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How to Make a Private Health Insurance Claim UK

How to Make a Private Health Insurance Claim UK 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows that understanding your private medical insurance (PMI) is key. This expert guide simplifies the claims process in the UK, ensuring you can access the high-quality care you've paid for, right when you need it.

Step-by-step guide to using your PMI effectively when you need it

Private medical insurance is designed to give you peace of mind, offering faster access to specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and private treatment. However, when the time comes to use it, the process can sometimes feel daunting.

This guide breaks down the entire claims journey, from your first GP visit to the final bill being settled. We'll demystify the jargon, highlight common pitfalls, and show you how to navigate the system with confidence.

Understanding Your Policy First: The Foundation of a Smooth Claim

Before you can make a claim, you must understand what your policy does and doesn't cover. Your policy documents are your contract with the insurer. Taking an hour to read them when you first buy your cover can save you a world of confusion later.

Look for these key sections:

  • Table of Benefits: This summarises your cover levels. It will detail things like your out-patient limit, cancer cover, and mental health support.
  • Exclusions: This is arguably the most important section. It lists what your policy will not pay for.
  • Hospital List: This tells you which private hospitals and facilities you are covered to use.

Key Terms You Must Know

TermWhat It Means in Plain English
In-patientYou are admitted to a hospital and stay overnight.
Day-patientYou are admitted to a hospital for a procedure but go home the same day.
Out-patientYou visit a hospital or clinic for a test or consultation but are not admitted.
Policy ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your claim. This is typically paid once per policy year, per person.
Benefit LimitThe maximum amount your insurer will pay for a specific type of treatment, often for out-patient cover. For example, a £1,000 limit for consultations and tests.

Critical Information: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to grasp about private medical insurance in the UK.

Standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. It does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • An Acute Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract.
  • A Chronic Condition is an illness that continues indefinitely. It has no known cure and is managed with medication or ongoing therapy. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

Insurers will not pay for the ongoing management of chronic conditions. They may, however, cover the initial diagnosis and stabilisation of a newly-diagnosed chronic condition, before handing your care back to the NHS for long-term management.

The Claims Journey: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

When you develop a new symptom and need to see a specialist, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful claim.

Step 1: See Your GP

For almost all non-emergency conditions, your journey begins at your GP surgery. You need to see your NHS or a private GP to discuss your symptoms. They will assess you and decide if you need a referral to a specialist.

  • Modern policies often include a Virtual GP service. This allows you to have a video consultation with a registered GP, often 24/7, from the comfort of your home. This can be a much faster way to get an initial assessment and a referral.

Step 2: Get an 'Open Referral'

If your GP agrees you need to see a specialist, ask them for an open referral.

  • A Named Referral is to a specific specialist (e.g., "Dr. Smith at The Cromwell Hospital"). This can limit your options and may not be covered by your insurer.
  • An Open Referral is for a type of specialist (e.g., "a consultant dermatologist" or "an orthopaedic surgeon"). This gives your insurer the flexibility to help you find a covered specialist who can see you quickly.

Always get a copy of the referral letter, as your insurer may ask to see it.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurer to Start the Claim

Before you book any appointments, you must contact your insurer to get the claim authorised. Most insurers offer several ways to do this:

  • By phone (the most common method)
  • Through their online customer portal
  • Via their mobile app

Have this information ready when you call:

  • Your policy number
  • Your full name and date of birth
  • A description of your symptoms and when they started
  • The details from your GP's open referral letter

The claims handler will ask you a series of questions to understand your condition and check that it's covered under your policy. Be honest and provide as much detail as possible.

Step 4: Receive Your Claim Authorisation

If your condition is covered, the insurer will give you a pre-authorisation number or claim number. This is your golden ticket. It confirms that the insurer has approved the initial consultation and any subsequent tests or treatment up to a certain point.

  • Important: Authorisation is usually given in stages. You will get authorisation for the initial consultation first. If the specialist recommends a scan or a procedure, you (or the specialist's secretary) will need to contact the insurer again with the details and the new medical code (called a CCSD code) to get that next stage authorised.

Step 5: Choose Your Specialist and Hospital

Your insurer will use your open referral to provide you with a list of approved specialists and hospitals.

  • Hospital Lists: Most policies have a tiered hospital list. Your chosen list determines which facilities you can use. Using a hospital outside your list will not be covered.
  • Guided Consultant Lists: Some policies, often at a lower premium, use a "guided" or "expert select" option. This means the insurer will select a handful of specialists for you to choose from, based on factors like clinical excellence and cost-effectiveness.

Your insurer's claims team will help you find a suitable option and can often provide information on waiting times for different consultants.

Step 6: Book Your Appointment

Once you've chosen a specialist from the approved list, you can contact their secretary to book your first appointment. When you book, you must provide:

  • Your private health insurance details (provider and policy number)
  • Your pre-authorisation number

This tells the hospital that your insurer has agreed to pay and allows them to arrange direct billing.

Step 7: Attend Your Treatment

Attend your consultation, tests, or procedure as planned. Your focus should be entirely on your health.

If the specialist recommends further treatment (e.g., physiotherapy after surgery or a follow-up scan), remember to get this next stage pre-authorised by your insurer before you book it.

Step 8: Settling the Bill and Paying Your Excess

In almost all cases, the financial side is handled directly between the hospital/specialist and your insurer. You should not receive any bills, except for your policy excess.

  • Paying Your Excess: Your excess is your contribution to the claim. For example, if your excess is £250 and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250, and your insurer pays the remaining £2,750.
  • You typically pay your excess directly to the private hospital at the time of your first treatment. You only pay the excess once per policy year, even if you have multiple claims.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them When Claiming

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the most common mistakes policyholders make and how you can avoid them.

PitfallHow to Avoid ItReal-Life Example
Not Getting Pre-AuthorisationAlways call your insurer first. Never book an appointment or procedure assuming it will be covered.David's GP refers him for an MRI. He books it immediately at a local private clinic. His insurer later declines the £700 invoice because the claim was never authorised, and the clinic wasn't on their approved list.
Using a Non-Approved ProviderStick to the list. Only use specialists and hospitals recommended or approved by your insurer during the authorisation call.Priya needs knee surgery. Her friend recommends a top surgeon, so she books with them. She later finds out the surgeon practises at a hospital not on her policy's list, and her claim for the £8,000 surgery is rejected.
Misunderstanding Out-patient LimitsCheck your benefit table. Be aware of your financial limit for out-patient care. Track your spending against it.Tom has a £1,000 out-patient limit. His initial consultation is £250, and a subsequent MRI is £800. His policy covers the full £1,050, but he is left to pay the £50 over his limit himself.
Claiming for an Excluded ConditionRead your policy exclusions. Be clear on what is not covered, especially chronic conditions, pre-existing conditions, and routine check-ups.Fatima tries to claim for her routine asthma check-up and prescription costs. The claim is declined because asthma is a chronic condition, and its routine management is a standard exclusion.

What Happens if My Claim is Rejected?

It's disheartening to have a claim rejected, but don't panic. There is a clear process to follow if you believe the decision is unfair.

  1. Request the Reason in Writing: Ask your insurer for a detailed written explanation of why the claim was declined. They must provide this. It will refer to specific clauses in your policy.
  2. Review Your Documents: Compare the insurer's reason for rejection against your policy wording. Is there a misunderstanding? Did you fail to follow the correct procedure?
  3. Use the Internal Appeals Process: Every insurer has a formal complaints procedure. Write a letter or email outlining why you disagree with their decision, providing any supporting evidence (like a letter from your specialist). Your case will be reviewed by a senior claims assessor or a clinical panel.
  4. Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS): If you've completed the insurer's internal process and are still unsatisfied (or if they take more than eight weeks to respond), you can take your case to the FOS. The FOS is an independent, free-to-use service that settles disputes between consumers and financial services firms. Their decision is binding on the insurer.

Making the Most of Your Private Health Insurance Beyond Claims

Modern PMI policies are evolving from simple treatment cover into holistic health and wellbeing partnerships. You're paying for more than just claims—make sure you use all the benefits available.

  • 24/7 Virtual GP: Skip the NHS GP waiting times for a quick video call and advice.
  • Mental Health Support: Most policies now include access to telephone counselling or a set number of face-to-face therapy sessions without needing a GP referral.
  • Wellness Programmes: Many insurers incentivise healthy living. You can get discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and even healthy food.
  • Health and Wellbeing Apps: Your policy may give you access to a suite of apps for things like mindfulness, nutrition, and fitness programmes. For example, WeCovr provides all its health and life insurance customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, an advanced AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app.
  • Member Discounts: As a policyholder, you often get access to exclusive discounts on other products and services. With WeCovr, buying PMI can unlock discounts on other essential cover like life insurance or income protection.

How a PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. An expert, independent broker acts as your guide.

Working with a specialist broker like WeCovr offers significant advantages:

  1. Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare policies from all the leading UK insurers to find the cover that best suits your needs and budget, explaining the subtle but important differences.
  2. Expert Advice: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our experts demystify the jargon around underwriting, hospital lists, and benefit limits, so you make an informed choice.
  3. Claims Support: While you will manage your claim directly with the insurer, a good broker is there to offer guidance if you hit a bump in the road. We can help you understand the process and your rights.
  4. No Extra Cost: Our service is completely free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You get expert, impartial advice at no extra cost.

Comparing UK PMI Providers: A Quick Overview

The UK has a competitive PMI market. Here’s a brief look at some of the major providers an expert broker might compare for you.

ProviderKey Feature / FocusExample Benefit Often Included
BupaOne of the UK's oldest and largest providers. Known for extensive cancer cover and a large network of hospitals and facilities.Direct access to cancer specialists without a GP referral for certain symptoms.
AvivaA major UK insurer with a strong reputation. Offers a clear and comprehensive core policy with flexible add-ons.'Expert Select' option which guides you to their chosen specialists, often reducing premiums.
AXA HealthFocus on a customer-centric approach and comprehensive cover. Strong mental health and virtual GP services.A generous 'guided' out-patient allowance and strong digital health tools.
VitalityUnique approach linking insurance with a proactive wellness programme that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks.Active Rewards programme offering cinema tickets, coffee, and discounts on Apple Watch for staying active.

Do I always need a GP referral to make a private health insurance claim?

Generally, yes. For most specialist consultations and treatments, you will need a referral letter from a GP. However, many modern policies now offer 'direct access' for specific conditions like cancer, mental health, and physiotherapy. This allows you to contact the insurer directly without seeing a GP first if you have certain symptoms. Always check your policy documents to see what direct access services you have.

What is a policy 'excess' and when do I pay it?

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment when you make a claim. For example, if your excess is £200 and your treatment costs £2,500, you pay the first £200, and the insurer pays the remaining £2,300. You typically pay it only once per person per policy year, regardless of how many claims you make. The hospital will usually contact you to arrange payment of the excess directly after your first consultation or treatment.

Will making a claim increase my private health insurance premium?

Making a claim can affect your renewal premium, but it depends on your policy's 'No Claims Discount' (NCD) structure. Much like with car insurance, a protected NCD can safeguard your discount even if you claim. However, premiums also increase due to age and medical inflation (the rising cost of healthcare). So, while a claim might reduce your NCD, your premium would likely have risen slightly at renewal anyway. It's important not to let this deter you from using the cover you have paid for when you genuinely need it.

What's the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers deal with pre-existing conditions. With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you disclose your entire medical history on an application form. The insurer then states upfront what will be excluded. With Moratorium (MORI) Underwriting, you don't disclose your history initially. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before joining. However, if you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover. MORI is faster to set up, while FMU provides more certainty from day one.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

Understanding how to make a claim is the key to unlocking the true value of your private medical insurance. By following these steps and being aware of the potential pitfalls, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

If you're looking for a new policy or want to review your existing cover, speaking to an expert is the best first step. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our specialist advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect policy for your needs and budget, giving you complete peace of mind.

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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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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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