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NHS Crisis 2026 10 Million Waiting

NHS Crisis 2026 10 Million Waiting 2026

New UK Data Reveals Unprecedented NHS Wait Lists in 2026, Threatening Timely Diagnosis and Treatment for Millions. Discover How Private Medical Insurance Provides Rapid Access and Peace of Mind

The National Health Service (NHS) is the bedrock of our society, a promise of care for all, free at the point of use. Yet, this cherished institution is facing its greatest challenge to date. Projections based on current trends and analysis from leading health think tanks paint a sobering picture for 2026: the total waiting list for elective care in England is surging towards an unprecedented 10 million people.

This isn't just a number. It represents millions of individuals living with pain, anxiety, and uncertainty. It's a parent waiting for a hip replacement, unable to play with their children. It's a professional whose career is on hold due to a delayed hernia operation. It's the growing fear that a treatable condition could worsen while waiting for a diagnosis.

This ongoing crisis is forcing millions of Britons to re-evaluate their healthcare options. While the NHS will always be there for emergencies and acute needs, the reality of waiting months, or even years, for routine procedures is becoming the new normal.

In this definitive guide, we will explore the scale of the NHS waiting list crisis of 2026, explain what this means for you and your family, and detail how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is emerging as a vital tool for securing rapid medical access, choice, and invaluable peace of mind.

The State of the NHS: A System Under Unprecedented Strain

To understand the solution, we must first grasp the scale of the problem. The NHS is navigating a perfect storm of post-pandemic backlogs, chronic underfunding, persistent staff shortages, and an ageing population with increasingly complex health needs.

The Waiting List Explained: Beyond the Headlines

The headline figure for the NHS waiting list refers to the number of 'Referral to Treatment' (RTT) pathways. This is the count of people waiting to start consultant-led elective (i.e., non-emergency) treatment.

As of early 2026, the official figures from NHS England already show a waiting list exceeding 7.8 million pathways. However, this figure doesn't tell the whole story. Health policy experts at organisations like the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) and The Health Foundation have warned that as demand continues to outpace activity, the list could realistically swell. Projections considering "hidden waits" and pent-up demand suggest a true figure inching ever closer to the 10 million mark.

Treatment AreaTypical NHS Wait Time (2026/2026)Potential Private Wait Time
Initial GP Referral to Specialist4-8 weeks1-2 weeks
Diagnostic Scans (MRI, CT)6-12 weeks3-7 days
Hip/Knee Replacement40-60 weeks4-6 weeks
Cataract Surgery20-35 weeks3-5 weeks
Hernia Repair25-40 weeks3-6 weeks

Note: NHS wait times are averages and can vary significantly by region and specific Trust. Private wait times are typical but depend on the insurer and consultant availability.

The consequences of these delays are profound:

  • Worsening Conditions: A condition that is manageable when first diagnosed can become complex and harder to treat after a year on a waiting list.
  • Economic Impact: People are often unable to work while waiting for treatment, leading to loss of income and a wider impact on the UK economy. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has consistently linked record-high long-term sickness levels to these healthcare delays.
  • Mental Health Toll: The stress and anxiety of waiting in pain or for a potential diagnosis can have a devastating impact on mental wellbeing.

The system's capacity is simply overwhelmed. The British Medical Association (BMA) continues to highlight severe shortages, with tens of thousands of doctor vacancies and over 100,000 nursing vacancies across the NHS.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)? Your Personal Health Plan

Faced with this reality, it's no surprise that a record number of people are considering private healthcare. Private Medical Insurance, often called private health insurance, is a policy you pay for that covers the cost of private medical treatment for specific conditions.

Think of it as a way to bypass the queue. It works alongside the NHS, not as a replacement. You would still use the NHS for emergencies, GP visits (unless your policy includes this), and management of chronic long-term illnesses.

PMI is designed for acute conditions – diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. This is the cornerstone of how PMI operates.

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The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about private health insurance in the UK. Failure to grasp this distinction is the source of most misunderstandings.

Standard private medical insurance policies DO NOT cover the treatment of chronic conditions or pre-existing conditions.

Let's define these terms clearly:

  • Acute Condition: A condition that comes on suddenly, has a limited duration, and for which treatment can lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, joint pain requiring replacement, or diagnosing the cause of specific symptoms like abdominal pain. PMI is designed for this.

  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, Crohn's disease, and most types of arthritis. The NHS will continue to manage these conditions.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before the start date of your policy. These are typically excluded for a set period or entirely, depending on your underwriting.

Why this rule? Insurance works by pooling the risk of unforeseen events. Covering long-term, predictable, and ongoing chronic conditions would make premiums prohibitively expensive for everyone. PMI’s value lies in tackling the unexpected health issues that can derail your life, getting you diagnosed and treated quickly so you can get back to normal.

How PMI Solves the Waiting List Crisis: The Patient Journey

To see the real-world difference, let's compare two patient journeys for someone developing persistent knee pain in 2026.

Scenario: David, 52, relies solely on the NHS.

  1. GP Visit: David sees his GP, who suspects a torn meniscus. The GP refers him to an NHS orthopaedic specialist. Wait: 2 weeks for GP appointment.
  2. Specialist Wait: David joins the waiting list for a consultant appointment. Wait: 22 weeks.
  3. Consultant & Diagnostics: The specialist agrees and refers him for an MRI scan to confirm. Wait for MRI: 10 weeks.
  4. Follow-up & Surgical List: After the MRI, a follow-up confirms he needs keyhole surgery. He is placed on the elective surgery waiting list. Wait: 45 weeks.
  5. Treatment: David finally has his surgery.

Total time from GP referral to treatment: Approximately 77 weeks (almost 18 months). During this time, David's mobility is limited, he's in constant discomfort, and he's had to reduce his work hours.


Scenario: Sarah, 52, has a mid-range PMI policy.

  1. GP Visit: Sarah sees her GP, who provides an 'open referral' letter. Wait: 2 weeks for GP appointment.
  2. Call to Insurer: Sarah calls her PMI provider. They provide a list of approved orthopaedic specialists and hospitals near her. She books an appointment for the following week.
  3. Specialist & Diagnostics: The private specialist sees her and refers her for an MRI, which she has at a private clinic two days later. Total wait for specialist + MRI: 1.5 weeks.
  4. Authorisation & Surgery: The results are back within 24 hours. The specialist recommends surgery. Sarah's insurer pre-authorises the procedure, and she is booked in for surgery at a private hospital of her choice. Wait for surgery: 3 weeks.
  5. Treatment: Sarah has her surgery in a private room and begins her post-operative physiotherapy (covered by her policy).

Total time from GP referral to treatment: Approximately 4.5 weeks. Sarah is back on her feet and back to her life with minimal disruption.

This comparison starkly illustrates the core value proposition of PMI: speed of access.

The Core Benefits of Private Health Insurance in 2026

Beyond simply skipping the queue, PMI offers a range of benefits that provide comfort, choice, and control over your healthcare.

  1. Rapid Access to Specialists: As seen in the example, you can often see a leading consultant within days or weeks, not months or years.
  2. Prompt Diagnostics: Fast access to MRI, CT, and PET scans means a quicker diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment and peace of mind.
  3. Choice of Hospital and Consultant: You can choose a hospital from your insurer's approved list, often selecting one known for its expertise in a particular area. You can also research and choose your specialist.
  4. Comfort and Privacy: Treatment is typically in a private hospital with your own en-suite room, flexible visiting hours, and better food choices – a more comfortable and less stressful environment for recovery.
  5. Access to Advanced Treatments: Some policies provide access to drugs, treatments, or procedures that are not yet approved by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) or routinely available on the NHS.
  6. Comprehensive Mental Health Support: Many modern PMI policies offer excellent mental health cover, providing access to therapists, counsellors, and psychiatrists far quicker than through overwhelmed NHS channels.
  7. Dedicated Cancer Care: This is a cornerstone of most comprehensive plans. It includes access to the latest chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical options, often with additional support like specialist nurses and home care.

Understanding Your Policy: A Buyer's Guide

Choosing a PMI policy can seem daunting, but it's straightforward once you understand the key components. When you work with an expert broker like WeCovr, we help you navigate these options to tailor a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Types of Underwriting

This determines how the insurer treats your pre-existing conditions.

  • Moratorium (Most Common): This is the simplest option. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the last 5 years. However, if you go 2 full years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your history and explicitly lists what is excluded from day one. It's more admin upfront but provides absolute clarity on what is and isn't covered.

Levels of Cover

Policies are usually tiered, allowing you to balance cost and benefits.

Policy TierTypical Inpatient/Day-Patient CoverTypical Outpatient CoverKey Features & Suitability
Basic / CoreFull CoverNone / Capped at £0-£300Covers the big expenses of surgery and hospital stays. Relies on the NHS for diagnostics. Most affordable.
Mid-RangeFull CoverCapped at £500-£1,500Covers consultations and some diagnostic scans. A popular, balanced choice for most people.
ComprehensiveFull CoverFull CoverCovers everything, including all outpatient scans and tests, plus therapies. Offers the highest level of peace of mind.

Key Levers to Control Your Premium

  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. A higher excess (£250, £500, £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  • Outpatient Limit: As shown in the table, choosing a lower limit for outpatient diagnostics and consultations reduces the cost.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have tiered hospital lists. Choosing a list that excludes the most expensive central London hospitals can reduce your premium by 20-30%.
  • 6-Week Wait Option: This is a clever cost-saving feature. If the NHS can treat you within 6 weeks for a specific procedure, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private cover kicks in. This can reduce premiums by up to 25%.

How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost?

This is the key question for most people. The cost varies widely based on age, location, level of cover, and the factors mentioned above.

Below are some illustrative monthly premium examples for a non-smoker with no adverse medical history.

AgeLocationPolicy Type (Mid-Range, £250 excess)Estimated Monthly Premium
30BristolMoratorium Underwriting£45 - £60
40ManchesterMoratorium Underwriting£60 - £80
50LeedsMoratorium Underwriting£85 - £115
60BirminghamMoratorium Underwriting£130 - £180

While not insignificant, many people are surprised to find that a robust policy can cost less than a daily coffee or a monthly phone contract. When weighed against the potential for 18+ months of pain and lost income, it becomes a compelling value proposition.

Is PMI Worth It in 2026? A Candid Assessment

The decision to take out private health insurance is personal. It requires weighing the monthly cost against the potential physical, emotional, and financial cost of long NHS waits.

Consider PMI if:

  • You are self-employed and cannot afford to be out of work for an extended period.
  • You want the peace of mind that you can get diagnosed and treated quickly should a new condition arise.
  • You value the choice of where and by whom you are treated.
  • You want a more comfortable and private recovery experience.
  • You have dependants and want to ensure you can be healthy and active for them.

PMI might be less of a priority if:

  • Your budget is extremely tight and you cannot comfortably afford the premiums.
  • You have significant chronic or pre-existing conditions that would be excluded anyway.
  • You have a comprehensive employee benefits package from your work that already includes health insurance.

The NHS will remain the nation's emergency service. If you have a heart attack or are in a car accident, you will be taken to an NHS A&E. PMI is not for this. It is for the planned, elective care that makes up the bulk of the waiting list – the care that restores quality of life.

How to Find the Best PMI Policy for You

The UK health insurance market is complex, with major providers like Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, and Vitality all offering dozens of policy variations. Trying to compare them yourself is time-consuming and confusing.

This is where using an independent, expert broker is essential. A specialist broker, like us at WeCovr, does the hard work for you.

  1. We Understand Your Needs: We take the time to understand your specific requirements, budget, and health concerns.
  2. We Search the Whole Market: We have access to policies and rates from all the UK's leading insurers, ensuring you see the full picture.
  3. We Provide Unbiased Advice: Our goal is to find the right policy for you, not to push a particular insurer. We'll explain the pros and cons of each option in plain English.
  4. We Help You Save Money: We know how to use the cost-saving levers (excess, hospital lists, etc.) to design a policy that gives you the cover you need at the best possible price.
  5. We're Here for the Long Term: We can assist you with claims and review your policy annually to ensure it still meets your needs and offers the best value.

At WeCovr, we believe in going the extra mile for our clients' wellbeing. That's why, in addition to finding you the perfect policy, we also provide our customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's our way of helping you stay proactive about your health, long before you might ever need to make a claim.

Debunking Common Myths About Private Health Insurance

MythReality
"It's only for the wealthy."As shown, basic and mid-range policies can be highly affordable, often costing less than other monthly subscriptions. The market is designed for ordinary working people.
"It replaces the NHS."No. PMI works in partnership with the NHS. You will still use the NHS for A&E, GP visits, and chronic care. It's a top-up, not a replacement.
"You can't get it if you're older."You can get PMI at any age, but premiums will be higher. Taking out a policy when you are younger and healthier is the most cost-effective approach.
"They never pay out."This is false. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), over 97% of private medical insurance claims are paid out. Issues usually arise from misunderstanding exclusions, like chronic conditions.

The Future: A Hybrid Healthcare Model

The trends are clear. The UK is steadily moving towards a hybrid healthcare model where more people will rely on the NHS for emergency and chronic care, while using private options for elective procedures and diagnostics. This isn't about abandoning the NHS; it's a pragmatic response to a system under immense pressure.

The waiting list crisis in 2026 is a stark wake-up call. It highlights a fundamental shift in the UK's healthcare landscape. Taking control of your health and planning for the future is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.

Private Medical Insurance offers a powerful, accessible, and affordable solution. It provides a path to rapid diagnosis, swift treatment, and the invaluable peace of mind that comes from knowing you and your family are protected against the uncertainty of a system at its breaking point. Don't wait until you're on the list; explore your options today.


Related guides

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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