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Hybrid Policies and Flexible Options The Future of PMI

Hybrid Policies and Flexible Options The Future of PMI 2025

As FCA-authorised private medical insurance experts in the UK, WeCovr has helped over 800,000 clients secure the right protection. The market is evolving rapidly, with new hybrid policies offering unprecedented flexibility and value. This guide explores the future of private health cover and how you can benefit.

Insurers launch new policies blending cash plans, PMI, and flexible excess options

The world of private medical insurance (PMI) is undergoing its most significant transformation in a decade. Gone are the days of rigid, one-size-fits-all policies. Today, UK insurers are pioneering a new wave of 'hybrid' products that blend the security of traditional PMI with the everyday benefits of health cash plans and the affordability of flexible excess options.

This shift isn't just a marketing gimmick; it's a direct response to changing consumer needs and the growing pressures on our cherished NHS. For anyone considering private health cover, understanding this new landscape is essential to finding a policy that is both effective and affordable.

The Driving Force: Why is the UK Health Insurance Market Changing?

The simple answer is demand. With NHS waiting lists reaching record highs, many people are seeking faster access to healthcare.

According to NHS England data from late 2024, the referral-to-treatment waiting list stood at over 7.5 million. This means millions of people are waiting for consultations and procedures, with a significant number waiting over 18 weeks. For conditions that cause pain or anxiety, or prevent you from working, such delays can have a profound impact on your quality of life.

This has created a two-fold challenge for consumers:

  1. A growing need for private healthcare to bypass long waits.
  2. A concern about the cost of comprehensive cover, especially during a time of rising living expenses.

Insurers have responded with innovation, creating smarter, more customisable policies that give you more control over your cover and your costs.

What Exactly is a Hybrid Health Insurance Policy?

Think of a hybrid health insurance policy like a bespoke suit. Instead of buying an off-the-peg product that might not fit perfectly, you get to choose the elements that matter most to you, creating a policy that's tailored to your life and budget.

A hybrid policy combines two main types of cover:

  1. Core Private Medical Insurance (PMI): This is the traditional part. It covers the big-ticket items – specialist consultations, diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans), surgery, and hospital stays for acute conditions.
  2. Health Cash Plan Elements: This component provides money back for routine healthcare costs. These are the day-to-day expenses that a standard PMI policy often excludes, such as dental check-ups, eye tests, physiotherapy, and even prescriptions.

By merging these two, a hybrid policy provides a safety net for serious medical issues while also offering tangible value for your everyday health and wellness.

Breaking Down the Components of a Modern PMI Policy

To truly grasp the benefits, let's look at each part in more detail.

1. Core PMI: Your Shield Against the Unexpected

The foundation of any good health insurance policy is its core cover for acute conditions.

Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions. These are diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., cataracts, joint replacement, hernia repair). It does not cover chronic conditions, which are long-term and require ongoing management rather than a cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). Likewise, pre-existing conditions you had before your policy started are typically excluded.

Your core PMI cover is what gives you peace of mind. It ensures that if you are diagnosed with a new, eligible condition, you can access:

  • Prompt Diagnosis: Skip the waiting lists for specialist appointments and scans.
  • Choice of Specialist and Hospital: Select a leading consultant and a private hospital that is convenient for you.
  • Private Treatment: Receive surgery or other treatments in a comfortable private facility, often with a private room.

2. Health Cash Plan: Value for Your Everyday Wellbeing

This is where hybrid policies really shine. While your core PMI waits in the background for a serious issue, the cash plan element works for you all year round.

You pay for your routine treatment (e.g., a dental filling or a new pair of glasses) and then claim a percentage of the cost back from your insurer, up to an annual limit.

Common benefits include:

  • Dental: Check-ups, hygiene visits, fillings, and crowns.
  • Optical: Eye tests, glasses, and contact lenses.
  • Therapies: Physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic, and sometimes acupuncture.
  • Consultations: Money towards seeing a specialist without a full PMI claim.
  • Prescription Charges: Get the cost of your NHS prescriptions reimbursed.

This makes your health insurance feel much more valuable, as you're likely to use these benefits every year, not just when you're seriously ill.

3. Flexible Excess Options: Putting You in Control of Costs

An 'excess' is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750.

Traditionally, this was a fixed amount. The higher the excess you chose, the lower your monthly premium. Now, insurers offer far more sophisticated options:

  • Variable Excess: You can choose from a much wider range, from £0 up to £5,000 or more, allowing you to fine-tune your premium.
  • Co-payment: Instead of a fixed excess, you agree to pay a percentage of each claim (e.g., 25%), usually up to a cap. This can significantly reduce your premium but means your contribution varies with the cost of treatment.
  • The 6-Week Option: This is a hugely popular way to save money. You agree that if the NHS can treat you within six weeks for an eligible condition, you will use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in. As many routine procedures have waits far exceeding this, it offers a great balance of savings and security.

Traditional PMI vs. Hybrid Policy: A Quick Comparison

This table highlights the key differences between old-style policies and the new hybrid approach.

FeatureTraditional Comprehensive PMIModern Hybrid Policy
Core FocusMajor medical events (in-patient care)Major medical events plus everyday health
Routine CareTypically excluded or a costly add-onOften included (dental, optical, therapies)
CostGenerally higher premiumsMore affordable and scalable premiums
Value PerceptionPay for peace of mind you may not useTangible value through regular cash claims
FlexibilityLimited options, often all-or-nothingHighly customisable with modular add-ons
ExcessFixed amount per year or per claimWide range of fixed, co-payment & 6-week options

Who Are These New Flexible Policies Designed For?

While anyone can benefit from more choice, these policies are particularly well-suited to certain groups:

  • The Self-Employed and Freelancers: When you're your own boss, you can't afford to be out of action. A hybrid policy offers a cost-effective way to ensure you get treated quickly, while the cash plan benefits help manage routine costs without eating into your profits.
  • Young Professionals and Families: For those starting out or with young children, a full-fat PMI policy can seem expensive. A hybrid plan provides essential cover for serious issues while helping with the predictable costs of family life, like dental check-ups and glasses for the kids.
  • Small Businesses (SMEs): Offering private health cover is a fantastic employee benefit, but cost is a barrier for many SMEs. Flexible, modular policies allow businesses to offer a valuable perk that supports staff wellbeing without breaking the bank.
  • The Budget-Conscious: If you want the security of private care but are worried about the cost, a hybrid policy with a 6-week option and a sensible excess is the perfect solution. It provides a robust safety net at a fraction of the cost of a comprehensive plan.

Real-Life Example: Meet David, a Freelance Consultant

David is a 45-year-old self-employed IT consultant. He can't afford long periods off work. He wants private cover but finds traditional PMI too expensive.

  • His Solution: David works with a broker like WeCovr to build a hybrid policy.
  • His Policy:
    • Core PMI: Covers diagnostics and surgery.
    • Excess: He chooses a £500 excess and a 6-week NHS wait option to keep his premium low.
    • Cash Plan: He adds a module that gives him £200 a year for dental and £150 for optical.
  • The Result: His monthly premium is around 40% less than a comprehensive policy. Last year, he claimed £180 for a new pair of glasses and a dental check-up, getting real value from his plan. Six months later, when he needed a minor hernia operation, the NHS wait was 22 weeks. His PMI kicked in, and he had the surgery done privately within three weeks, minimising disruption to his business.

Beyond Treatment: The Rise of Wellness and Prevention

Another exciting development is the shift from purely reactive "sickness insurance" to proactive "health insurance". Insurers now recognise that it's better (and cheaper) to help you stay healthy in the first place.

Modern PMI policies often include a wealth of wellness benefits designed to support a healthier lifestyle:

  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often with the ability to get prescriptions and referrals.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling sessions, mindfulness apps, and support lines for stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Gym Discounts: Significant savings on memberships at major UK gym chains.
  • Wearable Tech Deals: Discounts on fitness trackers from brands like Apple, Garmin, and Fitbit.
  • Health and Wellness Apps: Many insurers now offer their own apps with nutrition advice, fitness programmes, and health tracking.

At WeCovr, we enhance this by providing our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you take control of your diet and health goals.

Small Steps to a Healthier You

While insurance provides a safety net, your daily habits are your first line of defence.

  • Diet: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Reducing processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can lower your risk of many chronic diseases.
  • Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week.
  • Sleep: Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a weakened immune system, weight gain, and poor mental health.
  • Stress Management: Find healthy ways to unwind, whether it's through exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature.

How to Choose the Right Private Medical Insurance UK Policy

With so much choice, navigating the market can feel daunting. Here’s a simple process to follow.

  1. Assess Your Needs: What's most important to you? Is it fast access to diagnostics? A choice of hospitals? Cover for dental and optical? Or simply a safety net for major surgery?
  2. Set Your Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford each month. Remember, a well-chosen budget policy is better than no policy at all. Using flexible excess options is the best way to manage costs.
  3. Understand the Underwriting: You will typically be offered two main types:
    • Moratorium Underwriting: You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a full health questionnaire. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from the start. This provides more certainty.
  4. Read the Exclusions: Every policy has them. As stated, pre-existing and chronic conditions are standard exclusions. Others may include routine pregnancy, cosmetic surgery, and emergency care (which is always handled by the A&E).
  5. Speak to an Expert Broker. This is the single most important step.

The WeCovr Advantage: Why Use a Broker?

Trying to compare these complex new policies yourself is time-consuming and confusing. An independent broker does the hard work for you.

  • Impartial Expert Advice: An FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr is not tied to any single insurer. Our loyalty is to you, the client. We provide unbiased advice based on your specific needs.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We have access to policies and deals from across the UK's leading providers, including specialist products you won't find on comparison websites.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the price of the policy, so you don't pay a penny extra.
  • Hassle-Free Process: We handle the paperwork and explain the jargon, ensuring you understand exactly what you're buying.
  • Added Value: When you arrange your private medical or life insurance through us, you can also benefit from discounts on other types of cover, from home to travel insurance. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the best possible outcome for every client.

The future of private health insurance in the UK is flexible, personal, and focused on value. By embracing hybrid policies and smart excess options, you can secure first-class medical protection that fits your life and your budget.

What is the main difference between a hybrid PMI policy and a standard one?

A standard private medical insurance (PMI) policy focuses primarily on covering significant, unexpected medical events like surgery and specialist consultations for acute conditions. A modern hybrid policy blends this core cover with elements of a health cash plan. This means it not only provides a safety net for serious issues but also gives you money back for routine, everyday healthcare costs like dental check-ups, eye tests, and physiotherapy, offering better all-round value.

Can I get private medical insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Generally, standard UK private medical insurance is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Pre-existing conditions (any illness or injury you have had symptoms, medication, or advice for in the 5 years before joining) are typically excluded. Similarly, long-term chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma are not covered. However, some insurers may offer to cover a pre-existing condition after a set period (e.g., 2 years) without symptoms or treatment. It's vital to discuss your medical history with an expert broker to understand what can and cannot be covered.

Is choosing a high excess a good way to save money on my PMI premium?

Yes, choosing a higher excess is one of the most effective ways to lower your monthly premium. The excess is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. By agreeing to contribute more yourself (e.g., £500 instead of £100), you reduce the insurer's financial risk, and they pass this saving on to you through a lower premium. It's a trade-off between a lower monthly cost and a higher one-off payment if you need to claim. Other flexible options, like a 6-week NHS wait clause, can also provide significant savings.

How does an independent broker like WeCovr help me find the best PMI provider?

An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr acts as your expert guide. We are not tied to any single insurer. We use our specialist knowledge to understand your needs and budget, then compare policies from a wide range of UK insurers to find the best fit. We explain the complex options in plain English, handle the application process, and provide this service at no cost to you. This saves you time, money, and the risk of choosing an unsuitable policy.

Ready to explore the new generation of flexible health insurance? Contact the friendly experts at WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and find the perfect cover for your needs.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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