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PMI and Alternative Medicine Are Herbal or Homeopathic Treatments Covered

PMI and Alternative Medicine Are Herbal or Homeopathic...

Navigating the world of private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we believe in clarity. This guide explores if and when your PMI policy might cover alternative, herbal, or homeopathic treatments for your health.

Special policies and standard exclusions for natural and alternative remedies

For many people seeking a holistic approach to their health, the question of whether private medical insurance (PMI) covers alternative and complementary medicine is a crucial one. The short answer is nuanced: some therapies are often included, while others are almost always excluded.

Standard UK PMI policies are designed to cover evidence-based treatments for acute conditions. This means that therapies with a strong, scientifically proven track record, like physiotherapy, are frequently covered. However, treatments such as herbalism and homeopathy, which lack the same level of clinical validation recognised by bodies like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), are typically listed as standard exclusions.

While dedicated PMI policies for these "natural" remedies are virtually non-existent, some broader health cash plans may offer contributions towards them. Understanding this distinction is key to setting the right expectations for your private health cover.

First, A Critical Point: PMI is for Acute Conditions

Before we dive into the specifics of alternative medicine, it's essential to understand the fundamental purpose of private medical insurance in the UK.

PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of 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. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint replacements, or appendicitis.

Crucially, standard UK PMI policies DO NOT cover:

  • Pre-existing conditions: Any medical condition you had before your policy started.
  • Chronic conditions: Long-term illnesses that cannot be cured but can be managed, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure.

This principle underpins all PMI coverage, including any potential cover for complementary therapies. A therapy will only ever be considered for cover if it's treating a new, acute condition that has arisen after your policy began.

Defining 'Alternative' and 'Complementary' Medicine

The terms 'alternative' and 'complementary' are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings, especially in the eyes of an insurer. The umbrella term for these is CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine).

  • Complementary Medicine: These are therapies used alongside conventional medical treatments. They aim to support the primary treatment, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life. Examples include acupuncture for pain relief during chemotherapy or physiotherapy after surgery.
  • Alternative Medicine: These are treatments used instead of conventional medical treatments. This category often includes therapies like homeopathy, herbalism, and naturopathy.

Insurers are far more likely to cover complementary therapies that have a recognised evidence base and are recommended by a mainstream medical professional.

Do Standard PMI Policies Cover Complementary Therapies?

Yes, most comprehensive private medical insurance UK policies offer some level of cover for a specific list of complementary therapies. These are not considered "alternative" but rather as established, non-surgical treatments that support recovery from acute conditions.

The most commonly covered therapies include:

  1. Physiotherapy: Treatment to restore movement and function after an injury, illness, or disability. This is the most widely covered therapy.
  2. Osteopathy: A way of detecting, treating, and preventing health problems by moving, stretching, and massaging a person's muscles and joints.
  3. Chiropractic: Treatment for problems with the bones, muscles, and joints, primarily focused on the spine.
  4. Acupuncture: A treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine where fine needles are inserted at certain sites in the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. It is often covered for pain relief.

Conditions for Coverage

Cover for these therapies isn't automatic. Insurers have strict criteria that must be met:

  • GP or Specialist Referral: You will almost always need a referral from your GP or a specialist consultant. This confirms that the therapy is medically necessary to treat your acute condition.
  • Pre-authorisation: You must contact your insurer before starting treatment to get it approved. Failure to do so can result in your claim being denied.
  • Recognised Practitioners: Treatment must be carried out by a practitioner who is registered with a recognised professional body, such as the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) or the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
  • Policy Limits: Coverage is subject to limits, which can be defined by the number of sessions (e.g., up to 10 sessions per year) or a financial cap (e.g., up to £500 per year).

The Big Question: Are Herbal and Homeopathic Treatments Covered?

This is where the line is drawn quite firmly by UK insurers. Standard private medical insurance policies do not cover herbal or homeopathic treatments.

This exclusion is consistent across all major providers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality.

Why are these treatments excluded?

The reasoning behind this exclusion is rooted in the core principles of insurance and evidence-based medicine:

  1. Lack of Scientific Evidence: UK health insurers base their coverage decisions on treatments and therapies that are proven to be clinically effective and safe. Major UK health bodies, including the NHS and NICE, do not recommend homeopathy for any health condition. While some herbal medicines have a basis in traditional use, many lack the rigorous, large-scale clinical trials required to prove their effectiveness for specific medical conditions.
  2. Regulation and Safety: The market for herbal remedies and homeopathic products is less regulated than for pharmaceutical drugs. This creates uncertainty for insurers regarding product consistency, safety, and potential interactions with conventional medicines.
  3. The 'Acute Condition' Principle: PMI is for treating curable, short-term conditions. Many people use herbalism and homeopathy for general wellness or to manage chronic symptoms, which falls outside the scope of standard PMI.

In Plain English: Your health insurance policy is like a contract to pay for proven medical fixes for new problems. Because treatments like homeopathy aren't proven to work in the way a hip replacement or course of antibiotics is, insurers don't include them in the standard contract.

Understanding Insurer Exclusions for Natural Remedies

When you receive your policy documents, you will find a section dedicated to "Exclusions." This is a list of all the treatments, conditions, and services that your policy will not pay for. You can expect to see wording similar to the following:

Typical Exclusions Related to Alternative Medicine:

  • Acupressure
  • Aromatherapy
  • Herbalism and herbal remedies
  • Homeopathy
  • Naturopathy
  • Reiki
  • Reflexology
  • Iridology
  • Experimental or unproven treatments

It's vital to read this section carefully. If a therapy is on the exclusion list, you will not be covered for it under any circumstances through your core PMI policy.

Are There Special Policies or Add-ons for Alternative Medicine?

While you won't find a mainstream "PMI for Homeopathy" policy, there is another type of insurance product that can help: Health Cash Plans.

PMI vs. Health Cash Plans: What's the Difference?

It is crucial not to confuse these two products. A knowledgeable PMI broker can help you understand the nuances.

FeaturePrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)Health Cash Plan
Primary PurposeCovers the high costs of private diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions (e.g., surgery, cancer care, specialist consultations).Provides money back (up to an annual limit) for everyday healthcare expenses.
How it WorksInsurer pays the hospital/specialist directly or reimburses you for eligible, pre-authorised treatment.You pay for your treatment upfront, then submit the receipt to claim a percentage of the cost back.
CostMore expensive, with premiums based on age, health, and level of cover.More affordable, with fixed monthly premiums regardless of age or claims history.
Coverage FocusIn-patient and out-patient treatment, surgery, advanced diagnostics.Dental, optical, physiotherapy, and often a range of complementary therapies.

Health cash plans are a great way to budget for routine healthcare. Many plans explicitly offer cashback for treatments that PMI excludes, such as:

  • Reflexology
  • Aromatherapy
  • Indian head massage
  • Allergy testing
  • Homeopathy

Example: Your health cash plan offers £150 per year for complementary therapies. You have five homeopathic consultations at £50 each. You pay the practitioner £250 and claim back £150 from your cash plan provider, leaving you £100 out of pocket.

At WeCovr, we can help you find not only the right PMI policy but also see if a supplementary health cash plan could meet your needs for broader wellness treatments.

Comparing Provider Stances on Complementary Therapies

While herbalism and homeopathy are out, the cover for mainstream complementary therapies can vary significantly between the best PMI providers. Choosing the right insurer often depends on which of these therapies are most important to you.

Here is a simplified comparison of what you might expect from major UK insurers. Please note that these details are for illustrative purposes and can change; the exact terms will be in your policy documents.

ProviderCommonly Covered TherapiesTypical Limits (Example)Key Conditions
AXA HealthPhysiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Podiatry, Speech Therapy.Often a combined limit (e.g., £500-£1,500) or session limit (e.g., up to 10) for outpatient therapies.GP referral required. Must be for a musculoskeletal condition. Practitioner must be on their approved list.
AvivaPhysiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic.Often set as a specific financial limit within the overall outpatient cover chosen (e.g., from £500 to unlimited).GP referral usually needed. Some policies offer a "BacktoBetter" service with direct access for muscle, bone, or joint pain.
BupaPhysiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture.Limits vary greatly by policy level. Can be a set number of sessions or a financial cap.GP or specialist referral required. Bupa must pre-authorise treatment.
VitalityPhysiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic.Core policies offer limited cover. Higher-tier plans or add-ons provide more extensive therapy options.Often includes direct access without a GP referral via their own triage service. Rewards for healthy living can enhance cover.
WPAPhysiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture.Offers flexible policies where therapy cover can be chosen as an add-on with specific financial limits.GP referral needed. They champion using practitioners from their approved lists to ensure quality.

As you can see, the devil is in the detail. A PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable in comparing these subtle but important differences to find the private health cover that best matches your priorities.

A Holistic Approach to Health: Beyond Your Insurance Policy

While your insurance policy is a safety net for when things go wrong, embracing a holistic approach to your daily life can be the best form of health cover. Insurers are increasingly recognising this; providers like Vitality actively reward members for healthy habits.

Here are some tips for maintaining your well-being, reducing your risk of needing to claim, and feeling your best:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Good nutrition is the foundation of health. As a WeCovr customer, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on track.
  • Regular Physical Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. It's not just good for your body; it's a powerful tool for mental well-being.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a host of health problems, from a weakened immune system to an increased risk of chronic disease.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a significant physical impact. Find healthy coping mechanisms that work for you, whether it's mindfulness, yoga, spending time in nature, or a creative hobby.

Investing in these areas is the most powerful "alternative medicine" there is, and it's something entirely within your control.

If you need to use your PMI for a covered complementary therapy like physiotherapy, following the correct process is essential.

  1. Visit Your GP: Your first step is to see your GP about the acute condition (e.g., back pain, a sports injury). If they believe a therapy like osteopathy will help, ask them for a referral.
  2. Check Your Policy: Before booking anything, review your policy documents or call your insurer to confirm that the therapy is covered and what your limits are.
  3. Get Pre-authorisation: Call your insurer's claims line. Tell them about your condition and the GP referral. They will give you a pre-authorisation number, which confirms they have approved the treatment.
  4. Find a Recognised Practitioner: Your insurer will have a list of approved practitioners or professional bodies. It is vital you choose someone from this list. Using an unrecognised therapist will invalidate your claim.
  5. Attend Your Sessions: Go for your treatment. Depending on your insurer, the therapist may bill them directly, or you may need to pay upfront.
  6. Claim Your Costs: If you paid upfront, submit your receipts and a completed claim form to your insurer. They will then reimburse you up to the limit of your policy.

Using an expert PMI broker like WeCovr means you have someone on your side who understands these processes and can offer guidance if you're ever unsure.


Why won't my private medical insurance cover homeopathic treatments?

UK private medical insurance (PMI) policies are designed to cover treatments that are proven to be clinically effective and are recognised by mainstream medical bodies like the NHS and NICE. Homeopathy is not recommended by these organisations due to a lack of scientific evidence that it works. Therefore, insurers classify it as an unproven treatment and list it as a standard exclusion.

Do I always need a GP referral for physiotherapy on my health insurance?

Generally, yes. Most UK insurers require a GP or specialist referral before they will pre-authorise and cover physiotherapy. This confirms the treatment is medically necessary for an acute condition. However, some providers, like Aviva and Vitality, have introduced direct access services for musculoskeletal issues, which may allow you to bypass a GP referral after an initial telephone triage assessment. Always check your specific policy terms.

What is the difference between private health insurance and a health cash plan for alternative therapies?

Private health insurance is major medical cover for expensive treatments for acute conditions, like surgery. It may cover a few evidence-based complementary therapies (like physiotherapy) if referred by a GP. A health cash plan is a simpler, more affordable product that gives you money back for everyday healthcare costs, like dental check-ups, eye tests, and often a wide range of complementary and alternative therapies (like reflexology or homeopathy) that PMI excludes.

Can I get cover for a pre-existing condition if I use an alternative therapy?

No. The rule that private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions applies to all forms of treatment, whether conventional or complementary. The type of therapy does not change this fundamental principle of UK health insurance. Cover is only for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

Finding the right private health cover means matching a policy to your specific needs and budget. While PMI won't cover herbal or homeopathic remedies, understanding what it does cover is key to making an informed choice.

At WeCovr, we provide expert, impartial advice at no cost to you. Our specialists can compare policies from across the market, explain the small print, and help you find the perfect level of cover. We can also provide discounts on other insurance products when you take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us.

Take the first step towards peace of mind. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts find the right private medical insurance for you.

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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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