WeCovr.

How to Read Your Private Health Insurance Policy UK

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
📚 Recommended reads

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026

Read

Average Cost of PMI (UK)

Read

PMI Provider Reviews

Read



Watch this on a dedicated video page
Scroll for the full guide
↓

TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows that understanding your private medical insurance in the UK is crucial. This guide demystifies the jargon and fine print, ensuring you have the right protection for your health and peace of mind. WeCovr explains the fine print so you don’t miss key details A private health insurance policy document can feel like a labyrinth of complex terminology, exclusions, and clauses.

Key takeaways

  • Policy Schedule (or Certificate of Insurance): Think of this as the personalised summary of your specific cover. It lists your name, the premium you pay, your chosen excess, and the specific benefits and limits that apply to you. It’s the most important document for a quick review.
  • Policy Wording (or Terms & Conditions): This is the detailed "rulebook". It's a longer, more generic document that explains all the terms, conditions, benefits, and exclusions of the insurance plan in full. While the Schedule tells you what you have, the Wording tells you how it works.
  • Insurance Product Information Document (IPID): This is a standardised, simple-language summary of the policy's key features, benefits, and exclusions. It's designed by the regulator (the Financial Conduct Authority) to make comparing different policies easier. It’s a great starting point, but it doesn't replace the need to read the full policy wording.
  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, joint pain requiring a replacement, or appendicitis.
  • Chronic Condition: 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 needs ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis, and Crohn's disease.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows that understanding your private medical insurance in the UK is crucial. This guide demystifies the jargon and fine print, ensuring you have the right protection for your health and peace of mind.

WeCovr explains the fine print so you don’t miss key details

A private health insurance policy document can feel like a labyrinth of complex terminology, exclusions, and clauses. It's tempting to skim it and hope for the best. However, this single document dictates the when, where, and how of your future medical care. Missing one key detail could be the difference between a smooth, fully-funded treatment journey and an unexpected, costly bill.

The reality is that your policy isn't a magical key that unlocks all private healthcare. It's a precise contract with specific rules. Knowing these rules empowers you to use your cover effectively and avoid the frustration of a rejected claim.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every section of a typical UK private medical insurance (PMI) policy. We'll translate the jargon into plain English and show you exactly what to look for, so you can be confident in the cover you've chosen.

What is a Private Health Insurance Policy Document Pack?

When you take out a policy, you won't just receive one document; you'll get a pack. Understanding the role of each part is the first step to mastering your cover.

  • Policy Schedule (or Certificate of Insurance): Think of this as the personalised summary of your specific cover. It lists your name, the premium you pay, your chosen excess, and the specific benefits and limits that apply to you. It’s the most important document for a quick review.
  • Policy Wording (or Terms & Conditions): This is the detailed "rulebook". It's a longer, more generic document that explains all the terms, conditions, benefits, and exclusions of the insurance plan in full. While the Schedule tells you what you have, the Wording tells you how it works.
  • Insurance Product Information Document (IPID): This is a standardised, simple-language summary of the policy's key features, benefits, and exclusions. It's designed by the regulator (the Financial Conduct Authority) to make comparing different policies easier. It’s a great starting point, but it doesn't replace the need to read the full policy wording.

Decoding Your Policy Schedule: Your Cover at a Glance

Your Policy Schedule is your personalised blueprint. It confirms the choices you made when you bought the policy. Always check this document carefully as soon as you receive it to ensure it matches what you agreed to.

Here’s what you’ll find and why it matters:

Key Information on Your Policy Schedule

SectionWhat it isWhy it's Important
Policyholder & MembersThe names of everyone covered by the policy.Check that all names and dates of birth are spelled correctly. An error could cause issues during a claim.
Policy NumberYour unique reference number for the policy.You'll need this number every time you contact your insurer or need to make a claim. Keep it safe.
Policy DatesThe start date and renewal date of your policy.This confirms the 12-month period for which you are covered. Claims for conditions arising before the start date are not covered.
Level of CoverThe name of your plan (e.g., "Comprehensive," "Intermediate," or "Core").This gives you a general idea of how extensive your benefits are. A "Core" plan might only cover in-patient treatment, while a "Comprehensive" plan includes broad outpatient cover.
Your PremiumThe amount you pay for your cover, and how often (e.g., monthly or annually).Verify this is the amount you expected to pay. Premiums are typically reviewed and may increase at renewal.
Your ExcessA fixed amount you agree to pay towards your first claim (or first claim per year).A higher excess usually means a lower premium. It's crucial you know this amount, as you'll have to pay it before the insurer pays out. For example, with a £250 excess, you pay the first £250 of a claim.
Outpatient LimitThe maximum amount the insurer will pay for outpatient consultations, tests, and therapies in a policy year.This can range from £0 to "unlimited". If your limit is £1,000, once you've claimed up to that amount for outpatient services, you'll have to self-fund any further outpatient care until your policy renews.
Hospital ListThe name of the hospital network you have access to for treatment.Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. Using a hospital outside your chosen list will not be covered. Check that the hospitals in your list are convenient for you.
Underwriting TypeThe method the insurer used to assess your medical history.This will be either "Moratorium" or "Full Medical Underwriting". This is one of the most critical parts of your policy as it determines how pre-existing conditions are handled.

The Heart of the Matter: Understanding Your Policy Wording

If the Schedule is the 'what', the Policy Wording is the 'how' and 'why'. This document contains the definitions that insurers live and breathe by. It's here you'll find the all-important exclusions and limitations.

The CRITICAL Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

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

Standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that begin after your policy starts. It is NOT designed to cover chronic conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, joint pain requiring a replacement, or appendicitis.
  • Chronic Condition: 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 needs ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis, and Crohn's disease.

Real-life Example:

  • Covered (Acute): You develop sudden, sharp stomach pain. Your GP refers you to a specialist who diagnoses gallstones. Your PMI covers the consultation, ultrasound scan, and the keyhole surgery to remove your gallbladder. You recover fully.
  • Not Covered (Chronic): You have been managing Type 2 diabetes for five years with medication and check-ups from your NHS GP. You cannot use your PMI to cover the cost of your insulin, blood sugar tests, or routine check-ups with a private endocrinologist. These fall under the management of a chronic condition.

The Big Exclusion: Pre-existing Conditions

Alongside chronic conditions, pre-existing conditions are the other major area of exclusion. A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date.

How insurers handle this depends on your underwriting type.

What's Covered? In-patient, Day-patient, and Out-patient

Your policy will split benefits into these three categories. Understanding them is key to knowing what is and isn't paid for.

CategoryDefinitionReal-World ExamplesCommon Policy Limits
In-patientTreatment that requires you to be admitted to a hospital bed overnight or longer.A hip replacement surgery requiring a few days' hospital stay; heart surgery; removal of a tumour.Usually covered in full on most policies (subject to annual limits). This is the "core" of PMI.
Day-patientTreatment that requires you to be admitted to a hospital bed for a planned procedure, but you do not stay overnight.Cataract surgery; arthroscopy (keyhole joint surgery); colonoscopy; chemotherapy administration.Also usually covered in full on most policies, as it's treated similarly to in-patient care.
Out-patientTreatment or diagnosis where you are not admitted to a hospital bed. This includes consultations, diagnostic tests, and therapies.Seeing a specialist consultant; having an MRI or CT scan; a course of physiotherapy; blood tests.This is the most variable benefit. Basic policies may have £0 outpatient cover, while comprehensive ones can have "unlimited" cover. A typical limit is £1,000-£1,500.

With the NHS waiting list for consultant-led elective care standing at around 7.54 million in England as of Spring 2024 (according to NHS England data), having strong outpatient cover is invaluable. It allows you to bypass the long wait for diagnosis, which is often the first and most frustrating hurdle.

Common Benefits Explained

Beyond the basic structure, your policy will list specific benefits. Here are some of the most important ones to check:

  • Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of modern PMI. Check if it's a core benefit or an add-on. Most comprehensive policies offer full cover for cancer diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Look for details on advanced therapies, such as biological therapies or stem cell treatment, as these may have limits.
  • Mental Health Cover (illustrative): Historically, mental health was a common exclusion, but today most top-tier providers offer significant support. Check the limits. Cover might be for a set number of therapy sessions (e.g., 8 sessions of CBT) or a financial limit for psychiatric treatment as an in-patient or day-patient (e.g., up to £20,000).
  • Therapies: This includes physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment. There is almost always a limit, either a set number of sessions (e.g., up to 10 per year) or a financial cap. A GP referral is usually required.
  • Diagnostics: This refers to tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans. On most policies, these are covered in full when part of in-patient or day-patient care. For outpatient scans, they will be subject to your outpatient limit.

Understanding General Exclusions: What's Almost Never Covered?

Every policy has a list of general exclusions. These are treatments and circumstances that are not covered, regardless of your level of cover. It pays to know them.

Common Exclusion CategoryExplanation
Pre-existing ConditionsAny medical issue you had before the policy started (subject to underwriting rules).
Chronic ConditionsLong-term conditions requiring ongoing management rather than a cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma).
Emergency ServicesA&E visits, ambulance services. PMI is for planned, non-emergency treatment.
Normal Pregnancy & ChildbirthRoutine maternity care is not covered. However, complications of pregnancy may be.
Cosmetic SurgeryProcedures for purely aesthetic reasons (e.g., a nose job, facelift). Reconstructive surgery after an accident or illness (like breast reconstruction after a mastectomy) is often covered.
Self-inflicted InjuriesInjuries resulting from deliberate self-harm or substance abuse.
Infertility TreatmentProcedures like IVF are typically excluded.
Experimental TreatmentTherapies and drugs that are not approved by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence).

An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can help you find a policy with the most favourable terms and fewest restrictive exclusions for your specific needs.

Your Underwriting Type: The Foundation of Your Cover

This is a technical but vital part of your policy. It determines how the insurer assesses your past medical history and applies exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

There are two main types in the UK:

Moratorium (Mori) vs. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

FeatureMoratorium (Most Popular)Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Application ProcessQuick and simple. You don't declare your full medical history upfront.Longer application process. You must complete a detailed health questionnaire about your medical history.
How it WorksThe insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy began.The insurer reviews your health questionnaire and may apply specific, permanent or temporary exclusions to your policy from day one.
Covering Past ConditionsA pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for it after your policy starts.Exclusions are explicitly stated in your policy documents. They are often permanent and won't become eligible for cover over time unless specifically stated.
Claim ProcessCan be slower. When you claim, the insurer will investigate your medical history to see if the condition is new or pre-existing.Generally faster and more certain. Because you declared everything upfront, the insurer already knows what is and isn't excluded.
Best ForPeople with a clean bill of health who want a quick start, or those who haven't seen a doctor in years.People with a known medical history who want absolute clarity from the start about what is covered.

Making a Claim: The Step-by-Step Process

Knowing how to use your policy is just as important as knowing what it covers. The claims process is usually straightforward if you follow the steps.

  1. Visit Your NHS GP: Your journey almost always starts here. You feel unwell, so you see your GP. PMI does not replace your GP.
  2. Get an Open Referral: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist, they will write a referral letter. Ask for an "open referral," which doesn't name a specific specialist. This gives your insurer the flexibility to help you find a fee-approved specialist from their network, speeding things up.
  3. Contact Your Insurer for Pre-authorisation: This is a non-negotiable step. Before you book any consultation or treatment, you must call your insurer's claims line.
    • Provide your policy number and explain your symptoms and the GP's referral.
    • The insurer will check your cover and confirm if the proposed consultation or treatment is eligible.
    • They will give you a pre-authorisation number.
  4. Book Your Appointment: Your insurer will often provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals from your chosen hospital list. Some insurers even have a service that will book the appointment for you.
  5. Attend Treatment: Provide your insurer’s name and your pre-authorisation number to the hospital or specialist's clinic. They will usually bill the insurer directly.
  6. Pay Your Excess: If your claim is the first one in the policy year and you have an excess, the hospital will typically ask you to pay it directly to them. The insurer then pays the rest of the bill.

Key Takeaway: Never assume something is covered and book treatment without getting pre-authorisation. Doing so will likely result in your claim being denied, leaving you with the full bill.

Added Value: More Than Just Medical Treatment

Modern health insurance is evolving. Insurers now compete by offering a suite of wellness benefits designed to keep you healthy, not just treat you when you're ill. When reading your policy, look for these valuable extras:

  • Digital/Virtual GP: Access to a GP via phone or video call, often 24/7. This is incredibly convenient for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or a referral without waiting for an NHS GP appointment.
  • Mental Health Support Lines: Confidential helplines offering immediate access to counsellors for stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
  • Wellness Programmes: Many insurers offer discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings. They may also have apps that reward healthy behaviour.
  • Exclusive Member Offers: As a WeCovr policyholder, you get more than just insurance. You gain complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you manage your diet and health goals. Furthermore, customers who purchase PMI or life insurance through WeCovr are eligible for exclusive discounts on other insurance products, helping you protect all aspects of your life for less.

These benefits can provide significant day-to-day value, even if you never make a medical claim.

Your Renewal: What to Expect

Your PMI policy is a 12-month contract. At the end of the year, your insurer will send you a renewal notice. Your premium will likely increase due to a few factors:

  1. Age: As you get older, the statistical risk of you claiming increases, so your base premium rises. This happens every year.
  2. Medical Inflation: The cost of private medical treatment, new drugs, and advanced technology rises faster than general inflation. Insurers pass this cost on. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) notes that the cost of claims is a primary driver of premium changes.
  3. Your Claims History: If you have made a claim in the previous year, your renewal premium may be higher.

Your renewal is the perfect time to review your cover. Do the benefits still meet your needs? Is the premium still affordable? This is an excellent moment to speak with a WeCovr adviser. We can re-broke the market for you, comparing your renewal offer with policies from other leading providers to ensure you still have the best possible cover at the most competitive price, all at no cost to you.

What is the most important thing to check in a UK private health insurance policy?

The most critical aspects to check are the exclusions, particularly for pre-existing and chronic conditions. UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. You must also understand your outpatient limit, your chosen excess, and the hospital list you have access to, as these directly impact how and where you can use your cover.

Do I need to declare every single past illness when applying for health insurance?

It depends on your underwriting type. With 'Full Medical Underwriting' (FMU), you must declare your full medical history on a detailed questionnaire. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, you do not declare your history upfront, but any condition you've had in the 5 years prior to starting the policy is automatically excluded for at least the first 2 years of your cover. Honesty and accuracy are vital with FMU to ensure your policy is valid.

What's the difference between the 'six-week option' and a standard policy?

A standard policy allows you to use your private cover for eligible treatment regardless of NHS waiting times. The 'six-week option' is a cost-saving feature where, for eligible in-patient treatment, you must first check the NHS waiting list. If the NHS can treat you within six weeks, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private medical insurance policy will kick in and cover the treatment privately. This option can significantly reduce your annual premium.

Why do I still need a GP referral if I have private medical insurance?

Private health insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it entirely. Your NHS GP acts as the primary gatekeeper for your health. A GP's clinical assessment is required to ensure that referral to a specialist is medically necessary. This prevents misuse of the insurance for non-essential tests or consultations and helps keep premiums affordable for everyone. Most policies make a GP referral a mandatory first step before authorising a claim.

Navigating the world of private health insurance can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Understanding your policy is the key to unlocking its full value.

Ready to find a policy that's right for you, with no hidden surprises?

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

Sources

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

Related tools

NHS Wait vs Private Cost MapOpen →
Private Surgery Price ListOpen →
Health Risk AssessmentOpen →
Can I Get Covered? CheckerOpen →
International PMI CalculatorOpen →
PMI Provider ReviewsOpen →
Back to Private Health Insurance (PMI) hub

WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

Flagship guides

Protection Score
Read now →
Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Average Cost of Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Should I Get Private Health Insurance?
Read now →

Explore insurance hubs

PMI Guides Hub
Life Insurance Guides Hub
Income Protection Guides Hub

Related guides

How to Read and Compare PMI Policy Documents
How to Read and Compare PMI Policy Documents
Read more →
How to Read Your PMI Policy Documents
How to Read Your PMI Policy Documents
Read more →
How to Read Your PMI Policy Smallprint
How to Read Your PMI Policy Smallprint
Read more →
PMI Policy Documents How to Read the Fine Print
PMI Policy Documents How to Read the Fine Print
Read more →
How to Read Your PMI Renewal Letter Key Red Flags
How to Read Your PMI Renewal Letter Key Red Flags
Read more →

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ 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!