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Osteopathy Explained

Osteopathy Explained 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr explains the essentials of osteopathy and how private medical insurance in the UK can help cover its costs. This guide will walk you through what osteopathy involves, how it differs from other therapies, and the crucial details of insurance coverage.

WeCovr explains osteopathy and when PMI may cover it

A sudden twinge in your back, a nagging ache in your neck, or a sports injury that just won't heal. These are common complaints that lead millions of Britons to seek help beyond their GP. One of the most effective and popular "hands-on" treatments for such issues is osteopathy.

But what exactly is it, and more importantly, will your private health cover pay for it?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about osteopathy and its place within the UK's private medical insurance landscape. We'll explore what to expect from treatment, how it compares to other therapies, and the specific steps you need to take to get your sessions covered.

What is Osteopathy? A Gentle Approach to Whole-Body Health

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment that focuses on the structural integrity of the body. Its core principle is that our well-being depends on our bones, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues all working smoothly together.

Think of your body like a complex, finely-tuned machine. If one part is misaligned or stiff, it can affect the entire system, causing pain and dysfunction elsewhere. An osteopath's job is to identify these structural problems and use manual techniques to restore balance.

The Guiding Principles of Osteopathy:

  • The body is a single unit: Your mind, body, and spirit are interconnected. A problem in one area can have ripple effects throughout.
  • Structure governs function: If your body's structure (your musculoskeletal system) is out of alignment, its ability to function correctly is impaired.
  • The body has a natural ability to self-heal: Osteopathic treatment aims to remove the barriers preventing your body from healing itself.

Common Conditions Treated by Osteopaths:

Osteopaths are best known for treating back pain, but their scope is much wider. They can help with a variety of musculoskeletal issues, including:

  • Generalised aches and pains
  • Lower back pain (lumbago) and sciatica
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Headaches arising from neck issues (cervicogenic headaches)
  • Joint pain, including hip, knee, and ankle problems
  • Arthritic pain management
  • Sports injuries and muscle spasms
  • Pain and stiffness associated with poor posture or driving

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), musculoskeletal problems are a leading cause of sickness absence in the UK. In 2022, they accounted for millions of lost working days, highlighting the significant impact these conditions have on the nation's health and productivity.

Understanding the Osteopath's Role: What to Expect During a Consultation

If you've never been to an osteopath, you might be unsure what the process involves. It's a highly professional and regulated practice focused on understanding you as an individual.

Your First Appointment will typically involve:

  1. A Detailed Case History: Your osteopath will ask you lots of questions about your symptoms, general health, lifestyle, and medical history. This helps them build a complete picture of what might be causing your issue.
  2. A Physical Examination: You may be asked to perform simple movements and stretches to help the osteopath assess your posture and mobility. They will use their highly trained sense of touch (palpation) to identify areas of weakness, tenderness, or restriction in your muscles and joints. You'll likely be asked to remove some outer clothing, so it's a good idea to wear comfortable underwear or bring shorts.
  3. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: Based on their findings, the osteopath will explain their diagnosis in plain English. They'll discuss a proposed treatment plan, explaining what techniques they will use and how many sessions you might need.

Common Osteopathic Techniques:

Osteopathy is a "hands-on" therapy. Your practitioner will use a variety of gentle techniques tailored to your specific needs:

  • Soft Tissue Massage: To release muscle tension and improve circulation.
  • Stretching: To increase the flexibility of muscles and joints.
  • Articulation: Gentle, rhythmic movements of your joints to improve their range of motion.
  • Mobilisation: Slower, more passive movements of the joints and spine.
  • High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Thrusts (HVT): The technique that sometimes produces a "click" or "pop". It's used to restore motion to a restricted joint but is only used when appropriate and with your consent.

In the UK, all osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). This is a legal requirement and your guarantee that the practitioner has completed rigorous training and adheres to strict professional standards.

Osteopathy vs. Other Therapies: Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Compared

People often get confused between osteopathy, chiropractic, and physiotherapy. While they all treat similar conditions and can be highly effective, they come from different philosophical backgrounds and often have slightly different focuses.

Here’s a simple comparison to help clarify the differences:

TherapyPrimary FocusTypical TechniquesUK Regulatory Body
OsteopathyThe whole body's structure and its influence on function. Aims to improve overall health by treating the musculoskeletal system.Soft tissue massage, articulation, stretching, mobilisation, some HVT.General Osteopathic Council (GOsC)
ChiropracticThe spine and its relationship with the nervous system. Primarily focused on "adjustments" to correct vertebral misalignments.Primarily spinal manipulation (adjustments), HVT is very common.General Chiropractic Council (GCC)
PhysiotherapyRestoring movement and function after injury, illness, or disability. Often focuses on rehabilitation through exercise.Exercise prescription, massage, electrotherapy (e.g., ultrasound), manual therapy.Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

In simple terms:

  • An osteopath looks at the whole body to see how it's functioning as a unit.
  • A chiropractor often focuses more specifically on the spine and nervous system.
  • A physiotherapist is often focused on rehabilitating a specific injury or condition with exercise-based plans.

The best therapy for you depends on your specific condition and personal preference. Many private medical insurance policies in the UK offer cover for all three.

Does Private Medical Insurance Cover Osteopathy in the UK?

This is the key question for many people considering treatment. The good news is that yes, most private medical insurance UK policies do offer cover for osteopathy.

However, this cover is not automatic and comes with some very important rules and limitations. Understanding these is essential to avoid unexpected bills.

Coverage for osteopathy is typically included as part of an outpatient benefit or a specific therapies benefit. It is designed to help you recover from specific medical conditions, not for general wellness or maintenance.

The Golden Rule of PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about private health cover.

  • Acute Condition: An illness or injury that is sudden, unexpected, and of short duration. It is expected to respond fully to treatment. For example, pulling a muscle in your neck while lifting a heavy box.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, ongoing, or likely to recur. It cannot be 'cured', only managed. For example, long-term degenerative arthritis or back pain you've had for many years.

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (any ailment you had before your policy started) or chronic conditions.

Real-Life Example:

  • Covered: You are a keen runner and develop sudden, sharp knee pain after a race (an acute sports injury). Your GP refers you to an osteopath. Your PMI is likely to cover the sessions needed to resolve the injury.
  • Not Covered: You have suffered from dull, persistent lower back pain for the last 10 years (a chronic condition). You decide to see an osteopath for ongoing management. Your PMI will not cover this, as it is considered a chronic and pre-existing issue.

Getting your osteopathy sessions paid for by your insurer involves a clear, step-by-step process. Skipping a step can result in your claim being denied, so it's vital to follow your provider's procedure.

Here is the typical claims journey:

  1. Check Your Policy Documents: Before you do anything else, read your policy certificate and wording. Look for sections on "Outpatient Cover," "Therapies," or "Complementary Medicine." This will tell you if osteopathy is included and, crucially, what your limits are.
  2. Get a GP Referral: Nearly all UK insurers require a referral from your GP. Your GP needs to assess your condition and agree that osteopathic treatment is medically necessary. Some modern policies may offer access to a digital GP service, which can speed this up.
  3. Contact Your Insurer for Authorisation: This step is non-negotiable. You must call your insurer's claims line with your GP referral details before you book any treatment. They will check your cover, confirm the condition is eligible, and give you a pre-authorisation number. This number is your proof that they have approved the treatment.
  4. Choose a Recognised Osteopath: Your insurer will have a list or network of approved osteopaths. You must choose a practitioner from this list. A key requirement is that the osteopath is registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
  5. Understand Your Limits: Your policy will have limits on therapy cover. This could be:
    • A financial limit: For example, up to £750 per policy year for all therapies combined.
    • A session limit: For example, up to 10 sessions per condition.
    • It's your responsibility to track your usage so you know when you are approaching your limit.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable here. We help our clients understand the small print of different policies, ensuring they choose a plan with the right level of therapy cover for their potential needs, all at no extra cost.

Which UK PMI Providers Offer Osteopathy Cover?

Most of the UK's leading private health insurance providers include osteopathy in their plans, usually as part of an outpatient module. However, the specifics of the cover can vary significantly.

Here is a general overview of what to expect from major providers:

ProviderTypical Osteopathy CoverageKey Considerations
AXA HealthOften included in outpatient options. Cover is usually for a set number of sessions following a GP referral.They have a network of recognised specialists. A GP referral is essential. Limits apply per policy year.
BupaIncluded under therapies cover on most comprehensive plans. Cover is for acute conditions.Bupa has an extensive network of recognised therapists. Pre-authorisation is required.
AvivaOffered as part of their "Expert Select" outpatient module. You can choose your level of therapy cover (e.g. £500, £1,000).A GP referral is standard. Using their approved network of specialists can help manage costs.
VitalityTherapies, including osteopathy, are a core benefit. The amount of cover can be linked to your Vitality status.Vitality's model encourages a healthy lifestyle, and therapy cover is often generous, but a GP referral and pre-authorisation are still needed.

Important Note: This table is a simplified guide. The exact terms depend on the specific policy you choose. Comparing quotes and policy details is crucial.

The Cost of Osteopathy: NHS vs. Private Treatment

While osteopathy is a recognised allied health profession, its availability on the NHS is limited and varies by geographical location. In some areas, your GP may be able to refer you to an NHS osteopathy service, but waiting lists can be long.

Most people in the UK access osteopathy privately. The costs can vary depending on where you live and the practitioner's experience, but you can generally expect to pay:

  • Initial Consultation (45-60 minutes): £55 - £100
  • Follow-up Sessions (30 minutes): £45 - £90

If you need a course of 6-8 sessions, the total cost could easily be £300-£700. This is where private medical insurance proves its value, by covering these costs for eligible acute conditions and providing swift access to treatment.

Beyond Treatment: Wellness Tips from an Osteopathic Perspective

A good osteopath doesn't just treat your symptoms; they empower you with knowledge to prevent them from recurring. Maintaining good musculoskeletal health is about making small, consistent changes to your daily life.

Posture and Your Workspace: With many of us working from home, poor desk setups are a leading cause of neck and back pain.

  • Ensure your screen is at eye level.
  • Your keyboard should be positioned so your elbows are at a 90-degree angle.
  • Use a chair with good lumbar support, and make sure your feet are flat on the floor.
  • Take a short break to stand up and stretch every 30 minutes.

Movement is Medicine: Our bodies are designed to move. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest risk factors for musculoskeletal pain.

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, like a brisk walk, most days.
  • Incorporate gentle stretching into your morning or evening routine. Focus on your hamstrings, hips, and neck.
  • Activities like yoga, Pilates, and swimming are excellent for building core strength and flexibility.

Sleep Hygiene: The position you sleep in can have a huge impact on your spine.

  • Back sleepers: Place a pillow under your knees to reduce strain on your lower back.
  • Side sleepers: Place a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned.
  • Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as this forces your neck into an unnatural position.
  • Invest in a supportive mattress and pillows that are right for your body type and sleeping style.

Diet and Hydration: What you eat affects every tissue in your body, including your muscles and joints.

  • A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and oily fish) can help reduce generalised aches.
  • Staying well-hydrated is crucial for keeping your joints lubricated and your muscles functioning properly.

To help you manage your diet effectively, WeCovr provides all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our advanced AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's another way we support your overall well-being.

Why Use a PMI Broker like WeCovr?

The private medical insurance UK market can be complex. Policies are full of jargon, and comparing different levels of cover from multiple providers is time-consuming and confusing. This is where an independent, expert broker makes all the difference.

  • Expert Guidance: We are specialists in the PMI market. We know the ins and outs of every major policy and can explain the differences in simple, clear terms.
  • Personalised Recommendations: We take the time to understand your needs, your budget, and what's important to you—like having comprehensive therapy cover for osteopathy—before recommending a policy.
  • Market Comparison: We compare policies from a wide range of top UK insurers to find you the best possible cover at a competitive price.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, but this does not affect the price you pay.
  • Ongoing Support: Our relationship doesn't end when you buy a policy. We're here to help with renewals and answer any questions you may have in the future.

Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr may be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, providing even greater value.

Do I need a GP referral for osteopathy on my PMI?

Yes, in almost all cases. The vast majority of UK private medical insurance providers require a formal referral from your GP before they will authorise and cover the cost of osteopathy. The GP's role is to confirm that the treatment is medically necessary for an acute condition.

Is osteopathy for chronic back pain covered by private health insurance?

No, standard private health cover in the UK does not typically cover treatment for chronic conditions. PMI is designed for acute conditions—those that are short-term and expected to resolve with treatment. Long-term, persistent back pain would be classified as chronic and is therefore excluded from cover.

How many osteopathy sessions will my private medical insurance cover?

This depends entirely on your specific policy. Coverage is usually limited in one of two ways: either by a set number of sessions per condition (e.g., up to 8 sessions) or by an annual financial limit for all therapies combined (e.g., £500 or £1,000 per year). It is crucial to check your policy documents and get authorisation from your insurer to understand your exact limits.

Can I choose any osteopath I want with my health insurance?

Generally, you need to choose an osteopath who is recognised and approved by your insurance provider. Insurers maintain lists or networks of approved specialists to ensure quality and manage costs. A fundamental requirement is that any osteopath must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Always check with your insurer before booking an appointment.

Ready to find a private medical insurance policy that supports your musculoskeletal health and provides access to therapies like osteopathy?

The friendly experts at WeCovr are here to help. We'll guide you through the options, compare the UK's leading providers, and find a policy that fits your needs and budget perfectly. Get your free, no-obligation quote today and take the first step towards peace of mind.

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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!

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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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