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Is It Cheaper to Buy PMI Online or Through a Broker

Is It Cheaper to Buy PMI Online or Through a Broker 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside out. Deciding how to buy your policy is as important as choosing the policy itself. This guide breaks down whether it's better to go direct online or use a broker in 2025.

Pros and cons for 2025

The choice between buying private health cover online or through a specialist broker is a significant one. Each path has distinct advantages and disadvantages. In 2025, with NHS waiting lists remaining a key concern for many, making the right decision is more crucial than ever to ensure you get the best value and the right level of care.

Let's explore the pros and cons of each method to help you decide which is the best fit for your circumstances.

First, What Is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Before we dive into how to buy, let's quickly recap what you're buying.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a type of insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Think of it as a way to bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible treatments, get a private room in a hospital, and have more choice over your consultant and where you are treated.

A Critical Point to Understand: Standard private medical insurance in the UK is not designed to cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and needs ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure).
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy starts (usually the last 5 years).

PMI is for new, eligible health problems that arise after you take out the cover.

The Direct-to-Insurer Route: Buying PMI Online

Going directly to an insurer's website (like Bupa, AXA Health, or Vitality) is a popular option. You fill in your details, select your options, and get a quote.

Pros of Buying PMI Online

  • Speed and Convenience: You can get a quote in minutes, any time of day, without needing to speak to anyone. If your needs are simple, this can be the quickest way to get covered.
  • Direct Control: You are in the driver's seat. You choose every element of the policy, from the hospital list to the excess level.
  • Research at Your Own Pace: You can spend as much time as you like on different insurer websites, comparing their specific offerings.

Cons of Buying PMI Online

  • It's Not Always Cheaper: This is a common myth. Insurers build marketing costs into their direct prices. A broker, on the other hand, can often access preferential rates or special deals that aren't available to the public.
  • Limited View of the Market: You only see one insurer's products. You have no way of knowing if a competitor offers a better policy for your needs, potentially for a lower price. It's like shopping for a car but only visiting one dealership.
  • Risk of Misunderstanding: PMI policies are complex. Terms like 'moratorium underwriting', '6-week wait option', and 'guided consultant lists' can be confusing. Choosing the wrong option could mean your claim is rejected later.
  • Potential for Under- or Over-insuring: Without expert advice, it's easy to either pay for benefits you'll never use or, more dangerously, skimp on cover you desperately need, leaving you with unexpected bills.
FeatureBuying Online (Direct)
ChoiceLimited to one insurer's products.
AdviceNone. You are responsible for all decisions.
PriceStandard public rates. Not necessarily the cheapest.
ComplexityHigh. You must understand all jargon and options yourself.
SupportStandard customer service for queries and claims.

The Broker Route: Using an Independent PMI Expert

A specialist Private Medical Insurance broker is an independent, FCA-authorised professional who represents you, the client. Their job is to understand your needs, search the market on your behalf, and recommend the most suitable policy.

Firms like WeCovr are expert brokers who provide this service at no cost to you. The insurer pays the broker a commission from their standard pricing if you decide to proceed. This means you get expert, impartial advice without paying a penny extra.

Pros of Using a PMI Broker

  • Access to the Whole Market: A good broker works with a wide panel of leading UK insurers. They can compare dozens of policies in one go, saving you hours of research.
  • Expert, Tailored Advice: Brokers are trained experts. They demystify the jargon and ask the right questions to understand your specific health needs, budget, and priorities. They then match you to the right policy.
  • They Can Find Better Prices: Brokers often have access to special rates or policy enhancements not available online. They know which insurers are most competitive for different demographics (e.g., for a family in Manchester vs. a single person in London).
  • No Extra Cost: As mentioned, the service is free for you. The price you pay is the same as, or often less than, going direct.
  • Ongoing Support: A good broker doesn't just sell you a policy. They are there to help at renewal to ensure your premium remains competitive and can provide invaluable assistance if you need to make a claim.

Cons of Using a PMI Broker

  • It Takes a Little Longer: The process isn't instant. You'll need to have a conversation (typically 15-20 minutes) with the advisor to discuss your needs. However, this small time investment can save you money and stress in the long run.
  • Finding a Good Broker: It's important to choose an independent, FCA-authorised broker with a strong reputation. Check for customer reviews and ensure they work with a broad range of insurers.
FeatureUsing a Broker (e.g., WeCovr)
ChoiceCompares a wide range of leading UK insurers.
AdviceFree, expert advice tailored to your personal needs.
PriceOften cheaper than going direct due to special rates.
ComplexityLow. The broker explains everything in plain English.
SupportExpert help with application, renewals, and claims.

Cost Comparison: Is It Really Cheaper to Use a Broker in 2025?

Let's address the key question head-on. The assumption that cutting out the 'middleman' saves you money doesn't hold true in the UK insurance market.

Why isn't it cheaper online?

  1. Brokers Drive Volume: Insurers get a huge amount of business from brokers. To keep this business flowing, they often provide brokers with preferential rates.
  2. Marketing Budgets: When you buy direct, the price includes a slice of the insurer's massive marketing budget (think TV ads, online advertising, etc.). When you use a broker, that cost is replaced by a more efficient commission payment.
  3. Expert Knowledge: A broker knows the market's sweet spots. For example, they'll know that Insurer A is very competitive for 30-year-olds in Scotland, while Insurer B has the best family deal this month. You would never discover this on your own.

Illustrative Price Comparison

Let's look at a hypothetical example for a comprehensive PMI policy.

  • Profile: 45-year-old, non-smoker, living in Birmingham.
  • Cover: Comprehensive mid-range policy with a £250 excess.
Buying MethodInsurer AInsurer BInsurer CRecommended Policy
Going Direct Online£75/month£82/month£72/monthYou'd have to research all three to find the cheapest.
Using a WeCovr Broker£71/month£82/month£68/monthBroker identifies Insurer C as best value and price.

Disclaimer: These are illustrative figures for demonstration purposes only. Your actual quote will depend on your individual circumstances.

In this scenario, the broker not only found the cheapest option instantly but also secured a better price on it than was available directly. This saving of £4 per month adds up to £48 per year, and the broker's advice ensures the policy is genuinely the right fit.

WeCovr: Your Expert Guide to Private Medical Insurance UK

Navigating the PMI market alone can be a minefield. As an established, FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr provides the expertise and market access you need to make an informed decision with confidence.

Our service is built on three pillars:

  1. Impartial Advice: We work for you, not the insurers. Our goal is to find the best private health cover for your unique needs and budget from our panel of leading providers.
  2. Unbeatable Value: Our relationships with insurers mean we can find deals and prices that are often better than going direct. Our advice is completely free.
  3. Lifetime Support: We're here for you throughout the life of your policy, from helping with your application to offering support at renewal and during a claim.

What's more, when you take out a PMI or life insurance policy through us, you gain complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. We also offer discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your family and finances for less.

Key Factors That Influence Your PMI Premium in 2025

Whether you go direct or use a broker, your premium will be determined by several key factors:

  • Age: The single biggest factor. Premiums increase as you get older because the risk of needing treatment rises.
  • Location: Treatment costs vary across the UK. Central London hospitals are the most expensive, so policies that include them cost more.
  • Smoking Status: Smokers pay significantly more than non-smokers due to the higher health risks.
  • Level of Cover:
    • In-patient only: Covers treatment where you need a hospital bed overnight.
    • Comprehensive: Also covers out-patient treatment (consultations, diagnostics) and therapies. This is more expensive but provides more complete cover.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Policies offer different lists of eligible hospitals. A nationwide list including prime London hospitals will cost more than a more restricted local list.
  • Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from the start.

An expert broker from WeCovr can walk you through these options, explaining the pros and cons of each to find the perfect balance for you.

Wellness Tips for a Healthier You

While PMI is there for when things go wrong, the best strategy is always to stay healthy. Many insurers now actively reward healthy living. Here are some simple tips to boost your well-being:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods – fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A balanced diet can reduce your risk of many long-term illnesses. Using an app like CalorieHero can make tracking your nutrition simple and effective.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is vital for mental health, immune function, and physical recovery. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and avoid screens before bed.
  • Stay Active: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing. Find an activity you enjoy to make it a sustainable habit.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a serious impact on your health. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or simple breathing exercises. Spending time in nature is also a proven stress-reducer.

The Verdict: Broker or Online for 2025?

For the vast majority of people in the UK, using an independent PMI broker is the smarter, safer, and often cheaper way to buy private medical insurance.

  • If your needs are exceptionally simple and you have a deep understanding of insurance policies, buying online might be quick.
  • For everyone else, the tailored advice, market comparison, and long-term support from a broker provide unbeatable value. You avoid the risk of making a costly mistake and gain an expert advocate in your corner.

The peace of mind that comes from knowing you have the right cover at the best possible price is invaluable.


Do I pay a broker for their advice on private health cover?

No, you do not pay the broker. Reputable, independent PMI brokers like WeCovr offer their advice and market comparison service for free. If you decide to take out a policy they recommend, the chosen insurer pays them a commission. This cost is already factored into the insurer's standard pricing, so you don't pay anything extra.

What is 'moratorium' underwriting on a PMI policy?

Moratorium underwriting is the most common type for UK PMI policies. With this method, you do not have to disclose your full medical history when you apply. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any pre-existing conditions you have had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the five years prior to the policy start date. Cover for these conditions may be added later, typically after you complete a two-year continuous period without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition.

Will my private medical insurance premium go up every year?

It is very likely that your premium will increase at your annual renewal. This is due to two main factors: age-related increases, as you move into a higher age bracket, and medical inflation, which is the rising cost of private medical treatments and technology. Making a claim can also impact your renewal premium. A broker can help you review your cover each year to ensure it remains competitive and appropriate for your needs.

Ready to find the right private medical insurance for you? Get a free, no-obligation quote from our team of experts today and see how much you could save.


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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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