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Manchesters Best Private Hospitals A 2026 Review

Manchesters Best Private Hospitals A 2026 Review 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies arranged, WeCovr helps UK residents navigate the world of private medical insurance. This guide offers an in-depth 2026 review of Manchester's top private hospitals, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing.

Your guide to the top clinics and hospitals in Manchester

Manchester is not just a hub of culture and industry; it's also a powerhouse of medical excellence. With a growing network of world-class private hospitals and specialist clinics, the city offers residents exceptional choice and quality when it comes to their healthcare.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best private healthcare options in Manchester for 2026. We'll explore the leading hospitals, what makes them stand out, and how private medical insurance can provide you with swift access to the treatment you need, when you need it.

Why Choose Private Healthcare in Manchester?

While the NHS provides an invaluable service, many people are turning to private healthcare for a variety of compelling reasons. In a bustling city like Manchester, the benefits can be particularly significant.

According to the latest NHS England data, the national waiting list for routine hospital treatment remains a significant challenge, with millions of people waiting for appointments. This has led many to consider private options to bypass these queues.

Key benefits of opting for private healthcare include:

  • Shorter Waiting Times: This is often the primary motivator. Private hospitals can typically offer consultations, diagnostic scans, and surgical procedures far more quickly than the NHS.
  • Choice and Control: You can often choose your consultant surgeon and schedule your treatment at a time that suits you, minimising disruption to your work and family life.
  • Enhanced Comfort: Private hospitals are known for their comfortable facilities, including private en-suite rooms, better food menus, and more flexible visiting hours, creating a less stressful environment for recovery.
  • Access to Advanced Technology: The private sector often invests heavily in the latest diagnostic and surgical technology, which may not yet be widely available on the NHS.
  • Specialist Access: You can gain direct access to leading consultants and specialists at the top of their fields.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI): A Quick Refresher

Private Medical Insurance (PMI), also known as private health cover, is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private medical treatment for specific conditions. You pay a monthly or annual premium, and in return, the insurer covers the bills for eligible treatments at private hospitals.

It's a fantastic way to plan for your future health, but it's vital to understand what it does—and doesn't—cover.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic and Pre-existing Conditions

This is the most important distinction to grasp in UK private medical insurance:

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repair, or treatment for gallstones.

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

  • A chronic condition is an illness that continues for a long time, often for life. It cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.
  • A pre-existing condition is any ailment or symptom you had before your policy began, whether you were diagnosed or not.

Navigating these definitions and the small print of policies can be complex. This is where an expert PMI broker like WeCovr provides immense value, helping you find a policy that clearly matches your needs and budget.

How We Selected Manchester's Best Private Hospitals

To provide you with a reliable and insightful review, we've assessed Manchester's private hospitals based on a set of robust criteria. This ensures our recommendations are based on quality, not just reputation.

  • Care Quality Commission (CQC) Ratings: The CQC is the independent regulator of all health and social care services in England. Their ratings ("Outstanding," "Good," "Requires Improvement," "Inadequate") are a crucial benchmark for safety and quality.
  • Patient Reviews and Feedback: We've analysed patient testimonials and satisfaction scores to understand the real-life experience of care, comfort, and communication.
  • Range of Specialisms: A top hospital offers a wide breadth of services, from routine procedures to complex surgeries in fields like oncology, cardiology, and orthopaedics.
  • Consultant Expertise: The reputation and experience of the consultants who practise at a hospital are a key indicator of the quality of care available.
  • Advanced Facilities and Technology: We look for investment in modern diagnostic equipment (MRI, CT, PET scanners) and state-of-the-art surgical theatres.

Manchester's Premier Private Hospitals: A Detailed 2026 Review

Manchester is home to several outstanding private hospitals, each with its own unique strengths. Here is our detailed review of the leading facilities for 2026.

The Alexandra Hospital, Cheadle

Part of the nationwide Circle Health Group, "The Alex," as it's locally known, is one of the largest and most comprehensive private hospitals outside of London. Located in Cheadle, South Manchester, it has a long-standing reputation for clinical excellence.

  • Key Specialisms: The Alexandra Hospital is a true multi-disciplinary facility. It excels in orthopaedics (hip, knee, shoulder surgery), cardiology, spinal surgery, general surgery, and private cancer care. It also has a dedicated private GP service and a large physiotherapy department.
  • Facilities & Technology: The hospital is exceptionally well-equipped with over 600 consultants, multiple operating theatres, an advanced diagnostic imaging centre (including MRI and CT), and a Level 3 Critical Care Unit, enabling it to handle more complex surgical cases.
  • CQC Rating: The Alexandra Hospital is consistently rated as Good by the CQC, with praise for its effective and caring services.
  • Patient Experience: Patients frequently highlight the professionalism of the staff, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the comfort of the private en-suite rooms. The seamless journey from consultation to recovery is a common theme in patient feedback.
  • Insurance Network: Recognised by all major UK private medical insurance providers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality.

Spire Manchester Hospital, Didsbury

Opened in 2017, the Spire Manchester is a state-of-the-art hospital that brought a new level of modern healthcare to the region. Its purpose-built design focuses on patient comfort and clinical efficiency.

  • Key Specialisms: Spire Manchester has built a formidable reputation in sports medicine, orthopaedics, and musculoskeletal conditions. It is also a centre of excellence for cardiology, ENT (ear, nose, and throat), and weight-loss surgery. Its partnership with the "Perform" brand offers elite-level physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation.
  • Facilities & Technology: This hospital boasts some of the most advanced technology in the North West. It features six operating theatres (including a hybrid theatre for complex vascular and cardiac work), an advanced imaging department, and a hydrotherapy pool for rehabilitation.
  • CQC Rating: Spire Manchester Hospital holds an overall rating of Good from the CQC, reflecting its high standards of care and safety.
  • Patient Experience: The modern, bright, and spacious environment is a standout feature for patients. The dedicated nursing teams and clear communication from consultants receive high praise.
  • Insurance Network: As part of the Spire Healthcare group, it is a core hospital for all leading private health cover providers.

The Christie Private Care, Withington

The Christie Private Care is a unique collaboration between The Christie NHS Foundation Trust—one of Europe's leading cancer centres—and HCA Healthcare UK. It offers private patients access to world-renowned cancer experts and cutting-edge treatments.

  • Key Specialisms: This is a dedicated, specialist cancer hospital. It offers the full spectrum of cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and complex cancer surgery. It is at the forefront of research and clinical trials, providing access to treatments not available elsewhere.
  • Facilities & Technology: Patients benefit from The Christie's unparalleled infrastructure, including advanced radiotherapy machines like the MR-Linac and proton beam therapy facilities. The private unit itself provides a calm and comfortable environment for receiving treatment.
  • CQC Rating: The service is inspected as part of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, which is rated Outstanding by the CQC, a testament to its world-class standards.
  • Patient Experience: For those facing a cancer diagnosis, the combination of leading-edge treatment and compassionate, specialist care is invaluable. Patients report feeling supported, informed, and in the best possible hands.
  • Insurance Network: Recognised by major insurers for specialist cancer treatment, though it's important to check your policy's specific cancer cover level.

Oaklands Hospital, Salford

Part of the Ramsay Health Care UK group, Oaklands Hospital in Salford serves Greater Manchester and Cheshire. It has a reputation for being a friendly and accessible hospital that delivers a wide range of common elective procedures to a very high standard.

  • Key Specialisms: Oaklands is a strong choice for orthopaedic surgery (including a rapid recovery programme), general surgery, cosmetic surgery, and gynaecology. It also offers a comprehensive diagnostic imaging service.
  • Facilities & Technology: The hospital has three operating theatres, a dedicated endoscopy suite for diagnostic procedures, and a full suite of imaging technology. Its smaller scale is often seen as a positive, leading to a more personal patient experience.
  • CQC Rating: Oaklands Hospital is rated Good by the CQC, with inspectors noting the staff's commitment to compassionate and patient-centred care.
  • Patient Experience: Patients often describe the hospital as efficient, friendly, and welcoming. The nursing care is frequently highlighted as a key strength, making patients feel at ease throughout their stay.
  • Insurance Network: As a Ramsay hospital, it is part of the network for all major UK private medical insurance providers.

Comparing Manchester's Top Private Hospitals at a Glance

This table provides a simple overview to help you compare the leading options.

HospitalKey SpecialismsCQC RatingLocationBest For
The Alexandra HospitalOrthopaedics, Cardiology, Spinal, Cancer CareGoodCheadleComprehensive care & complex surgery
Spire Manchester HospitalOrthopaedics, Sports Medicine, CardiologyGoodDidsburyModern facilities & sports injuries
The Christie Private CareSpecialist Cancer Care (All types)OutstandingWithingtonWorld-class, dedicated cancer treatment
Oaklands HospitalOrthopaedics, General Surgery, CosmeticsGoodSalfordPersonal care & routine elective surgery

How to Access Private Healthcare in Manchester

There are two main pathways to receiving treatment at one of these top hospitals:

  1. Self-Pay: You can choose to pay for your treatment directly. The hospital will provide a fixed-price package for your procedure, which includes the consultant's fees, hospital costs, and post-operative care. This offers transparency but can be expensive, with a knee replacement, for example, costing upwards of £15,000.
  2. Using Private Medical Insurance: This is the most common and cost-effective method for most people. Your policy is designed to cover these costs.

The process for using your PMI is straightforward:

  1. GP Referral: Visit your NHS GP to discuss your symptoms. They will provide a referral letter if they believe you need to see a specialist. Some insurers now offer a digital GP service to speed this up.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: Call your insurance provider's claims line with your referral details. They will confirm your cover and provide you with an authorisation number.
  3. Choose Your Specialist and Hospital: Your insurer will provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals. You can then choose from the excellent options in Manchester, like those reviewed above.
  4. Book Your Appointment: Contact the consultant's secretary to book your consultation.
  5. Treatment: The insurer will liaise directly with the hospital and consultant to settle the bills, leaving you to focus on your recovery.

Finding the Right Private Medical Insurance UK Policy with WeCovr

Choosing the right private health cover is just as important as choosing the right hospital. The UK market is filled with different providers, policy types, and levels of cover. Trying to compare them all yourself can be overwhelming.

This is where working with an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr is invaluable.

  • Impartial, Expert Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best policy for you. We compare the entire market to find cover that fits your budget and includes your preferred Manchester hospital list.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free for our clients. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert guidance without paying a penny extra.
  • Added Value: When you arrange a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, you gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support your health goals. You may also be eligible for discounts on other types of insurance.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly for its clarity, efficiency, and friendly support. We simplify the complex world of insurance.

Beyond the Hospital: Manchester's Thriving Wellness Scene

Your health isn't just about medical treatment; it's about your overall lifestyle. Manchester offers fantastic opportunities to stay healthy and well.

  • Diet and Nutrition: Move beyond the supermarket and explore local markets like Altrincham Market or Mackie Mayor for fresh, local produce. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein is fundamental to good health.
  • Keeping Active: With the Peak District on its doorstep, Manchester is a gateway to incredible hiking and cycling. Closer to home, vast green spaces like Heaton Park and Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden offer beautiful routes for walking and running. The city is also packed with gyms, yoga studios, and sports facilities to suit every interest.
  • Mental Wellbeing: Managing stress is crucial. Take advantage of Manchester's world-class cultural scene. A visit to the Manchester Art Gallery, a concert at the Bridgewater Hall, or simply a quiet walk along the canals can be a powerful way to unwind and recharge.

By combining access to excellent private healthcare with a healthy lifestyle, you can take full control of your wellbeing in 2026 and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Private Healthcare in Manchester

Do I need a GP referral to see a private specialist in Manchester?

Generally, yes. Almost all UK private medical insurance providers require a referral letter from your GP before they will authorise a consultation with a specialist. This ensures there is a clear medical need for the appointment and provides the specialist with your initial medical history. Some modern policies include access to a digital GP service, which can provide a faster referral.

Can I choose any hospital in Manchester with my PMI policy?

Not necessarily. Your choice of hospital depends on your policy's "hospital list." Insurers offer different tiers of lists to manage costs. A comprehensive policy will include all major private hospitals, including the premier options in Manchester. A more budget-friendly policy might have a more restricted list. An expert PMI broker can help you ensure your desired hospitals are included in your chosen plan.

What happens if I have a pre-existing condition?

This is a critical point. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed for acute conditions that begin *after* your policy starts. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management). When you apply, the insurer will assess your medical history to exclude these from your cover. It is vital to declare your history fully and honestly.

Does my private health cover pay for everything?

Most policies cover the majority of costs for eligible inpatient and day-patient treatment (e.g., surgery and a hospital stay). However, there are a few things to be aware of. Your policy will have an excess, which is a fixed amount you pay towards a claim. Additionally, cover for outpatient services (consultations, diagnostics) may have an annual financial limit. It's important to read your policy documents carefully to understand these limits.

Ready to secure your peace of mind?

Take the first step towards fast, high-quality private healthcare in Manchester. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts find the perfect private medical insurance policy for you.


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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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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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