WeCovr.

Login

Is Private Health Insurance Tax Deductible in the UK

Is Private Health Insurance Tax Deductible in the UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK. One of the most common questions we hear is about its tax treatment. This guide unravels the complexities for individuals, the self-employed, and businesses.

WeCovr explains tax treatment of PMI for individuals and businesses

Navigating the world of private health insurance can feel complex, especially when it comes to understanding the financial implications. A key question for many is whether the cost of a policy can be offset against tax. The answer, in short, is: it depends entirely on who is paying for it.

The rules set by His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are very different for an individual buying their own cover compared to a limited company providing it for its staff. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every scenario, ensuring you understand exactly where you stand.

We will cover:

  • The tax rules for personal health insurance policies.
  • How tax is handled for the self-employed and sole traders.
  • The significant tax implications for limited companies and their employees.
  • Detailed, real-world examples to show you the numbers.
  • How other health-related insurance products are treated.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)? A Quick Refresher

Before we dive into the tax details, let's quickly recap what private medical insurance is and what it's for. In essence, PMI is an insurance policy that covers the cost of private medical care for eligible conditions. Its primary purpose is to help you bypass long NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment.

According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care in April 2024 was 14.5 weeks, with over 300,000 patients waiting more than a year. PMI offers a route to faster, more convenient care in a private hospital or facility.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most critical concept to understand about UK private health cover. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions.

  • An Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, or treatment for hernias.
  • A 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. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

Crucially, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover chronic conditions or any medical conditions you had before you took out the policy (known as pre-existing conditions). It is designed for new, eligible health issues that arise after your cover begins.

Tax on Private Health Insurance for Individuals

Let's start with the simplest scenario: you are an individual purchasing a private health insurance policy for yourself or your family, paid for from your own bank account.

The rule here is straightforward: there is no tax relief available.

You pay your monthly or annual premiums from your post-tax income (your net pay). Because HMRC views this as a personal choice and a private expenditure, much like a gym membership or a holiday, you cannot claim the cost back as an expense on a tax return or receive any form of tax deduction.

FeatureTax Implication for Individuals
Policy PremiumsPaid from post-tax income.
Tax ReliefNone. Not a deductible expense.
Reporting to HMRCNo need to declare it on a tax return.

The price you see is the price you pay, with the only addition being Insurance Premium Tax (IPT), which is a standard tax on most general insurance products in the UK.

What is Insurance Premium Tax (IPT)?

IPT is a tax charged on insurance premiums. The standard rate, which applies to private medical insurance, is currently 12%. This is automatically included in the price quoted by the insurer, so you don't need to calculate or pay it separately. Unfortunately, like the premium itself, IPT is not reclaimable for individuals.

Tax Rules for the Self-Employed (Sole Traders & Partnerships)

This is where things can become a little more confusing. Many self-employed individuals assume that because they run a business, they can claim health insurance as a business expense.

For the vast majority of sole traders and partners, this is incorrect. Private medical insurance is generally not an allowable business expense.

HMRC's guiding principle for allowable expenses is that they must be "wholly and exclusively" for the purposes of the trade. It is very difficult to argue that a personal health insurance policy, which provides you with private medical care for general health issues, is solely for your business. The benefit is to you as an individual, not to the business itself.

HMRC sees the primary purpose as keeping you healthy—a personal benefit—even if being healthy allows you to work. Therefore, you must pay for it out of your drawings, which are taken after tax has been calculated on your profits.

Are There Any Exceptions?

There is a very narrow set of circumstances where a self-employed person might be able to claim PMI as a business expense. This typically relates to policies taken out specifically to cover the risks of overseas work.

Example: A self-employed engineering consultant has a contract that requires them to work for six months in a remote location with no access to a public health service equivalent to the NHS. If they take out a specific international health insurance policy purely to cover them for medical emergencies while on that work assignment, it may be considered an allowable expense.

However, a general UK policy that covers them for day-to-day private healthcare at home would almost certainly not be. Always consult with an accountant to ensure you comply with HMRC rules. For over 99% of UK-based sole traders, PMI is a personal cost.

Company Health Insurance: The Rules for Limited Companies

This is where the tax treatment changes completely. For a limited company, providing private health insurance to its employees (including directors, who are employees of their own company) is a very common and tax-efficient practice.

Here’s the breakdown:

  1. For the Company: The cost of the health insurance premiums is an allowable business expense. This means the company can deduct the full cost from its pre-tax profits, thereby reducing its Corporation Tax bill.
  2. For the Employee: The health insurance is treated as a benefit-in-kind (BIK). This means it's a non-cash benefit that has a cash value, and that value is taxable.

Let's explore these two sides in more detail.

1. The Benefit to the Company: Corporation Tax Relief

When a limited company pays for a group PMI scheme or a policy for a director, the annual premium is a legitimate business cost, just like salaries or rent. This cost reduces the company's taxable profit.

  • Corporation Tax Rates (2024/25):
    • 19% for companies with profits of £50,000 or less.
    • 25% for companies with profits over £250,000.
    • A marginal relief applies for profits between £50,001 and £250,000.

By claiming the premium as an expense, the company saves 19% or 25% of that cost from its tax bill.

2. The "Cost" to the Employee: Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) Tax

Because the employee is receiving a valuable private benefit from their employer, HMRC considers it part of their overall remuneration package. The value of this benefit is subject to income tax.

  • The "cash equivalent" of the benefit is simply the cost of the premium the employer paid for that specific employee.
  • This amount is added to the employee's other earnings to determine their total taxable income.
  • The employee then pays income tax on this amount at their highest marginal rate (20% for basic rate, 40% for higher rate, 45% for additional rate taxpayers in England, Wales & NI).

3. The Extra Cost for the Company: Employer's National Insurance

On top of the BIK tax paid by the employee, the company must also pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the value of the benefit.

The Class 1A NICs rate for 2024/25 is 13.8%.

This is an additional cost to the business that must be factored in when calculating the true cost of providing the health insurance benefit.

Reporting the Benefit: The P11D Form

The employer is responsible for reporting this benefit-in-kind to HMRC. This is traditionally done using a P11D form at the end of each tax year (by 6th July). The form details the cash value of all benefits provided to an employee.

Alternatively, an increasing number of employers now use a system called "payrolling benefits". This means the estimated tax on the benefit is calculated and deducted directly from the employee's salary each month through PAYE, avoiding the need for a P11D and preventing a surprise tax bill for the employee at the end of the year.

A Worked Example: Calculating the True Cost of Company PMI

Let's put all this into practice with a clear example.

Scenario:

  • Company: Widgets Ltd, a small profitable company paying Corporation Tax at 19%.
  • Employee: Sarah, a director of the company. She is a higher-rate taxpayer (40%).
  • PMI Policy: The company buys a private medical insurance policy for Sarah. The annual premium is £1,200.

Here’s how the tax breaks down:

Calculation BreakdownFor the Company (Widgets Ltd)For the Employee (Sarah)
Annual PMI Premium- £1,200£0 (paid by company)
Corporation Tax Saving
(£1,200 x 19%)		+ £228N/A
Class 1A NICs Payable
(£1,200 x 13.8%)		- £165.60N/A
Total Net Cost to Company
(-£1,200 + £228 - £165.60)		- £1,137.60N/A
Taxable Benefit-in-KindN/A+ £1,200 (added to income)
Income Tax Payable by Employee
* (£1,200 x 40%)*		N/A- £480

Summary of the Example:

  • The Company: Although the policy's sticker price was £1,200, the effective cost to Widgets Ltd after tax savings and NICs is £1,137.60.
  • The Employee: Sarah gets £1,200 worth of private health cover. The cost to her, paid via her tax code or a self-assessment bill, is £480 for the year.

Even though there is tax to pay, this is often a far more efficient way to fund a policy than paying for it personally from post-tax income. If Sarah were to pay £1,200 personally, she would first need to earn roughly £2,000 before tax (at the 40% rate) to have £1,200 left over to pay the premium.

Comparing Tax Treatment: A Summary Table

This table provides a simple, at-a-glance comparison of the different PMI tax scenarios in the UK.

PayerPremium is a Deductible Expense?Is there a Benefit-in-Kind Tax?Who Pays Tax?
IndividualNoNoN/A (paid from post-tax income)
Sole TraderNo (in almost all cases)NoN/A (paid from post-tax drawings)
Limited CompanyYes (against Corporation Tax)Yes (for the employee)Company (Class 1A NICs) & Employee (Income Tax)

This is why business health insurance is such a popular employee benefit in the UK—it's one of the few perks that provides a tax deduction for the company. Finding the right scheme requires expertise, and a specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can compare the market from top providers like Bupa, Aviva, and AXA Health to find the perfect fit for your business, at no cost to you.

Optimising Your Health to Maximise Your PMI Value

While having a private medical insurance policy is a fantastic safety net, the ultimate goal is to stay healthy and not need to use it. Prevention is always better than cure. A healthy lifestyle not only reduces your risk of developing acute conditions but also helps manage long-term wellbeing.

Here are some pillars of good health:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight, supporting your immune system, and reducing inflammation.
  • Regular Physical Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Regular exercise strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and boosts mental health.
  • Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is when your body repairs itself. Poor sleep is linked to a host of health problems, from weakened immunity to an increased risk of chronic disease.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can have a significant physical impact. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can help manage stress levels effectively.

To support our clients on their wellness journey, every WeCovr customer who buys a health or life insurance policy gets complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a simple, effective tool to help you make smarter choices about your diet every day.

Why Choose a PMI Broker like WeCovr?

The UK private medical insurance market is vast, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy variations. Trying to compare them yourself can be overwhelming. This is where an independent broker adds immense value.

  • Expert Advice: We live and breathe insurance. We understand the complex jargon, the underwriting options (like moratorium vs. full medical underwriting), and the subtle differences between policies.
  • Whole-of-Market Access: We are not tied to a single insurer. We compare plans from across the market to find the one that best suits your personal needs or your company's budget and goals.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a standard commission from the insurer you choose, so you pay the same price as going direct, but with the added benefit of our expert guidance.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on clear, jargon-free advice has earned us consistently high ratings on major customer review platforms.
  • Extra Benefits: When you arrange PMI or life insurance with us, we can often provide discounts on other types of cover you might need, such as income protection or critical illness cover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to declare my company-paid private health insurance on my self-assessment tax return?

If your employer reports your private medical insurance benefit through the PAYE system ('payrolling benefits'), the tax due is collected automatically from your salary each month, and you typically do not need to declare it on a tax return. However, if your employer uses a P11D form instead, and you already fill out a self-assessment tax return for other reasons (e.g., you are a higher-rate taxpayer or have other income), you must declare the benefit value in the relevant employment section. Your employer will provide you with the P11D details you need.

Is the Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) on PMI reclaimable?

No, Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) at the standard rate of 12% is generally not reclaimable by the policyholder, whether you are an individual or a business. For a limited company, the entire cost of the policy, including the IPT, is treated as the allowable business expense. So, while you don't reclaim the IPT directly, you do get Corporation Tax relief on the full gross premium.

Can I pay for my company PMI myself to avoid the benefit-in-kind tax?

Yes, this is known as "making good". If an employee reimburses their employer for the full cost of the medical insurance premium, the benefit-in-kind value is reduced to zero, and no BIK tax or Class 1A NICs will be due. However, this often defeats the purpose of the company providing the benefit in the first place, as the employee is now paying the full cost from their post-tax salary. The main advantage of this arrangement is simply being included in a group scheme, which can sometimes offer better rates or terms than an individual policy.

Is private health insurance a waste of money if I have the NHS?

Private health insurance is not a replacement for the NHS, which remains essential for emergency services, GP access, and managing chronic conditions. Instead, PMI is a complementary service. Its value lies in providing faster access to specialists, diagnostic tests, and elective surgery for new, acute conditions. For many, the peace of mind, convenience, and choice over where and when they are treated make it a worthwhile investment in their health and wellbeing.

Understanding the tax implications of private medical insurance is key to making a financially sound decision. While individuals and most self-employed people won't receive tax relief, a limited company can benefit significantly by treating it as a business expense.

Ready to explore your private medical insurance options? The friendly, expert team at WeCovr is here to help. We provide free, no-obligation quotes and clear advice to help you find the best PMI provider for your needs and budget.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote Today]

Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London