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Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised UK broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance. This article explores low blood pressure (hypotension), its symptoms, causes, and how private healthcare can offer a faster path to diagnosis and peace of mind.

Learn about hypotension and how private specialists can help with diagnosis

Feeling dizzy when you stand up? Constantly fatigued for no apparent reason? While many things can cause these symptoms, one potential culprit is low blood pressure, also known as hypotension. Often overlooked in a world focused on high blood pressure, hypotension can significantly impact your quality of life and, in some cases, signal an underlying health issue.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about low blood pressure in the UK. We'll cover what it is, its common causes and symptoms, and compare the journey to diagnosis through the NHS versus private healthcare. We will also explain how private medical insurance (PMI) can provide rapid access to specialists and diagnostic tests, helping you get answers and a management plan much faster.

What Exactly is Blood Pressure?

Before we dive into low blood pressure, let's quickly understand what blood pressure is. Think of it as the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body.

It's measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and given as two numbers:

  1. Systolic pressure (the first number): The pressure when your heart beats and pushes blood out.
  2. Diastolic pressure (the second number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats.

For example, a reading of 120/80 mmHg is read as "120 over 80".

Understanding Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is generally defined as a blood pressure reading lower than 90/60 mmHg.

However, it's not quite that simple. What's considered low for one person might be perfectly normal for another. Many athletes and highly active individuals have naturally low blood pressure without any negative effects.

The key distinction is whether your low blood pressure causes noticeable symptoms. If you have a reading of 85/55 mmHg but feel fantastic, there's usually no cause for concern. But if that same reading is accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision, it’s time to investigate further.

Blood Pressure CategorySystolic (mmHg)Diastolic (mmHg)
Low (Hypotension)90 or less60 or less
Ideal90–12060–80
Pre-High120–14080–90
High (Hypertension)140 or more90 or more

Source: NHS UK guidance.

Common Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

When blood pressure is too low, your brain, heart, and other vital organs may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. This can lead to a range of symptoms, which can be mild or severe.

Common signs to watch out for include:

  • Dizziness or light-headedness, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
  • Fainting (known as syncope).
  • Blurred or distorted vision.
  • Nausea or feeling sick.
  • General weakness and fatigue.
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating.
  • Cold, clammy, pale skin.
  • Rapid, shallow breathing.

If you experience these symptoms regularly, it's a good idea to speak with your GP.

What are the Different Types of Hypotension?

Hypotension isn't a one-size-fits-all condition. It can be classified into several types based on when and why your blood pressure drops.

  1. Orthostatic (or Postural) Hypotension: This is the most common type. It's that sudden head rush or dizzy spell you get when you stand up too quickly. It happens because gravity pulls blood down to your legs, and your body doesn't react fast enough to push it back up to the brain.
  2. Postprandial Hypotension: This type occurs 1 to 2 hours after eating a meal. Blood flows to your digestive system to help process the food, and your body might struggle to maintain blood pressure elsewhere. It's more common in older adults, particularly those with high blood pressure or conditions like Parkinson's disease.
  3. Neurally Mediated Hypotension (NMH): This happens after standing for long periods. It's caused by a miscommunication between the brain and the heart. The brain mistakenly tells the heart that blood pressure is too high, causing it to slow down, which in turn leads to a sharp drop in blood pressure. It's more common in children and young adults.
  4. Severe Hypotension Linked to Shock: This is a life-threatening medical emergency. Shock occurs when your organs aren't getting the blood and oxygen they need to function. It can be caused by major blood loss, severe infection (sepsis), anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction), or heart failure.

What Causes Low Blood Pressure?

The cause of hypotension can range from something as simple as not drinking enough water to a serious underlying medical condition.

CategoryCommon Causes
Lifestyle & SituationalDehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy (especially the first 24 weeks).
MedicationsDiuretics (water pills), beta-blockers, alpha-blockers, drugs for Parkinson's disease, certain antidepressants.
Heart ProblemsBradycardia (very slow heart rate), heart valve problems, heart attack, heart failure.
Endocrine IssuesUnderactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency), low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).
Nutritional DeficienciesLack of vitamin B12 or folate, which can cause anaemia and lead to low blood pressure.
Severe ConditionsSepsis (a severe infection), anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), major blood loss from an injury.

Identifying the root cause is the single most important step in managing hypotension, and this is where a thorough diagnosis becomes essential.

The Journey to Diagnosis: NHS vs. Private Healthcare

If you're experiencing symptoms of hypotension, your first port of call is usually your GP. From there, the path to getting a definitive diagnosis can vary significantly.

The NHS Pathway

  1. GP Appointment: You'll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you're taking. Your GP will take your blood pressure, possibly while you are sitting and then standing, to check for postural hypotension.
  2. Initial Tests: Your GP might order basic tests like blood tests (to check for anaemia, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiencies) and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart's rhythm.
  3. Referral to a Specialist: If the cause isn't clear or a more serious issue is suspected, your GP will refer you to a specialist, such as a cardiologist (heart specialist) or an endocrinologist (hormone specialist).
  4. Waiting Times: This is where delays can occur. According to recent NHS England data, the median waiting time for non-urgent consultant-led treatment can be several weeks or even months. While the NHS provides excellent care, the system is under immense pressure, and waiting for answers can be a stressful and anxious experience.

The Private Healthcare Pathway with PMI

Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, offering a faster and more flexible alternative for diagnosing and treating new, acute conditions.

Crucial Point on PMI Coverage: It's vital to understand that standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for acute conditions—illnesses that are curable and arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (symptoms or treatment you've had before taking out the policy) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or Addison's disease that require ongoing management).

If you develop symptoms of hypotension after your policy starts, PMI can be invaluable for the diagnostic phase.

  1. GP Referral: Most insurers still require a GP referral to ensure you see the right specialist. Some modern policies offer a digital GP service, which can provide a referral in hours.
  2. Fast-Track Specialist Access: With a referral, you can book an appointment with a leading private specialist, often within days. You get to choose the consultant and the hospital from a list provided by your insurer.
  3. Rapid, Comprehensive Diagnostics: This is a major benefit. Your specialist can order advanced tests immediately. There are no long waiting lists for an echocardiogram, a 24-hour blood pressure monitor, or a tilt table test. This speed can lead to a diagnosis in a fraction of the time it might take on the NHS.
  4. Initial Treatment: Once a diagnosis for an acute cause is made, your PMI policy will cover the initial treatment to resolve it.

If the diagnosis reveals a chronic condition, your PMI will have covered the crucial investigation phase. The ongoing, long-term management of that chronic condition would then typically revert to the NHS.

How Private Specialists Diagnose the Cause of Hypotension

When you see a private specialist, they will conduct a thorough investigation to pinpoint the reason for your low blood pressure. This usually involves a detailed consultation followed by one or more diagnostic tests.

Diagnostic TestWhat It Is and What It DoesWhy It's Used for Hypotension
24-Hour Ambulatory MonitoringYou wear a small, portable device that automatically measures your blood pressure at regular intervals over a 24-hour period.Provides a complete picture of how your blood pressure fluctuates throughout your normal day and night, not just in a clinic.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)A simple, painless test that records the electrical signals in your heart.Can quickly identify an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), structural heart problems, or signs of a past heart attack.
EchocardiogramAn ultrasound scan of the heart. A probe is moved over your chest to create detailed images of your heart's structure and function.Shows how well your heart is pumping and can detect valve problems or damage to the heart muscle that could be causing hypotension.
Tilt Table TestYou lie on a table that is slowly tilted upwards to simulate standing up, while your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored.Used to diagnose neurally mediated hypotension (NMH) and to see how your body responds to changes in position.
Blood TestsA comprehensive panel of blood tests.Can check for anaemia, low blood sugar, hormone imbalances (e.g., thyroid or cortisol), and signs of infection.
Stress TestYou walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while your heart is monitored.Assesses how your heart performs under physical stress, which can reveal underlying heart problems not apparent at rest.

By using private health cover, you can ensure these tests are performed without delay, helping your specialist build a clear picture of your health and devise an effective management plan.

Managing Low Blood Pressure: Practical Tips and Treatments

Once a diagnosis is made, managing hypotension often involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments and, in some cases, medication. Always follow the specific advice of your healthcare professional.

Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day. Dehydration is a very common cause of low blood pressure.
  • Consider Your Salt Intake: For some people with hypotension, a moderately higher-salt diet can help. However, you must discuss this with your doctor first, as too much salt can lead to high blood pressure and heart problems.
  • Eat Small, Frequent Meals: To prevent postprandial hypotension (the drop after eating), try having smaller, lower-carbohydrate meals more frequently throughout the day instead of three large ones.
  • Move Carefully: When getting out of bed or standing up, do so slowly. Sit on the edge of the bed for a minute before standing.
  • Wear Compression Stockings: These can help prevent blood from pooling in your legs by improving circulation back up to your heart.
  • Review Your Medications: Your specialist will review any current medications to see if they could be contributing to your low blood pressure.
  • Track Your Diet and Symptoms: Keeping a diary of what you eat and when your symptoms occur can be incredibly helpful. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI app, which can make tracking your food and fluid intake simple and insightful.

Medical Treatments

If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor might recommend medication to raise your blood pressure. This is usually only considered if your hypotension is causing severe symptoms and a specific cause has been identified.

How a PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

Navigating the world of private medical insurance can be complex. As an independent and FCA-authorised PMI broker, WeCovr simplifies the process at no cost to you.

  1. Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our experts listen to your needs and budget to find the best PMI provider and policy for you from across the market.
  2. Policy Comparison: We compare the details that matter—outpatient limits, hospital lists, excess options, and specific cover for diagnostics—so you can make an informed choice.
  3. Value-Added Benefits: When you arrange a policy through us, you not only get the right health cover but also benefits like complimentary access to our CalorieHero app and discounts on other insurance products, such as life or income protection insurance. WeCovr is highly rated by its customers on independent review websites for its excellent service and support.
  4. Support for Life: We're here to help you not just at the start, but also at renewal or if you need to make a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing low blood pressure?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have already been diagnosed with or have had symptoms of hypotension before taking out a policy, it will be excluded from cover. PMI is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts.

Do I need a GP referral to see a private specialist for hypotension?

In most cases, yes. Most private medical insurance providers in the UK require a referral from your NHS or private GP. This ensures you are seeing the correct type of specialist for your symptoms and helps to streamline the claims process. Some modern plans include access to a digital GP service that can provide a referral quickly.

What happens if my low blood pressure is diagnosed as a chronic condition?

This is a key aspect of how private health cover works. Your policy will cover the initial diagnostic phase—the specialist consultations and tests needed to find the cause of your symptoms. If the diagnosis reveals a chronic condition (e.g., Addison's disease), the swift private diagnosis will have been invaluable. However, the long-term management of that chronic condition would then typically be passed back to the NHS for ongoing care.

Can I choose which hospital and specialist I see?

Yes, this is one of the main advantages of private medical insurance. Your policy will come with a list of approved hospitals and specialists. You can work with your GP to choose a leading consultant at a convenient, high-quality private facility, giving you greater control over your healthcare journey.

If you're worried about symptoms like dizziness or fatigue and want the reassurance of fast access to expert diagnosis, private medical insurance could be the right choice for you.

Ready to explore your options for private health cover? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts find the perfect policy for your needs.

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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
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Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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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