WeCovr.

Login

How to Get PMI With a Lapsed or Cancelled NHS GP Registration

How to Get PMI With a Lapsed or Cancelled NHS GP...

Navigating the UK’s healthcare landscape can feel complex, especially when seeking private medical insurance (PMI). At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we provide expert guidance to help you find the right private health cover in the UK, even in non-standard situations.

Steps for expats, new arrivals or returning citizens

Welcome to the UK! Whether you're an expat starting a new chapter, a citizen returning home after years abroad, or a new arrival on a work visa, securing your health and wellbeing is a top priority. A common hurdle many face is arranging private medical insurance without an active NHS GP registration.

You might find yourself in this situation if:

  • You have just moved to the UK and haven't had a chance to register with a local doctor.
  • You are a British citizen who has been living overseas for an extended period, causing your previous NHS registration to lapse.
  • You are in the UK on a temporary basis and are unsure of your entitlement or the process.

The good news is that not having a GP on day one doesn't automatically disqualify you from getting a PMI policy. However, it does require a specific approach. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, explaining your options and helping you make an informed decision.

Private medical insurance providers in the UK typically ask for your GP's details for one primary reason: to verify your medical history. This process is part of what's known as underwriting.

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your health and risk level before offering you a policy. It helps them decide what they can cover and at what price. Your GP records provide a comprehensive, independent history of past consultations, diagnoses, and treatments.

There are two main types of underwriting in the UK:

  1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire, disclosing your full medical history. The insurer may then contact your GP (with your permission) to get more information. This process can lead to specific exclusions on your policy but provides absolute clarity on what is and isn't covered from day one. Without a GP, FMU is very difficult to complete.

  2. Moratorium Underwriting: You do not need to provide your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a general rule: they will not cover treatment for any medical condition you've had symptoms, medication, or advice for in a set period (usually the five years) before the policy started. This is the most common route for those without an immediate GP record.

Because a GP registration is the standard gateway to your medical records, its absence means you'll likely be steered towards moratorium underwriting.

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions in UK PMI

Before diving into policy options, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of the UK PMI market. Standard private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

Condition TypeDescriptionExamplesCovered by Standard PMI?
Acute ConditionAn illness, injury or disease that is short-term, responds quickly to treatment, and from which you are expected to make a full recovery.Appendicitis, broken bones, hernias, cataracts, joint replacement.Yes, if the condition is new and arises after the policy starts.
Pre-existing ConditionAny ailment for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice or treatment before your policy start date.A knee injury from two years ago, occasional migraines you've had for years.No, not by standard policies.
Chronic ConditionA long-term condition that cannot be cured but can be managed with ongoing care, medication, or check-ups.Diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis, Crohn's disease.No, standard PMI does not cover the management of chronic conditions.

This is the most important takeaway: PMI is not a replacement for the NHS. It is a complementary service designed to give you faster access to eligible treatment for new, curable conditions. The day-to-day management of long-term and pre-existing illnesses will remain under the care of the NHS.

Your Options for Getting PMI Without a GP Registration

If you don't have an NHS GP registration, you have three main pathways to securing private health cover.

Option 1: Choose a Moratorium Underwriting Policy

This is the most direct and popular option for individuals without a UK medical history.

How it works:

  • No lengthy forms: You won't fill out a detailed medical questionnaire.
  • The "waiting period" rule: The policy will automatically exclude any condition you've experienced in the 5 years before joining.
  • Earning back cover: If you then go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts without needing treatment, advice, or having symptoms of that previous condition, it may become eligible for cover.

Example: Let's say you had occasional shoulder pain three years before buying your policy. For the first two years of your cover, any treatment related to your shoulder would be excluded. However, if you have no shoulder symptoms or consultations for two full years, your insurer may cover a new shoulder issue in year three.

This approach offers speed and simplicity, getting you covered quickly without the need for GP records.

FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Upfront ProcessQuick and simple. No medical questionnaire.Slower. Requires a detailed health questionnaire.
GP Records Needed?No, not typically required at application.Yes, insurer may contact your GP.
Clarity on CoverLess clarity upfront. Claims are assessed at the point of need.Full clarity from day one. Exclusions are listed on your policy documents.
Best ForExpats, new arrivals, those without a GP, or people who want a quick start.Individuals with a clear medical history who want certainty on cover.

Option 2: Consider International Health Insurance

For some expats, particularly those who travel frequently or are on specific short-term assignments, an international health insurance plan might be a better fit.

These plans are distinct from standard UK PMI:

  • Global Coverage: They are designed to cover you in multiple countries, not just the UK.
  • More Comprehensive: They often include benefits not standard in UK PMI, such as routine dental, wellness checks, and sometimes maternity care.
  • Underwriting for Pre-existing Conditions: Unlike UK PMI, many international plans will offer to cover pre-existing conditions, usually in exchange for a higher premium (a "surcharge").
  • Higher Cost: This comprehensive cover comes at a significantly higher price than domestic PMI.

An international plan can be an excellent stop-gap, providing you with robust cover while you get settled and decide on your long-term healthcare strategy in the UK.

While you can get PMI without a GP, the simplest long-term solution is to register with one as soon as you're settled. It opens up all underwriting options and fully integrates you into the UK healthcare system.

How to Register with an NHS GP:

  1. Find a Local Surgery: Use the official NHS website to search for GP surgeries in your postcode.
  2. Check for New Patients: The website will indicate if they are accepting new patients. Most are, but some in high-density areas may have temporary freezes.
  3. Complete the GMS1 Form: This is the standard registration form. You can usually download it from the surgery's website or pick one up in person.
  4. Provide Documentation: While you cannot be refused registration for not having a passport or proof of address, providing them makes the process smoother. Accepted documents include:
    • Proof of ID: Passport, driving licence.
    • Proof of Address: A recent utility bill, council tax statement, or bank statement.
  5. Await Confirmation: The surgery will process your application and send you a letter confirming your registration and your NHS number.

According to NHS England, anyone who is 'ordinarily resident' in the UK is entitled to register with a GP. This means you are living in the UK on a "lawful and properly settled basis for the time being." If you have a visa to live or work in the UK, you meet this requirement.

Once registered, you can apply for any PMI policy, including those with Full Medical Underwriting, giving you the widest possible choice.

How a Specialist PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

Trying to find the right insurer and policy on your own can be daunting, especially with the added complication of having no GP. This is where an expert PMI broker is invaluable.

As a specialist broker, WeCovr understands the distinct application criteria of every major UK health insurer.

  • Expert Navigation: We know which providers have the most flexible approach for expats and new arrivals. We can instantly identify the best moratorium policies for your situation.
  • Market Comparison: We compare the whole market for you, ensuring you get the right level of cover at a competitive price, saving you hours of research.
  • No Cost to You: Our expert advice and comparison service is completely free for you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which does not affect the price you pay.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly for its clarity, efficiency, and friendly support.

By working with WeCovr, you get a trusted partner to handle the complexities, allowing you to focus on settling into your new life in the UK.

Furthermore, WeCovr clients gain complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on top of your wellness goals. Purchasing a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us can also unlock discounts on other types of cover, providing even greater value.

A Real-Life Example: Carlos, the Tech Professional

Carlos moved from Brazil to London for a job in the tech industry. His visa included the Immigration Health Surcharge, giving him NHS access, but he wanted PMI for faster access to specialists. He hadn't registered with a GP yet and found the PMI application process confusing.

He contacted WeCovr. His dedicated advisor explained that a moratorium policy would be the quickest way to get cover. They compared three leading insurers, highlighting the differences in their cancer care pathways and outpatient limits.

Carlos chose a policy with Aviva and was covered within 48 hours. In parallel, his WeCovr advisor sent him a guide on how to register with a local GP in his new neighbourhood, which he completed the following week. He had peace of mind from day one, with expert support to guide him.

Getting your head around UK healthcare involves more than just insurance. Here are some key points and wellness tips to help you get settled.

Entitlement to NHS Care

If you are moving to the UK to live and work, you are considered 'ordinarily resident' and are entitled to free NHS hospital treatment, just like any other resident.

For those on visas, you have likely already paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application. The UK government confirms that paying this surcharge gives you access to the NHS on the same basis as a UK resident. It is a mandatory fee for most visa applicants coming to stay in the UK for more than 6 months.

Wellness Tips for a Smooth Transition

Moving country is exciting but can also be stressful. Prioritising your health from the start is key.

  • Diet: The UK has a diverse food scene. Explore local farmers' markets for fresh produce. While enjoying British classics, maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Planning meals can help you avoid relying on takeaways during the busy settling-in period.
  • Sleep: Jet lag and the stress of a move can disrupt your sleep. Try to establish a regular sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine and heavy meals late at night, and create a restful bedroom environment.
  • Activity: Regular physical activity is a powerful stress-buster. The UK has an extensive network of public footpaths, parks, and leisure centres. A 2023 report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlighted that access to green space is strongly linked to higher life satisfaction and feelings of wellbeing. Find a local walking group, parkrun, or gym to stay active and meet new people.
  • Mental Health: Be kind to yourself. It's normal to feel overwhelmed. Stay connected with friends and family back home, but also make an effort to build a new support network. The NHS offers talking therapies (IAPT services) that you can often self-refer to once you have a GP.

Overview of Major UK PMI Providers' General Approach

While policies are always subject to change, this table gives a general idea of how major providers approach applications. An expert broker like WeCovr will have the most up-to-date information.

ProviderGeneral Approach for No-GP ApplicantsA Key Feature
BupaMoratorium underwriting is a standard and straightforward option.Extensive network of hospitals and consultant partnerships.
AXA HealthReadily offer moratorium policies. Known for their strong digital tools.Excellent online member portal and virtual GP services (add-on).
AvivaMoratorium is a common route. Often praised for clear policy wording."Expert Select" guided consultant pathway can help reduce costs.
VitalityMoratorium available. Unique approach linking premiums to healthy living.Rewards programme offers discounts for gym membership, smartwatches, and healthy food.
WPASpecialist insurer with a strong focus on customer service. Moratorium is available.Operate on a not-for-profit basis, with a reputation for fair claims handling.

Can I get private medical insurance UK if I'm not a UK resident?

Generally, to get a standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) policy, you need to be a resident in the UK for at least six months of the year. If you are not a UK resident or split your time between countries, an International Health Insurance policy is usually a more suitable option, as it is designed for global citizens and offers wider geographical coverage.

Do I need to declare my entire medical history for a moratorium policy?

No, you do not need to declare your full medical history upfront when applying for a moratorium policy. This is its main advantage. However, when you make a claim, the insurer will investigate whether the condition is new or pre-existing. They will exclude anything for which you have had symptoms, treatment, or advice in the five years prior to the policy start date. Honesty is crucial, as undisclosed information discovered during a claim can invalidate your cover.

Will my PMI policy cover me for routine GP visits?

Standard UK PMI policies do not cover routine visits to your NHS GP. These remain free at the point of use under the NHS. However, many insurers now offer valuable add-ons, such as access to a 24/7 virtual GP service via phone or video call. These services are excellent for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or referrals without waiting for an in-person NHS appointment.

What happens if I need treatment for a pre-existing or chronic condition?

Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. If you need treatment or ongoing management for a condition like diabetes, asthma, or an old injury, you will need to use the NHS or fund the treatment privately yourself (self-pay). PMI is specifically for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

Securing the right private health cover is a crucial step in building your new life in the UK. While not having a GP registration adds a layer of complexity, it is a challenge that can be easily overcome with the right strategy and expert guidance.

By understanding your options—from moratorium underwriting to the simple process of registering with an NHS GP—you can get the peace of mind you need.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert team will compare the market for you and find the best private medical insurance solution for your unique circumstances, ensuring you are protected from day one.

Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

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

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

About WeCovr

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

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London