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Is Private Health Insurance Tax Deductible in the UK

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.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

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.

Key takeaways

  • 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).
  • 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%).

As a broking firm that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr and, where appropriate, broker partners provide 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 may 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):
    • Illustrative estimate: 19% for companies with profits of £50,000 or less.
    • Illustrative estimate: 25% for companies with profits over £250,000.
    • Illustrative estimate: 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 (illustrative): 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 (illustrative): 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 (illustrative): 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. (illustrative estimate)

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 PMI specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners can compare the market from top providers like Bupa, Aviva, and AXA Health to find the right fit for your business, with no separate broker fee.

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 WeCovr Specialist or Trusted Broker Partner?

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 a regulated broker adds immense value.

  • Regulated Guidance: 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.
  • Panel-based Access: We are not tied to a single insurer. We compare plans from our panel to find the one that suits your personal needs or your company's budget and goals.
  • No Separate Broker Fee: Our service has no separate broker fee. 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? a WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner is here to help. We provide free, no-obligation quotes and clear advice to help you find the right PMI provider for your needs and budget.

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

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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