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Laser Facial Resurfacing

Laser Facial Resurfacing 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

WeCovr explains cosmetic laser treatments and how theyre covered privately

As an FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the nuances of health cover in the UK. Laser facial resurfacing is a popular, advanced treatment for improving skin, but figuring out if it’s covered by your insurance can be confusing. We’re here to clear it up.

This guide breaks down what laser resurfacing is, when it might be covered by private medical insurance, and what you need to know about the process.

Understanding Laser Facial Resurfacing

Laser facial resurfacing is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to treat a wide range of skin imperfections. Think of it as a highly controlled way to "sand" away damaged outer layers of skin, encouraging new, healthier skin to grow in its place.

The laser energy targets water in the skin cells, vaporising them layer by layer. This process not only removes surface-level issues but also stimulates the production of collagen—a key protein that keeps skin firm and youthful. The result is smoother, tighter, and more even-toned skin.

Types of Laser Resurfacing: A Quick Comparison

Not all lasers are the same. They are generally categorised into two main types: ablative and non-ablative. Within these categories, you also find "fractional" lasers, which is a method of delivery.

Laser TypeHow It WorksBest ForDowntime
Ablative LasersRemoves the thin outer layer of skin (epidermis) and heats the underlying skin (dermis) to stimulate collagen growth. Examples: CO2, Erbium.Significant wrinkles, severe sun damage, scars.Extensive (1-3 weeks). Can involve redness, swelling, and peeling.
Non-Ablative LasersHeats the underlying skin tissue to stimulate collagen production without harming the surface. Examples: Pulsed-Dye, Nd:YAG.Fine lines, mild sun damage, pigmentation issues, redness.Minimal (a few hours to a few days of mild redness).
Fractional LasersDelivers the laser beam in thousands of tiny, deep columns, leaving surrounding skin untouched. This can be either ablative or non-ablative.A good middle-ground for moderate signs of ageing, acne scars, and improving texture with less downtime than fully ablative lasers.Moderate (3-7 days).

Choosing the right type of laser depends on your skin goals, your skin type, and how much recovery time you can afford. A qualified dermatologist or practitioner will guide you through this choice during a consultation.

Why Do People Get Laser Resurfacing? Cosmetic vs. Medical Reasons

People seek out laser treatments for a host of reasons, which fall into two distinct camps: cosmetic enhancement and medical necessity. This distinction is absolutely critical when it comes to private medical insurance.

Common Cosmetic Reasons (Generally NOT covered by PMI):

  • Fine lines and wrinkles: Especially around the eyes ("crow's feet"), mouth, and forehead.
  • Sun damage: Including age spots, sun spots, and a generally weathered appearance.
  • Uneven skin tone or texture: Improving the overall smoothness and glow of the skin.
  • Enlarged pores: Making them appear smaller for a more refined look.
  • Minor scarring: Such as light acne scars from teenage years.

Potential Medical Reasons (MIGHT be covered by PMI):

  • Significant scarring: From an accident, injury, or surgery that occurred after your insurance policy began. For example, a scar that causes tightness, discomfort, or significant cosmetic disfigurement.
  • Pre-cancerous growths: Such as Actinic Keratosis, which are rough, scaly patches caused by years of sun exposure. A dermatologist may recommend laser removal to prevent them from developing into skin cancer.
  • Certain active skin conditions: In some cases of severe rosacea or rhinophyma (a condition causing a red, bumpy nose), laser treatment may be deemed the most effective medical intervention by a specialist.
  • Birthmarks: Some vascular birthmarks (like port-wine stains) may be covered if they are causing medical issues or significant psychological distress, supported by a specialist's report.

The Big Question: Does Private Medical Insurance UK Cover Laser Resurfacing?

Here's the straightforward answer: For purely cosmetic reasons, standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover laser facial resurfacing.

Private health cover is designed to pay for the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

The Golden Rule of UK PMI

Your policy is there for unexpected health problems that arise after you take out your cover. It is not designed for:

  1. Cosmetic procedures: Treatments chosen purely to improve appearance.
  2. Pre-existing conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received treatment for, before your policy started.
  3. Chronic conditions: Long-term conditions that require ongoing management rather than a cure, such as eczema or psoriasis.

Laser resurfacing for wrinkles or sun spots falls squarely into the "cosmetic" category. Insurers view it as an elective procedure, not a medical necessity.

When Might Laser Treatment Be Covered? The 'Medically Necessary' Exception

While cosmetic treatment is excluded, there are specific scenarios where a laser procedure could be funded by your insurer. The key phrase is "medically necessary."

For a claim to even be considered, you must demonstrate that the laser treatment is the most appropriate clinical response to an eligible acute medical condition.

Here’s how it typically works:

  1. The Condition is Acute and Eligible: The medical issue (e.g., a scar from a recent accident, a suspicious skin lesion) must have arisen after your policy start date.
  2. You See a Specialist: You will need a referral from your GP to a consultant dermatologist or plastic surgeon on your insurer's approved list.
  3. The Specialist Recommends Laser: The consultant must diagnose your condition and state in their report that laser resurfacing is the most suitable and effective treatment. They must justify this from a medical—not cosmetic—standpoint.
  4. You Get Pre-Authorisation: This is the most important step. You or your specialist must submit the treatment plan and report to your insurer before any procedure takes place. The insurer's clinical team will review the case against your policy's terms and conditions.

Only if they agree that the treatment is medically necessary and covered by your policy terms will they issue an authorisation number. Never proceed with treatment assuming it will be covered without this formal pre-authorisation.

Scenario Comparison: Covered vs. Not Covered

To make this clearer, let's look at some real-life examples.

ScenarioThe SituationIs it Likely to be Covered by PMI?Why?
Sun DamageSarah, 55, wants to reduce the fine lines and age spots on her face from years of sunbathing.NoThis is a purely cosmetic goal. The underlying cause (sun damage) is also a long-term process, not a new, acute condition.
Accident ScarDavid, 35, was in a car accident 6 months after starting his PMI policy. He has a prominent scar on his cheek that is tight and sometimes painful.Potentially YesThe scar is the result of an acute event that occurred post-policy. If a specialist confirms laser treatment is the best way to improve the scar's function (reduce tightness) and appearance, the insurer may approve it.
Pre-cancerous LesionsMary, 62, has several patches of Actinic Keratosis on her forehead. Her GP refers her to a dermatologist.Very Likely YesThe dermatologist recommends laser ablation to remove the pre-cancerous cells. This is preventative medicine to treat an active, diagnosed medical condition. It is not cosmetic.
Old Acne ScarsTom, 28, wants to treat the acne scars he's had since he was a teenager. He took out his policy last year.NoThe acne scarring is a pre-existing condition. It existed long before his policy began, so it would be excluded from cover.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you understand the specific exclusions on your policy, ensuring you know exactly where you stand before you even see a specialist.

If you and your specialist believe your laser treatment is medically necessary, here’s a step-by-step guide to the claims process:

  1. Check Your Policy: Review your policy documents or call your insurer to confirm your level of cover. Pay close attention to your outpatient limits. Consultations and the laser procedure itself are usually done on an outpatient basis, so your cover must be sufficient.
  2. Get a GP Referral: Visit your GP to discuss the issue. If they agree it needs further investigation, they will provide a referral to a specialist. Many modern PMI policies include a digital GP service, which can speed this up.
  3. Book a Specialist Consultation: Use your insurer's approved list to find a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Inform them you are using private medical insurance.
  4. Specialist Assessment: The consultant will assess you and provide a diagnosis and recommended treatment plan. Ensure they write a detailed report justifying the medical need for laser therapy.
  5. Request Pre-authorisation: Contact your insurer’s claims department with your membership number, the specialist's details, the proposed treatment (including a procedure code), and the estimated cost. You will need to submit the specialist's report.
  6. Await the Decision: The insurer will review the information. They may ask for more details. If approved, they will provide you with an authorisation number, confirming what they have agreed to cover.
  7. Proceed with Treatment: Once you have the green light, you can book your laser treatment with the specialist.
  8. Settling the Bill: The hospital or clinic will usually send the invoice directly to your insurer. You will only be responsible for paying any excess on your policy.

What Are the Costs of Laser Resurfacing if You Pay Yourself?

If your treatment is cosmetic or you decide to pay for it yourself, it's good to have an idea of the costs. Prices in the UK vary significantly based on the type of laser, the size of the area being treated, the clinic's location (London is often more expensive), and the practitioner's experience.

Here are some estimated costs for a full-face treatment in 2025:

Treatment TypeAverage Cost Per Session (UK)Notes
Non-Ablative Fractional Laser£400 - £800Often requires a course of 3-5 sessions for best results.
Ablative Fractional Laser (e.g., Fraxel)£700 - £1,500Fewer sessions may be needed, but downtime is longer.
Fully Ablative Laser (e.g., CO2)£2,000 - £4,500Typically a one-off treatment providing dramatic results.

Important: These are estimates. Always get a precise quote during your consultation, which should include the cost of the procedure, any anaesthesia, and follow-up appointments.

Beyond Lasers: A Holistic Approach to Skin Health

While laser treatments can be incredibly effective, they work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Great skin is built from the inside out.

  • Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: The single best thing you can do for your skin is to protect it from the sun. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) every single day, even when it's cloudy. This protects your investment in any laser treatment and prevents future damage.
  • Nourish Your Skin: A diet rich in antioxidants (found in colourful fruits and vegetables), healthy fats (like those in avocados and nuts), and lean protein supports skin repair and collagen production. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also crucial.
  • Prioritise Sleep: During sleep, your body goes into repair mode. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to allow your skin to regenerate.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your skin, triggering issues like acne and inflammation. Incorporate stress-management techniques like mindfulness, exercise, or yoga into your routine.

As a WeCovr customer, you get complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI app, which can help you track your nutrition and build healthy eating habits that support your skin from within.

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Private Health Cover

Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can feel overwhelming. Every provider has different rules, benefits, and exclusions. This is where an independent broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable asset.

  • We're Experts: We live and breathe private health cover. We know the policies from providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality inside and out.
  • We're Independent: We work for you, not the insurers. Our goal is to find the best PMI provider and policy that fits your specific needs and budget.
  • Our Service is Free: You don't pay a penny for our expert advice and comparison service. We receive a commission from the insurer if you decide to buy a policy.
  • We Value Our Customers: Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing clear, honest, and helpful guidance.
  • Added Benefits: When you purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us, we can often provide discounts on other types of cover, giving you more value.

We can help you understand the key differences in policies—like outpatient limits, cancer cover, and hospital lists—so you can make an informed choice. We'll ensure you know exactly what is and isn't covered, including the specifics around treatments like laser resurfacing.

Is acne treatment covered by private medical insurance?

Generally, the treatment of active, severe acne that requires specialist intervention (like potent prescription drugs or certain therapies) can be covered by a comprehensive private medical insurance policy, provided it is not a pre-existing condition. However, treatment for acne scarring is almost always considered cosmetic and is therefore excluded. You would need a GP referral to a dermatologist, and any claim would be subject to your policy's outpatient limits and pre-authorisation.

Do I need to declare minor skin blemishes when applying for PMI?

It depends on the type of underwriting you choose. With 'Full Medical Underwriting', you must declare your full medical history, including any consultations or treatments for skin conditions. With 'Moratorium Underwriting', you don't declare your history upfront, but any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years is automatically excluded for an initial period (usually 2 years). It is always best to be honest and thorough to ensure your policy is valid when you need to make a claim.

Can I get private health cover if I already have a chronic skin condition like eczema?

Yes, you can absolutely get private health cover. However, the chronic condition itself (eczema) and any related treatments will be excluded from your policy as it is a pre-existing and chronic condition. UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins, not for managing long-term illnesses. Your policy would still cover you for other eligible medical conditions unrelated to your eczema.

Ready to explore your options for private health cover? Let our friendly experts do the hard work for you.

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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