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P11d Reporting and Private Health Insurance

Always ensure you are using the figures for the correct tax year. If your policy renews mid-way through the tax year, you'll need to use the pro-rata cost from both the old and new premium rates.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

Always ensure you are using the figures for the correct tax year. If your policy renews mid-way through the tax year, you'll need to use the pro-rata cost from both the old and new premium rates.

Key takeaways

  • A company car
  • An interest-free loan
  • Private Medical Insurance
  • Who Files It? The employer is responsible for completing and submitting the P11D form.
  • When Is It Due? The deadline for submitting all P11D forms to HMRC is the 6th of July following the end of the tax year (which runs from 6th April to 5th April).

As an insurance broker that has arranged over 1,000,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. This guide demystifies P11D reporting for PMI, providing clear, actionable advice for employers to ensure full compliance and maximise the value of their health benefits.

Everything employers need to know about PMI on P11D forms

Navigating the world of employee benefits involves more than just choosing a great package; it requires a firm grasp of the associated tax and reporting obligations. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is one of the most valued employee benefits, but it comes with specific reporting requirements through the P11D form.

For many employers, this process can seem daunting. What is a P11D? How do you calculate the value of the benefit? What are the tax implications for your company and your employees?

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, transforming a complex compliance task into a straightforward process. We'll cover everything from the basic definitions to step-by-step reporting instructions, ensuring you have the confidence and knowledge to manage your company's PMI scheme effectively.

What is a P11D Form? A Simple Guide for Employers

Let's start with the basics. A P11D form is a document that UK employers must complete and submit to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for each employee who receives 'benefits in kind'.

But what exactly is a 'benefit in kind'?

Think of it as any non-cash perk that has a monetary value. While you don't hand your employee cash, you provide them with something valuable that they would otherwise have to pay for themselves. Common examples include:

  • A company car
  • An interest-free loan
  • Private Medical Insurance

The purpose of the P11D form is to report the cash equivalent of these benefits to HMRC. This is crucial because these benefits are generally taxable.

Key P11D Facts:

  • Who Files It? The employer is responsible for completing and submitting the P11D form.
  • When Is It Due? The deadline for submitting all P11D forms to HMRC is the 6th of July following the end of the tax year (which runs from 6th April to 5th April).
  • Who Gets a Copy? You must provide a copy of the P11D to the relevant employee by the same 6th July deadline.

Essentially, the P11D ensures that the tax system accounts for an employee's full compensation package, not just their cash salary.

Is Private Medical Insurance a P11D Benefit in Kind?

The short answer is a clear and simple yes.

When an employer pays for a private medical insurance policy for an employee (and/or their family), it is considered a taxable benefit in kind. This is because the employer is paying for a private service on behalf of the employee, which has a clear monetary value – the insurance premium.

Because it is a taxable benefit, it must be reported on the P11D form. This has tax implications for both parties:

  1. The Employee: The value of the PMI premium is added to their income, and they may pay income tax on it.
  2. The Employer: The company must pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the value of the premium.

Understanding this is the first and most critical step. Unlike some business expenses, you cannot simply pay for health cover without accounting for the tax. Fortunately, the process is manageable once you know the rules.

How to Calculate the P11D Value of Private Medical Insurance

Calculating the value of the PMI benefit to report on the P11D form is usually straightforward. The value is simply the total premium the employer paid for that specific employee's cover during the tax year (6th April to 5th April).

Your PMI provider or a PMI specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners can provide a detailed breakdown of the premiums paid for each employee, making this calculation much easier.

Let's look at a few common scenarios.

Example 1: Individual Cover

An employer provides PMI for a single employee, and the premium is £50 per month. (illustrative estimate)

  • Annual Premium (illustrative): £50 x 12 months = £600
  • Value to Report on P11D (illustrative): £600

Example 2: Family Cover

An employer's policy allows employees to add their families. An employee adds their partner and two children, and the total premium paid by the employer is £150 per month. (illustrative estimate)

  • Important Note: The entire premium is considered a benefit for the employee, even the portion that covers their family.
  • Annual Premium (illustrative): £150 x 12 months = £1,800
  • Value to Report on P11D (illustrative): £1,800

Example 3: Employee Contribution

An employer pays an annual premium of £700 for an employee's cover. However, the employee contributes £20 per month (£240 per year) towards the cost, which is deducted from their net salary. (illustrative estimate)

  • Employer's Cost (illustrative): £700
  • Employee's Contribution (illustrative): £240
  • Net Benefit Value (illustrative): £700 - £240 = £460
  • Value to Report on P11D (illustrative): £460

P11D Calculation Summary Table

ScenarioEmployer's Annual PaymentEmployee's Annual ContributionTaxable P11D Value
Single Employee Cover£600£0£600
Family Cover£1,800£0£1,800
Employee with Contribution£700£240£460

Always ensure you are using the figures for the correct tax year. If your policy renews mid-way through the tax year, you'll need to use the pro-rata cost from both the old and new premium rates.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the P11D for PMI

Once you have the correct value, filling out the P11D form is a simple, procedural task.

Step 1: Gather Your Data Before you begin, contact your PMI provider or broker. Ask for a membership list for the previous tax year (6th April - 5th April) showing the total gross premium paid by the company for each individual employee.

Step 2: Locate the Correct Section on the P11D Form Benefits need to be entered into specific sections of the form. For private medical insurance, you will use Section I: Private medical treatment or insurance.

Step 3: Fill in the Details In Section I, you will see two key boxes:

  • Description: Write a clear description, such as "Private Medical Insurance" or "Private Health Cover".
  • Cost to you or amount foregone: This is where you enter the taxable value you calculated (the total premium paid by the employer, less any employee contributions).

Step 4: Submit the Form to HMRC You can submit P11D forms online using HMRC's PAYE online service or approved payroll software. The deadline for submission is 6th July.

Step 5: Provide a Copy to Your Employee You are legally required to give a copy of the completed P11D form to your employee by the same 6th July deadline. This allows them to check their own tax affairs and understand how their tax code might be affected.

Employer's National Insurance Obligations (Class 1A NICs)

Reporting the benefit on the P11D is only part of the employer's duty. The company must also pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the total value of the benefits provided.

  • What are Class 1A NICs? These are employer-only contributions paid on most benefits in kind.
  • What is the Rate? For the 2024/2025 tax year, the Class 1A NIC rate is 13.8%.
  • How is it Calculated? You simply multiply the total P11D value by the Class 1A NIC rate.

Calculation Example: A company provides PMI to three employees with the following P11D values:

  • Illustrative estimate: Employee A: £600
  • Illustrative estimate: Employee B: £750
  • Illustrative estimate: Employee C: £1,800 (family cover)
  • Total P11D Value (illustrative): £600 + £750 + £1,800 = £3,150

Class 1A NICs Due:

  • Illustrative estimate: £3,150 x 13.8% = £434.70

This amount is the additional cost to the business over and above the insurance premiums. This payment is reported to HMRC on a separate form called the P11D(b), which is a summary of all the P11Ds you've submitted. The deadline for paying the Class 1A NICs is 19th July (or 22nd July if paying electronically).

What are the Tax Implications for Employees?

The P11D value of the medical insurance is treated as extra income for the employee. They will need to pay income tax on this amount at their highest marginal tax rate.

HMRC typically collects this tax automatically by adjusting the employee's tax code for the following year. They do this by reducing the employee's potentially tax-efficient Personal Allowance.

Example: An employee is a basic-rate taxpayer (20%) and receives PMI with a P11D value of £600. (illustrative estimate)

  • Additional Tax to Pay (illustrative): £600 x 20% = £120 per year (or £10 per month).
  • How it Works (illustrative): HMRC will likely reduce their potentially tax-efficient allowance of £12,570 by £600, to £11,970. This means they start paying tax on their earnings sooner, and over the year, they may pay an extra £120 in tax.

Here’s how it breaks down across different tax bands in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (Scotland has different tax bands and rates).

Employee Tax Impact Table (2024/2025 Rates)

Employee's Tax RateP11D Benefit ValueCalculationAnnual Cost to Employee
Basic Rate (20%)£600£600 x 20%£120
Higher Rate (40%)£600£600 x 40%£240
Additional Rate (45%)£600£600 x 45%£270

Even though the employee has to pay tax, receiving PMI through their employer is almost always significantly cheaper than buying an equivalent policy themselves.

Payrolling Benefits: An Alternative to P11D Forms

For employers looking to streamline their administration, there is an alternative to the year-end P11D process: payrolling benefits.

Instead of reporting the benefit annually, you can 'payroll' it. This involves:

  1. Calculating the monthly cash equivalent of the PMI premium.
  2. Adding this amount to the employee's gross pay each month through your payroll software.
  3. Deducting the income tax on the benefit in real-time, along with their regular salary deductions.

Benefits of Payrolling:

  • For Employees: Tax is paid in real-time, so there are no surprises or large tax code adjustments at the end of the year.
  • For Employers: You no longer need to complete a P11D form for any benefits that you payroll, reducing year-end administration.

To do this, you must register with HMRC using the online service before the start of the tax year in which you want to begin payrolling benefits. You will still need to calculate and pay the Class 1A NICs using the P11D(b) form.

Critical Information about UK Private Medical Insurance

While the tax administration is important, it's equally crucial for employers and employees to understand what a private medical insurance UK policy actually covers. Managing expectations is key to a successful benefits programme.

Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Standard UK private health cover is designed to treat 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. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, or treatment for an infection.

PMI does not cover chronic conditions. A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured but can be managed with ongoing treatment and monitoring. Examples include:

  • Diabetes
  • Asthma
  • High blood pressure
  • Crohn's disease

The day-to-day management of chronic conditions remains the responsibility of the NHS.

Pre-existing Conditions

A cornerstone of PMI is the exclusion of pre-existing conditions. This means any medical condition an employee (or their family member) had symptoms of, received advice for, or was treated for before the policy start date will not be covered.

There are two main ways insurers handle this:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type for group schemes. It automatically excludes any conditions a member has had in the 5 years prior to joining. However, if the member goes for 2 continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting: This requires each employee to complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer then explicitly states what will and will not be covered from the outset.

Clarity on these points prevents disappointment and ensures employees understand the true value and purpose of their health cover.

The Value Proposition: Is Offering PMI Still Worth It for Employers?

Given the administrative tasks and tax costs, is offering private medical insurance still a good decision for a business? Overwhelmingly, the answer is yes. The return on investment is significant.

According to the ONS, the UK sickness absence rate in 2023 was the highest since 2008, with an estimated 185.6 million working days lost. With NHS waiting lists in England standing at around 7.5 million, employees can face long delays for diagnosis and treatment.

Benefits for the Employer:

  • Reduced Absenteeism: PMI provides fast access to diagnostics and treatment, helping employees get back on their feet and back to work sooner.
  • Enhanced Recruitment & Retention: The right private medical insurance is a highly sought-after benefit that can make your company more attractive to top talent.
  • Increased Productivity: A healthy, supported workforce is a productive one. Knowing they have cover reduces stress and financial worry for your staff.
  • Demonstrates Duty of Care: It sends a powerful message that you value your employees' health and wellbeing.

Benefits for the Employee:

  • Peace of Mind: Knowing they can access private care if they become unwell.
  • Speed of Access: Bypassing long waiting lists for specialist consultations and treatment.
  • Choice and Comfort: The ability to choose their specialist and hospital, often with a private en-suite room.
  • Access to Advanced Care: Some policies provide access to new drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS.

A WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners can help you find a plan that balances cost with comprehensive benefits, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your company's goals and budget.

Wellness, Health, and Proactive Care

Modern private health cover has evolved far beyond simply paying for hospital treatment. The main PMI providers now include a wealth of proactive wellness services designed to keep your staff healthy.

These often include:

  • 24/7 Virtual GP Service: Allowing employees to speak to a doctor via phone or video call, often within hours.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to confidential counselling helplines, therapy sessions, and wellbeing apps.
  • Gym Discounts & Fitness Rewards: Incentives for staying active and hitting health goals.
  • Nutritional Advice and Health Screenings: Tools to help employees manage their own wellbeing proactively.

To complement this, WeCovr provides all clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. We also offer discounts on other insurance products, such as life or critical illness cover, when you take out a PMI policy, adding even more value for your team.

Encouraging a culture of wellness—through promoting good sleep, healthy eating, and regular activity—amplifies the value of your PMI investment and fosters a healthier, more resilient workforce.

Common P11D Mistakes to Avoid with PMI

  1. Using an 'Average' Cost: Never use a blended or average cost per employee. You must report the specific premium paid for each individual's cover.
  2. Forgetting Family Cover: The full cost of cover for a partner or children paid by the employer is a benefit to the employee and must be included in their P11D value.
  3. Ignoring Employee Contributions: If an employee contributes towards the premium from their net pay, you must deduct this from the total premium to find the taxable benefit.
  4. Missing Deadlines: Late submission of P11D and P11D(b) forms or late payment of Class 1A NICs can result in financial penalties from HMRC.

The simplest way to avoid these errors is to maintain clear records and work with a supportive partner. WeCovr provides our business clients with clear, itemised breakdowns of premiums per employee, making P11D season as painless as possible.

Do I need to report PMI on a P11D if the employee pays for the entire premium?

Generally, no. If the employer simply facilitates a group scheme but the employee pays the full premium from their own (already taxed) salary, there is no 'benefit in kind' provided by the employer. In this case, no P11D reporting is required for that employee's PMI.

What happens if I make a mistake on a P11D form?

If you discover a mistake after submitting a P11D, you should submit a corrected version to HMRC as soon as possible. You should also provide a new copy to your employee and explain the change, as it may affect their tax code. If the error also affects your Class 1A National Insurance liability, you will need to correct your P11D(b) form and arrange to pay any extra NICs due or claim a refund.

Is an employer-funded Health Cash Plan also a P11D benefit?

Yes. A Health Cash Plan, which provides money back for routine healthcare like dental check-ups, eye tests, and physiotherapy, is also considered a taxable benefit in kind if it is paid for by the employer. The premium paid by the employer must be reported on the P11D form in the same way as private medical insurance.

Take the Next Step with WeCovr

Understanding P11D reporting is a vital part of managing your employee benefits. While it requires careful administration, the value of providing private medical insurance in today's competitive market is undeniable.

If you're looking to introduce or review your company's private medical insurance, our team of experts is here to help. A WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners compares the insurers on our UK panel to find a policy that fits your budget and your people. Our advice is regulated, our service comes with no separate broker fee, and we're proud of the high satisfaction ratings we receive from our clients.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let us help you build a healthier, happier team.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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 experienced 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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

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

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

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

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.

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