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PMI for British Expats Returning Home

PMI for British Expats Returning Home 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique challenges facing returning expats. This guide explains how to secure the right private medical insurance in the UK, ensuring you have peace of mind and swift access to healthcare from the moment you land.

What to check, how to bridge gaps, and ensuring continuous coverage after time abroad

Returning to the UK after years abroad is an exciting prospect, but it comes with a long to-do list. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, tasks is arranging your healthcare. While the NHS is a national treasure, navigating your eligibility and facing potential waiting lists after a long absence can be daunting. This is where private medical insurance (PMI) becomes an invaluable tool for a smooth transition back to British life.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing private health cover as a returning expat. We'll cover:

  • Your rights and access to the NHS upon your return.
  • The crucial differences between international health plans and UK PMI.
  • How to avoid a dangerous 'gap' in your medical coverage.
  • The vital details of pre-existing conditions and how they are handled.
  • A step-by-step plan for choosing the best policy for your needs.

Your Healthcare Status on Returning to the UK: The NHS and You

A common misconception is that as a British citizen, you can walk off the plane and immediately receive the same level of NHS care as someone who has never left. The reality is a little more complex.

Access to NHS hospital treatment is based on being ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK. This means you must be residing in the UK on a lawful and properly settled basis for the time being. To prove this, you may be asked for evidence upon registering with a GP or at a hospital, such as:

  • Proof of property purchase or a long-term rental agreement.
  • A utility bill in your name.
  • Evidence of employment or seeking work.
  • A one-way ticket to the UK.

For most returning expats intending to live in the UK permanently, establishing ordinary residence is straightforward. However, there can be a transitional period where your status is being confirmed.

The Challenge: NHS Waiting Lists

Even once you are fully registered and eligible, you will face the same waiting lists as every other resident. According to NHS England data for mid-2025, the elective care waiting list remains a significant challenge, with several million cases waiting for treatment.

Treatment StageAverage Waiting Time (Illustrative 2025 Figures)
GP Referral to First Hospital Appointment12-18 weeks
Diagnostics (e.g., MRI, CT scan)4-8 weeks
Start of Treatment (e.g., surgery)18-52+ weeks from referral

Note: These figures are illustrative and can vary significantly by region and medical specialism.

Facing a potential wait of over a year for a hip replacement or cataract surgery can be a serious concern, impacting your quality of life, ability to work, and overall wellbeing. This is the primary reason why many returning expats choose private medical insurance.

Understanding UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI): The Essentials

Private medical insurance in the UK is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. It gives you more choice, control, and speed when it comes to your healthcare.

Crucially, UK PMI is designed for 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 (e.g., joint-replacement surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment).
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured but can be managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). Standard UK PMI does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions. You will always rely on the NHS for this.

PMI gives you fast-track access to private consultants, diagnostic tests, and treatment in a private hospital, helping you bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible conditions.

What Does a Typical UK PMI Policy Cover?

Most policies are built around a core level of cover, with optional extras you can add.

Coverage LevelWhat it Typically IncludesWho it's for
Core (Inpatient Only)Covers tests and treatment when you are admitted to a hospital bed overnight. Includes surgery, accommodation, and nursing care.Those looking for a budget-friendly option to cover major medical events.
Intermediate (Inpatient + Outpatient Diagnostics)Includes all core cover, plus diagnostic tests and consultations to find out what's wrong (e.g., MRI scans, specialist appointments).A good middle-ground, speeding up diagnosis while you'd use the NHS for any outpatient treatment.
Comprehensive (Inpatient + Outpatient)The highest level of cover. Includes all core cover, plus outpatient consultations, diagnostics, and treatments like physiotherapy.Those wanting the most complete cover for fast diagnosis and treatment from start to finish.

Many insurers also offer add-ons like:

  • Mental Health Cover
  • Dental and Optical Cover
  • Therapies (Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic)

Bridging the Coverage Gap: From International Plan to UK PMI

One of the biggest risks for returning expats is the "coverage gap". This is the period between your international health insurance policy ending and your new UK PMI policy beginning, or before you've fully established your NHS eligibility.

Your expensive international plan, which may have covered you for everything from a GP visit to chronic care, will likely not be valid or cost-effective once you are resident in the UK. But cancelling it before your UK cover is in place could leave you financially exposed if you fall ill.

Example Scenario: The Gap

Sarah returns to Manchester after 10 years in Dubai. Her international policy expires on 31st December. She plans to start looking for UK PMI in January. On 5th January, she develops severe abdominal pain. She isn't yet fully registered with a GP and her old policy is void. She faces either a long wait at A&E or a huge bill for private diagnosis and treatment.

How to Ensure Continuous Coverage

  1. Research Early: Start investigating UK PMI options at least 2-3 months before your planned return.
  2. Align Dates: Arrange for your new UK PMI policy to start on the day you become resident in the UK, or the day after your international plan expires.
  3. Talk to a Broker: An expert broker, such as WeCovr, can help you compare the market and manage the switch seamlessly. They understand the specific needs of returning expats and can ensure you get the right advice.

Pre-existing Conditions: The Most Important Consideration

This is the single most critical point to understand. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions.

A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment in the years leading up to your policy start date (usually the last 5 years).

When you apply for PMI, the insurer needs to know about your medical history. They do this through a process called underwriting. There are two main types for new applicants:

1. Moratorium Underwriting (The "Wait and See" Approach)

This is the most common and simplest option. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the 5 years before the policy started.

However, they may agree to cover that condition later if you remain completely free of symptoms, treatment, medication, and advice for it for a continuous 2-year period after your policy begins.

  • Best for: People with minor past ailments or those in good health who want a quick and easy application.
  • Downside: There can be uncertainty. If you need to make a claim, the insurer will investigate your medical history at that point, which can sometimes lead to delays or disputes if they find a link to a pre-existing condition.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) (The "Declare Everything" Approach)

With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your entire medical history. The insurer's underwriting team reviews it and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. Any pre-existing conditions will be explicitly excluded in writing on your policy documents.

  • Best for: People who want absolute clarity and certainty from the start, especially if they have a more complex medical history.
  • Downside: The application process is longer and more intrusive. The exclusions are usually permanent.

Comparing Underwriting Options for Returning Expats

FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Application ProcessQuick and simple. No upfront medical forms.Detailed health questionnaire required.
Handling of Pre-existing ConditionsAutomatically excluded for a set period (usually 2 years). Cover may be added later if you remain symptom-free.Conditions are assessed upfront and specific exclusions are applied to your policy from the start.
Clarity of CoverLess certainty at the start. Your history is checked at the point of claim.Complete clarity from day one. You know exactly what isn't covered.
Best For...Healthy individuals with a simple medical history wanting a fast start.Individuals with past health issues who prefer certainty over potential future cover.

International Health Insurance vs. UK PMI: Key Differences

Your expat health insurance was likely a very different product from a standard UK PMI policy. Understanding these differences is key to setting the right expectations.

FeatureInternational Health Insurance (IHI)UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
Geographical ScopeGlobal or regional coverage.Typically UK-only (some offer limited overseas emergency cover).
Primary Care (GPs)Often covers routine GP visits.Almost never covers GP visits (PMI is for specialist care).
Chronic ConditionsMany premium plans cover management of chronic conditions.Does not cover chronic conditions. This is managed by the NHS.
CostSignificantly more expensive due to wider scope and coverage.More affordable as it complements the free-to-use NHS.
UnderwritingOften uses FMU, but some offer medical history disregarded (MHD) terms for corporate groups.Dominated by Moratorium and FMU for individuals.
PurposeTo replace the state healthcare system in a country.To supplement and provide a faster alternative to the NHS for specific treatments.

It's a mistake to assume the policy you buy in the UK will offer the same 'all-inclusive' benefits as your old expat plan. The UK model is built on a partnership between private care and the NHS.

A Health and Wellness Plan for Your Return

Returning to the UK is more than a logistical move; it's a significant life change that can impact your health and wellbeing. Creating a wellness plan can help you settle in smoothly.

  • Diet: You may have become accustomed to different foods. Re-adjusting to the UK diet can be a shock to the system. Focus on re-introducing seasonal British fruit and vegetables. Use a tool to monitor your intake as portion sizes and ingredients change. Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help manage this transition.
  • Sleep: Jet lag and the stress of moving can disrupt your sleep patterns. Establish a regular sleep routine. Avoid caffeine and heavy meals in the evening and ensure your new bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Activities: Your outdoor, active lifestyle in a sunnier climate might be harder to maintain. Proactively seek out new hobbies. Join a local rambling club, a gym with a swimming pool, or a five-a-side football team. Staying active is crucial for both physical and mental health.
  • Mental Health: Reverse culture shock is a real phenomenon. Feeling like a stranger in your own country can be isolating. Be patient with yourself. Reconnect with old friends but also make an effort to build a new social circle. If you're struggling, consider a PMI policy with good mental health support.

Why Use an Expert PMI Broker?

Navigating the UK private medical insurance market can be complex, especially when you're also managing an international move. A specialist broker doesn't just sell you a policy; they provide a vital advisory service.

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr offers several advantages:

  1. Expert Knowledge: We specialise in the UK market and understand the unique hurdles for returning expats. We can explain the nuances of underwriting and policy wording in plain English.
  2. Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare policies from all the leading UK providers, ensuring you get the best cover for your budget, not just the one a single insurer wants to sell.
  3. No Extra Cost: Our service is paid for by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, impartial advice at no additional cost to you. The price is the same as going direct.
  4. Application Support: We can help you with the paperwork, especially if you opt for Full Medical Underwriting, ensuring your application is accurate and complete.
  5. Added Value: We offer our clients extra benefits, such as access to our CalorieHero app and discounts on other insurance products when you purchase PMI or life cover with us. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for every client.

Your Step-by-Step Action Plan

  1. 3 Months Before Return: Start your research. Read guides like this one and make a note of your priorities (e.g., budget, hospital access, mental health cover).
  2. 2 Months Before Return: Contact a specialist broker. Discuss your situation, medical history, and the date of your return. They will provide you with a tailored comparison of quotes and options.
  3. 1 Month Before Return: Decide on your preferred policy and underwriting method (Moratorium or FMU). Complete the application process.
  4. On Return: Set your policy start date to coincide with your arrival in the UK or the expiry of your international plan. Register with a local GP as soon as you have proof of address.
  5. Post-Purchase: Keep your policy documents safe. Remember to use your GP as your first port of call for any new medical issues. They will provide the referral you need to start a claim on your PMI.

How soon after returning to the UK can I use the NHS?

You are generally entitled to use the NHS from the day you arrive back in the UK, provided you intend to live here permanently and are therefore 'ordinarily resident'. You should register with a GP as soon as you have proof of a permanent UK address. However, be aware that you will be subject to the same waiting lists as all other residents for non-urgent hospital treatment.

Can I get private medical insurance if I have a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can still get private medical insurance, but it's crucial to understand that the policy will not cover your pre-existing conditions. Insurers will either exclude them specifically by name (Full Medical Underwriting) or apply a general exclusion for a set period, which may be lifted later if you remain symptom-free (Moratorium Underwriting). PMI is for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts.

Should I keep my international health insurance when I move back to the UK?

Generally, no. International health insurance is designed for expats living abroad and is usually far more expensive than UK-specific PMI. It is not cost-effective once you are a UK resident with access to the NHS. The best strategy is to arrange for a UK PMI policy to start when your international plan ends, ensuring continuous cover without overpaying.

Do I need to have a medical examination to get PMI?

It is very rare to need a medical examination to get PMI in the UK. The insurer assesses your health risk based on the underwriting method you choose. For Moratorium underwriting, there are no health questions. For Full Medical Underwriting, you simply complete a detailed health declaration form; a medical exam is not usually required.

Returning home should be a time of excitement, not anxiety about your health. By planning ahead and understanding how the UK system works, you can ensure you have fast access to the best medical care when you need it most.

Take the first step today. Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation chat and a tailored comparison of private medical insurance quotes to smooth your return to the UK.

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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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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.

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