Login

NHS Waitlist Crisis UK Families Face £4.5M Health Gap

NHS Waitlist Crisis UK Families Face £4.5M Health Gap 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert insurance broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr is committed to providing clear, authoritative guidance on private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the growing financial risks associated with NHS delays and how the right health cover can offer crucial protection.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Britons Will Endure Critical NHS Wait Times, Fueling a Staggering £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Financial Burden of Lost Income, Eroding Savings & Unmet Family Needs – Is Your PMI & LTCIP Shield Your Essential Lifeline Against Systemic Failure

The bedrock of British society, our National Health Service, is facing its most significant challenge to date. New analysis for 2025 projects a stark reality: more than one in three of us will likely face a significant, potentially life-altering wait for NHS treatment during our lifetime. This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a profound economic threat.

For a growing number of UK families, a long wait for treatment can trigger a catastrophic financial chain reaction. The combined impact of lost earnings, depleted savings, and the unforeseen costs of long-term care can create a financial gap exceeding a staggering £4.5 million over a lifetime. This is the new, hidden cost of illness in the UK.

In this definitive guide, we will dissect this financial threat and explore the practical, powerful solutions available. We will explain how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Long-Term Care Insurance Plans (LTCIPs) are no longer a luxury, but an essential financial shield for modern British families.

The figure of £4.5 million might seem unbelievable, but it represents a plausible worst-case scenario for a family when a primary earner suffers a serious, treatable condition that is exacerbated by a long wait for care. Let's break down how this devastating financial gap can emerge.

We'll use a hypothetical but realistic example:

  • The Person: Mark, a 40-year-old self-employed project manager earning £85,000 per year. He has a partner and two children.
  • The Condition: Mark develops severe back pain, which is later diagnosed as a complex spinal issue requiring surgery.
  • The Wait: The NHS waiting list for this type of neurosurgery in his area is 18-24 months.

Here is how the financial burden accumulates over his lifetime:

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Financial Impact
Immediate Lost IncomeUnable to work during the 2-year wait and a 1-year recovery period. Mark loses his income completely.£255,000 (3 years x £85k)
Reduced Future EarningsThe long delay causes permanent nerve damage. Mark can only return to work part-time in a less demanding role, earning £40,000 less per year. Over his remaining 25-year career...£1,000,000 (£40k x 25)
Partner's Lost IncomeMark's partner reduces her work hours to act as a part-time carer for the first 5 years, resulting in a £20,000 annual income loss.£100,000 (£20k x 5)
Depleted SavingsThe family uses £100,000 of their savings and pension funds to survive the initial income shock. The lost investment growth on this sum over 25 years is substantial.£338,000 (assuming 5% annual growth)
Long-Term Care CostsDue to the permanent damage, Mark requires ongoing private physiotherapy, pain management, and home adaptations not fully covered by the NHS or local council. This costs £8,000 per year for 30 years.£240,000 (£8k x 30)
Catastrophic EscalationIn the most severe outcome, the condition could render Mark unable to ever work again, and require extensive, live-in care in his later years. The cost of lifetime lost earnings (£85k x 27 years) plus 10 years of intensive private care (£150k/year) creates the multi-million-pound gap.£2,295,000 + £1,500,000 = £3,795,000+

Total Potential Lifetime Financial Burden: £4.5 Million+

This scenario illustrates how a single health event, compounded by systemic delays, can dismantle a family's financial security for a lifetime.

The State of the Nation: A Sobering Look at NHS Waitlists in 2025

The numbers behind the crisis are stark. According to the latest data from NHS England and projections from organisations like the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), the challenge is immense.

  • Total Waiting List: The overall number of people waiting for routine consultant-led hospital treatment in England remains stubbornly high, hovering around 7.5 million treatment pathways.
  • The "Hidden" Waitlist: This official number doesn't include the millions waiting for community services, mental health support, or those who haven't yet been referred by their GP.
  • Extreme Waits: As of early 2025, over 300,000 patients have been waiting more than a year (52 weeks) for treatment. Thousands have been waiting for over 18 months.

Waiting times vary significantly by specialty. Here's a snapshot of typical median waiting times for treatment after a referral:

NHS SpecialityTypical Median Wait Time (2025 Data)Potential Impact of Delay
Trauma & Orthopaedics14.5 WeeksWorsening pain, loss of mobility, inability to work
Cardiology8.2 WeeksIncreased risk of major cardiac event, anxiety
Gynaecology12.1 WeeksChronic pain, impact on fertility, mental distress
Gastroenterology11.5 WeeksWorsening of conditions like Crohn's, delayed diagnosis
Neurology/Neurosurgery13.8 WeeksRisk of permanent nerve damage, deteriorating condition

Source: NHS England Referral to Treatment (RTT) Waiting Times Data, projections based on current trends.

This data shows that even for "average" waits, patients can spend months in pain or with worsening symptoms, directly impacting their ability to work, care for their families, and live a normal life.

Your Financial Shield: What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI), also known as private health cover, is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private healthcare for specific conditions. In essence, it allows you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive eligible treatment quickly in a private hospital or clinic.

The Golden Rule of PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept 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 treatment for many types of cancer. PMI is designed to cover these.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it comes back or is likely to come back, or it requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

The Other Golden Rule: Pre-Existing Conditions

PMI is designed to cover conditions that arise after you take out the policy. It does not typically cover pre-existing conditions – any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began. This is managed through a process called underwriting.

How PMI Protects Your Family's Finances and Wellbeing

Let's revisit our example of Mark, the project manager. If he had a comprehensive PMI policy, his journey would have been dramatically different.

  1. GP Referral: After seeing his GP, Mark is referred to a specialist.
  2. Fast Diagnosis: Instead of waiting months for an NHS appointment, his PMI provider authorises a private consultation with a spinal surgeon within days. MRI scans are done within a week.
  3. Prompt Treatment: The surgeon confirms the need for surgery. The PMI provider approves the procedure, and Mark is operated on in a private hospital within 2-4 weeks of his diagnosis.
  4. Quicker Recovery: He gets a private room for his recovery and access to immediate, intensive physiotherapy through his policy's aftercare benefits.
  5. Return to Work: Mark is back to work within 3-6 months, not 3 years.

The financial difference is monumental:

OutcomeWith NHS WaitWith Private Medical Insurance
Time Off Work~3 Years~4-6 Months
Lost Income£255,000+~£28,000 - £42,000
Long-Term ImpactPermanent damage, reduced earning capacityFull recovery, return to previous earning capacity
Financial BurdenPotentially millions over a lifetimeThe cost of the annual PMI premium

By spending a manageable amount on a monthly or annual premium, Mark would have completely avoided the financial catastrophe and protected his health, career, and family's future.

Building Your Fortress: How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover

Navigating the PMI market can feel complex, but it's about finding the right balance of cover and cost for your specific needs. An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can guide you through this process at no cost to you.

Policies are generally structured in tiers:

Level of CoverWhat It Typically IncludesBest For
Basic (Inpatient Only)Covers costs associated with a hospital stay (surgery, accommodation, nursing). May have limited cancer cover.Those on a tight budget who want protection against major surgical costs and are happy to use the NHS for diagnostics.
Mid-Range (Inpatient & Outpatient)Includes all basic cover plus specialist consultations, diagnostic tests (MRI/CT scans), and therapies (e.g., physiotherapy) up to an annual limit.Most people. It offers a strong balance of comprehensive cover and affordability, covering the journey from diagnosis to treatment.
ComprehensiveIncludes all mid-range cover with higher (or unlimited) outpatient limits, plus enhanced mental health cover, dental, and optical benefits.Those who want the highest level of reassurance and minimal use of the NHS for any eligible condition.

Smart Ways to Manage Your PMI Premium

  • Increase Your Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your premium.
  • The 6-Week Wait Option: This popular option reduces your premium. If the NHS can treat you for an eligible inpatient procedure within six weeks, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private policy kicks in.
  • Choose Your Hospital List: Most insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. Opting for a list that excludes the most expensive central London hospitals can reduce costs.
  • Get Expert Advice: A broker can compare policies from all the leading providers to find the one that fits your needs and budget, saving you time and money.

Proactive Wellness: Taking Control of Your Health

While insurance provides a safety net, the best strategy is to invest in your own health. Proactive wellness can reduce your risk of needing treatment in the first place.

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. A balanced diet is fundamental to preventing a host of chronic diseases. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to make healthy eating easier.
  • Regular Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking or cycling, per week. Mix in strength training twice a week.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a weakened immune system, weight gain, and poor mental health.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a physical impact on your body. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can make a huge difference. Many comprehensive PMI policies now include access to mental health support apps and services.

Comparing the Best PMI Providers in the UK

The UK market is served by several excellent insurers, each with its own strengths. Working with a broker like WeCovr allows you to compare them on a like-for-like basis.

ProviderKey Strengths & Features
BupaOne of the most recognised brands, with a large network of hospitals and a strong focus on extensive cancer care and mental health pathways.
AXA HealthKnown for its flexible and modular policy options, allowing you to build a plan that suits you. Strong digital GP services and a focus on preventative health.
AvivaOffers a "Healthier Solutions" policy with excellent core cover and an "Expert Select" hospital option to manage costs. Often highly rated for customer service.
VitalityUnique in its focus on rewarding healthy living. You can reduce your premiums and earn rewards (like cinema tickets and coffee) by tracking your activity.

Why Use an Expert Broker Like WeCovr?

Choosing health insurance is a significant decision. You wouldn't navigate a complex legal issue without a solicitor, and you shouldn't navigate the insurance market without an expert.

  • Independent, Expert Advice: WeCovr is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our advisors are experts in the market and work for you, not the insurer.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, so you pay the same price (or often less) than going direct.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We compare policies from all the leading UK providers, saving you hours of research and ensuring you see the best options.
  • Client-Focused: We have exceptionally high customer satisfaction ratings because we prioritise finding the right cover for our clients' unique needs and budgets.
  • Added Value: When you arrange a policy with us, you gain complimentary access to our CalorieHero app and may be eligible for discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection cover.

The health landscape in the UK is changing. The financial risks of long waits are real and significant. Taking proactive steps to protect your health and your finances with the right private medical insurance is one of the most sensible and powerful decisions you can make for your family's future.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. Pre-existing conditions, which are any health issues you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for before the policy start date, are typically excluded. This is a fundamental principle of how PMI works in the UK.

Is PMI worth it if I have the NHS?

For many, yes. While the NHS provides excellent emergency and critical care, PMI offers a crucial solution to long waiting lists for planned treatments like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs. It gives you choice over when and where you are treated, helping you get back to work and normal life faster, thereby protecting your income and savings from the financial impact of a long health-related absence.

How can I lower the cost of my private health cover?

You can effectively lower your premiums in several ways. The most common methods include: choosing a higher excess (the amount you pay per claim), opting for a 6-week wait option (where you use the NHS if the wait is under 6 weeks), selecting a more restricted hospital list, or working with an expert broker like WeCovr to compare the entire market to find the best value policy for your specific needs.

Don't let a waiting list dictate your family's financial future. Take control today. Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable your peace of mind can be.


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.


Learn more


...

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.