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Obesity Management Private Care

Obesity Management Private Care 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised broker with over 900,000 policies arranged, WeCovr provides expert insight into how private medical insurance in the UK can support your health journey. This guide explores the complexities of obesity, its health risks, and the private care pathways available to you.

WeCovr reviews obesity health risks and private care pathways

Obesity is one of the most significant public health challenges facing the UK today. It's a complex issue that extends far beyond aesthetics, carrying substantial risks for long-term physical and mental health. While the NHS provides a framework for care, waiting times and specific criteria can be challenging. This leads many to explore private healthcare options.

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down:

  • The current state of obesity in the UK.
  • The serious health conditions linked to a high Body Mass Index (BMI).
  • How care is structured on the NHS.
  • The role of private medical insurance (PMI) and its limitations.
  • The self-funded private pathways available, from medication to surgery.
  • Actionable lifestyle tips to support your health.

Our goal is to provide you with a clear, authoritative understanding of your options, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing.

Understanding Obesity: The UK Picture in 2025

Obesity is a medical term used to describe carrying excess body fat to the extent that it may have a negative impact on your health. The most common way to measure this is the Body Mass Index (BMI).

Your BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in metres. While it doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle, it's a widely accepted tool for assessing population-wide health risks.

BMI RangeClassification
Below 18.5Underweight
18.5 – 24.9Healthy Weight
25.0 – 29.9Overweight
30.0 – 39.9Obese
40.0 or aboveSeverely Obese

According to the latest Health Survey for England (2022 data, published late 2023), the statistics paint a stark picture:

  • 26% of adults in England are living with obesity.
  • A further 38% of adults are overweight.
  • This means a staggering 64% of the adult population (nearly two in three people) are classified as either overweight or obese.

These figures highlight that this is a widespread national issue, affecting millions of people and placing a significant strain on health services.

The Cascade of Health Risks Linked to Obesity

Living with obesity significantly increases the risk of developing a range of serious, and often life-limiting, health conditions. It's not just one single risk, but a cascade of potential problems that can affect nearly every system in the body.

1. Type 2 Diabetes This is one of the most common complications. The NHS estimates that people with obesity are up to 80-85% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Excess fat, particularly around the abdomen, can cause cells to become resistant to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar.

2. Cardiovascular Diseases Obesity forces the heart to work harder to pump blood around the body. This strain increases the risk of:

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): A major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
  • Coronary Heart Disease: Where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed.
  • Strokes: Occurring when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off.
  • Atrial Fibrillation: An irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate.

3. Certain Types of Cancer Research from organisations like Cancer Research UK has established a clear link between obesity and an increased risk of at least 13 different types of cancer, including:

  • Bowel cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Breast cancer (after the menopause)
  • Womb (uterine) cancer

4. Musculoskeletal Problems Carrying extra weight places immense strain on your joints, bones, and muscles. This commonly leads to:

  • Osteoarthritis: The "wear and tear" form of arthritis, particularly affecting weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and lower back.
  • Gout: A painful type of inflammatory arthritis.
  • Generalised back and joint pain.

5. Respiratory Issues Excess weight, especially around the neck and chest, can compress the airways and restrict lung function. This can cause:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): A serious condition where a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This leads to chronic fatigue and increases the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.
  • Asthma: Obesity can worsen asthma symptoms and make attacks more frequent and severe.

6. Mental Health and Wellbeing The impact of obesity is not just physical. Many people experience significant psychological effects, including:

  • Depression and anxiety.
  • Low self-esteem and poor body image.
  • Social isolation due to stigma and discrimination.

Managing weight is therefore not just about a number on the scales; it's about proactively reducing your risk of developing these interconnected health problems.

Obesity Management Through the NHS: The Standard Pathway

The NHS offers a structured, tiered approach to weight management, starting with the least invasive options.

  • Step 1: Your GP Practice The first port of call is usually your GP. They will assess your BMI, take measurements, and discuss your lifestyle. Initial recommendations will almost always focus on diet and physical activity. They may refer you to a practice nurse or a local "Live Well" service for support.

  • Step 2: Tier 2 Community Weight Management Services If lifestyle changes alone aren't enough, your GP might refer you to a local, council-commissioned programme. These are typically group-based sessions running for 12 weeks, focusing on diet, nutrition education, and physical activity.

  • Step 3: Tier 3 Specialist Weight Management Services For those with a higher BMI (usually over 35 with other health conditions, or over 40) who haven't succeeded with Tier 2, a referral to a specialist, multidisciplinary team may be made. This team includes dietitians, psychologists, and specialist doctors. They offer more intensive support and may consider weight loss medications.

  • Step 4: Tier 4 Bariatric Surgery This is the final step and is reserved for individuals who meet very strict criteria. Generally, this includes:

    • A BMI of 40 or more, or a BMI between 35 and 40 with a serious obesity-related health condition (like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure).
    • Having already tried all other appropriate non-surgical methods.
    • Being fit enough for anaesthesia and surgery.
    • Committing to long-term follow-up and lifestyle changes.

The major challenge with the NHS pathway is access and timing. Waiting lists for specialist Tier 3 services and, particularly, for Tier 4 bariatric surgery can be extremely long, often stretching for several years. This "waiting-list limbo" can be frustrating and detrimental to health, prompting many to consider private options.

The Role of Private Medical Insurance in Obesity Management

This is a crucial point that requires absolute clarity. It is a common misconception that private medical insurance (PMI) will pay for weight loss programmes or surgery on demand.

Crucial Point: PMI and Chronic Conditions Standard private medical insurance UK policies are designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Obesity is classified as a chronic condition—a long-term condition that cannot be cured but can be managed. As a result, treatment solely for obesity itself, such as weight loss programmes, dietary plans, or bariatric surgery for the purpose of losing weight, is almost always excluded from standard PMI policies.

Furthermore, if you are already living with obesity when you take out a policy, it will be considered a pre-existing condition, and any treatment for it would not be covered.

So, What is the Value of PMI?

While PMI does not directly cover obesity management, it provides an invaluable safety net for the acute conditions that arise as a consequence of obesity.

This is where the true benefit lies. If you have private health cover, you can bypass NHS waiting lists for the diagnosis and treatment of many of the serious health risks we discussed earlier.

Here are some real-life examples:

  • Scenario 1: Joint Replacement An individual with a high BMI develops severe osteoarthritis in their knee, causing chronic pain and mobility issues. The NHS waiting list for a knee replacement is 18 months. Their PMI policy, however, could cover the cost of a private consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon within days and the surgery within weeks, getting them back on their feet faster.

  • Scenario 2: Heart Condition A person is diagnosed with coronary artery disease, exacerbated by their weight. They need an angioplasty or a coronary bypass graft. With PMI, they can access a private cardiologist and have the procedure performed in a high-quality private hospital without the lengthy wait, potentially preventing a heart attack.

  • Scenario 3: Cancer Diagnosis If you are diagnosed with a cancer linked to obesity (and it wasn't a pre-existing condition), your PMI policy would give you access to leading oncologists and advanced treatments, including drugs and therapies that may not be available on the NHS.

In essence, PMI provides peace of mind. It ensures that if one of the serious risks associated with obesity becomes a reality, you have fast access to the best possible care to treat that specific, acute problem.

Self-Funded Private Care for Obesity: Your Options

For those who wish to tackle obesity directly and have the means to self-fund their treatment, the private sector offers a range of pathways that run parallel to the NHS tiers.

1. Private Dietitians, Nutritionists, and Health Coaches This is a great starting point for personalised advice. A registered dietitian can create a tailored eating plan based on your medical history and lifestyle.

  • What they do: Provide evidence-based nutritional advice, meal plans, and behavioural coaching.
  • Typical Cost: £80 - £150 for an initial consultation, with follow-ups costing £50 - £100.

2. Medically Supervised Weight Loss Programmes Several private clinics offer comprehensive, doctor-led programmes. These go beyond simple diet advice and involve a multidisciplinary team.

  • What they include: Consultations with a doctor specialising in weight management, regular check-ins, psychological support, and sometimes the prescription of weight loss medication.
  • Typical Cost: Can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the length and intensity of the programme.

3. Private Prescription Weight Loss Medications The development of GLP-1 receptor agonists has revolutionised medical weight management. Drugs like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide) work by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, making you feel fuller for longer.

  • How to get them: You need a prescription from a qualified private doctor or through a registered online pharmacy that includes a clinical consultation. This is crucial for safety.
  • Typical Cost: These are expensive. A monthly supply can cost between £150 and £300. This is an ongoing cost for as long as you use the medication.

4. Private Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery For those who meet the clinical criteria but want to avoid NHS waiting lists, private surgery is the most effective long-term treatment for severe obesity.

Here is a comparison of the main surgical options:

Surgical ProcedureHow It WorksTypical Weight Loss (Excess Body Weight)Estimated Private Cost (UK)
Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)Around 80% of the stomach is surgically removed, leaving a small, banana-shaped "sleeve". This restricts food intake and reduces hunger hormones.60-70%£8,000 - £12,000
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)A small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and connected directly to the small intestine, "bypassing" the rest of the stomach. This restricts intake and reduces calorie absorption.70-80%£9,500 - £15,000
Gastric BandAn adjustable silicone band is placed around the top of the stomach, creating a small pouch. This physically restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold. It is less common now.40-50%£5,000 - £8,000

Disclaimer: Costs are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the clinic, surgeon, and location. The price should include pre-operative assessments and post-operative follow-up care.

How WeCovr Can Help You Secure Your Health

Navigating the world of private health cover can be complex, especially with a condition like obesity. This is where an expert PMI broker like WeCovr becomes your strongest ally.

We help you understand exactly what a policy will and won't cover. While PMI doesn't treat obesity, we can find you a policy that offers a robust safety net for related acute conditions, giving you fast access to:

  • Consultations with specialists for heart, joint, or digestive issues.
  • Advanced diagnostic scans like MRI and CT.
  • Surgical procedures in a clean, comfortable private hospital.
  • Comprehensive cancer cover.

Many modern PMI policies also come with valuable wellness benefits that actively support a healthier lifestyle, such as:

  • Discounts on gym memberships.
  • Access to mental health support and therapy.
  • 24/7 Digital GP services.
  • Nutrition consultations.

As an independent and FCA-authorised broker, we compare plans from all the UK's leading insurers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you. Furthermore, WeCovr clients gain complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support their health goals. You can also benefit from discounts on other insurance, such as life or income protection cover, when you arrange a policy with us.

Proactive Steps for a Healthier Lifestyle

Regardless of whether you choose an NHS or private pathway, lifestyle changes are the foundation of long-term health improvement.

  • Focus on Whole Foods: Build your diet around vegetables, fruits, lean proteins (chicken, fish, beans), and whole grains. Reduce your intake of ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, and takeaways.
  • Mindful Eating and Portion Control: Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals. Using a smaller plate can be a simple but effective psychological trick.
  • Find Movement You Enjoy: You don't have to spend hours in the gym. The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing. Start small and build gradually.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Lack of sleep disrupts the hormones that control appetite (ghrelin and leptin), making you feel hungrier and less satisfied. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, a hormone linked to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or spend time in nature to de-stress.

Making sustainable changes is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient and kind to yourself, and celebrate small victories along the way.

Does private medical insurance cover weight loss surgery in the UK?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover bariatric (weight loss) surgery, as obesity is considered a chronic condition. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Surgery for cosmetic or lifestyle reasons is a standard exclusion. In very rare and specific clinical circumstances, it might be considered if it's proven to be the only solution for another acute, covered condition, but this is not the norm.

Can I get private health insurance if I am overweight or have obesity?

Yes, you can still get private health insurance. However, the insurer will likely apply exclusions. Obesity itself, and any health conditions you already have that are related to it (like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes), would be considered pre-existing and would not be covered. Your BMI may also be used as a factor when calculating your premium, meaning it could be higher.

What's the main benefit of PMI if it doesn't cover my obesity?

The main benefit is providing a crucial safety net. Private medical insurance gives you fast access to diagnosis and treatment for the many serious acute conditions that can be caused or worsened by obesity. This includes things like heart surgery, cancer treatment, and joint replacement surgery, allowing you to bypass long NHS waiting lists and receive care quickly in a private facility.

Are new weight loss drugs like Wegovy or Ozempic covered by private health insurance?

No, the cost of prescription drugs for weight management is not typically covered by private medical insurance in the UK. These medications are used to manage a chronic condition (obesity) and are usually self-funded if sought privately. Some insurers are beginning to explore adding them to wellness platforms, but they are not part of standard inpatient or outpatient cover.

Ready to explore your health insurance options and build a safety net for your future? The expert team at WeCovr is here to help. We provide free, impartial advice to help you compare the market and find the best PMI provider for your circumstances.

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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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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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