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NHS Waiting Lists The UK's £4M Business Trap

NHS Waiting Lists The UK's £4M Business Trap 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert insurance broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr understands the risks facing UK business owners. This article explores how private medical insurance can be an essential tool to protect your livelihood against the unprecedented challenge of NHS waiting lists.

UK 2025 Shock Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Business Owners & Self-Employed Face a £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden from NHS Diagnostic Delays & Treatment Waits, Fueling Business Collapse, Lost Income, & Eroding Personal Wealth – Is Your PMI Pathway & LCIIP Shield Your Undeniable Protection Against the Cost of Waiting

The backbone of the UK economy isn't the FTSE 100; it's the 5.5 million small businesses, consultants, and self-employed individuals who drive innovation and create jobs. Yet, a silent threat is putting this vital engine at risk. New analysis for 2025 reveals a startling reality: a significant health issue requiring treatment could trigger a financial catastrophe for entrepreneurs, with a potential lifetime cost exceeding £4.0 million.

This isn't hyperbole. It's a calculated risk based on a perfect storm of record NHS waiting lists, rising economic inactivity due to long-term sickness, and the unique vulnerability of those who run their own businesses. When your income, your company's survival, and your family's future depend directly on your ability to work, waiting is not an option—it's a liability.

This article dissects this £4 million trap, explains how the costs accumulate, and demonstrates how a robust strategy involving Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Long-Term Care and Income Protection (LCIIP) is no longer a luxury, but an essential component of your business continuity plan.

The Anatomy of the £4 Million Business Trap: How the Costs Spiral

The figure of £4.0 million+ might seem shocking, but it represents the potential lifetime financial devastation that a prolonged period of ill health can inflict on a successful business owner. It's a chain reaction where each delay compounds the financial damage.

Let's break down how these costs accumulate for a hypothetical 45-year-old owner of a small marketing agency with a £1.5 million turnover and a personal income of £90,000 per year.

Cost ComponentDescription & ImpactPotential Lifetime Cost
Direct Lost IncomeAn 18-month wait for diagnosis and treatment means 1.5 years of no salary.£135,000
Business Devaluation & CollapseWithout you at the helm, clients leave, projects stall, and goodwill evaporates. The business, once valued at £1M, could become worthless.£1,000,000
Lost Business Growth OpportunityOver the next 20 years, your business could have doubled or tripled in value. This potential is erased.£1,500,000 - £2,500,000+
Pension & Savings DepletionTo cover personal and business expenses during the downtime, you're forced to drain your SIPP, ISAs, and other savings meant for retirement.£250,000
Cost of Unmanaged DebtBusiness loans, mortgages, and credit card debts accumulate interest without income to service them, leading to defaults and credit score damage.£100,000+
Wider Family ImpactThe financial strain can impact your partner's career, children's education funds, and overall family wealth and well-being.Incalculable
Total Potential Lifetime BurdenThe sum of these direct and opportunity costs can easily exceed £4.0 million.£4,000,000+

This scenario isn't an outlier. Office for National Statistics (ONS) data consistently shows a rise in economic inactivity due to long-term sickness, with millions of working-age people out of the workforce. For a salaried employee, there might be a safety net of statutory sick pay and employee benefits. For a business owner, there is often nothing. You are the safety net.

The Waiting Game: NHS Reality vs. Private Health Cover Speed

The core of the problem lies in waiting times. Whilst the NHS provides exceptional care at the point of delivery, the journey to get there is fraught with delays. As of early 2025 projections, the referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting list in England continues to hover in the millions, with many patients waiting well over the 18-week target.

Let's compare the typical journey for a common but debilitating condition like a torn knee ligament requiring surgery.

NHS vs. Private Pathway: A Timeline Comparison

Stage of TreatmentTypical NHS PathwayTypical Private Medical Insurance Pathway
Initial GP Visit1-2 week wait for an appointment.See your NHS GP promptly for a referral.
Referral to SpecialistGP refers to NHS orthopaedics.GP provides an open referral.
Specialist ConsultationWait Time: 12-20 weeks. You see the next available consultant.Wait Time: 3-7 days. You choose your specialist from a list.
Diagnostic Scans (MRI)Wait Time: 6-10 weeks after consultation.Wait Time: 2-5 days. Often done at the same private hospital.
Diagnosis & Treatment PlanA further follow-up appointment is needed. Wait time can be another 4-8 weeks.Diagnosis is often given at the same appointment as the scan results.
Surgery (Arthroscopy)Wait Time: 25-50 weeks on the elective surgery list.Wait Time: 1-3 weeks. Scheduled at your convenience in a private hospital.
Post-Op PhysiotherapyReferral to NHS physio. Wait Time: 6-12 weeks for first session. Limited sessions.Private physio sessions often included, starting within days of surgery.
Total Time from GP to Recovery50 - 100+ Weeks (1 to 2 years)6 - 10 Weeks

The difference is stark. A two-year delay that cripples your business can be reduced to less than three months. This isn't "jumping the queue"; it's taking a different, faster road that you have paid for, which in turn frees up a space in the NHS queue for someone else.

Your First Line of Defence: Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Private Medical Insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS to give you fast-track access to diagnosis and treatment for new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins.

What Exactly is an 'Acute' Condition?

This is the most critical point to understand about private medical insurance in the UK.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repair, and cancer treatment.
  • 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, requires palliative care, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

Crucial Point: Standard UK private health cover is for acute conditions. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before taking out the policy) or chronic conditions. The purpose of PMI is to get you back on your feet, not to manage long-term illnesses.

How a PMI Policy Works in Practice:

  1. You feel unwell: You visit your NHS GP as normal.
  2. You get a referral: The GP determines you need to see a specialist and provides a referral letter.
  3. You call your insurer: You contact your PMI provider, explain the situation, and provide the referral.
  4. You choose your specialist: The insurer provides a list of approved specialists and hospitals. You choose who you see and where.
  5. Fast-track access: You are seen within days, receive swift diagnostic tests, and if treatment is needed, it's scheduled promptly.
  6. The bill is settled: The insurer pays the hospital and specialist directly, minus any excess you've chosen on your policy.

At WeCovr, our expert advisors help you compare policies from the UK's leading insurers, ensuring you understand the options—from basic plans covering surgery to comprehensive policies including mental health and outpatient therapies.

The Financial Shield: Income Protection and Critical Illness Cover

PMI gets you treated quickly, but what about your income and business costs while you're unable to work? This is where a second layer of protection becomes vital for business owners.

  • Income Protection (IP): This is arguably the most important insurance a working adult can have. It pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income (typically 50-60% of your gross earnings) if you're unable to work due to any illness or injury. It continues to pay out until you can return to work, reach retirement age, or the policy term ends. This covers your mortgage, bills, and personal costs, preventing you from draining your savings.
  • Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This pays out a one-off, tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific, serious conditions defined in the policy (e.g., heart attack, stroke, most types of cancer). This lump sum is incredibly flexible. A business owner could use it to:
    • Clear business debts or inject cash flow.
    • Hire a temporary manager to run the company.
    • Adapt their home or pay for specialist care.
    • Clear a personal mortgage to reduce financial pressure.

How Your Financial Shield Works Together

Insurance TypeWhat It DoesExample Scenario: You need a hip replacement.
Private Medical Insurance (PMI)Pays for Treatment. Covers the cost of the specialist, hospital, and surgery.Your PMI policy gets you the surgery in 3 weeks, not 18 months.
Income Protection (IP)Pays Your Salary. Replaces your lost personal income while you're off work.Your IP policy pays you £4,000 a month whilst you recover for 8 weeks.
Critical Illness Cover (CIC)Pays a Lump Sum. Provides a cash injection for major health events.Not typically claimed for a hip replacement, but would be vital for a cancer diagnosis or heart attack.

As an independent broker, WeCovr can advise on all these products. We often find that clients who take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy can benefit from discounts on other types of cover, creating a comprehensive and cost-effective protection package.

Proactive Health: The Best Insurance of All

Whilst having a robust insurance plan is crucial, preventing illness in the first place is the ultimate goal. For busy entrepreneurs, health often takes a backseat. Here are some simple, effective strategies to stay out of the waiting list queue altogether.

  1. Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. ONS data links poor sleep to a host of health issues, including stress, poor immunity, and cardiovascular problems. Lack of sleep impairs decision-making—a critical function for any business owner.
  2. Move Your Body: You don't need to run marathons. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity, like a brisk walk, five times a week. This reduces stress, improves heart health, and boosts mental clarity. Take walking meetings or use a standing desk.
  3. Mindful Nutrition: You are what you eat. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can significantly reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Planning meals can prevent you from grabbing unhealthy, convenient options during a busy workday. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to make tracking your food and staying on target simple.
  4. Manage Stress: Chronic stress is a silent killer for entrepreneurs. It raises cortisol levels, impacts blood pressure, and weakens the immune system. Schedule downtime as you would a business meeting. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or simply spend time in nature.
  5. Know Your Numbers: Don't wait for a problem. Get regular check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Early detection is key to managing potential issues before they become serious. Many comprehensive PMI policies include cover for health screenings.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Business Needs

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can feel overwhelming. Insurers offer a range of options, and the best policy for you depends on your budget, health priorities, and the level of cover you need.

Key factors to consider:

  • Level of Outpatient Cover: Do you want consultations and diagnostic scans covered, or just treatment once a diagnosis is made? Limiting outpatient cover can significantly reduce premiums.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospital lists. A national list is comprehensive, but if you're happy using a more local selection of hospitals, you can save money.
  • Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Underwriting Method:
    • Moratorium: Simpler to set up. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years.
    • Full Medical Underwriting: You declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer then tells you precisely what is and isn't covered from day one.

This is where using an expert PMI broker like WeCovr adds immense value. We do the hard work for you. Based on a single conversation, we can compare the market, explain the differences in plain English, and find a policy that fits you perfectly—all at no cost to you. Our high customer satisfaction ratings on independent review sites reflect our commitment to clear, impartial advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Private Medical Insurance for Business Owners

As a self-employed person, is private medical insurance a tax-deductible business expense?

For a sole trader, private medical insurance is generally considered a personal expense and is not tax-deductible. However, for a limited company paying for a director's PMI policy, it can be treated as a business expense. This makes it an allowable deduction for corporation tax. It's important to note that it will likely be treated as a P11D benefit-in-kind for the director, meaning they will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium. We always recommend speaking with your accountant for advice tailored to your specific business structure.

Does private health cover include cancer treatment?

Yes, cancer cover is a core component of all mainstream UK private medical insurance policies. Most comprehensive plans provide extensive cover for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. They may also offer access to new drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS. However, the level of cover can vary, so it's vital to check the policy details. Some plans may have limits on advanced therapies or outpatient drug costs.

What is the difference between a PMI broker and buying directly from an insurer?

Buying directly from an insurer means you only see their products and receive information based on their offerings. An independent PMI broker, like WeCovr, works on your behalf. We have access to policies from a wide panel of leading UK insurers. Our role is to understand your unique needs as a business owner and compare the market to find the most suitable cover at a competitive price. This impartial advice comes at no extra cost to you, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose. A broker provides expertise, choice, and personalised service.

Can I add my family to my private medical insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most insurers allow you to add your partner and dependent children to your private medical insurance policy. It is often more convenient and can sometimes be more cost-effective to have everyone on a single plan rather than multiple individual ones. This ensures your entire family can benefit from fast-track access to private healthcare, providing complete peace of mind.

Your Next Step: Secure Your Business and Your Future

The data is clear. The risk is real. For a business owner or self-employed professional in the UK, waiting for the NHS is a multi-million-pound gamble you cannot afford to take. Your health is your greatest business asset, and protecting it is the most critical investment you will ever make.

A Private Medical Insurance policy is your pathway to rapid treatment, and combining it with Income Protection is the shield that defends your personal wealth and business continuity.

Don't wait until a health concern forces your hand. Take control today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert advisors will help you compare leading UK insurers and build the protection plan that ensures you—and your business—thrive for years to come.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

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

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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