Key takeaways
- What PMI is and why people buy it
- Martin Lewis’s key cost-cutting strategies
- A full breakdown of coverage, exclusions, and underwriting
- A section-by-section list of treatments and typical private costs
- A directory of top-rated private hospitals in London and the UK
The 2026 Ultimate Guide to UK Private Medical Insurance, Costs, and Hospitals
Private medical insurance (PMI) is in the spotlight more than ever in 2026. NHS waiting lists remain stubbornly long, employer schemes are at record highs, and more individuals are choosing private cover for faster access and greater choice.
Consumer champion Martin Lewis has consistently offered pragmatic advice on PMI — focusing on value, flexibility, and understanding what you’re buying. This guide takes his core tips, expands them with in-depth research, and builds them into the most comprehensive reference on PMI in the UK.
We’ll cover:
- What PMI is and why people buy it
- Martin Lewis’s key cost-cutting strategies
- A full breakdown of coverage, exclusions, and underwriting
- A section-by-section list of treatments and typical private costs
- A directory of top-rated private hospitals in London and the UK
- Buying tips, FAQs, and how WeCovr can help you find the right policy
1) Why consider PMI in 2026
NHS wait times
As of early 2026, the NHS waiting list remains stubbornly high at around 6.8 million people. While some progress has been made post-pandemic, elective care backlogs remain significant. This can mean months of waiting for diagnostics like MRI scans, and even longer for routine operations such as hip replacements or cataract surgery.
Growing private sector use
Private hospital groups report record demand, with self-pay admissions and PMI-funded procedures increasing year-on-year. PMI membership is now around 8.2 million people — roughly 1 in 8 UK residents — the highest since 2008. Employer-provided PMI covers about 4.8 million of these. (illustrative estimate)
Why people choose PMI
Common reasons include:
- Faster diagnosis and treatment
- Choice of consultant and hospital
- Access to private rooms and enhanced facilities
- Avoiding mixed-sex wards
- Greater flexibility in scheduling procedures
2) Martin Lewis’s core advice
Martin Lewis’s MoneySavingExpert guides emphasise that PMI is:
- Optional: It’s not essential healthcare, but a lifestyle and convenience choice.
- Worth it for speed/choice: Especially for non-urgent but important care.
- Best bought with cost controls: Use excesses, guided care, and other options to lower premiums.
- A product to shop around for: Haggle at renewal, compare quotes, and switch if needed.
- A specialist purchase: Use a broker to match cover to your needs.
3) What PMI covers
Core cover
Most PMI policies cover:
- In-patient and day-patient treatment
- Consultant fees for covered procedures
- Theatre and hospital charges
- Diagnostic tests during an admission
- Specialist nursing and prescribed drugs while in hospital
Out-patient cover
Optional or capped — includes:
- Specialist consultations
- Diagnostic scans (MRI, CT, ultrasound)
- Minor procedures not requiring admission
- Physiotherapy and other therapies
Cancer cover
Varies from:
- Full cover (diagnosis, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, follow-ups)
- NHS-only cancer cover for cost-saving
- Enhanced cancer cover with additional drugs or therapies
Add-ons
- Dental and optical cover
- Travel cover for overseas treatment
- Mental health support
4) What PMI does not cover
Common exclusions:
- Pre-existing conditions (unless covered by a switch with CME terms)
- Chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma maintenance)
- A&E and emergency ambulance transport
- Pregnancy, childbirth, and fertility treatments
- Cosmetic procedures
- Organ transplants
- Experimental or unproven treatments
5) Understanding underwriting
Moratorium underwriting (MORI)
- No full medical history upfront.
- Automatically excludes any condition you’ve had in the last 5 years.
- May be re-included after 2 years symptom- and treatment-free.
- Quick to set up, but some uncertainty at claim time.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
- Full medical history declared at application.
- Insurer applies specific written exclusions.
- More clarity upfront, more work at the start.
Continued Medical Exclusions (CME) — switching
- Used when changing providers.
- Retains existing cover terms and exclusions from your old policy.
- Ideal for avoiding new waiting periods on existing conditions.
6) Cost-saving levers Martin Lewis recommends
- Increase your excess — premiums drop if you agree to pay more per claim.
- Guided specialist/hospital lists — insurer recommends from a shortlist of vetted providers.
- 6-week option — if NHS can treat you within 6 weeks, you use them; otherwise PMI kicks in.
- Limit out-patient cover — cap consultations and diagnostics to save money.
- Adjust cancer cover — consider NHS-only cancer treatment if you’re comfortable with it.
- Haggle and switch — shop around annually; switching can retain cover for existing conditions with CME.
7) Private treatment costs in the UK (2026)
Here’s what common procedures cost self-pay (no insurance), so you can see the value PMI can bring.
| Treatment | Typical Cost (UK) | London Range |
|---|---|---|
| MRI scan (one area) | £260–£420 | £320–£530 |
| CT scan | £480–£850 | £640–£1,050 |
| Ultrasound | £160–£370 | £210–£480 |
| Colonoscopy | £1,850–£2,650 | £2,100–£2,950 |
| Gastroscopy | £1,600–£2,350 | £1,900–£2,650 |
| Cataract surgery (per eye) | £3,150–£5,300+ | £3,700–£6,300+ |
| Hip replacement | £13,300–£18,000+ | £14,900–£21,200+ |
| Knee replacement | £13,800–£19,100+ | £15,900–£23,300+ |
| Hernia repair | £3,400–£4,800 | £4,000–£5,800 |
| Gallbladder removal | £5,800–£8,500 | £6,400–£9,500 |
| Cardiac bypass surgery | £21,200–£37,000+ | £26,500–£42,500+ |
| Breast cancer surgery (lumpectomy) | £6,400–£9,500 | £7,400–£10,600 |
Note: Prices vary depending on hospital group, consultant fees, technology used, and whether post-op care is included.
8) Private hospitals in London and the UK
Top-rated by specialty
Orthopaedics
- London Bridge Hospital (CQC Outstanding)
- The Wellington Hospital (HCA)
- Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital
Cardiac Care
- Cleveland Clinic London
- The Harley Street Clinic
- Royal Brompton & Harefield Private Care
Cancer Treatment
- Royal Marsden Private Care
- The London Clinic
- HCA UK cancer network
Ophthalmology
- Moorfields Private
- Optegra Eye Hospital London
Women’s Health
- The Portland Hospital
- BMI The Chiltern Hospital (Buckinghamshire)
Gastroenterology
- OneWelbeck Digestive Health
- The Princess Grace Hospital
9) How to choose the right PMI policy
- Identify your needs — is it diagnostics speed, surgical choice, or both?
- Budget realistically — premiums rise annually; plan for affordability.
- Check hospital network — ensure your preferred hospitals are included.
- Understand your underwriting — especially if you have pre-existing conditions.
- Consider excess and levers — guided lists, 6-week options, outpatient caps.
- Use a broker — like WeCovr, to compare the whole market and tailor a plan.
10) Employer PMI vs personal PMI
Employer PMI
- Often more comprehensive
- Cheaper due to group rates
- Usually a taxable benefit
- Coverage may end if you leave your job
Personal PMI
- Tailored to your needs
- Portable between jobs
- You control benefits and costs
- Premiums can increase annually
11) FAQs
Is PMI worth it if I live near a good NHS hospital?
If you value speed and choice, yes. Even top NHS hospitals can have long waits.
Can I get PMI with pre-existing conditions?
Usually not from new, but you may keep cover if switching with CME.
Can I choose my consultant?
Yes, with most full-choice plans; guided plans limit you to an approved list.
Is cancer treatment covered?
Depends on your policy — full cover or NHS-only.
Can I downgrade cover later?
Yes, but be aware of new exclusions if you upgrade again later.
12) The WeCovr advantage
At WeCovr, we:
- Search the whole market for you
- Explain the small print in plain English
- Match you to hospital networks that suit you
- Advise on underwriting to protect your cover
- Negotiate competitive premiums
- Help with claims and policy adjustments
WeCovr can arrange a PMI policy that enables you to be treated privately if your procedure is covered, giving you peace of mind and flexibility.
13) Final word
Private medical insurance isn’t for everyone — but if you want faster access, more choice, and private facilities, it can be worth the investment.
Follow Martin Lewis’s cost-control strategies, know exactly what you’re buying, and use a specialist broker like WeCovr to get the best value.
14) Section-by-Section Private Medical Treatment Guide (UK & London)
Below is a detailed look at major medical specialties, the procedures most often performed privately, what they cost, where they’re done best, and whether they’re usually covered by PMI.
1. Orthopaedics (Bones, Joints & Spine)
Common private procedures & costs (UK average / London range):
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip replacement | £13,300–£18,000 | £14,900–£21,200+ | Yes, if medically necessary |
| Knee replacement | £13,800–£19,100 | £15,900–£23,300+ | Yes |
| Arthroscopy (knee/shoulder) | £4,200–£6,400 | £4,800–£7,400 | Yes |
| Spinal decompression | £10,600–£16,000 | £12,700–£19,000 | Yes |
Top-rated London/UK hospitals:
- London Bridge Hospital (HCA)
- The Wellington Hospital (HCA)
- Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital
- Spire Manchester Hospital
PMI notes: Orthopaedic surgery is usually covered in full if acute and non-pre-existing. Chronic joint disease may be excluded if symptoms existed before policy start.
2. Cardiology (Heart & Circulation)
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECG + Echo package | £530–£850 | £640–£1,060 | Yes |
| Angiogram | £4,200–£6,400 | £5,300–£8,000 | Yes |
| Cardiac stent insertion | £9,500–£14,900 | £10,600–£17,000 | Yes |
| Bypass surgery (CABG) | £21,200–£37,000 | £26,500–£42,500+ | Yes |
Top-rated centres:
- Cleveland Clinic London
- The Harley Street Clinic (HCA)
- Royal Brompton & Harefield Private Care
- Spire Bristol Hospital
PMI notes: Acute cardiac procedures are usually covered; long-term monitoring of chronic heart disease is often excluded.
3. Cancer (Oncology)
Common private treatments & costs:
| Treatment | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial oncology consultation | £270–£370 | £320–£480 | Yes |
| Breast lumpectomy | £6,400–£9,500 | £7,400–£10,600 | Yes (if covered cancer option chosen) |
| Chemotherapy cycle | £2,100–£5,300+ | £2,700–£6,900+ | Yes |
| Radiotherapy course | £10,600–£26,500 | £12,700–£32,000+ | Yes |
Top-rated providers:
- Royal Marsden Private Care
- The London Clinic
- GenesisCare centres nationwide
- HCA UK cancer network
PMI notes: Cancer cover varies. Some budget plans exclude cancer care entirely or defer to NHS; full cover plans include diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare.
4. Ophthalmology (Eyes)
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cataract surgery (per eye) | £3,150–£5,300 | £3,700–£6,300 | Yes |
| LASIK/LASEK (both eyes) | £2,700–£4,200 | £3,200–£4,800 | No (usually excluded as elective) |
| Vitrectomy | £5,300–£7,400 | £6,400–£8,500 | Yes |
Top-rated providers:
- Moorfields Private Eye Hospital
- Optegra Eye Hospital London
- London Vision Clinic
PMI notes: Cataract surgery covered if medically necessary. Laser eye surgery for vision correction is typically excluded.
5. Gastroenterology (Digestive System)
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colonoscopy | £1,850–£2,650 | £2,100–£2,950 | Yes |
| Gastroscopy | £1,600–£2,350 | £1,900–£2,650 | Yes |
| Capsule endoscopy | £2,100–£3,700 | £2,700–£4,200 | Yes |
Top-rated centres:
- OneWelbeck Digestive Health
- The Princess Grace Hospital (HCA)
- Spire Manchester Gastro Unit
PMI notes: Covered if acute; ongoing management of chronic conditions like IBS may not be covered.
6. General Surgery
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hernia repair | £3,400–£4,800 | £4,000–£5,800 | Yes |
| Gallbladder removal | £5,800–£8,500 | £6,400–£9,500 | Yes |
| Appendix removal | £5,300–£7,400 | £5,800–£8,500 | Yes |
Top-rated hospitals:
- London Bridge Hospital
- The London Clinic
- Spire Leeds Hospital
7. Urology (Urinary & Male Reproductive)
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prostate biopsy | £2,100–£3,700 | £2,700–£4,200 | Yes |
| TURP (prostate surgery) | £5,800–£8,500 | £6,400–£9,500 | Yes |
| Kidney stone removal | £6,400–£9,500 | £7,400–£10,600 | Yes |
Top-rated providers:
- The Prostate Centre (London)
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ Private Healthcare
- Spire Parkway Hospital
8. ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat)
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tonsillectomy | £3,200–£4,800 | £3,700–£5,300 | Yes |
| Sinus surgery (FESS) | £4,200–£6,900 | £5,300–£8,000 | Yes |
| Hearing test & consult | £210–£420 | £270–£530 | Yes (diagnostic) |
Top-rated hospitals:
- The Harley Street ENT Clinic
- London Bridge Hospital
- Spire Norwich Hospital
9. Women’s Health & Gynaecology
Common private procedures & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hysterectomy | £8,500–£12,700 | £9,600–£14,900 | Yes |
| Endometriosis surgery | £6,400–£10,600 | £7,400–£12,700 | Yes |
| Fibroid removal (myomectomy) | £5,800–£9,500 | £6,900–£11,100 | Yes |
Top-rated centres:
- The Portland Hospital (London)
- Birmingham Women’s Private Care
- Spire Clare Park Hospital
PMI notes: Pregnancy and routine childbirth are excluded; complications in pregnancy may be covered if urgent and medically necessary.
10. Mental Health
Common private treatments & costs:
| Service | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial psychiatrist consult | £320–£530 | £370–£640 | Yes (with mental health option) |
| CBT (per session) | £85–£160 | £110–£210 | Yes (if covered) |
| In-patient mental health care | £420–£850/day | £530–£1,050+/day | Yes (with upgrade) |
Top-rated providers:
- The Priory Group
- Nightingale Hospital (London)
- Cygnet Health Care
PMI notes: Many base PMI plans exclude or limit mental health cover; optional add-ons are available.
11. Paediatrics (Children’s Health)
Common private services & costs:
| Service | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consultant appointment | £210–£320 | £270–£370 | Yes |
| MRI scan | £320–£480 | £370–£530 | Yes |
| Tonsillectomy | £3,200–£4,800 | £3,700–£5,300 | Yes |
Top-rated hospitals:
- Great Ormond Street Hospital Private Care
- The Portland Hospital
- Alder Hey Private Care (Liverpool)
12. Dermatology
Common private treatments & costs:
| Procedure | UK Average | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mole mapping | £270–£420 | £320–£530 | No (unless suspicious/biopsy needed) |
| Skin biopsy | £320–£530 | £370–£640 | Yes |
| Excision of lesion | £530–£950 | £640–£1,250 | Yes |
Top-rated clinics:
- The Cadogan Clinic
- The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic
- Spire Dermatology Units nationwide
Summary Table — Quick Reference
| Specialty | Example Procedure | UK Avg Cost | London Range | PMI Cover? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orthopaedics | Hip replacement | £13.3k–£18k | £14.9k–£21.2k+ | Yes |
| Cardiology | Angiogram | £4.2k–£6.4k | £5.3k–£8k | Yes |
| Cancer | Chemotherapy cycle | £2.1k–£5.3k+ | £2.7k–£6.9k+ | Yes |
| Ophthalmology | Cataract surgery | £3,150–£5.3k | £3.7k–£6.3k | Yes |
| Gastroenterology | Colonoscopy | £1.85k–£2.65k | £2.1k–£2.95k | Yes |
| General Surgery | Hernia repair | £3.4k–£4.8k | £4k–£5.8k | Yes |
| Urology | Prostate biopsy | £2.1k–£3.7k | £2.7k–£4.2k | Yes |
| ENT | Tonsillectomy | £3.2k–£4.8k | £3.7k–£5.3k | Yes |
| Gynaecology | Hysterectomy | £8.5k–£12.7k | £9.6k–£14.9k | Yes |
| Mental Health | Psychiatrist consult | £320–£530 | £370–£640 | Yes (add-on) |
| Paediatrics | MRI scan | £320–£480 | £370–£530 | Yes |
| Dermatology | Mole mapping | £270–£420 | £320–£530 | No (screening) |
The WeCovr advantage for specific treatments
Many people only realise the cost of treatment when faced with paying privately. Whether it’s a £320 scan or an £18,000 hip replacement, PMI can protect against these sudden expenses — if your procedure is covered. (illustrative estimate) WeCovr helps you:
- Choose a policy that covers the treatments most relevant to your health profile
- Access the right hospital network
- Understand exclusions and waiting periods
- Balance cover level with budget using cost-control levers
Sources
- NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
- Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
- NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
- Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
- Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
