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NHS Waiting List Crisis 77m Britons Trapped

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
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TL;DR

Over 7.7 Million Britons are Trapped on Exploding NHS Waiting Lists, Fueling a Staggering £3.9 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Deteriorating Health, Lost Income, and Unbearable Stress – Unlock Rapid Access to Specialist Care with Private Medical Insurance The National Health Service, a cherished British institution, is facing its greatest challenge to date. As of early 2025, a staggering 7.77 million people in England are on a waiting list for routine hospital treatment. This isn't just a number; it's a national crisis representing millions of lives put on hold—individuals battling pain, anxiety, and the creeping fear that their condition is worsening with each passing day.

Key takeaways

  • 7.77 million people are currently waiting for consultant-led elective care.
  • Over 3.2 million people have been waiting more than the 18-week target.
  • A deeply concerning 400,000+ individuals have been waiting for over a year for treatment.
  • The median waiting time for treatment is now 14.8 weeks, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels.
  • The Pandemic Backlog: Halting non-urgent care during the pandemic created a colossal backlog that the system is still struggling to clear.

Over 7.7 Million Britons are Trapped on Exploding NHS Waiting Lists, Fueling a Staggering £3.9 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Deteriorating Health, Lost Income, and Unbearable Stress – Unlock Rapid Access to Specialist Care with Private Medical Insurance

The National Health Service, a cherished British institution, is facing its greatest challenge to date. As of early 2025, a staggering 7.77 million people in England are on a waiting list for routine hospital treatment. This isn't just a number; it's a national crisis representing millions of lives put on hold—individuals battling pain, anxiety, and the creeping fear that their condition is worsening with each passing day.

For many, this delay is more than an inconvenience. It's a devastating blow that triggers a cascade of negative consequences. Research suggests that a significant health shock leading to an inability to work can cost an individual upwards of £3.9 million over their lifetime in lost earnings, pension contributions, and the compounded costs of deteriorating physical and mental health. This figure represents the crushing weight of a system struggling to cope, leaving millions of Britons to bear the financial and personal burden.

While the NHS remains a cornerstone of emergency and critical care, the reality of elective treatment is one of long, agonising waits. But there is an alternative. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is emerging as the most effective tool for individuals and families to bypass these queues, granting rapid access to specialist consultations, diagnostic scans, and life-changing treatments.

This definitive guide will unpack the true scale of the NHS waiting list crisis, explore the hidden costs of waiting, and provide a clear, comprehensive overview of how Private Medical Insurance can empower you to take back control of your health and wellbeing.

The NHS Waiting List Crisis: A Nation in Pain

The numbers paint a stark picture of a healthcare system under immense strain. The waiting list for elective care in England has swollen to unprecedented levels, creating a bottleneck that affects every corner of the country.

  • 7.77 million people are currently waiting for consultant-led elective care.
  • Over 3.2 million people have been waiting more than the 18-week target.
  • A deeply concerning 400,000+ individuals have been waiting for over a year for treatment.
  • The median waiting time for treatment is now 14.8 weeks, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels.

This isn't a uniform problem; certain specialities are feeling the pressure more acutely than others. These are the areas where patients are experiencing the longest and most debilitating waits.

Medical SpecialityCommon ProceduresAverage Waiting Time (Target to Treatment)
Trauma & OrthopaedicsHip/Knee Replacements, Arthroscopy20.1 weeks
OphthalmologyCataract Surgery16.5 weeks
GynaecologyHysterectomy, Endometriosis Treatment17.8 weeks
General SurgeryHernia Repair, Gallbladder Removal16.2 weeks
CardiologyDiagnostic Angiography, Pacemaker Fitting15.5 weeks

Source: Analysis of NHS England Referral to Treatment (RTT) data, 2025.

Why is This Happening?

The crisis is a result of a perfect storm of factors that have been brewing for years and were supercharged by the COVID-19 pandemic:

  1. The Pandemic Backlog: Halting non-urgent care during the pandemic created a colossal backlog that the system is still struggling to clear.
  2. Staffing Shortages: The NHS is facing a severe workforce crisis, with an estimated 120,000+ vacancies. Burnout is rampant, and there simply aren't enough doctors, nurses, and specialists to meet demand.
  3. An Ageing Population: As our population ages, the demand for healthcare, particularly for age-related conditions like joint problems and cataracts, naturally increases.
  4. Years of Underfunding: While investment has increased, many argue it hasn't kept pace with rising demand and inflation, leaving infrastructure and services stretched thin.

The result is a system where dedicated professionals are doing their best but are fundamentally unable to provide the timely care that patients desperately need.

The True Cost of Waiting: More Than Just Time

Being on a waiting list isn't a passive experience. For millions, it is an active state of decline, where every month that passes brings new and compounding costs—to their health, their finances, and their emotional wellbeing. The £3.9 million lifetime burden isn't an exaggeration; it's the potential reality for someone whose career and health are derailed by a treatable condition.

1. The Cost to Your Physical Health

Delaying treatment allows a condition to progress. A knee problem that could be managed with a simple arthroscopy might degrade to the point where a full knee replacement is the only option. What starts as an acute, treatable issue can become a chronic, life-limiting one. This progression often means more invasive surgery, a longer recovery period, and a greater chance of long-term complications.

2. The Cost to Your Finances

The link between health and wealth is undeniable. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that a record 2.8 million people are now economically inactive due to long-term sickness.

  • Lost Income: Being in pain or physically limited can make it impossible to work. For the self-employed, this means an immediate and total loss of income. For employees, it can mean exhausting sick pay and moving onto statutory pay, or even job loss.
  • Reduced Productivity: Many try to work through the pain, but their productivity plummets. This can lead to missed opportunities for promotion or bonuses.
  • Forced Early Retirement: For those nearing retirement age, a long wait for surgery can force them out of the workforce prematurely, significantly impacting their pension pots and retirement plans.

3. The Cost to Your Mental Health

Living with untreated pain and uncertainty is a recipe for severe mental distress. The constant worry about when you'll be treated, combined with the physical discomfort, takes a huge toll.

  • Anxiety & Stress: The unknown is a major source of anxiety. Will my condition get worse? Will I lose my job? How will my family cope?
  • Depression: Chronic pain is strongly linked to depression. The feeling of helplessness and the inability to enjoy life's simple pleasures can lead to a sense of hopelessness.
  • Loss of Independence: Relying on family and friends for basic tasks can be demoralising and strain relationships, further impacting mental wellbeing.

The table below summarises this devastating domino effect:

Aspect of LifeImpact of NHS Waiting Lists
Physical HealthCondition worsens, requiring more complex treatment.
Career & IncomeInability to work, lost earnings, career stagnation.
Mental WellbeingIncreased anxiety, stress, depression, and social isolation.
Family & RelationshipsStrain on caregivers, financial pressure on the household.
Future SecurityDepleted savings, reduced pension contributions.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Your Key to Unlocking Swift Healthcare

In the face of these challenges, Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful and accessible solution. It is a health insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private treatment for acute medical conditions.

Its primary benefit is simple and profound: speed of access. Instead of joining a queue that is millions long, you can be referred by your GP and see a private specialist, often within a matter of days. Diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans, which can have waits of many weeks or months on the NHS, can be completed within a week. Surgery, if needed, can be scheduled promptly at a time and hospital of your choice from an approved list.

This isn't about replacing the NHS. The NHS remains world-class for accidents, emergencies, and GP services. PMI works alongside it, providing a fast-track for planned, non-emergency care.

The Golden Rule: PMI is for Acute Conditions, Not Pre-existing or Chronic Ones

This is the most critical point to understand about private health insurance in the UK. Failure to grasp this leads to misunderstanding and disappointment.

Standard Private Medical Insurance policies DO NOT cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

Let's define these terms with absolute clarity:

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia requiring surgery, cataracts, joint pain needing a replacement, or gallstones. PMI is designed for these.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. Management of these conditions will almost always remain with the NHS.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any medical condition for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment in the years leading up to your policy start date (typically the last 5 years). These are excluded from cover, at least initially.

PMI is your safety net for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. If you develop a chronic condition while insured, PMI will typically cover the costs of diagnosis and initial treatment to stabilise your health, after which ongoing care will revert to the NHS.

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Decoding Your Cover: What's Included in a Typical PMI Policy?

PMI policies are not one-size-fits-all. They are built around a core level of cover, with optional extras that allow you to tailor the plan to your specific needs and budget.

Core Cover (Usually Included as Standard)

This forms the foundation of every policy and focuses on the most expensive aspects of private treatment.

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This covers all costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed, even if it's just for a day. This includes:
    • Hospital accommodation and nursing care.
    • Surgeons' and anaesthetists' fees.
    • Specialist consultations while in hospital.
    • Operating theatre costs.
    • Drugs and dressings.

Optional Add-ons (For More Comprehensive Cover)

These extras allow you to build a policy that covers your entire private healthcare journey, from diagnosis to recovery.

  • Out-patient Cover: This is the most popular add-on. It covers the costs of diagnosis before you are admitted to hospital. This includes:
    • Specialist consultations.
    • Diagnostic tests and scans (MRI, CT, PET scans, X-rays).
    • Some minor procedures.
  • Cancer Care: This is a key reason many people take out PMI. Private cancer cover is often more extensive than what's available on the NHS, providing access to specialist drugs, treatments, and therapies that may not be approved by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) due to cost.
  • Therapies: This covers physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment to aid your recovery after surgery or injury.
  • Mental Health Cover: Provides access to private psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists to help with conditions like anxiety and depression.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: A less common add-on that can provide cash back towards routine check-ups and treatments.
FeatureCore Cover (Standard)Optional Add-on (Extra Cost)
Hospital Stays (In-patient)✅
Day-patient Surgery✅
Comprehensive Cancer CoverSometimes, often an add-on✅
Specialist Consultations (Out-patient)✅
MRI, CT, PET Scans✅
Physiotherapy & Other Therapies✅
Mental Health Support✅

What is Never Covered?

As well as pre-existing and chronic conditions, some treatments are almost universally excluded from PMI:

  • Accident & Emergency (A&E) visits
  • Routine pregnancy and childbirth
  • Cosmetic surgery (unless reconstructive after an accident/illness)
  • Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
  • Infertility treatment

Is Private Healthcare Affordable? A Look at the Costs

The cost of a Private Medical Insurance policy is highly personal and depends on a range of factors. However, for many, it is far more affordable than they imagine—often costing less than a daily cup of coffee or a monthly phone contract.

The key factors that determine your premium are:

  1. Age: This is the single biggest factor. Premiums increase as you get older.
  2. Level of Cover: A basic policy covering only in-patient care will be significantly cheaper than a comprehensive one with full out-patient, cancer, and therapy cover.
  3. Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim (e.g., the first £250). A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  4. Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. Choosing a list that excludes expensive central London hospitals can reduce your premium.
  5. Location: Living in or near major cities, especially London, generally means higher premiums.
  6. No-Claims Discount: Similar to car insurance, you can build up a discount for every year you don't make a claim.

To give you a clearer idea, here are some example monthly premiums for non-smokers with a £250 excess.

ProfileBasic Cover (In-patient Only)Comprehensive Cover (Incl. Out-patient)
30-year-old individual£35 - £50£60 - £85
50-year-old individual£65 - £90£110 - £150
Family of 4 (Parents 40, Children 10 & 12)£100 - £140£180 - £250

These are illustrative figures as of 2025. Actual quotes will vary.

When you consider the potential for lost earnings and the cost of deteriorating health, a monthly premium can be viewed as a vital investment in your physical and financial security.

The UK's private health insurance market is complex. Every insurer has different policy terms, definitions, and hospital lists. Comparing them on a like-for-like basis is incredibly difficult and time-consuming for an individual. This is where the expertise of a specialist, independent broker becomes invaluable.

At WeCovr, we simplify this entire process. Our role is to act as your expert guide, navigating the market on your behalf. We use our in-depth knowledge to compare plans from all of the UK's leading insurers—including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality—to find a policy that provides the right level of cover for your unique needs and budget. We do the hard work so you don't have to, ensuring you get the best possible value without sacrificing on quality.

Furthermore, we believe in supporting our clients' long-term health beyond just insurance. That’s why, in addition to finding you the right policy, all WeCovr customers receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It’s our way of going the extra mile, helping you stay on top of your wellness goals and live a healthier life.

From Waiting in Pain to Rapid Recovery: Real-World Examples

The benefits of PMI are best illustrated through real-life scenarios. Here’s how it makes a tangible difference.

Case Study 1: David, the Self-Employed Plumber

David, 48, develops a severe pain in his hip, making it agonising to work. His GP suspects he needs a hip replacement and refers him to the NHS. The waiting time for an initial orthopaedic consultation is 40 weeks, with a further 18-month wait for surgery. David is unable to work, his income disappears, and he starts to burn through his savings.

With PMI: David's GP provides an open referral letter. He calls his insurer, who approves a private consultation. He sees a top orthopaedic surgeon within five days. An MRI scan is done two days later, confirming the need for a full hip replacement. The surgery is scheduled for three weeks later at a private hospital near his home. Within three months of the first symptom, David is recovering from successful surgery and planning his return to work.

Case Study 2: Sarah, the Worried Mother

Sarah's 14-year-old daughter, Emily, develops worrying gastrointestinal symptoms. The NHS wait for a paediatric gastroenterologist is over six months, a period of immense stress and anxiety for the whole family.

With PMI (Family Policy): Sarah uses her family's policy. Emily sees a private specialist within a week. After diagnostic tests, she is diagnosed with a treatable condition. A clear management plan is put in place, and Emily's symptoms begin to improve almost immediately. The family's peace of mind is restored.

Your Questions Answered: The A-Z of Private Medical Insurance

Navigating a new type of insurance can bring up many questions. Here are the answers to some of the most common ones.

Can I still use the NHS if I have PMI?

Yes, absolutely. PMI and the NHS work in partnership. You will still use your NHS GP for initial consultations, and the NHS remains there for any emergencies, chronic conditions, or treatments not covered by your policy. Having PMI simply gives you another option for eligible elective care.

What is 'moratorium' underwriting?

This is the most common way to take out a policy. With moratorium underwriting, the insurer doesn't ask you for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms of, or sought advice for, in the 5 years before your policy started. However, if you then go for a set period without any symptoms, advice or treatment for that condition (usually 2 years) after your policy begins, the insurer may agree to cover it in the future.

Will my premium go up every year?

In short, yes. Premiums typically increase for two main reasons:

  1. Age: As you get older, the statistical risk of you needing treatment increases, so your base premium rises.
  2. Medical Inflation: The cost of medical technology, drugs, and hospital fees rises faster than general inflation, and insurers pass this cost on. This is why it's so important to review your cover regularly with a broker like WeCovr, who can re-broke the market for you to ensure you're still on the best-value plan.

What happens if I get a chronic condition after I take out the policy?

This is an excellent question. If you develop a new condition like diabetes or asthma while you have an active policy, your PMI will cover the acute phase. This means it will pay for the private consultations and diagnostic tests needed to get a firm diagnosis and to stabilise your condition with an initial treatment plan. Once your condition is stable and requires long-term management, your care will be handed over to your NHS GP.

Take Control of Your Health in Uncertain Times

The NHS waiting list crisis is one of the most significant challenges facing Britain today, with millions of people suffering in silence. The long-term consequences for an individual's health, wealth, and wellbeing can be devastating.

Waiting is no longer a passive act; it's a high-stakes gamble with your future. But you do not have to be a statistic. Private Medical Insurance offers a proven, affordable, and effective way to bypass the queues and gain immediate access to the high-quality medical care you need, when you need it. It provides the peace of mind that should you or your family face a new, acute health problem, you have a fast-track to diagnosis and treatment.

Don't let your health be dictated by a waiting list. By exploring your options, you can secure the swift, expert care that will protect not only your physical health but also your financial security and emotional wellbeing.

Take the first step towards protecting yourself and your family. Contact an expert adviser today to find a Private Medical Insurance plan that puts you back in control.

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.

Related tools

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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 experienced 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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Who Are WeCovr?

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