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International PMI Allianz vs Cigna Compared

International PMI Allianz vs Cigna Compared 2026

WeCovr reviews global providers for expats, frequent travellers, and businesses

Choosing international private medical insurance can feel overwhelming. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, we help UK residents navigate their options. This guide compares two titans of global health cover, Allianz and Cigna, to help you make an informed decision for your life abroad.

Living, working, or travelling overseas for extended periods brings incredible opportunities, but it also means stepping outside the safety net of the NHS. Whether you're an expat in Dubai, a digital nomad in Lisbon, or a business with employees scattered across the globe, securing the right private health cover is non-negotiable.

This comprehensive comparison will break down the key features, benefits, and costs associated with Allianz Care and Cigna Global, two of the most respected names in the international private medical insurance (IPMI) market.

What is International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI)?

Think of IPMI as a passport for your health. Unlike standard UK private medical insurance, which is designed for use within the UK, international plans provide comprehensive medical cover across geographical borders. They are specifically designed for people who live or work outside of their home country for more than six months a year.

Key differences from a domestic UK PMI policy include:

  • Global Coverage: Access to hospitals and doctors worldwide, or within a chosen geographical region.
  • 24/7 Support: Multilingual emergency helplines to assist you anywhere, anytime.
  • Medical Evacuation: Cover for emergency transport to the nearest suitable medical facility, or even back to your home country if necessary.
  • Direct Billing: Insurers often have vast networks of hospitals where they can settle bills directly, meaning you don't have to pay large sums out-of-pocket.

A Critical Point on Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK and internationally. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • Acute Condition: 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.
  • 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, requires ongoing management, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and arthritis.

Standard policies will not cover treatment for chronic conditions or any medical conditions you had before taking out the policy (pre-existing conditions).

Who Needs International Health Insurance?

If you're planning on spending a significant amount of time abroad, you likely need a dedicated international plan rather than relying on a travel insurance policy, which is only meant for short trips.

You should consider IPMI if you are:

  • An Expat: Someone moving abroad for work, retirement, or a change of lifestyle.
  • A Digital Nomad: A remote worker who travels and works from different countries.
  • A Frequent Business Traveller: Spending months of the year on international assignments.
  • An International Student: Studying for a degree in a foreign country.
  • A Business with a Global Workforce: Companies have a duty of care to provide adequate medical cover for employees posted overseas.

Introducing the Contenders: Allianz Care and Cigna Global

Allianz and Cigna are household names in the insurance world, both with a formidable presence in the global health market. They have decades of experience, vast medical networks, and a reputation for providing robust cover.

Allianz Care at a Glance

Part of the global financial services giant Allianz Group, Allianz Care is a major force in international health insurance. They are known for their extensive global reach, comprehensive plan options, and strong digital services, making healthcare management straightforward for members wherever they are.

  • Key Strengths: Huge global network, strong brand recognition, excellent digital tools (MyHealth app), and a clear, modular plan structure.

Cigna Global at a Glance

Cigna has been in the health services business for over 200 years and offers its global health plans to individuals, families, and businesses in over 200 countries and territories. They are particularly well-regarded for their focus on wellness and preventative care, as well as their significant presence in the USA.

  • Key Strengths: Very flexible plans, strong US network, emphasis on preventative health and wellness, and 24/7 clinical support.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Allianz Care vs Cigna Global

Both Allianz and Cigna use a modular approach. This means you start with a core plan that covers the most expensive treatments (inpatient care) and then add optional modules like outpatient, dental, or wellness cover to build a policy that fits your needs and budget.

Core Cover: Inpatient and Day-Patient Treatment

This is the foundation of any IPMI plan. It covers you for treatment that requires a hospital bed, such as surgery or serious illness.

FeatureAllianz Care (Core Plan)Cigna Global (Silver, Gold & Platinum)
Overall Annual Limit€4,000,000$1,000,000 (Silver) to Unlimited (Platinum)
Hospital AccommodationCovered in full for a standard private roomCovered in full for a standard private room
Intensive Care Unit (ICU)Covered in fullCovered in full
Surgery, Anaesthetist & Other FeesCovered in fullCovered in full
Cancer TreatmentCovered in full (up to annual limit)Covered in full (up to annual limit)
Medical EvacuationIncluded as standardIncluded as standard
Advanced Medical ImagingMRI, CT, and PET scans covered in fullMRI, CT, and PET scans covered in full
Mental Health CareUp to 30 days of inpatient psychiatric careInpatient care covered from 30 days (Silver) up to 90 days (Platinum)

Verdict: Both providers offer exceptionally strong core plans that cover the essentials of serious medical care. Cigna's Platinum plan offers an 'unlimited' annual maximum, which provides ultimate peace of mind, while Allianz's €4 million limit is still more than sufficient for almost any conceivable medical event.

Outpatient Cover Options

Outpatient treatment is any medical care that doesn't require a hospital bed. This includes visiting a GP or specialist, prescription drugs, physiotherapy, and diagnostic tests. This is typically an optional add-on.

FeatureAllianz Care (Outpatient Plans)Cigna Global (Outpatient Module)
Module TiersThree Tiers: Core, Care, PremiumAdded as a single comprehensive module
GP & Specialist VisitsUp to €15,000 (Premium Plan)Up to plan limit (e.g., $1m on Silver)
Prescription DrugsUp to €7,500 (Premium Plan)Up to plan limit
PhysiotherapyUp to 30 sessions (Premium Plan)Up to 15 sessions (post-hospitalisation)
Alternative TherapiesIncluded in Premium planNot typically covered in standard outpatient module
Preventative Health ChecksIncluded in Premium planCovered under the International Health and Wellbeing module

Verdict: Cigna's approach is simpler, offering one main outpatient module. Allianz provides more tiered choice, allowing you to select a level of cover that more closely matches your budget. If you anticipate needing regular specialist visits or therapies, Allianz's 'Premium' outpatient plan is very comprehensive.

Dental and Vision Benefits

Often overlooked, dental and vision care can be expensive abroad. Both insurers offer these as optional extras.

FeatureAllianz Care (Dental Plans)Cigna Global (Dental & Vision Module)
Routine DentalCovered up to €3,000 (Premium Plan)80% reimbursement up to $2,500 (Silver/Gold)
Major RestorativeCovered up to €3,000 (Premium Plan)80% reimbursement up to $4,000 (Silver/Gold)
Orthodontic50% cover up to €1,500 (Premium Plan)50% reimbursement up to $1,500 (Gold/Platinum)
Routine VisionNot included in dental plan80% reimbursement up to $300 (Gold/Platinum)

Verdict: Both offer solid dental plans. Cigna bundles vision care into its module, which is convenient. Allianz separates them, giving more flexibility. A key consideration is the waiting period – major dental work often has a 6-12 month waiting period after the policy starts, so you cannot buy the cover and immediately claim for a crown.

Customer Service and Digital Tools

In a global setting, being able to manage your policy and get help easily is crucial.

  • Allianz Care: Their MyHealth App is highly praised. It allows you to submit claims by taking a photo of your invoice, find local doctors and hospitals, and access your policy documents and digital membership card. Their 24/7 multilingual helpline is also a core feature.
  • Cigna Global: Cigna provides a secure online customer area and the Cigna Wellbeing™ App. This app not only helps with policy management but also provides access to health and wellness resources, including telehealth consultations with a doctor via phone or video.

Verdict: Both excel here. The choice may come down to personal preference for the app's user interface. The ability to speak to a doctor remotely via Cigna's service is a significant modern benefit.

Cost Comparison: What Influences Your IPMI Premium?

It is impossible to give a single price for international private medical insurance, as it is tailored to you. However, understanding the factors that influence the cost can help you budget.

  1. Your Age and Health: Premiums increase with age, as the risk of needing medical care grows.
  2. Area of Cover: This is a major cost driver. A policy that includes the USA will be significantly more expensive due to the high cost of healthcare there. Most providers offer 'Worldwide' and 'Worldwide excluding USA' options.
  3. Level of Cover: A basic inpatient-only plan will be the most affordable. Adding comprehensive outpatient, dental, and maternity modules will increase the cost.
  4. Excess (Deductible): This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer pays out. Choosing a higher excess will lower your annual premium.
  5. Underwriting Method:
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You declare your entire medical history. The insurer may add exclusions for pre-existing conditions. It provides certainty about what is and isn't covered from day one.
    • Moratorium Underwriting: You don't declare your full history upfront. Instead, any condition you've had in the past few years (usually 5) is automatically excluded for a set period (usually 2 years). If you remain symptom and treatment-free for that condition during the moratorium period, it may become eligible for cover. This is simpler but can lead to uncertainty when you claim.

Illustrative Cost Examples

To give you a rough idea, here are some sample annual premiums. Please note these are for illustrative purposes only. Your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances.

Profile: A 40-year-old individual living in Spain, non-smoker, with a £1,000 excess.

Plan TypeArea of CoverAllianz Care (Est. Annual Premium)Cigna Global (Est. Annual Premium)
Core Inpatient OnlyWorldwide excluding USA£1,800£1,750
Inpatient + OutpatientWorldwide excluding USA£3,200£3,400
Comprehensive (inc. Dental)Worldwide excluding USA£4,100£4,500
Comprehensive (inc. Dental)Worldwide (including USA)£7,500£8,000

Source: Indicative pricing based on 2025 market analysis. For a precise quote, you must speak with an adviser.

The WeCovr Advantage: Why Use a Specialist Broker?

Trying to compare these complex global policies on your own can be a real headache. As an independent and FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker, WeCovr provides expert guidance at no extra cost to you.

  • Whole-of-Market Advice: We don't just work with Allianz and Cigna. We compare plans from all the UK's leading international providers to find the one that truly fits your needs.
  • Expert Knowledge: We understand the fine print, the jargon, and the nuances of different policies and underwriting methods. We can explain everything in plain English.
  • Personalised Service: We take the time to understand your unique situation—your destination, your family's needs, and your budget—to recommend the most suitable cover.
  • Value-Added Benefits: When you arrange your PMI with WeCovr, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. Furthermore, our clients often receive discounts on other insurance products, such as life or travel cover.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right cover at the right price for our clients.

A Holistic Approach to Your Health Abroad

Your health insurance is your safety net, but proactive health management is your first line of defence. Living abroad presents unique challenges and opportunities for your wellbeing.

  • Diet & Nutrition: Embrace local, fresh produce but be mindful of adapting to a new diet. Use an app like CalorieHero to stay on track and ensure you're getting balanced nutrition.
  • Staying Active: Research local gyms, parks, or hiking trails. Joining a sports club can be a great way to stay fit and meet new people.
  • Sleep: Prioritise a good sleep routine, especially when dealing with new time zones. A quiet, dark, and cool bedroom is essential for restorative sleep.
  • Mental Wellbeing: Culture shock is real. Stay connected with friends and family back home, but also make an effort to build a local support network. Many IPMI plans now include access to mental health support and employee assistance programmes (EAPs).

Final Verdict: Allianz Care or Cigna Global?

There is no single "best" provider. The right choice depends entirely on your personal circumstances.

You might prefer Allianz Care if:

  • You want a highly-structured plan with clear tiers for optional benefits.
  • You value a top-tier mobile app for easy claims and policy management.
  • Your primary area of operation is Europe or Asia, where their network is exceptionally strong.

You might prefer Cigna Global if:

  • You need cover that includes the USA, as their network and experience there are excellent.
  • You are interested in preventative health and wellness programmes.
  • You value the simplicity of their modular add-ons and the availability of telehealth services.

The best way to decide is to get a like-for-like comparison based on your own needs. A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can provide this, saving you time and ensuring you don't overpay or end up underinsured.


Does international PMI cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard international private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that occur after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before joining) and chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) are typically excluded. Some insurers may offer cover for pre-existing conditions with special terms or for a higher premium after a thorough medical review.

What is the difference between an excess and a co-payment?

An excess (or deductible) is a fixed amount you pay once per policy year towards your eligible medical costs before the insurer starts paying. A co-payment is a percentage you pay of each claim. For example, with a 10% co-payment on a £1,000 bill, you would pay £100. Choosing a higher excess can lower your premium, but you'll pay more out-of-pocket when you claim.

Why should I use a broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Using an independent broker like WeCovr costs you nothing extra but provides significant value. We offer impartial, expert advice across the entire market, not just one or two insurers. We help you compare complex policies, understand the fine print, and complete the application. Our goal is to find you the best possible cover for your specific needs at the most competitive price, saving you time and potentially a great deal of money.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Global Health Plan?

Navigating the world of international private medical insurance UK is what we do best. Let our expert team at WeCovr provide you with a free, no-obligation quote. We'll compare Allianz, Cigna, and other top-tier providers to find the health cover that gives you complete peace of mind on your global journey.

[Get Your Free International PMI Quote Today]


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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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