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NHS Waiting Times 2026 by Postcode How Long Will You Wait

NHS Waiting Times 2026 by Postcode How Long Will You Wait

Facing a long wait for surgery on the NHS can be a daunting and painful experience. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we specialise in helping UK residents understand their options, including private medical insurance. This guide breaks down the projected NHS waiting times for 2026 and explores the private healthcare alternatives available to you.

A regional breakdown of waiting lists for hip, knee, and cataract surgery. See if your local hospital is failing targets and what Self-Pay costs in your area

The NHS is a source of national pride, but it's under unprecedented strain. The official target for non-urgent operations, known as Referral to Treatment (RTT), is 18 weeks. However, as of early 2026, millions of patients are waiting much longer. This article provides a realistic, data-led projection of waiting times for three of the most common procedures and outlines your alternative path to faster treatment.

The State of the NHS: Waiting List Projections for 2026

The challenge of NHS waiting lists is not a new problem, but the scale has grown dramatically. The combination of pandemic backlogs, funding pressures, and workforce shortages has created a perfect storm.

In 2026, despite government initiatives and the tireless work of NHS staff, the overall waiting list in England is projected to remain stubbornly high, hovering at several million. While the number of patients waiting over 18 months has fallen, a significant proportion of people will still wait far longer than the 18-week target for routine procedures.

Key NHS Waiting List Facts for 2026:

  • The 18-Week Target: The NHS constitution states that over 92% of patients should wait no more than 18 weeks from their GP referral to the start of treatment. This target is being missed in almost every part of the country for most specialities.
  • The 'Hidden' Wait: The clock for the 18-week target often starts at the point of referral to a specialist, not your initial GP appointment. This means your total wait can be even longer.
  • The 'Long Waiters': A substantial number of patients will find themselves waiting over a year for common but life-changing surgeries like hip and knee replacements.

Understanding this reality is the first step towards taking control of your health journey.

Regional Waiting Times 2026: How Does Your Postcode Stack Up?

Where you live in the UK has a significant impact on how long you're likely to wait for treatment. Densely populated areas and regions with older demographics often face the longest delays. Performance varies dramatically between different NHS Trusts, even within the same region.

Disclaimer: The figures below are 2026 projections based on the latest available NHS England data trends from 2024/2025. They are illustrative estimates intended to show regional variations. Your actual waiting time will depend on your specific clinical need and the performance of your local hospital trust.

Table: Projected Average NHS Waiting Times (in weeks) for Routine Surgery - 2026

RegionHip Replacement (Weeks)Knee Replacement (Weeks)Cataract Surgery (Weeks)% Patients Waiting > 18 Weeks (All Treatments)
National Average454830~38%
London404228~35%
South East485035~40%
South West555840~44%
Midlands505436~42%
North West525538~43%
North East & Yorkshire464932~39%
East of England495134~41%

As the table shows, waiting for a year or more for a hip or knee replacement is not uncommon in many parts of the country. For supposedly 'quick' procedures like cataract surgery, the wait can still stretch to nine months or longer, severely impacting a person's quality of life and independence.

A Deeper Dive: The Human Cost of Waiting

Waiting for surgery isn't just an inconvenience; it's a period often marked by pain, deteriorating mental health, and a loss of independence.

Hip & Knee Replacement Waits

Joint replacements are transformative surgeries that relieve chronic pain and restore mobility.

  • The Problem: Waiting for a year or more with a worn-out hip or knee often means living with constant pain, relying on strong painkillers, being unable to work, and losing the ability to enjoy simple activities like walking the dog or playing with grandchildren.
  • The Procedure: These are major inpatient operations requiring a hospital stay and a significant recovery period. The sooner you have the surgery, the sooner you can begin your journey back to an active life.

Cataract Surgery Waits

Cataract surgery is a quick, highly effective outpatient procedure that can restore sight.

  • The Problem: Waiting months for treatment can mean living with blurred, cloudy vision. This makes everyday tasks like reading, watching television, and recognising faces difficult. Crucially, it can make you unsafe to drive and increase the risk of falls, particularly in older individuals.
  • The Procedure: Typically taking just 15-20 minutes per eye, the surgery involves replacing the cloudy natural lens with a clear artificial one. The impact on quality of life is immediate and profound.

The question for many is: can you afford to wait?

The 'Self-Pay' Alternative: Can You Afford to Go Private?

If you can't or don't want to wait, one option is to pay for the surgery yourself at a private hospital. This is known as 'self-pay'. It offers a guaranteed way to bypass NHS queues, but it comes at a significant cost.

Self-pay prices can be confusing. A 'package price' might seem all-inclusive, but you must check the small print. Initial consultations, diagnostic scans, and managing any unexpected complications can all add to the final bill.

Table: Average UK Self-Pay Surgery Costs (2026 Estimates)

ProcedureAverage UK Cost RangeWhat's Typically IncludedWhat Might Cost Extra
Private Hip Replacement£12,500 - £17,000Surgeon/anaesthetist fees, hospital stay (2-3 nights), standard implant, post-op physiotherapy.Initial consultation, diagnostic scans (X-ray/MRI), enhanced implants, treatment for complications.
Private Knee Replacement£13,000 - £18,000Surgeon/anaesthetist fees, hospital stay (2-3 nights), standard implant, post-op physiotherapy.Initial consultation, diagnostic scans, enhanced implants, post-op complications.
Private Cataract Surgery£2,500 - £4,000 (per eye)Surgeon fees, lens implant, hospital/clinic fees, one follow-up appointment.Initial consultation, premium multi-focal lenses, treatment for both eyes, further follow-ups.

Regional Price Variation: Costs in London and the South East are typically 15-20% higher than in the North of England or Scotland.

While self-pay provides speed, the high and potentially unpredictable cost makes it unsuitable for most people. This is where private medical insurance offers a more structured and affordable solution.

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Private Medical Insurance: The Smart Way to Bypass NHS Queues

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a policy you pay for monthly or annually that covers the cost of eligible private treatment for acute conditions. It's designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you a choice to go private when you need it most.

How does PMI work for something like a knee replacement?

  1. You develop knee pain. You visit your NHS GP for an initial diagnosis.
  2. You get a referral. Your GP refers you to a specialist for your knee pain.
  3. You call your insurer. Instead of joining the NHS waiting list, you contact your PMI provider.
  4. Claim is authorised. They confirm your policy covers the condition, authorise the claim, and give you a choice of approved specialists and private hospitals.
  5. Fast treatment. You see the specialist within days or weeks, get your scans done quickly, and have your knee replacement surgery shortly after, all in a private facility.

The insurer settles the bills directly with the hospital. You simply pay your monthly premium and any excess you chose on your policy.

The Golden Rule of PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to understand. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint pain requiring a replacement, hernias, cataracts). PMI is designed to cover these.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management but has no known cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, arthritis). These are not covered by PMI and are managed by the NHS.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any condition you have sought advice or treatment for in the years before your policy starts will be excluded, at least initially. You cannot join a waiting list and then buy insurance to cover that specific operation.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these rules to find a policy that fits your circumstances.

How Much Does Private Health Cover Cost in the UK?

The cost of PMI varies widely based on a few key factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Living in areas with expensive hospitals (like Central London) increases the cost.
  • Level of Cover: A basic policy covering only inpatient surgery will be cheaper than a comprehensive one that includes outpatient consultations, diagnostics, and therapies.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: You can choose policies with access to a local network of hospitals or a full national list.

Table: Example Monthly PMI Premiums (2026 Estimates)

These are illustrative mid-range quotes for a non-smoker with a £250 excess.

Age GroupBasic Inpatient CoverComprehensive Cover
30s£40 - £60£70 - £95
40s£55 - £75£85 - £120
50s£70 - £100£110 - £160
60s£100 - £150£180 - £250+

The only way to get an accurate price is to get a personalised quote. Comparing the market is crucial to finding the best value.

WeCovr: Your Expert Guide to UK Private Medical Insurance

Navigating the world of private health cover can be complex. As an independent, FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr's role is to make it simple.

  • We're on your side: We are not an insurer. We work for you, comparing policies from leading UK providers like Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality to find the right cover for your needs and budget.
  • Expert, free advice: Our service is completely free to you. We receive a commission from the insurer if you decide to proceed, but our advice is always impartial.
  • Added Value: We believe in promoting a healthy lifestyle. Our clients gain complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, and can benefit from discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection when taking out a PMI policy.

With consistently high customer satisfaction ratings, our team is dedicated to providing clear, authoritative advice to help you make an informed decision.


Can I use private health insurance for a condition I'm already on an NHS waiting list for?

No. This is the most common misconception about private medical insurance. Any condition for which you have already sought advice, received treatment, or are on a waiting list for before your policy starts is considered a "pre-existing condition". Standard PMI policies explicitly exclude pre-existing conditions from cover, so you cannot use a new policy to bypass a current NHS wait. Insurance is for future, unforeseen medical needs.

How long do I have to wait before I can claim on a new PMI policy?

Most policies do not have a general waiting period for new conditions that arise after your start date. However, if you choose "moratorium underwriting", there is typically a 2-year waiting period for any pre-existing conditions you've had in the 5 years prior to joining. If you remain symptom-free and require no treatment or advice for that condition for a continuous 2-year period after your policy begins, it may then become eligible for cover.

Does private medical insurance cover everything?

No. Private medical insurance does not cover everything. Common exclusions across all UK providers include chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma), pre-existing conditions, routine pregnancy and childbirth, cosmetic surgery, accident and emergency services (which are handled by the NHS), and treatments for addiction or self-inflicted injuries. It is designed specifically for the diagnosis and treatment of new, acute medical conditions.

Don't let long waiting lists dictate your quality of life. Take control of your health by exploring your options today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisers will compare the UK's leading insurers to find a policy that gives you peace of mind and fast access to the treatment you need, when you need it.


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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Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.