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Is Private Health Insurance Worth the Cost

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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TL;DR

As FCA-authorised brokers who have helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr offers expert guidance on private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores whether the cost is justified, analysing the true value of PMI for you and your family in an era of unprecedented NHS pressure. Expert analysis of the value of PMI for different ages and health statuses, with case studies and data on key benefits vs out-of-pocket costs The National Health Service is one of our nation's greatest achievements, providing free healthcare to all at the point of need.

Key takeaways

  • Speed: This is the number one reason people buy PMI. You can bypass long NHS waiting lists for consultations, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and elective surgery. This can mean getting treated in weeks, rather than many months or even years.
  • Choice: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare. You can often choose the specialist consultant who treats you and the hospital where you receive care from a list provided by your insurer.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Treatment is usually in a private hospital or a private wing of an NHS hospital. This typically means a private, en-suite room with amenities like a TV and a more flexible visitor policy, creating a more comfortable and less stressful environment for recovery.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some policies provide access to new, innovative drugs or treatments that may not yet be available on the NHS due to cost or pending approval from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, a hernia, or cataracts. This is what PMI is for.

As FCA-authorised brokers who have helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr offers expert guidance on private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores whether the cost is justified, analysing the true value of PMI for you and your family in an era of unprecedented NHS pressure.

Expert analysis of the value of PMI for different ages and health statuses, with case studies and data on key benefits vs out-of-pocket costs

The National Health Service is one of our nation's greatest achievements, providing free healthcare to all at the point of need. However, with demand soaring and resources stretched, waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment have grown to record levels. In mid-2025, the number of treatment pathways on the NHS waiting list in England continues to hover around a staggering 7.5 million.

This challenging environment has led many people to ask: is it time to consider private medical insurance (PMI)? Is the monthly premium a worthwhile investment for peace of mind and faster access to care, or is it an unnecessary expense?

The answer isn't a simple yes or no. The value of private health cover is deeply personal, depending on your age, health, financial circumstances, and priorities. This comprehensive guide will break down the costs and benefits, helping you make an informed decision.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance: What Are You Actually Paying For?

Before weighing the cost, it's vital to understand what a PMI policy actually provides—and, just as importantly, what it doesn't.

The Core Benefits of a PMI Policy

At its heart, private medical insurance is designed to complement the NHS, not replace it. It covers the treatment of acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment. Its primary benefits are:

  • Speed: This is the number one reason people buy PMI. You can bypass long NHS waiting lists for consultations, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and elective surgery. This can mean getting treated in weeks, rather than many months or even years.
  • Choice: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare. You can often choose the specialist consultant who treats you and the hospital where you receive care from a list provided by your insurer.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Treatment is usually in a private hospital or a private wing of an NHS hospital. This typically means a private, en-suite room with amenities like a TV and a more flexible visitor policy, creating a more comfortable and less stressful environment for recovery.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some policies provide access to new, innovative drugs or treatments that may not yet be available on the NHS due to cost or pending approval from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

The Critical Exclusion: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about standard UK private health insurance.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

Let's define these terms:

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, a hernia, or cataracts. This is what PMI is for.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management, but for which there is no known cure. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. This is not covered by PMI. Your ongoing management for these conditions remains with the NHS.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy start date. For example, if you had knee pain and saw a physio before taking out a policy, any future treatment for that knee would likely be excluded.

Insurers manage this through a process called underwriting. The two main types are:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the five years before your policy begins. However, if you go two full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a full medical history questionnaire. The insurer reviews it and lists specific, permanent exclusions from your policy from day one. This provides more certainty but is more intrusive.

Common Policy Options and How They Affect Your Premium

Not all PMI policies are the same. You can tailor your cover to balance your budget with your needs. Key levers include:

  • Excess (illustrative): The amount you agree to pay towards a claim (e.g., the first £250). A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. A policy covering only local hospitals will be cheaper than one that includes prime central London facilities.
  • Outpatient Cover (illustrative): You can choose a limit on the value of diagnostic tests and consultations before you are admitted to hospital. A lower limit (e.g., £500) or no outpatient cover at all will reduce the price significantly.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of most policies and is often comprehensive, but the level of cover can be adjusted.

The Financial Equation: PMI Premiums vs. Out-of-Pocket Private Treatment Costs

To determine if PMI is "worth it," we must compare the ongoing cost of premiums with the potential one-off cost of private treatment.

How Much Does Private Medical Insurance Cost in the UK?

Premiums vary widely based on your age, location, smoking status, and the level of cover you choose. The table below provides an illustrative guide to monthly premiums for a non-smoker living outside London.

Age BracketEstimated Monthly Premium (Standard Cover)Estimated Monthly Premium (Comprehensive Cover)
25-34£35 - £55£50 - £80
35-44£50 - £75£70 - £110
45-54£70 - £100£100 - £160
55-64£100 - £150£150 - £250
65+£150 - £250+£220 - £400+

Disclaimer: These are guide prices for 2025 and can vary significantly. Standard cover might include a £250 excess and a limited hospital list. Comprehensive cover typically has a lower excess and full outpatient cover. (illustrative estimate)

The Shocking Cost of Going Private Without Insurance

Paying for private treatment yourself, known as 'self-funding', can be eye-wateringly expensive. Saving up the equivalent of your PMI premiums would likely not be enough to cover a single major procedure.

Private ProcedureAverage UK Out-of-Pocket Cost (2025)
Initial Consultation with a Specialist£200 - £350
MRI Scan (one part)£400 - £800
Cataract Surgery (one eye)£2,500 - £4,000
Hernia Repair£3,000 - £5,000
ACL Reconstruction (knee surgery)£6,000 - £9,000
Hip Replacement£13,000 - £16,000
Knee Replacement£14,000 - £17,000
Prostate Cancer Treatment (Prostatectomy)£18,000 - £25,000
Heart Bypass Surgery£20,000 - £30,000+

As you can see, the cost of just one common operation, like a hip replacement, could be equivalent to over 10 years of PMI premiums for someone in their 50s.

Case Study: Sarah's Knee Injury

  • Person: Sarah, a 48-year-old self-employed graphic designer.
  • Policy: A mid-range PMI policy costing £80 per month (£960 per year) with a £250 excess.
  • Incident: While playing tennis, Sarah tears her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Her GP confirms the injury and refers her to an NHS specialist.
  • The NHS Route: The waiting list for an initial orthopaedic consultation is 4 months. The estimated wait for the surgery itself is a further 9-12 months. This long wait would severely impact her ability to work and her quality of life.
  • The PMI Route: Sarah calls her insurer. They approve a private consultation, and she sees a top knee surgeon within one week. An MRI scan is done two days later. Her surgery is scheduled for three weeks after her initial call.
  • The Financials: The total cost of the consultation, scan, surgery, and post-operative physiotherapy comes to £8,500. Sarah pays her £250 excess. Her insurer pays the remaining £8,250.

For Sarah, her £960 annual premium was unquestionably worth the cost. She was back on her feet and able to work months earlier than she would have been on the NHS, protecting her income and mental wellbeing.

Is PMI Worth It for You? A Life-Stage Analysis

The value proposition of private health cover changes throughout your life.

For Young Professionals (20s and 30s)

  • Pros: This is the cheapest time to buy PMI. It establishes a health record with an insurer while you are young and healthy. Digital GP services offer incredible convenience, and mental health support—often including therapy sessions—is a highly valuable benefit for this demographic. For the self-employed, it's a way to protect your income against disruption from injury.
  • Cons: You're statistically less likely to need major surgery. With a limited budget, the monthly premium might feel like a luxury.
  • Verdict: A "great-to-have" rather than an essential. Its value increases significantly if you are self-employed, have a family history of acute conditions, or highly value the convenience of virtual GP and mental health services.

For Families and Middle-Aged Individuals (40s and 50s)

  • Pros: This is arguably the "sweet spot" where PMI delivers the most tangible value. The statistical likelihood of needing elective surgery (hips, knees, hernias) or diagnostic tests for worrying symptoms increases. The impact of a long wait on your career and family life is more profound. Getting a rapid diagnosis for a health scare provides immense peace of mind.
  • Cons: Premiums are noticeably higher. It becomes a more significant line item in the household budget, competing with mortgages, pensions, and university funds.
  • Verdict: Highly recommended for consideration. The balance of risk and cost tips in favour of having cover. The ability to bypass waits for the exact procedures that have the longest NHS queues makes it a powerful tool for maintaining your quality of life and ability to work.

For Retirees and Seniors (60s and Over)

  • Pros: Your need for medical services is at its highest. PMI can provide speed, comfort, and choice at a time when you are most vulnerable. It can be the difference between spending your retirement in comfort or in pain while waiting for treatment.
  • Cons: Premiums become very expensive, and they will continue to rise each year. Many age-related ailments are chronic (like arthritis or macular degeneration) and therefore will not be covered. Some insurers have upper age limits for new applicants.
  • Verdict: A complex and very personal decision. If you have substantial retirement savings and prioritise comfort and speed above all else, it can be a lifeline. For those on a fixed income, the high cost may be prohibitive, especially given the exclusions for chronic care.

Beyond the Basics: The Hidden Value in Modern PMI Policies

The best PMI providers offer much more than just surgery. These "added value" benefits can significantly enhance the worth of a policy.

Digital GP and Virtual Health Services

Nearly all leading policies now include a 24/7 virtual GP service. This allows you to speak to a doctor via phone or video call, often within hours. You can get advice, a diagnosis for simple issues, and private prescriptions. This is a game-changer for busy people and parents of young children.

Mental Health Support

Recognising the UK's mental health crisis, most insurers now provide excellent mental health pathways. This can include:

  • A set number of face-to-face or virtual therapy sessions (e.g., 6-8 sessions of CBT or counselling).
  • Access to self-help apps and online resources.
  • Direct access to mental health support without needing a GP referral.

Given NHS waiting times for psychological therapies can exceed 18 months in some areas, this benefit alone can justify the premium for many.

Wellness Programmes and Incentives

Many insurers actively encourage you to stay healthy. They may offer:

  • Discounted gym memberships.
  • Discounts on fitness trackers like Apple Watch or Fitbit.
  • Points and rewards for achieving activity goals.

At WeCovr, we champion this proactive approach to health. That's why clients who arrange their private health insurance through us receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help them build and maintain healthy habits.

Cancer Cover: The Gold Standard

This is a core component of PMI and a primary reason for taking out a policy. While NHS cancer care is excellent, private cover can offer:

  1. More choice over your oncologist and treatment hospital.
  2. A more comfortable and private environment for chemotherapy.
  3. Crucially, access to breakthrough drugs or treatments that may not yet be routinely funded by the NHS. This can provide vital options and hope in difficult circumstances.

How to Get the Best Value from Your Private Health Insurance

If you decide PMI is right for you, it's essential to get the right policy at the best price.

1. Choose the Right Level of Cover

Don't just buy the cheapest or most expensive policy. Think about your needs. Could you accept a higher excess to lower your premium? Are you happy with a hospital list that is local to you, or do you want the option of treatment in London? Tailoring your cover is key to finding value.

2. Consider a Specialist Health Insurance Broker

The UK private medical insurance market is complex, with dozens of providers and countless policy variations. A specialist broker works for you, not the insurer.

Using an independent PMI broker like WeCovr costs you nothing extra. Our fee is paid by the insurer upon the successful arrangement of a policy. We provide:

  • Whole-of-market comparison: We analyse policies from leading UK insurers to find the best fit.
  • Expert, jargon-free advice: We explain the differences in underwriting, cancer cover, and outpatient limits in plain English.
  • Personalised recommendations: We help you find a policy that matches your specific budget and health priorities.

With consistently high customer satisfaction ratings, our focus is on bringing clarity and confidence to your decision.

3. Take Advantage of Bundled Discounts

When you build a relationship with a broker, you can often unlock further value. For instance, when you arrange your private health cover through WeCovr, you may be eligible for discounts on other vital cover, such as life insurance or income protection, creating a more affordable and comprehensive financial safety net for your family.

The NHS vs. Private Healthcare: A Balanced View

It is crucial to view private medical insurance not as a vote against the NHS, but as a pragmatic partnership with it.

  • The NHS remains your first port of call for accidents and emergencies. You would always call 999 or go to A&E in a medical emergency, regardless of whether you have PMI.
  • The NHS provides world-class management of chronic conditions, which PMI does not cover.
  • PMI acts as a parallel track for non-emergency, acute conditions. It is your ticket to bypass the queue for planned diagnostics and surgery, allowing the NHS to focus its resources on emergencies, complex cases, and those who have no alternative.

Think of it like transport. The public bus service (the NHS) is essential and gets you where you need to go. But sometimes, paying for a taxi (private healthcare) is a worthwhile investment for speed, convenience, and comfort. PMI is the insurance that pays for the taxi fare when you need it.

Ultimately, the decision of whether private medical insurance is worth the cost rests on your personal circumstances and your peace of mind. For a growing number of people in the UK, the certainty of fast access to high-quality care is a price well worth paying.

Is private health insurance tax deductible in the UK?

Generally, no. If you are an individual paying for your own private medical insurance, you cannot claim tax relief on your premiums. If your employer pays for your policy as a benefit, it is considered a 'benefit-in-kind' and is subject to income tax. The only exception is for some self-employed individuals or company directors where the policy is exclusively for ensuring they can work; however, you must seek specific advice from an accountant on this.

Can I get private health insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can still get a policy, but it will not cover your pre-existing condition(s) or anything related to them. Most people choose 'moratorium' underwriting, where any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining is automatically excluded. If you then go 2 continuous years without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.

Is it cheaper to just save the money instead of buying health insurance?

This is a significant gamble. While you might save money if you remain perfectly healthy, the cost of a single major private surgery, such as a hip replacement (£14,000+) or cancer treatment, can easily exceed 10-20 years' worth of insurance premiums. Insurance works by pooling risk; your affordable premium gives you protection against a potentially catastrophic cost.

What happens to my private health insurance premium as I get older?

Your premium will increase each year for two main reasons. Firstly, as you get older, your age-related risk of needing medical treatment increases, so your base premium rises. Secondly, all premiums are subject to 'medical inflation', which is the rising cost of new medical technologies, drugs, and hospital charges, which typically runs higher than general inflation.

Ready to explore your options and see if private medical insurance is the right choice for you?

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading providers to find a policy that fits your needs and budget, giving you clarity and confidence in your decision.

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

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

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

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

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

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

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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