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PMI for Large Businesses UK

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in helping UK firms navigate the complexities of private medical insurance. For large businesses, a corporate PMI plan is a strategic investment in your most valuable asset: your people. This guide explains how it works.

Key takeaways

  • Faster Diagnosis: An employee with a worrying symptom can see a specialist in days, not weeks or months.
  • Quicker Treatment: Surgery or therapy can be scheduled at the employee's convenience, minimising disruption.
  • Reduced 'Presenteeism': Employees are less likely to work while unwell (presenteeism) if they know they can get treated quickly, improving overall focus and output.
  • Signal of a Caring Employer: Offering PMI shows that you value your employees' health and are willing to invest in their wellbeing.
  • Competitive Edge: It helps your offer stand out against competitors who may only provide statutory benefits.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in helping UK firms navigate the complexities of private medical insurance. For large businesses, a corporate PMI plan is a strategic investment in your most valuable asset: your people. This guide explains how it works.

Corporate PMI plans for enterprise employers

In today's competitive landscape, attracting and retaining top talent is paramount. For large UK businesses—often defined as those with 250 or more employees—a comprehensive benefits package is no longer a luxury but a necessity. At the heart of this package lies corporate Private Medical Insurance (PMI), a powerful tool for safeguarding employee health, boosting morale, and protecting your bottom line.

Corporate PMI offers employees and their families swift access to high-quality private medical diagnosis and treatment, bypassing potential NHS waiting lists. For an enterprise-level employer, it's a strategic decision that demonstrates a profound commitment to employee wellbeing, directly impacting productivity, engagement, and organisational resilience.

What is Large Corporate Private Medical Insurance?

Large corporate PMI is a company-funded health insurance scheme designed specifically for organisations with a significant number of employees, typically over 250. Unlike individual or small business plans, these schemes offer greater flexibility, more comprehensive cover, and unique underwriting options tailored to the scale of the workforce.

The fundamental promise is simple: when an employee develops an acute condition—a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment—the PMI policy covers the cost of private healthcare. This includes everything from initial consultations and diagnostic scans to surgery and aftercare.

Crucially, these plans are designed to complement the excellent emergency services provided by the NHS. They are not a replacement for A&E or treatment for long-term, chronic conditions.

The Business Case: Why Should Large Companies Offer PMI?

Investing in a corporate PMI plan delivers tangible returns that extend far beyond employee health. The benefits create a positive feedback loop, enhancing both company culture and financial performance.

1. Reducing Sickness Absence and Boosting Productivity

Sickness absence is a major drain on UK businesses. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), an estimated 185.6 million working days were lost due to sickness or injury in 2022, the highest level in over a decade.

By providing rapid access to medical care, PMI can significantly reduce the time employees spend waiting for diagnosis and treatment.

  • Faster Diagnosis: An employee with a worrying symptom can see a specialist in days, not weeks or months.
  • Quicker Treatment: Surgery or therapy can be scheduled at the employee's convenience, minimising disruption.
  • Reduced 'Presenteeism': Employees are less likely to work while unwell (presenteeism) if they know they can get treated quickly, improving overall focus and output.

Example: An operations manager develops a severe hip problem. On the NHS, they face a potential 18-month wait for a hip replacement. With corporate PMI, they could have the surgery within six weeks, returning to their critical role much sooner and preventing a prolonged period of reduced mobility and productivity.

2. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

In a competitive job market, a premium benefits package is a key differentiator. A C-suite executive or a highly skilled engineer will often weigh a company's health and wellbeing offerings as heavily as salary.

  • Signal of a Caring Employer: Offering PMI shows that you value your employees' health and are willing to invest in their wellbeing.
  • Competitive Edge: It helps your offer stand out against competitors who may only provide statutory benefits.
  • Improved Retention: Employees with valuable PMI are less likely to leave. The perceived value of the benefit, especially for those with families, creates strong loyalty.

3. Enhancing Employee Morale and Engagement

Knowing that their employer has their back in a medical crisis provides immense peace of mind. This psychological security translates into a more positive and engaged workforce.

  • Reduces Financial Worries: PMI removes the financial burden of private treatment, allowing employees to focus on their recovery.
  • Fosters a Positive Culture: It contributes to a workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported.
  • Increases Loyalty: A company that invests in its people's health is rewarded with their commitment and discretionary effort.

UK Health Landscape: The Driving Force for PMI

The growing demand for corporate PMI is directly linked to the pressures on the NHS. While the NHS provides world-class emergency and critical care, elective (planned) treatment waiting lists have grown significantly.

Metric (NHS England, 2024 Data)StatisticImplication for Employers
Total Waiting ListOver 7.5 million treatment pathwaysEmployees face long, uncertain waits for care.
Waiting over 52 weeksOver 300,000 pathwaysRisk of key staff being out of action for a year or more.
Waiting over 18 weeksApproximately 40% of the listThe official NHS target is missed for a large portion of patients.

Source: NHS England Referral to Treatment (RTT) waiting times data.

These statistics underscore the value proposition of PMI: it offers a reliable and efficient alternative for non-emergency care, ensuring your workforce stays healthy and productive.

Key Features and Options in a Large Corporate PMI Plan

Corporate schemes for large businesses are highly customisable. An expert broker can help you build a plan that aligns with your budget and your employees' needs. Here are the core components and popular additions.

Core Cover: The Foundations of Your Plan

This is the standard, non-negotiable part of most policies.

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: Covers costs when an employee is admitted to hospital for a bed overnight (in-patient) or for a planned procedure during the day (day-patient). This includes hospital accommodation, nursing care, surgeon and anaesthetist fees, and specialist consultations.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of modern PMI. Most comprehensive plans provide extensive cover for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and access to drugs that may not be available on the NHS.

Out-patient Cover: A Vital Addition

This is one of the most important options to consider as it covers the diagnostic journey.

  • Consultations with Specialists: Pays for the initial appointments to diagnose a condition.
  • Diagnostic Tests and Scans: Covers costs for MRI, CT, and PET scans, X-rays, and blood tests, which can have long waits on the NHS.

Most large corporate schemes include a generous out-patient limit or even full cover, as it's the gateway to faster treatment.

Optional Add-ons for a Holistic Approach

You can enhance your core plan with a range of valuable extras.

Add-on BenefitDescriptionWhy it's Valuable for a Large Workforce
Mental Health CoverProvides access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists for conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression.Mental health issues are a leading cause of long-term absence. According to the CIPD, stress is a significant factor in over 79% of long-term absences.
Therapies CoverCovers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care for musculoskeletal issues.Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons for sickness absence. This cover gets employees back on their feet quickly.
Dental and Optical CoverContributes towards the cost of routine check-ups, dental treatments, and prescription eyewear.A popular and highly valued perk that encourages preventative health habits.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)A 24/7 confidential helpline offering support for any issue, including legal, financial, or emotional problems.A low-cost, high-impact benefit that provides a crucial first line of support for employees facing personal difficulties.
Travel CoverExtends medical cover for employees when they are travelling abroad on business or leisure.Simplifies travel arrangements and provides peace of mind for globally mobile teams.

Working with a specialist broker like WeCovr allows you to mix and match these options, ensuring you only pay for the benefits that will have the most significant impact on your workforce.

Understanding Underwriting: A Key Advantage for Large Groups

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses risk. For large corporate schemes, employers have access to a unique and highly advantageous option not typically available to individuals or small businesses.

Medical History Disregarded (MHD)

This is the gold standard for corporate PMI and the most common type of underwriting for groups of 200+ employees.

  • What it is: The insurer agrees to cover all eligible acute medical conditions, regardless of an employee's prior medical history. This means pre-existing conditions that are eligible for treatment under the policy are covered.
  • Why it's great: It's simple, inclusive, and removes all ambiguity. Employees don't have to declare their medical history, ensuring privacy and making administration seamless. It guarantees that every eligible employee gets the full benefit of the policy from day one. This is a huge selling point when attracting senior talent who may have pre-existing conditions.

Other Underwriting Options

While MHD is standard for large groups, it's helpful to understand the alternatives.

  1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): Employees complete a detailed medical questionnaire. The insurer may place exclusions on pre-existing conditions. This is rare for large schemes.
  2. Moratorium (MORI): The insurer automatically excludes conditions that existed in the 5 years before the policy started. The exclusion can be lifted if the employee goes 2 continuous years without symptoms or treatment for that condition after joining. This is more common for smaller schemes.

For any large business, Medical History Disregarded is the clear choice. It provides the most comprehensive and hassle-free cover, reinforcing the message that you are an inclusive employer who cares for all staff equally.

A Crucial Note: What Private Medical Insurance Does Not Cover

It is essential for both employers and employees to understand the limitations of PMI. These plans are designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it.

Standard UK private medical insurance is for acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

Typically, PMI plans do not cover:

  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term illnesses that cannot be cured, only managed, such as diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure. Day-to-day management of these conditions remains with the NHS. Some plans may offer a one-off diagnostic consultation or limited support.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: On any plan other than 'Medical History Disregarded', conditions you had before the policy started are excluded, usually for a set period.
  • Accidents and Emergencies: Emergency treatment is always provided by the NHS A&E departments.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
  • Pregnancy and Childbirth: Routine maternity care is handled by the NHS, though some policies may cover complications.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Including those related to substance abuse.

Clear communication about these exclusions is vital when launching a PMI scheme to manage employee expectations effectively.

How Are Corporate PMI Premiums Calculated?

Insurers use several factors to determine the annual premium for a large corporate scheme.

  1. Group Size: The larger the group, the lower the average premium per person, as the risk is spread more widely.
  2. Average Age of Employees: A younger workforce will generally have lower premiums than an older one.
  3. Location: Premiums are often higher in central London and other major cities where hospital costs are more expensive.
  4. Level of Cover: The more comprehensive the plan (e.g., full out-patient, mental health, dental), the higher the cost.
  5. Excess Level (illustrative): An excess is a small amount an employee pays towards their claim (e.g., £100). A higher excess will lower the overall premium.
  6. Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A plan including the most expensive central London hospitals will cost more than one with a national network of quality private hospitals.
  7. Claims History (on renewal): For established schemes, the previous year's claims data will influence the renewal premium.

An experienced PMI broker can model different scenarios for you, finding the optimal balance between cost and coverage to fit your budget.

Major UK PMI Providers for Large Businesses

The UK corporate PMI market is dominated by a few key players, each with unique strengths.

ProviderKey Strengths & Focus for Large CorporatesWellness Programme
BupaLong-established brand with a vast network of hospitals and facilities. Strong focus on clinical excellence and integrated healthcare pathways.Bupa Live Well programme, offering health assessments and digital tools.
AXA HealthRenowned for its flexible plan design and strong focus on mental health support through its 'Stronger Minds' pathway. Excellent digital tools for members.'ActivePlus' programme and a strong focus on proactive health support.
AvivaOffers comprehensive cover with a strong clinical governance framework. Their 'Expert Select' hospital option can provide cost savings without compromising quality.Aviva Wellbeing app and partnerships for health and wellness services.
VitalityUnique 'shared value' model that actively rewards employees for healthy living with discounts on gym memberships, smartwatches, and more.The Vitality Programme is central to its offering, promoting engagement through activity tracking and rewards.

Choosing the right provider depends on your company's culture, budget, and specific priorities. For example, if your goal is to drive employee engagement with health, Vitality's model is very compelling. If you prioritise clinical pathways and a trusted brand, Bupa or AXA might be a better fit.

The Role of a Specialist PMI Broker Like WeCovr

For a large organisation, navigating the corporate PMI market alone is a complex and time-consuming task. Appointing a specialist broker is not just advisable; it's essential for securing the best outcome. And best of all, the service is typically free for your business, as brokers are compensated by the insurer they place the business with.

Here’s the value an expert broker adds:

  1. Whole-of-Market Expertise: A broker like WeCovr has deep knowledge of all the providers, their products, and their pricing strategies. We know the strengths and weaknesses of each insurer's corporate offering.
  2. Needs Analysis: We take the time to understand your business objectives, workforce demographics, and budget to recommend a tailored solution.
  3. Leverage and Negotiation: We have strong relationships with insurers and can negotiate preferential terms and pricing on your behalf that you wouldn't be able to achieve directly.
  4. Implementation Support: We manage the entire setup process, from quotation and provider selection to employee communications and onboarding.
  5. Ongoing Scheme Management: We act as your dedicated benefits partner, assisting with renewals, claims escalations, and annual market reviews to ensure your scheme remains competitive and fit for purpose.

Implementing and Managing Your Corporate PMI Scheme

A successful PMI scheme launch requires careful planning and clear communication.

  • Step 1: Consultation & Design: Work with your broker to define your objectives and design a plan that meets them.
  • Step 2: Employee Communication: Announce the new benefit clearly. Explain what's covered, what isn't, and how to make a claim. Provide documentation and host Q&A sessions.
  • Step 3: Onboarding: Ensure a smooth process for enrolling all eligible employees and their dependents (if included).
  • Step 4: Promote Engagement: Regularly remind employees of the benefit and any associated wellness perks. Share anonymised success stories to demonstrate its value.
  • Step 5: Annual Review: Meet with your broker well before renewal to review the scheme's performance, claims data, and market competitiveness.

Tax Implications of Corporate PMI

It’s important to understand the tax treatment of company-paid health insurance in the UK.

  • For the Employer: The cost of the PMI premiums is generally considered a tax-deductible business expense.
  • For the Employee: The provision of private medical insurance is treated as a Benefit in Kind (BIK). This means the employee has to pay income tax on the value of the premium. The employer is responsible for reporting this to HMRC on a P11D form for each employee who is part of the scheme. The employer also pays Class 1A National Insurance contributions on the value of the benefit.

While there is a tax liability for the employee, the cost is still significantly lower than if they were to purchase an equivalent policy themselves.

Beyond PMI: Building a Holistic Corporate Wellness Programme

Modern employers understand that true wellbeing goes beyond just treating sickness. Corporate PMI is the powerful centrepiece of a wider wellness strategy.

You can build a comprehensive ecosystem of support around it:

  • Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage physical activity and balanced nutrition. As a WeCovr client, your employees get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping them make smarter food choices.
  • Offer Flexible Working: Allow employees to balance work and life commitments, reducing stress.
  • Invest in a Positive Environment: Train managers to spot signs of stress and support their teams effectively.
  • Bundle Your Benefits: When you arrange your PMI or Life Insurance through us, you can often receive discounts on other types of cover, creating a cost-effective and comprehensive benefits package.

This integrated approach sends a powerful message: we care about your whole health—physical, mental, and financial.


Is corporate health insurance a taxable benefit in the UK?

Yes, in the UK, when an employer pays for an employee's private medical insurance, it is considered a 'Benefit in Kind' (BIK). The employee will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium, and the employer must pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions on the cost. The employer reports this benefit to HMRC using a P11D form.

Does corporate PMI cover pre-existing conditions?

It depends on the underwriting. For large corporate schemes (typically 250+ employees), the standard underwriting method is 'Medical History Disregarded' (MHD). On an MHD basis, eligible acute conditions are covered, even if they are pre-existing. This is a major advantage of large corporate plans. Smaller schemes on a 'Moratorium' basis will exclude pre-existing conditions from the last 5 years.

What is the difference between an in-patient and an out-patient?

An 'in-patient' is someone who is admitted to a hospital and occupies a bed overnight. A 'day-patient' is also admitted to hospital for a procedure but does not stay overnight. 'Out-patient' refers to treatment or diagnosis where you are not admitted to hospital, such as specialist consultations, diagnostic scans (MRI, X-ray), and blood tests. Most core PMI plans cover in-patient and day-patient care, with out-patient cover available as a crucial add-on.

Does PMI cover chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma?

No, standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and curable. Chronic conditions, which are long-term and require ongoing management rather than a cure, are not typically covered by PMI. The day-to-day management of conditions like diabetes, asthma, or hypertension remains the responsibility of the NHS.

Get Expert Advice for Your Large Business PMI

Choosing and implementing a private medical insurance scheme for a large workforce is a significant strategic decision. The right plan can transform your employee value proposition, boost productivity, and secure your status as an employer of choice.

With high customer satisfaction ratings and years of experience, the team at WeCovr is perfectly positioned to guide you. We provide independent, expert advice at no cost to your business, helping you compare the UK's leading corporate PMI providers and design a plan that delivers maximum value.

Contact us today to schedule a no-obligation consultation and receive a tailored quote for your business.

Sources

  • Department for Transport (DfT): Road safety and transport statistics.
  • DVLA / DVSA: UK vehicle and driving regulatory guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Motor insurance market and claims publications.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance conduct and consumer information guidance.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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