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Is PMI Necessary If You Have an NHS Gp

As an insurance broker that has arranged over 1,000,000 policies, WeCovr and, where appropriate, broker partners help UK consumers navigate the world of private medical insurance. This guide explores why many people with an NHS GP still choose PMI to gain faster access to treatment, greater choice, and peace of mind for their health.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

As an insurance broker that has arranged over 1,000,000 policies, WeCovr and, where appropriate, broker partners help UK consumers navigate the world of private medical insurance. This guide explores why many people with an NHS GP still choose PMI to gain faster access to treatment, greater choice, and peace of mind for their health.

Key takeaways

  • Initial Concern: You develop a health issue (e.g., persistent back pain, a suspicious lump, recurring headaches).
  • Visit Your NHS GP: You book an appointment with your regular GP. They conduct an initial examination and discuss your symptoms.
  • The Open Referral: If your GP agrees you need to see a specialist, they will write you a referral letter. For PMI purposes, you'll need an 'open referral'. This means they refer you to a type of specialist (e.g., a cardiologist) rather than a specific named doctor at an NHS hospital.
  • Contact Your PMI Provider: You call your insurer's claims line with your referral details. You'll need to provide your policy number and information about your condition.
  • Claim Authorisation: The insurer checks that your condition may be covered under your policy. They will then authorise the claim and provide you with a list of approved specialists and private hospitals in your area.

As an insurance broker that has arranged over 1,000,000 policies, WeCovr and, where appropriate, broker partners help UK consumers navigate the world of private medical insurance. This guide explores why many people with an NHS GP still choose PMI to gain faster access to treatment, greater choice, and peace of mind for their health.

Why people choose PMI alongside NHS care

The United Kingdom is fortunate to have the National Health Service (NHS), a world-class institution providing healthcare free at the point of use. Your NHS General Practitioner (GP) is the cornerstone of this system, acting as the first port of call for any health concerns.

So, a common question arises: if everyone has access to an NHS GP, is private medical insurance (PMI) really necessary?

For a growing number of people, the answer is a resounding "yes". Choosing PMI isn't about replacing the NHS; it's about complementing it. Think of it as a partnership. Your NHS GP remains your primary care doctor, but a PMI policy provides a parallel route to specialist consultations, diagnostics, and non-emergency treatment, helping you bypass potential delays and gain more control over your healthcare journey.

This article will explore the powerful reasons why millions in the UK opt for private health cover, even while they continue to rely on and value their local NHS GP.

The Reality of NHS Waiting Times: The Primary Driver for PMI

The single biggest reason people invest in private medical insurance UK is to avoid long waits for NHS treatment. While the NHS excels at emergency care, the waiting list for elective (planned) treatments has grown significantly in recent years.

According to the latest data from NHS England, the picture is stark:

  • The Waiting List: In mid-2024, the referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting list stood at over 7.5 million treatment pathways. This represents millions of individuals waiting for appointments and procedures.
  • Median Wait Times: The median time a patient waits to start treatment is now around 15 weeks. This means half of all patients wait longer than this.
  • Long Waits: Hundreds of thousands of patients have been waiting over 52 weeks (a full year) for treatment to begin.

For someone suffering from chronic pain, reduced mobility, or significant anxiety about their condition, waiting months for a diagnosis or surgery can have a profound impact on their quality of life, ability to work, and mental wellbeing.

Real-Life Example: Imagine you're a self-employed plumber with a persistent, painful shoulder injury. Your GP refers you to an orthopaedic specialist. On the NHS, you might wait 20 weeks for the initial consultation, another 8 weeks for an MRI scan, and then a further 30 weeks for corrective surgery. In total, you could be facing nearly a year of reduced earnings and constant discomfort.

With PMI, you could see a specialist within days, have the scan the following week, and be scheduled for surgery within a month, dramatically shortening your path back to health and work.

How PMI Works Hand-in-Hand with Your NHS GP

A common misconception is that having PMI means you no longer use your NHS GP. This is incorrect. The process is designed to be a smooth collaboration between the two systems.

Here’s a typical step-by-step journey:

  1. Initial Concern: You develop a health issue (e.g., persistent back pain, a suspicious lump, recurring headaches).
  2. Visit Your NHS GP: You book an appointment with your regular GP. They conduct an initial examination and discuss your symptoms.
  3. The Open Referral: If your GP agrees you need to see a specialist, they will write you a referral letter. For PMI purposes, you'll need an 'open referral'. This means they refer you to a type of specialist (e.g., a cardiologist) rather than a specific named doctor at an NHS hospital.
  4. Contact Your PMI Provider: You call your insurer's claims line with your referral details. You'll need to provide your policy number and information about your condition.
  5. Claim Authorisation: The insurer checks that your condition may be covered under your policy. They will then authorise the claim and provide you with a list of approved specialists and private hospitals in your area.
  6. Book Your Appointment: You choose your preferred specialist and hospital from the list and book your appointment directly, often for within a few days or weeks.
  7. Treatment and Billing: The private hospital and specialist will bill your insurance company directly for all eligible costs, minus any excess you have on your policy.

Throughout this process, your NHS GP remains informed and continues to manage your overall health and any separate, unrelated conditions.

The Core Benefits of Private Medical Insurance

While speed is the main attraction, the advantages of having a private health cover plan extend far beyond just skipping queues.

1. Speed of Access to Specialists and Diagnostics

As highlighted, this is the number one benefit. PMI allows for swift access to:

  • Specialist Consultations: See a consultant dermatologist, cardiologist, or gastroenterologist in days, not months.
  • Diagnostic Tests: Get prompt access to MRI scans, CT scans, endoscopies, and other key diagnostic tools, leading to a faster diagnosis.

2. Choice and Control

PMI puts you in the driver's seat of your healthcare. You gain significant choice over:

  • The Specialist: You can research and choose the consultant you want to see, based on their reputation, specialisms, and experience.
  • The Hospital: You can select a hospital from your insurer's approved list, often choosing one that is conveniently located or known for its high-quality facilities.
  • The Timing: You can schedule appointments and surgery at a time that suits you, minimising disruption to your work and family life.

3. Enhanced Comfort and Privacy

Private hospitals are often designed to provide a more comfortable and less stressful environment. Benefits typically include:

  • A private en-suite room.
  • More flexible visiting hours for family.
  • A la carte menus and better food choices.
  • A quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

For many, the privacy and comfort of a personal room during a period of vulnerability is a major factor in their decision to choose PMI.

4. Access to Advanced Drugs and Treatments

The NHS, constrained by its budget, uses guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to decide which drugs and treatments it may fund. Sometimes, a newer, more advanced, or more expensive treatment may not be available on the NHS, even if it has been proven effective.

Many comprehensive PMI policies offer cover for:

  • Cancer Drugs: Access to specialist cancer treatments and drugs that are not yet approved by NICE or funded by the NHS.
  • Experimental Treatments: Some policies cover participation in clinical trials or access to cutting-edge therapies.

This can be a critical lifeline for patients with complex conditions, particularly cancer.

5. Comprehensive Mental Health Support

In recent years, PMI providers have massively expanded their mental health cover in response to growing demand and long NHS waiting times for services like counselling and therapy.

FeatureTypical NHS ProvisionTypical PMI Provision
Initial AccessGP referral to IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies)Direct self-referral via phone or app
Waiting TimeWeeks or months for therapy to beginSessions can often start within days
Choice of TherapistLimited or no choiceChoice from a network of accredited therapists
Number of SessionsOften limited to 6-12 sessionsCan be more extensive, depending on the policy

This faster access, where available, to professional support for conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress is invaluable for maintaining overall wellbeing.

6. Digital GP Services

Nearly all modern PMI policies include a 24/7 digital GP service. This allows you to have a video or phone consultation with a GP at any time, from anywhere. This is perfect for:

  • Getting a quick prescription for a minor ailment.
  • Seeking medical advice when travelling in the UK.
  • Getting a second opinion.
  • Obtaining a referral without having to wait for an in-person NHS GP appointment.

What PMI Does NOT Cover: The Crucial Exclusions

This is one of the most important aspects to understand. Private medical insurance is not a replacement for the NHS. It is designed for a specific purpose: to treat acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a hernia, cataracts, joint pain needing replacement, appendicitis). This is what PMI covers.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, Crohn's disease). This is NOT covered by standard PMI.

The management of chronic conditions will always remain with your NHS GP and NHS specialists.

Pre-Existing Conditions

PMI policies do not cover medical conditions you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began. Insurers handle this in two ways:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common method. The insurer does not ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they automatically exclude any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition after your policy starts, the insurer may then agree to cover it in the future.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer reviews it and lists specific conditions that will be permanently excluded from your cover. This provides more certainty from day one but can be a more complex application process.

Other Standard Exclusions

You can always rely on the NHS for the following, as they are not covered by PMI:

  • A&E and Emergency Services: If you have a heart attack, stroke, or are in a serious accident, you go to an NHS A&E.
  • Routine Pregnancy and Childbirth: Standard maternity care is not covered, though some complications of pregnancy may be.
  • Cosmetic Surgery (unless required after an accident or for certain cancer reconstructions).
  • Organ Transplants.
  • Drug and Alcohol Abuse.

A good PMI broker, such as WeCovr, can help you understand the specific exclusions on any policy you are considering, ensuring there are no surprises later on.

Is PMI Worth the Cost? A Look at Your Options

The cost of a private medical insurance policy varies widely based on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Premiums are often higher in London and the South East.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers pay significantly more.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with full outpatient cover will cost more than a basic plan that only covers surgery.
  • Excess: Choosing a higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) will lower your monthly premium.

Here is an illustrative table of potential monthly costs. These are not quotes but serve as a general guide.

ProfileBasic Cover (Inpatient & Day-patient only)Comprehensive Cover (Full Outpatient)
30-year-old, non-smoker£35 - £50£60 - £85
45-year-old, non-smoker£55 - £75£90 - £130
60-year-old, non-smoker£90 - £130£160 - £250

When considering the cost, it's vital to weigh it against the potential "costs" of not having cover:

  • Loss of earnings from being unable to work.
  • The physical pain and mental anguish of waiting for treatment.
  • The impact on your family and social life.

For many, the monthly premium is a worthwhile price for the security and peace of mind it provides.

Beyond Treatment: The Rise of Prevention and Wellness

The main PMI providers now focus as much on keeping you healthy as they do on treating you when you're ill. These "wellness" benefits add significant day-to-day value to a policy.

  • Gym Discounts: Many insurers partner with major gym chains to offer up to 50% off membership fees.
  • Health Screenings: Access to regular check-ups to catch potential issues early.
  • Mental Health Apps: Subscriptions to leading apps for mindfulness, meditation, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
  • Wearable Tech Deals: Discounts on smartwatches and fitness trackers.
  • Healthy Living Rewards: Points-based systems that reward you with cinema tickets or free coffee for being active.

WeCovr enhances this value further. When you arrange a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us, we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you take proactive control of your diet and health. Furthermore, clients often receive discounts on other types of insurance, such as home or travel cover, creating a holistic and cost-effective protection plan.

Who Benefits Most from Private Health Cover?

While anyone can benefit from PMI, it is particularly valuable for certain groups:

  • The Self-Employed and Small Business Owners: For those whose income depends directly on their ability to work, long NHS waiting lists pose a direct financial threat. PMI is a business continuity tool, getting them back on their feet quickly.
  • Families with Children: Parents often want the fastest possible access to specialist paediatric care for their children, along with the peace of mind that brings.
  • Those with High-Pressure Jobs: For busy professionals, the convenience of digital GPs and flexible appointment times is a major advantage.
  • Retirees: As we age, the likelihood of needing medical treatment increases. Many retirees choose PMI to ensure they have choice and comfort in their later years, though it's important to note premiums are higher and pre-existing conditions will be excluded.
  • Anyone Who Values Choice and Control: If you want to be an active participant in your healthcare decisions, choosing your doctor and hospital, PMI offers a level of control the NHS cannot.

In Conclusion: A Partnership for Your Health

Having an NHS GP is essential. They are the gatekeepers to the health system and the managers of your long-term wellbeing. Private medical insurance is not about abandoning this excellent service.

Instead, PMI is a powerful tool that works alongside your GP. It provides an express lane for diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions, giving you speed, choice, and comfort when you need it most. It empowers you to bypass the uncertainty of waiting lists and take back control of your health journey.

By understanding how the two systems work together, you can make an informed decision about whether private health cover is the right investment for your peace of mind and your family's future.


Can I buy PMI if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Yes, you can still buy a private medical insurance policy, but it will not cover the pre-existing condition itself, nor any related conditions. Standard UK PMI is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Your pre-existing and any chronic conditions, like diabetes or asthma, will continue to be managed by the NHS.

Do I have to use my PMI for every condition?

No, you have complete flexibility. If you are diagnosed with a condition covered by your PMI policy, you can choose whether to use your private cover or to have the treatment on the NHS. Many people use the NHS for minor procedures and save their PMI for more significant issues to keep their future premiums down.

What is an 'excess' on a private health insurance policy?

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the cost of your treatment when you make a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you would pay the first £250 and your insurer would pay the remaining £2,750. Choosing a higher excess is a common way to reduce your monthly premium.

Will my PMI premium increase every year?

It is very likely that your premium will increase at each annual renewal. This is due to a combination of factors: your age (as you move into a higher age bracket, risk increases), medical inflation (the rising cost of healthcare, which runs higher than general inflation), and your claims history.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our expert team help you find the right PMI provider to complement your NHS care.

Sources

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

Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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 experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

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

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

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

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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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

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

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

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

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.

Key guides

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