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PMI and Second Medical Opinions UK

PMI and Second Medical Opinions UK 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that your health is your most valuable asset. This guide explores how private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK offers a crucial safety net: the second medical opinion, providing clarity and confidence when you need it most.

How private insurance can cover second opinions on diagnoses

Receiving a medical diagnosis can be a worrying and uncertain time. You might wonder if the diagnosis is correct, if there are other treatment options, or if you've explored every possibility. This is where a second medical opinion becomes invaluable.

Private medical insurance in the UK is designed to provide more than just fast access to treatment; it offers peace of mind. Many comprehensive policies now include a second medical opinion service as a core benefit. This allows you to have your diagnosis and proposed treatment plan reviewed by another leading expert, at no extra cost to you.

This service is a powerful tool, giving you:

  • Confidence in your initial diagnosis.
  • Clarity on alternative treatment paths.
  • Control over your healthcare journey.

It transforms your private health cover from a simple treatment pathway into a comprehensive support system, ensuring you are fully informed and empowered to make the best decisions for your health.

What is a Second Medical Opinion?

A second medical opinion is an independent review of your medical case by another qualified doctor or specialist. It is not about questioning the competence of your first doctor. Instead, it's a collaborative process to confirm your diagnosis and ensure your treatment plan is the most suitable one for your specific circumstances.

Why Would You Need a Second Opinion?

People seek a second opinion for many valid reasons:

  • Complex or Rare Conditions: If you're diagnosed with an unusual illness, a review by a specialist with specific experience in that area can be vital.
  • High-Risk Treatment: Before undergoing major surgery or starting a course of treatment with significant side effects (like chemotherapy), a second opinion can confirm it's the right course of action.
  • Conflicting Information: Perhaps your test results are ambiguous, or your GP and specialist have offered slightly different views.
  • Peace of Mind: For many, simply having another expert confirm the diagnosis provides immense reassurance and reduces anxiety.
  • No Improvement: If you've been following a treatment plan but your condition isn't getting better, a fresh pair of eyes could identify a new approach.

Real-Life Example: Imagine you've been experiencing persistent shoulder pain. An initial consultation and MRI scan lead to a diagnosis of a torn rotator cuff, with a recommendation for immediate open surgery. You feel uneasy about the long recovery time. A second medical opinion, arranged through your PMI, might involve a specialist in minimally invasive procedures who reviews your scan and suggests that keyhole surgery (arthroscopy) is a viable, and preferable, option with a much faster recovery.

The NHS vs. Private Second Opinions: A Comparison

You have a right to ask for a second opinion on the NHS. However, the process and timeline can differ significantly from the private sector. Understanding these differences is key to deciding which route is best for you.

FeatureNHS Second OpinionPrivate Second Opinion (via PMI)
SpeedCan be slow. You may have to wait for another appointment, which is subject to the same waiting lists. As of mid-2024, the overall NHS waiting list in England stood at over 7.5 million cases.Fast. Often arranged within days. Many providers use remote services, meaning you don't even need to travel.
ChoiceLimited. Your GP or consultant will usually refer you to another specialist within the same NHS trust or a neighbouring one.Extensive. You often get access to a national or even global network of leading experts in their field.
ProcessYou must request it from your GP or consultant. They are not obliged to refer you if they don't feel it's necessary, though they usually will.Simple. You typically contact your insurer directly through a dedicated helpline. They handle all the arrangements for you.
CostFree at the point of use.Included within your private medical insurance policy, with no extra charge for using the service.

While the NHS provides an essential service, the speed, choice, and convenience offered by private health cover are compelling advantages, especially when dealing with a serious diagnosis.

How Does Private Medical Insurance Cover Second Opinions?

Insurers recognise the immense value of second opinions and offer this benefit in several ways. It's rarely an expensive add-on; more often, it's a built-in feature of a mid-range or comprehensive policy designed to improve patient outcomes and provide reassurance.

There are three common models for how providers deliver this service:

  1. In-House Clinical Teams: Some insurers have their own team of nurses, GPs, and case managers. When you request a second opinion, this team reviews your medical files, liaises with your current specialist, and may consult with other experts to provide a consolidated report.

  2. Third-Party Expert Services: Many leading PMI providers partner with global organisations that specialise in second medical opinions. These partners maintain a database of thousands of world-leading consultants. They collect your medical records and send them to the most appropriate expert anywhere in the world for a detailed review.

  3. Cover for a Further Consultation: A more traditional approach is where your policy simply covers the cost of an additional consultation with a different specialist of your choice (as long as they are recognised by the insurer). This gives you direct, face-to-face contact with another expert.

A Look at the Different Models

ModelHow it WorksProsCons
In-House TeamYour insurer's clinical staff review your case and provide a report.Integrated with your policy; smooth process.Expertise is limited to the insurer's network.
Third-Party ServiceYour insurer sends your records to a global network of specialists for a remote review.Access to world-leading experts; very thorough reports.Usually remote (no face-to-face contact); relies on record transfer.
Further Consultation CoverYour policy pays for you to see another specialist for a consultation.You choose the specialist; direct face-to-face interaction.You may need to do more of the administrative work yourself.

An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can help you understand which type of second opinion service is included in a policy and which model best suits your potential needs.

Critical Information: PMI, Pre-existing Conditions, and Chronic Illnesses

This is one of the most important aspects to understand about private medical insurance in the UK. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

Let's break this down:

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract. PMI is designed for these.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, or is likely to come back. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure. PMI does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy start date. PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions, usually for a set period (e.g., two years) or indefinitely, depending on the type of underwriting you choose.

Therefore, a second medical opinion service provided by your insurer can only be used for an eligible acute condition that has been diagnosed after your policy began. You cannot use it to get a second opinion on a long-term chronic illness or a condition you had before you were insured.

Leading UK PMI Providers and Their Second Opinion Services

The UK private medical insurance market is competitive, and most major providers offer some form of second opinion service. While the specifics can change, here is an overview of what's typically available from the leading names.

ProviderExample Service NameHow It Typically WorksKey Features
AXA HealthSecond Opinion ServiceOften uses a third-party expert medical opinion service. They collect your medical records and send them to a leading specialist for review. The report is then shared with you and your GP.Access to a large, independent network of consultants. The service is typically handled for you from start to finish.
BupaSecond Medical OpinionBupa's clinical teams can help you arrange a second opinion. They may facilitate a review with another Bupa-recognised consultant or use an expert partner service.Integrated into their health support ecosystem. Focus on ensuring you're on the right treatment pathway.
AvivaExpert Select / Second OpinionFor specific conditions (e.g., cancer, orthopaedics), their 'Expert Select' process can guide you to top consultants, which inherently involves a review of your case. They also offer a separate second opinion benefit.Can be linked directly to choosing the best specialist for treatment. Provides guidance and confirmation.
VitalityAdvanced Cancer Cover / Consultant PanelOften provides second opinions as part of their comprehensive cancer cover. For other conditions, they can facilitate access to their network of consultants for a review.Strong focus on serious illness cover. Integrated with their wellness programme, rewarding healthy living.

Disclaimer: Policy features and service names are subject to change. This table is for illustrative purposes based on publicly available information as of 2024/2025. Always check the policy documents for the most accurate details.

The Process: How to Request a Second Opinion Through Your PMI

While each insurer's process may vary slightly, the journey to getting a second opinion is generally straightforward.

  1. Receive Your Initial Diagnosis: You will have seen a specialist and received a diagnosis and a proposed treatment plan for an eligible acute condition.

  2. Contact Your Insurer: Call your PMI provider's claims line or a dedicated second opinion helpline. Have your policy number ready. Explain that you have received a diagnosis and would like to request a second opinion.

  3. Provide Consent and Medical Records: You will need to give your insurer permission to access your medical records. This will include your initial diagnosis, test results (like scans or blood tests), and the proposed treatment plan. The insurer's team will usually handle the collection of these documents for you.

  4. The Review Takes Place: Your insurer will then manage the review process. If they use a third-party service, your (anonymised) records will be sent to a leading global expert. If it's an in-house service, their clinical team will conduct the review. This stage typically takes 5-10 working days.

  5. Receive the Second Opinion Report: You will receive a comprehensive report detailing the expert's findings. This report will either confirm the original diagnosis and treatment plan or suggest alternatives.

  6. Discuss the Findings: The report is sent to you and, with your permission, to your GP or original specialist. You can then discuss the findings with them to decide on the best path forward. Your insurer is not instructing you what to do; they are empowering you with more information.

Beyond Second Opinions: The Added Value of Private Health Cover

A second opinion service is just one piece of the puzzle. Private medical insurance offers a suite of benefits designed to give you control and comfort during a difficult time.

  • Fast-Track Appointments: Bypass long NHS waiting lists for consultations, diagnosis, and treatment.
  • Choice of Care: Choose your specialist and the hospital where you receive treatment from a nationwide list of quality private facilities.
  • Enhanced Comfort: Benefit from a private room, en-suite facilities, and more flexible visiting hours.
  • Access to Advanced Treatments: Some policies cover new drugs or treatments that may not yet be approved for widespread NHS use due to cost.
  • Digital GP Services: Most providers offer 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often with the ability to get prescriptions or referrals quickly.
  • Mental Health Support: Comprehensive cover for mental health is increasingly standard, offering access to therapists, counsellors, and psychiatrists.

Exclusive Benefits with WeCovr

At WeCovr, we believe in adding value beyond just finding you the right policy. When you take out a private medical insurance or life insurance policy through us, you receive:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our cutting-edge AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you stay on top of your health goals.
  • Discounts on other insurance: We offer our valued clients reduced rates on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, helping you protect what matters for less.

Choosing the Right Private Medical Insurance UK Policy with WeCovr

Navigating the world of private health cover can be complex. Policies have different levels of cover, underwriting options, and value-added benefits. This is where an independent broker is indispensable.

WeCovr acts as your expert guide. We are not tied to any single insurer. Our job is to understand your needs, priorities, and budget, and then search the market to find the best PMI provider and policy for you.

  • Expertise: We understand the fine print, from outpatient limits to how each insurer's second opinion service works.
  • Simplicity: We explain your options in clear, simple English, cutting through the jargon.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra.
  • Trust: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to putting you first.

We can help you compare policies that not only offer fast access to treatment but also provide that crucial safety net of a second opinion service, giving you ultimate peace of mind.

Can I get a second opinion for a mental health diagnosis through my PMI?

Yes, many comprehensive private medical insurance policies that include mental health cover will also allow you to request a second opinion on a psychiatric diagnosis or treatment plan. This is an important feature, as psychiatric care can be complex. The process would be the same: you would contact your insurer, who would facilitate a review of your case by another expert psychiatrist. Always check your specific policy details to confirm the extent of your mental health cover.

What happens if the second opinion contradicts the first one?

This is exactly why second opinions are so valuable. If the second opinion differs from the first, you are not obligated to follow either one. The report is for your information, empowering you to make a more informed decision. You should discuss both opinions with your GP or your original specialist. Often, they will welcome the additional information as it can help refine your treatment plan. Your PMI provider will then cover the eligible treatment you choose to proceed with.

Will using the second opinion service on my private health cover affect my future premiums?

Generally, no. Using a value-added benefit like a second opinion service is not typically treated as a claim in the same way that a course of treatment is. It is designed to be a supportive tool to ensure you get the right care, which can sometimes even save costs by avoiding unnecessary procedures. However, the treatment you ultimately claim for will affect your claims history and could influence your premium at renewal, as with any claim.

Do I need a GP referral to use a second opinion service with my PMI?

For the initial diagnosis, you will almost always need a GP referral to see a specialist under your PMI policy. However, to access the dedicated second opinion service, you usually do not need another GP referral. You typically contact the insurer's dedicated helpline directly after you have received the first specialist's diagnosis. The insurer then manages the process from there.

Ready to secure your health and gain the peace of mind that comes with the best private medical insurance?

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today and discover a policy that puts you in control.


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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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