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PMI for Freelancers Is It Necessary and Are There Tax Perks

PMI for Freelancers Is It Necessary and Are There Tax Perks

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique challenges freelancers face. This guide explores if private medical insurance in the UK is right for you, demystifying costs, benefits, and those all-important tax rules for the self-employed.

Analysis for freelancers and contractors including costs, risks, and tax guidance

Navigating the world of self-employment is liberating, but it comes with a unique set of responsibilities. Unlike traditional employment, there's no sick pay, no employer-funded health plan, and no safety net if illness strikes. For the UK's 4.25 million self-employed individuals (ONS, 2024), health isn't just personal—it's the bedrock of their business.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything a freelancer or contractor needs to know about Private Medical Insurance (PMI). We’ll explore whether it's a necessary investment, how much it costs, and critically, whether you can claim it as a business expense.

Why Should Freelancers and Contractors Consider Private Medical Insurance?

When you are your own boss, any time taken off for illness directly translates to lost income. This is the primary reason why so many independent professionals explore private health cover. The core benefit isn't about replacing the NHS; it's about managing the time and uncertainty associated with getting treatment.

The Stark Reality of NHS Waiting Lists

The NHS is a national treasure, providing exceptional care, particularly for emergencies and chronic conditions. However, for elective (planned) treatments, the waiting lists can be extensive.

According to the latest NHS England data (mid-2024), the referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting list stands at approximately 7.5 million cases. The median waiting time is around 14 weeks, but this figure masks the full picture. Over 300,000 patients have been waiting for more than a year for treatment to begin.

For a freelancer, a 14-week wait for a knee operation or a 6-month delay for a hernia repair isn't just an inconvenience; it can be a financial disaster.

Risk of Relying Solely on NHS for Elective CareImpact on a Freelancer
Long Waiting TimesMonths of lost income or working in pain, reducing productivity.
Uncertainty of Treatment DateInability to plan projects or commit to client deadlines.
Limited Choice of Hospital/SpecialistLess control over where and when you receive care.
Potential for Delays/CancellationsFurther disruption to your work schedule and income stream.

Private medical insurance is designed to bypass these specific waiting lists for eligible conditions, giving you faster access to diagnosis and treatment.

The Freelancer's Dilemma: No Work, No Pay

Unlike an employee who is entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and potentially contractual sick pay from their employer, a freelancer gets nothing. If you can't work, your income stops.

Consider this real-life scenario:

Alex, a freelance graphic designer, develops severe hip pain. An NHS GP refers them to a specialist. The wait for the initial consultation is 12 weeks. After the consultation, an MRI is needed (a further 6-week wait). Finally, surgery is scheduled for 5 months later. In total, Alex faces nearly a year of pain and reduced mobility, making it impossible to sit at a desk for long hours. They lose several major clients, and their income plummets.

With PMI, Alex could have potentially seen a specialist within days, had the MRI the following week, and been scheduled for surgery within a month, dramatically reducing their time off work and protecting their business.

What Does Private Medical Insurance Actually Cover?

This is the most misunderstood aspect of PMI. It's vital to be crystal clear about what you are and are not covered for.

The Golden Rule: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the 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-pain requiring a replacement, hernias, cataracts, most cancers).

What is Almost Always Excluded?

Crucially, PMI is not designed for conditions you already have or long-term illnesses that cannot be cured.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before the policy start date will not be covered. Some insurers may cover them after a set period (usually two years) if you have had no further symptoms or treatment.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term illnesses that require ongoing management but have no known cure are not covered by standard PMI. This includes conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. While the initial diagnosis might be covered, the long-term management will be handled by the NHS.
  • Other common exclusions:
    • Emergency services (A&E)
    • Routine pregnancy and childbirth
    • Cosmetic surgery (unless for reconstructive purposes after an eligible procedure)
    • Organ transplants
    • Drug and alcohol abuse treatment
    • Self-inflicted injuries

What is Typically Included?

Cover is usually split into different levels, but a standard policy will often include:

Included TreatmentDescription
In-patient & Day-patient TreatmentCovers tests and surgery where you need to be admitted to a hospital bed, even if just for a day. Includes surgeon, anaesthetist, and hospital fees.
Consultant & Specialist FeesThe cost of seeing a private specialist for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Diagnostic TestsScans like MRI, CT, and PET, as well as X-rays and blood tests.
Cancer CareOften comprehensive, covering surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Access to newer, expensive drugs not always available on the NHS can be a key benefit.

You can then add optional extras, such as:

  • Out-patient Cover: For consultations and tests that don't require a hospital bed. This is a common and highly recommended add-on.
  • Therapies: Cover for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.
  • Mental Health Cover: Support for conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Dental & Optical Cover: Usually for major procedures, not routine check-ups.

Understanding the Costs: How Much Does PMI Cost for a Freelancer?

The price of a PMI policy is highly personal and depends on several key factors. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but we can provide realistic estimates.

Key Factors Influencing Your Premium

  1. Age: The single biggest factor. Premiums increase as you get older because the statistical likelihood of needing treatment rises.
  2. Location: Treatment costs vary across the UK. Living in London or other major cities often results in higher premiums due to more expensive private hospitals.
  3. Level of Cover: A basic policy covering only in-patient care will be much cheaper than a comprehensive plan with full out-patient, mental health, and therapy cover.
  4. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  5. Hospital List: Insurers offer different lists of hospitals you can use. A policy limited to local hospitals will be cheaper than one giving you access to premium central London clinics.
  6. Underwriting: The method the insurer uses to assess your medical history.
    • Moratorium (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes anything you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. These exclusions can be lifted after 2 years on the policy, provided you remain symptom and treatment-free for that specific condition.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer gives you a definitive list of what is and isn't covered from day one. This takes longer but provides more certainty.

Example Monthly PMI Costs for a Freelancer (2025 Estimates)

The table below shows illustrative costs. These are for non-smokers with a £250 excess. Your actual quote will vary.

AgeBasic Cover (In-patient only)Mid-Range Cover (In-patient + limited out-patient)Comprehensive Cover (Full cover + therapies)
30£35 - £50£55 - £75£80 - £110
45£50 - £70£75 - £100£110 - £150
60£90 - £130£140 - £190£200 - £280+

Using a specialist PMI broker like WeCovr is the easiest way to navigate these options. We can instantly compare the market for you, explaining the differences between policies from providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality, ensuring you don't overpay for cover you don't need.

The Big Question: Are There Tax Perks for Freelancers with PMI?

This is where your business structure—sole trader or limited company—is critical. The rules are very different.

Disclaimer: The following is for guidance purposes only. You must speak with a qualified accountant for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

For Sole Traders

The rule here is simple and unambiguous.

If you are a sole trader, private medical insurance is considered a personal expense, not a business expense. You cannot deduct the cost of your PMI premiums from your income to reduce your tax bill.

You pay for the policy out of your post-tax profits. The logic from HMRC is that the insurance benefits you as a person, not exclusively your business. Even though your health is essential for your business to function, the benefit is not deemed to be "wholly and exclusively" for the purpose of trade.

For Limited Company Directors

This is where things become more nuanced and where potential tax efficiencies can be found.

A limited company is a separate legal entity from you, the director. The company can purchase a PMI policy for you as an employee/director.

Here’s how it works:

  1. The Company Pays: The limited company pays the monthly or annual PMI premium directly to the insurer.
  2. Allowable Business Expense: This premium is an allowable business expense for the company. This means it can be deducted from the company's profits before Corporation Tax is calculated, thereby reducing the company's tax bill.
  3. Benefit in Kind (P11D): However, HMRC sees this as a non-cash benefit provided to you, the director. It has a monetary value (the cost of the premium) and is therefore treated as a "Benefit in Kind".
  4. Reporting: The company must report this benefit to HMRC on a P11D form each year.
  5. Personal Tax for the Director: The value of the premium is added to your personal income for the year, and you will pay Income Tax on it at your marginal rate (20%, 40%, or 45%).
  6. National Insurance for the Company: The company must also pay Class 1A Employer's National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the value of the benefit. For the 2024/25 tax year, this is 13.8%.

Worked Example: Limited Company Director

Let's see how this plays out in practice.

  • Director: Sarah, a 45-year-old IT contractor.
  • Company: Sarah IT Services Ltd.
  • PMI Premium: £1,200 per year (£100 per month).
  • Sarah's Income Tax Rate: 40% (Higher Rate).
  • Company's Corporation Tax Rate: 25% (assuming profits over £250k).
Calculation StepLimited CompanySarah (Director)
1. Company pays premium-£1,200 from bankn/a
2. Corporation Tax Saving£1,200 x 25% = +£300n/a
3. Employer's NICs (P11D)£1,200 x 13.8% = -£165.60n/a
4. Income Tax on Benefitn/a£1,200 x 40% = -£480
Total Company Cost-£1,200 (premium) + £300 (tax saving) - £165.60 (NICs) = -£1,065.60
Total Personal Cost
Overall Net Cost£1,065.60 (company) + £480 (personal) = £1,545.60

So, is it worth it?

At first glance, the total cost (£1,545.60) is more than the premium (£1,200). So where is the benefit?

The alternative would be for Sarah to pay for the PMI personally. To have £1,200 left over to pay the premium, she would first have to draw that money from her company as a dividend.

  • To get £1,200 in her hand, she'd need to take a larger dividend from the company, which would first have been subject to Corporation Tax.
  • Let's say she takes a £1,600 dividend from the company's post-tax profits. She'd then pay dividend tax on this.
  • The calculation becomes complex, but in many higher-rate scenarios, paying it through the company as a benefit in kind is more tax-efficient than drawing extra dividends to pay for it personally. It also looks cleaner on the company's books.

The key takeaway is that for limited company directors, paying for PMI through the business is a legitimate and common practice. While not a "tax-free perk," it is often a tax-efficient way of funding health cover. Always consult your accountant.

Is PMI Necessary? Weighing the Risks and Rewards

Ultimately, the decision is personal. It’s about balancing cost against peace of mind and financial risk.

Arguments FOR PMI:

  • Protects Your Income: The number one reason for freelancers. Less time waiting means more time earning.
  • Speed of Access: See a specialist and get diagnosed in days, not months.
  • Choice and Control: Choose your specialist and hospital, and schedule treatment at a time that minimises disruption to your work.
  • Comfort and Privacy: A private room can make a huge difference to your recovery.
  • Access to Advanced Treatments: Some policies offer access to drugs or treatments not yet approved for widespread NHS use due to cost.

Alternatives & Arguments AGAINST PMI:

  • Cost: The monthly premium is an ongoing business or personal expense that could be used elsewhere.
  • The NHS is Excellent: For emergencies, serious accidents, and chronic care management, you will be using the NHS anyway.
  • Self-Insuring: You could put the equivalent of the monthly premium into a high-interest savings account. If you stay healthy, you keep the money. The risk is that a single major procedure could cost £10,000-£20,000+, wiping out your savings instantly. A hip replacement, for example, can cost over £13,000 privately.
  • Health Cash Plans: These are a cheaper alternative to PMI. They don't cover major surgery but provide cashback on routine expenses like dental check-ups, eye tests, physiotherapy, and prescriptions. They are a good budget option for everyday health maintenance.

Beyond Insurance: Proactive Health and Wellness for Freelancers

Staying healthy is the best insurance of all. As a freelancer, investing in your well-being is a direct investment in your business's resilience.

  • Ergonomics: Invest in a proper office chair, monitor stand, and keyboard to prevent repetitive strain injury (RSI) and back pain.
  • Movement: Take regular breaks from your desk to stretch and walk around. A standing desk can be a game-changer.
  • Nutrition: Plan your meals to avoid relying on convenience food. Staying hydrated is crucial for focus. Many clients who use WeCovr for their PMI also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support their health goals.
  • Sleep: Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It’s fundamental to cognitive performance, mood, and immune function.
  • Mental Health: Freelancing can be isolating. Schedule social interactions, connect with other freelancers, and don’t be afraid to set firm boundaries with clients to prevent burnout.

Many modern PMI policies include excellent wellness benefits, such as gym discounts, free coffee, cinema tickets, and mental health support apps, rewarding you for staying active and healthy.

Furthermore, when you arrange your private medical insurance through WeCovr, we can often provide discounts on other essential cover types, like income protection or life insurance, helping you build a comprehensive financial safety net.

How to Choose the Best PMI Policy: A 5-Step Guide

  1. Assess Your Needs: What are you most worried about? Is it fast access to diagnostics, cancer care, or physio for a sports injury? Your priorities will determine your ideal level of cover.
  2. Set Your Budget: Decide what you can comfortably afford each month. This will guide your choice of excess and cover level.
  3. Choose a Hospital List: Do you need access to top London hospitals, or are you happy with a list of quality local private hospitals? A "national" list provides more choice but costs more.
  4. Decide on Underwriting: For most, "Moratorium" is the simplest and quickest option. If you have a complex medical history and want absolute clarity from day one, "Full Medical Underwriting" may be better.
  5. Speak to an Expert Broker: This is the most important step. A broker doesn't charge you a fee; they are paid a commission by the insurer you choose. An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurer. We provide impartial advice, compare the whole market, and handle the application process, saving you time and money.

Ready to protect your health and your freelance business? Let WeCovr's experts find the perfect private medical insurance UK policy for you.

Can I get PMI if I have a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can still get private medical insurance. However, the pre-existing condition itself, and any related conditions, will be excluded from cover. The policy will only cover new, eligible acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It is vital to understand that PMI is not for managing existing health problems.

Is private health insurance tax-deductible for a sole trader in the UK?

No. For sole traders, HMRC considers private medical insurance a personal expense, not a business one. This means you cannot claim the premiums as an expense to reduce your income tax or National Insurance liability. You must pay for it from your after-tax income.

How does a limited company pay for a director's health insurance?

The limited company can pay the premium directly. This payment is an allowable business expense, which reduces the company's Corporation Tax bill. However, the premium is treated as a taxable "benefit in kind" for the director, who must pay income tax on the value of the benefit. The company must also pay Class 1A National Insurance on the premium amount. You must declare this on a P11D form. Always consult an accountant for specific advice.

What's the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

With Moratorium underwriting, you don't declare your medical history upfront. The policy automatically excludes conditions you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you complete a detailed health questionnaire, and the insurer tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from the start. Moratorium is faster, while FMU provides more certainty.

Take the Next Step

Your health is your most valuable asset. Don't leave it to chance. The experts at WeCovr are on hand to provide clear, independent advice tailored to the needs of freelancers and contractors.

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.

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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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