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Is It Possible to Have PMI with Multiple Providers at Once

Is It Possible to Have PMI with Multiple Providers at Once

Considering private medical insurance in the UK? As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr often encounters a key question: can you hold more than one policy? This guide demystifies the rules, revealing how multiple policies work and whether it’s the right choice for you.

Rules around double insurance, claim overlaps and pros and cons of multiple policies

In the world of UK private medical insurance (PMI), the idea of holding policies with multiple providers might seem like a way to guarantee the best possible care. You might have a basic policy through your employer but are considering a more comprehensive personal plan to fill in the gaps.

But is it allowed? And more importantly, is it a good idea?

The short answer is yes, it is possible and perfectly legal to have more than one private health cover policy at the same time. However, the way claims are handled is not as simple as getting a double payout. The UK insurance market is built on a core principle that prevents you from profiting from a claim.

Let's dive into the specifics.

The Principle of Indemnity: The Cornerstone of UK Insurance

Before we explore the pros and cons, it's vital to understand the "Principle of Indemnity." This is a fundamental concept in all UK insurance, including PMI.

  • What it means: Insurance is designed to put you back in the same financial position you were in before an insured event (like an illness or injury) occurred. It is not designed for you to make a profit.
  • How it works with PMI: If you need a private medical procedure that costs £5,000, your insurance should cover up to £5,000 of that cost. You cannot claim £5,000 from Provider A and another £5,000 from Provider B for the same £5,000 bill. That would be profiting from the claim, which is not permitted.

This principle is enforced through "contribution clauses" found in most policy documents. These clauses state that if you have another policy covering the same risk, the insurers will coordinate to share the cost of the claim. You won't have to manage this yourself; the insurance companies will sort it out between them.

Crucial Reminder: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are new, short-term, and likely to respond to treatment. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before taking out the policy) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management).

Common Scenarios for Having Multiple PMI Policies

Why would someone in the UK end up with two health insurance policies? It usually happens in one of a few common situations.

1. Workplace Policy + Personal Top-Up Policy

This is by far the most frequent scenario. An employer provides a group PMI scheme as a staff benefit, but the cover might be basic.

  • The Workplace Policy: Often has limits on outpatient consultations, may exclude certain therapies, or have a high excess.
  • The Personal Policy: An individual then takes out their own policy to enhance their cover. They might want more extensive cancer care, full outpatient cover, mental health support, or dental and optical benefits that the work scheme lacks.

Example: Sarah has a PMI policy with her law firm. It covers in-patient treatment fully but limits outpatient consultations to just £500 per year. Worried about diagnostic costs, she takes out a personal policy with a different provider that offers unlimited outpatient cover. When she needs a series of diagnostic scans costing £1,500, she can claim through her personal policy.

2. Both Partners Have Workplace Policies

It's common for couples or families where both adults are in professional roles to each have their own workplace PMI.

  • The Challenge: The policies might have different benefits, hospital lists, and excesses. If a child needs treatment, the parents must decide which policy to claim under.
  • The Opportunity: Having two policies gives the family flexibility. They can choose the policy that offers the best cover for a specific condition or provides access to their preferred hospital.

3. Overlapping Policies When Switching Providers

Sometimes, you might have a brief period of double insurance when you switch from one provider to another. This is usually accidental, for instance, if your new policy starts a week before your old one ends. This is generally not a problem, but it's important to be aware of.

4. General PMI + Specialised Cash Plan or Dental Plan

This is a very practical and popular combination.

  • Private Medical Insurance: Covers the major costs of private diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions.
  • Health Cash Plan: This is a different type of insurance. It doesn't cover private surgery but provides a cash payout for routine healthcare expenses, such as dental check-ups, eye tests, prescriptions, and physiotherapy, up to an annual limit.

These two types of policies don't overlap in the same way two PMI policies would. They complement each other perfectly.

How Do Claims Work with Two PMI Policies?

This is where the theory meets reality. If you hold two PMI policies and need to make a claim, what happens?

You will not be paid twice. Instead, the insurers will apply the principle of contribution.

Here's the typical process:

  1. You Notify Your Chosen Insurer: You decide which policy you want to use for the claim. This might be the one with the lower excess, the better hospital list, or the more comprehensive benefits for your specific condition.
  2. Declare Your Other Policy: When you make a claim, the claim form will almost certainly ask if you have any other insurance that covers the same treatment. You must answer this honestly. Failing to do so is considered non-disclosure and could invalidate your claim or even your policy.
  3. Insurers Coordinate: Once notified, your chosen insurer (the "lead insurer") will handle your claim as usual. Internally, they will contact the other insurer. Based on the contribution clauses in both policies, they will agree on how to split the cost.
    • If both policies offer identical cover, they might split the cost 50/50.
    • If one policy has a higher limit, that insurer might pay a larger proportion.
  4. Your Bill is Paid: As the policyholder, you shouldn't notice this behind-the-scenes process. Your hospital and specialist bills will be paid directly by the insurers, up to the limits of your policies. You are only responsible for paying any excess on the policy you claimed through.

A Table Illustrating the Claim Process

StepYour ActionInsurers' Action
1. Treatment NeededYou receive a GP referral for private specialist treatment.-
2. Choose a PolicyYou review your two policies and decide to claim on Policy A.-
3. Make the ClaimYou contact Insurer A, complete a claim form, and declare you hold Policy B.Insurer A pre-authorises the treatment.
4. Insurer Coordination-Insurer A contacts Insurer B. They agree to share the cost of the £4,000 procedure, perhaps 50/50.
5. Treatment & PaymentYou have your treatment. You pay the £250 excess on Policy A.Insurer A pays the hospital £3,750. Insurer A then reclaims £2,000 from Insurer B. The total cost is covered.

The Pros and Cons of Holding Multiple PMI Policies

Deciding whether to pay for two sets of premiums requires careful thought. An expert broker like WeCovr can provide personalised advice, but here is a general breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Multiple Health Insurance Policies

  • Filling Gaps in Cover: The main benefit is plugging holes in a primary policy. A basic work scheme might not cover mental health, but a personal plan can add this crucial benefit.
  • Higher Overall Limits: If you have two policies, you can potentially combine their limits for certain benefits. For example, if Policy A has a £1,000 outpatient limit and Policy B has a £1,500 limit, you might be able to claim up to £2,500 in total, provided the insurers agree to contribute.
  • Wider Choice of Hospitals: Each insurer has its own list of approved hospitals. Having two policies from different providers could grant you access to a much broader network of facilities across the UK.
  • Flexibility in Claiming: You can choose the policy that is most advantageous for a particular claim – for instance, the one with a zero excess or the one that has a specific cancer care pathway you prefer.
  • Access to More Wellness Benefits: Insurers are increasingly competing on added perks. One policy might offer discounted gym memberships, while another provides a digital GP service and a wellness app. With two policies, you could access both. When you arrange cover with WeCovr, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on top of your health goals.

Disadvantages of Multiple Health Insurance Policies

  • The Cost: This is the most significant drawback. You are paying two premiums every month, and a portion of that money will likely be for overlapping cover you can only claim on once.
  • Administrative Hassle: Juggling two policies, two sets of documents, two renewal dates, and two sets of rules can be confusing and time-consuming.
  • Complexity in Claims: While insurers handle the contribution process, it can sometimes lead to slight delays compared to a straightforward claim on a single policy.
  • False Sense of Security: You might think you are "doubly covered," but the principle of indemnity means you'll never get a double payout. It's often more cost-effective to upgrade a single policy than to buy a second one.
  • Potential for Underwriting Complications: Each policy will have its own underwriting terms (e.g., moratorium or full medical underwriting). This can create confusion about what pre-existing conditions are excluded on which policy.

Summary Table: Pros vs. Cons

Pros (Advantages)Cons (Disadvantages)
✅ Fills gaps in a primary (e.g., work) policy❌ Paying two premiums for overlapping benefits
✅ Can lead to higher overall benefit limits❌ Increased administrative complexity and paperwork
✅ Provides access to a wider hospital network❌ Claims process can be slightly slower or more complicated
✅ Flexibility to choose which policy to claim from❌ No "double payout" – you cannot profit from a claim
✅ Access to a broader range of wellness & value-adds❌ May be more cost-effective to have one comprehensive plan

Is a Second Policy the Right Choice for You? Analysing Your Needs

Instead of immediately buying a second policy, it's wise to first assess whether it's truly necessary. A specialist PMI broker can be invaluable here.

Ask yourself these questions:

  1. What are the specific gaps in my current policy? Write them down. Is it mental health cover, outpatient limits, dental, or the choice of hospitals?
  2. Can I upgrade my existing policy to fill these gaps? Often, you can add modules or upgrade your level of cover with your current provider for less than the cost of a whole new policy.
  3. Could a single, different policy provide all the cover I need? It might be more economical to switch from your current personal plan to a new, more comprehensive one that includes everything you want.
  4. Have I considered a Health Cash Plan instead? If your main concern is routine expenses like dental, optical, or therapies, a cash plan is a much cheaper and more suitable solution than a second full PMI policy.

The team at WeCovr specialises in comparing the UK's leading private medical insurance providers. We can analyse your existing cover and help you find the most efficient way to get the protection you need, whether that's through an upgrade, a switch, or a carefully selected complementary policy. Plus, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us often receive discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance.

UK Health and Wellness: A Proactive Approach

Having robust health insurance is about more than just treatment; it's about staying well. The UK has seen a significant shift towards preventative healthcare. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), people are increasingly aware of the links between lifestyle and long-term health.

Taking a proactive approach can reduce your reliance on medical treatment in the first place.

  • Balanced Diet: Aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Monitoring your intake with an app can be a great motivator.
  • Regular Exercise: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
  • Quality Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal physical and mental health. Poor sleep is linked to a range of health issues.
  • Health Screenings: Use the wellness benefits in your PMI policy for regular health checks. Catching potential issues early is one of the most effective ways to ensure good long-term outcomes.

Using the value-added benefits from one or even two PMI policies can be a fantastic way to support a healthier lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I have to declare my other health insurance policy when I make a claim?

Yes, absolutely. You must be honest and transparent with your insurer. Claim forms will specifically ask if you have other insurance that could cover the same event. Failing to disclose this is a form of insurance fraud and could lead to your claim being rejected and your policy being cancelled. It's always best to be upfront.

Can I choose which of my two PMI policies to claim on?

Yes, you can. You should review the benefits and terms of each policy to decide which is better suited for your specific claim. For example, you might choose the policy with a £0 excess to avoid any out-of-pocket costs, or the one that gives you access to a hospital renowned for the treatment you need. Once you choose, that insurer will lead the claim.

Is it better to have two policies or one single comprehensive policy?

For most people, having one comprehensive policy is more straightforward and cost-effective. Paying for two policies often means paying twice for the same core benefits. The main exception is when you have a basic workplace policy and want to add specific benefits (like full outpatient or mental health cover) via a separate personal plan. An independent broker can help you compare the cost of a second policy versus upgrading or switching to a single, all-encompassing plan.

Does having two policies cover my pre-existing or chronic conditions?

No. This is a critical point. Standard UK private medical insurance, whether you have one policy or two, is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. It does not cover the treatment of pre-existing conditions or the routine management of long-term, chronic illnesses like diabetes, Crohn's disease, or high blood pressure.

The Final Verdict: Is Double Insurance Worth It?

While it's possible to have PMI with multiple providers, it's a strategy that only makes sense in specific circumstances, most commonly to supplement a basic employer-provided scheme.

For the majority of UK consumers, the goal should be to secure a single, robust policy that meets all their needs in a cost-effective way. Paying two premiums often leads to redundant cover and unnecessary expense due to the fundamental insurance principle of indemnity.

Before you commit to a second policy, take the time to explore all your options. A thorough market review can reveal whether upgrading your current plan or switching to a better provider would be a more prudent financial decision.

Navigating the complexities of the private medical insurance UK market can be challenging. High customer satisfaction ratings show that our clients value our clear, impartial advice. Let us help you find the perfect cover for your peace of mind.

Ready to find the right private health cover? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts build a plan that's right for you.

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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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