NHS.
  • Treatment for Benign Lumps: If a lump is found to be benign (e.g., a fibroadenoma or a cyst) but is causing pain or requires surgical removal for another medical reason, this is typically covered.

What Is Usually Not Covered?

  • Routine Screening Mammograms: The NHS has an excellent screening programme for women aged 50 to 71. PMI does not cover routine screening mammograms in the absence of symptoms. Some policies may have a 'wellness benefit' that provides a cash contribution towards health screenings, but this is not standard.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Breast augmentation or reduction for purely cosmetic reasons is never covered.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any breast health issues you had prior to the policy start date.

How Different Insurers Approach Cancer Cover

While all major UK PMI providers offer robust cancer cover, their approach can differ. An independent broker like WeCovr can help you compare the subtle but important differences.

ProviderKey Feature of Cancer CoverGood to Know
AXA HealthFull cancer cover as standard, including access to their "Expert Help" service for second opinions.Strong focus on clinical pathways and extensive hospital network.
BupaComprehensive cancer cover with no time limits on treatment, as long as you remain a member.Renowned for their own network of Bupa Cromwell Hospital and specialist centres.
Vitality"Advanced Cancer Cover" is a popular option, giving access to experimental drugs and treatments.Unique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with lower premiums and other perks.
The ExeterOffers full cancer cover and is known for its clear and straightforward policy wording.A friendly society with a strong focus on customer service and claims handling.

Cervical Health and Other Gynaecological Conditions

Thanks to the highly effective NHS Cervical Screening Programme (smear tests), cervical cancer cases have fallen dramatically. Around 3,200 women are diagnosed each year in the UK. PMI's role here is typically to provide swift action after an abnormal NHS screening result.

What Does PMI Typically Cover for Cervical & Gynaecological Health?

  • Fast-Tracked Diagnostics: If your NHS smear test comes back with abnormal results requiring further investigation, PMI allows you to bypass the NHS waiting list for a colposcopy. Your policy will cover a private consultation with a gynaecologist and the colposcopy procedure itself, including any biopsies taken.
  • Treatment for Pre-Cancerous Cells: If the colposcopy confirms the presence of pre-cancerous cells (CIN), your policy will cover the treatment to remove them, most commonly a LLETZ procedure (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone).
  • Full Cancer Care: In the unfortunate event that cervical cancer is diagnosed, your policy will cover all necessary treatments, such as hysterectomy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.
  • Broader Gynaecological Cover: PMI isn't just for cancer. It provides excellent cover for the diagnosis and acute surgical treatment of many common gynaecological conditions, including:
    • Endometriosis: Diagnostic laparoscopy and surgical treatment to remove endometrial tissue.
    • Ovarian Cysts: Monitoring and surgical removal if medically necessary.
    • Uterine Fibroids: Procedures like myomectomy (to remove fibroids) or hysterectomy.
    • Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Investigations and procedures like endometrial ablation.

What Is Usually Not Covered?

  • Routine Smear Tests: These are considered screening and are best handled by the excellent NHS programme.
  • Contraception: The fitting of coils, prescriptions for contraceptive pills, and other forms of birth control are not covered.
  • Fertility Treatment: IVF, IUI, and other assisted reproduction technologies are standard exclusions on almost all PMI policies.
  • Menopause: While initial consultations to diagnose menopausal symptoms may be covered, the long-term management and prescription of HRT is considered chronic and is typically not covered.
  • Maternity Care: Standard pregnancy and childbirth are not covered by PMI, as they are not considered unforeseen acute conditions. However, some complications of pregnancy may be covered.

Making the Right Choice for You

Choosing a private medical insurance policy is a significant decision. It's not just about finding the cheapest price; it's about securing the right level of cover for your peace of mind.

Here are the key factors to consider:

  1. Level of Cover: Do you want a basic plan that just covers in-patient treatment, or a comprehensive plan with full out-patient cover for diagnostics? For gender-specific concerns, having good out-patient cover is vital for quick diagnosis.
  2. Cancer Cover Options: Review the provider's cancer promise. Is it a standard feature or an optional add-on? Does it include access to advanced and experimental drugs? This is one of the most valuable aspects of PMI.
  3. Hospital List: Check which hospitals are included in the plan. Do you have a preferred hospital near your home or work?
  4. The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium, but make sure it's an amount you can comfortably afford.
  5. Wellness Benefits: Would you be motivated by a plan like Vitality's that rewards you for staying active? Many providers also offer valuable extras like 24/7 Digital GP access, mental health support, and discounts on gym memberships.

When you purchase PMI or life insurance with WeCovr, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Plus, you can benefit from discounts on other insurance products you may need.

Navigating these choices can be overwhelming. This is where using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr is invaluable. We take the time to understand your needs, compare policies from across the market, and explain the fine print in plain English—all at no cost to you. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to finding the right cover for our clients.

Does private health insurance cover cancer?

Yes, cover for cancer is a core and central benefit of almost every private medical insurance policy in the UK. It covers the cost of diagnosis and treatment for acute cancers that arise after you take out the policy. However, the exact level of cover, such as access to experimental drugs, can vary between providers, so it's vital to compare policies.

Are routine check-ups like smear tests or PSA tests covered?

Generally, no. Standard private health insurance does not cover routine screening or preventative check-ups when you have no symptoms. The NHS provides excellent national screening programmes for cervical and breast cancer. PMI is designed to kick in to provide rapid diagnosis and treatment if you develop symptoms or if a screening test shows an abnormal result requiring further investigation.

What's the difference between an acute and a chronic condition?

An acute condition is a medical issue that is short-lived and expected to respond fully to treatment, like a bone fracture or a newly diagnosed, treatable cancer. A chronic condition is long-term and often has no complete cure, requiring ongoing management, such as diabetes or asthma. UK private medical insurance is specifically designed to cover the treatment of acute conditions.

Can I get cover for a gender-specific condition I've had symptoms for before?

This would be classed as a pre-existing condition and, under standard UK PMI rules, would not be covered when you first take out a policy. If you choose 'moratorium' underwriting, it may become eligible for cover after you have been symptom-free and treatment-free for that condition for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts.

Why should I use a PMI broker like WeCovr?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr costs you nothing but provides immense value. We use our expertise to compare the entire market, explain complex policy differences in simple terms, and find the best PMI provider that matches your specific health needs and budget. We do the hard work so you can get the right protection with confidence.

Ready to explore your private health insurance options and secure peace of mind for the future?

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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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