Login

PMI Claims Processing Innovations and Digital Platforms

PMI Claims Processing Innovations and Digital Platforms

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr offers expert guidance on the evolving world of private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the digital revolution in claims processing, helping you understand how technology is making private healthcare faster and more accessible.

The way we interact with our health insurance is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Gone are the days of paper forms, long phone queues, and uncertain waits for claim approvals. The UK's private medical insurance (PMI) market is rapidly embracing digital technology, creating a smoother, faster, and more transparent experience for policyholders.

From intuitive mobile apps to sophisticated AI-driven automation, these innovations are not just changing the claims process; they are reshaping the very nature of private health cover. This guide delves into these changes, explaining what they are, how they benefit you, and what to look for when choosing a provider.

The Old vs. The New: A Revolution in PMI Claims

To appreciate the scale of this change, it's helpful to compare the traditional claims process with the new digital-first approach.

The Traditional Journey:

  1. Get a GP Referral: Visit your NHS GP to get a referral to a specialist.
  2. Call Your Insurer: Phone your PMI provider's call centre to get pre-authorisation for the consultation. This often involved waiting on hold.
  3. Post the Paperwork: You might have to post referral letters or other documents.
  4. Attend the Appointment: See the specialist.
  5. Submit the Invoice: The specialist's clinic sends an invoice to the insurer (or sometimes to you, to forward on).
  6. Wait for Payment: The insurer processes the paperwork and eventually settles the bill.

This process could be slow, cumbersome, and opaque. You often had little visibility of where your claim was in the system, leading to anxiety and extra administrative work.

The Modern Digital Journey:

  1. Virtual GP Appointment: Use your insurer’s app to book an instant video consultation with a private GP.
  2. Instant Digital Referral: The virtual GP provides an open referral letter directly within the app.
  3. Online Specialist Finder: Use the app’s specialist finder tool to locate a recognised consultant near you and book an appointment.
  4. One-Click Authorisation: Submit the claim for authorisation through the app or online portal, often receiving approval in minutes for straightforward procedures.
  5. Direct Billing: The insurer and hospital settle the bill directly and electronically.
  6. Real-Time Updates: Track the entire process on your phone, receiving notifications at every stage.

The difference is night and day. The modern journey puts you in control, saving time and reducing stress.

Decoding Digital Claims Innovations

So, what are the key technologies driving this change? The innovation isn't a single piece of tech but a combination of interconnected platforms and systems.

Self-Service Portals: Your Personal Health Hub

Think of a self-service portal as your secure online dashboard for everything related to your private health cover. Accessible via a web browser, these portals are the cornerstone of the digital PMI experience.

Key features typically include:

  • Policy Management: View your policy documents, check your level of cover, and see what's included or excluded.
  • Claim Submission: Start a new claim without needing to pick up the phone. You can upload referral letters and other documents directly.
  • Claim Tracking: A real-time view of your claim's status, from 'submitted' to 'authorised' and 'paid'.
  • Finding Specialists: Search for consultants and hospitals that are recognised by your insurer, filtering by location, specialty, and patient ratings.
  • Secure Messaging: Communicate with your insurer's claims team via a secure messaging system, keeping all correspondence in one place.
  • Viewing Payment History: See a clear record of all claims paid on your behalf.

Mobile Apps: Healthcare in Your Pocket

While portals are great for desktop use, mobile apps put the power of your PMI policy directly into your hands, wherever you are. Insurer apps are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Common app functionalities:

  • Claim Submission on the Go: Start a claim and upload a photo of your referral letter using your phone's camera.
  • Virtual GP Services: Integrated access to 24/7 video or phone consultations with a GP, often a key first step in the claims journey.
  • Symptom Checkers: AI-powered tools that help you understand your symptoms and guide you to the appropriate care pathway.
  • Wellness and Reward Programmes: Many apps link to fitness trackers (like Apple Health or Google Fit) and reward you for healthy behaviour, such as hitting daily step counts.
  • Mental Health Support: Direct access to digital mental health resources, such as mindfulness apps, online therapy (IAPT), or telephone counselling services.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: The Engine Room of Efficiency

Behind the slick apps and portals, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are working hard to speed up the claims process. This is where the most significant gains in efficiency are being made.

  • Automated Triage: When you submit a claim, AI algorithms can instantly analyse it. For simple, standard requests (like an initial specialist consultation), the system can grant pre-authorisation automatically without human intervention.
  • Optical Character Recognition (OCR): This technology reads documents you upload, such as invoices or referral letters. It extracts the key information (patient name, consultant details, procedure code) and populates the claims system, eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors.
  • Fraud Detection: AI systems are trained to spot unusual patterns in claims data, flagging potentially fraudulent activity for review by a human expert. This helps keep costs down for everyone.
  • Intelligent Workflows: Automation directs complex claims to the right human claims assessor with the relevant expertise, ensuring your case is handled by the most appropriate person from the start.

How These Innovations Benefit You, the Policyholder

This wave of technology translates into tangible benefits that make having private medical insurance a much better experience.

BenefitDescriptionReal-World Example
Speed & EfficiencyAutomated processes mean faster decisions. What once took days can now take minutes.You get a referral for physiotherapy and submit it via your insurer's app. The system automatically recognises it as a standard request and authorises six sessions instantly.
Transparency & ControlYou can see exactly what’s happening with your claim at any time, day or night.You log into your portal to see your claim for a minor surgical procedure has been authorised and the hospital has been notified. No more wondering and waiting.
ConvenienceSubmit and manage claims from your sofa, on the bus, or at any time that suits you.You remember at 10 pm that you need to submit a claim. Instead of waiting for the call centre to open, you do it in five minutes on your phone.
AccuracyAutomation reduces the risk of human error in data entry, leading to fewer delays and queries.An invoice is scanned by an OCR system, which correctly captures the procedure code and cost, ensuring it's paid correctly the first time.
AccessibilityDigital platforms centralise all your health information, making it easy to find documents and manage your care.Before a follow-up appointment, you quickly open your app to review the notes from your last consultation and check your remaining outpatient benefit limit.

A Look at the Digital Platforms of Leading UK PMI Providers

Most major UK insurers now offer robust digital tools, though the features and user experience can vary. When choosing a policy, it’s wise to consider the quality of the provider's digital platform, as it will be your primary point of interaction.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare not just the policy cover and price, but also the digital experience offered by each insurer, ensuring you find a provider whose technology matches your expectations.

ProviderDigital Platform Name(s)Key Digital Features
AXA HealthAXA Health Online / Doctor at HandOnline claim submission, Virtual GP (Doctor at Hand), Specialist & hospital finder, Health and wellbeing support.
BupaBupa Touch / Digital GPApp-based claim submission, 24/7 Digital GP service, Pre-authorisation tracking, Symptom checker.
The ExeterHealthwise / My ExeterMember portal for policy management, Healthwise app for GP appointments, therapy, and health advice. Claims often initiated by phone.
VitalityMember Zone / Vitality GPOnline claims, Vitality GP app, Integrated wellness programme rewarding activity, Links to wearable tech.
AvivaMyAviva / Aviva Digital GPComprehensive online portal, App-based claims and GP access, Mental health support, Specialist finder.

Note: Features are subject to change and may depend on your specific policy level.

Consumer Feedback: What Do Policyholders Really Think?

The move to digital has been largely welcomed by UK consumers. The convenience and speed are consistently highlighted as major improvements. Recent surveys often show that customers who engage with their insurer via digital channels report higher satisfaction levels.

However, the transition isn't without its challenges. Common points of feedback include:

  • The Digital Divide: Not everyone is comfortable with technology. Some older policyholders or those less tech-savvy can feel left behind by a digital-first approach. It is crucial that insurers maintain high-quality telephone support as an alternative.
  • Impersonal Service: While automation is efficient, some people miss the reassurance of speaking to a human being, especially when dealing with a stressful health issue. The best providers blend digital efficiency with empathetic human support.
  • App Glitches: Technology is not infallible. Bugs, crashes, and poor user interface design in an app or portal can cause immense frustration and undermine the promise of a seamless experience.
  • Privacy Concerns: Submitting sensitive health data via an app requires a high level of trust. Insurers must be transparent about their data security measures to reassure customers.

Overall, the consensus is that digital innovation is a huge step forward, provided it is implemented thoughtfully and supported by excellent human customer service. WeCovr enjoys high customer satisfaction ratings, partly because we help our clients understand these nuances and choose providers that get the balance right.

The Future of PMI Claims: What’s Next on the Horizon?

The pace of innovation shows no signs of slowing down. Here’s a glimpse of what’s likely to come next in the world of private medical insurance UK:

  1. Predictive Pre-Authorisation: AI will become even smarter, using historical data to predict the likely treatment pathway for a given diagnosis. This could allow for the pre-authorisation of an entire course of treatment (e.g., consultation, MRI scan, and subsequent surgery) in one go, rather than step-by-step.
  2. Hyper-Personalisation: With your consent, data from wearable devices (like smartwatches) and wellness apps could be used to offer truly personalised health advice and even streamline claims. For example, your insurer might see you've completed a physio-recommended exercise plan and automatically authorise your next session.
  3. Integrated Care Journeys: The lines between different services will blur. Your insurer's app could become a single point of contact for booking appointments, receiving test results from the lab, managing prescriptions, and accessing recovery plans, creating a truly connected healthcare journey.
  4. Voice-Activated Claims: Just as we ask Alexa or Siri to play music, you may soon be able to start a health insurance claim by simply talking to a smart assistant on your phone or home device.

Critical Reminder: What UK Private Medical Insurance Covers

It is absolutely vital to understand the fundamental purpose of private medical insurance in the UK. This technology and convenience is designed to support you with specific types of medical conditions.

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

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.

Crucially, standard UK PMI policies do not cover:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical condition you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before your policy start date. Some insurers may offer to review these after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term, incurable conditions that need ongoing management rather than a curative treatment. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. While the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition might be covered, the long-term management is not.

Understanding this distinction is the most important step in having a positive experience with your private health cover.

WeCovr’s Added Value: More Than Just a Policy

Navigating the modern PMI market requires expertise. At WeCovr, we provide a holistic service that goes beyond simply finding you a policy.

  • Expert Comparison: We don't just compare prices. We analyse each provider's digital platform, claims process, and customer service record to help you find the best PMI provider for your needs.
  • Complimentary Wellness Tools: When you arrange your PMI policy through us, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support your health goals.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: We value your loyalty. Clients who take out private medical insurance or life insurance with us are often eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you save money while protecting what matters most.
  • Advocacy and Support: We are on your side. If you ever have a question or an issue with your policy, our team is here to provide guidance and support.

The digital revolution in claims processing is making private health cover more user-friendly than ever before. By understanding these innovations and working with an expert broker, you can unlock the full potential of your policy and ensure you have fast, easy access to the best possible care when you need it most.


How quickly are digital PMI claims processed?

The speed of processing a digital claim can vary. For simple, straightforward requests like an initial specialist consultation or a course of physiotherapy, approval can be granted automatically within minutes via an insurer's app or portal. For more complex claims requiring manual review, such as for surgery, it may take a few hours to a couple of days. This is still significantly faster than traditional paper-based methods, which could take weeks.

What if I'm not comfortable using an app to make a claim?

All UK private medical insurers are required to provide accessible services. While they heavily promote their digital platforms, they all maintain telephone-based claims teams. If you are not comfortable using an app or online portal, you can always make your claim by calling your insurer. A good broker can help you identify providers known for excellent telephone support.

Does using a digital service affect what my PMI policy covers?

No, the method you use to make a claim does not affect your level of cover. Whether you submit a claim via an app, an online portal, or over the phone, it will be assessed against the same terms and conditions of your policy. The digital service is simply a different, more convenient 'front door' to the same claims assessment process.

Is it safe to upload my medical documents to an insurer's app?

Yes, reputable insurers invest heavily in data security. Their apps and portals use high levels of encryption, similar to online banking, to protect your personal and medical information. They are also bound by strict data protection regulations like GDPR. Always ensure you are using the official app from your provider and keep your phone's operating system updated for maximum security.

Ready to explore how modern private medical insurance can work for you? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts guide you to the perfect policy.


Related guides


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

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.


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.