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PMI for Over-50s Tailored Options for Mature Clients

PMI for Over-50s Tailored Options for Mature Clients 2026

As we age, securing the right private medical insurance in the UK becomes crucial. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker with over 900,000 policies of various kinds arranged for our clients, we specialise in finding tailored PMI for over-50s, ensuring you get timely access to quality healthcare when you need it most.

Special requirements, underwriting differences, and best value insurers for the over-50s

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel complex, especially as you enter your 50s, 60s, and beyond. Your healthcare needs change, and so do the insurance options available. This guide is designed to demystify PMI for mature clients, helping you understand your unique requirements, the intricacies of underwriting, and how to find a policy that offers exceptional value without compromising on quality.

Why Private Medical Insurance is a Key Consideration After 50

For many, turning 50 is a milestone that prompts a review of personal health and finances. With life experience comes a greater appreciation for wellbeing and a desire for security. This is where private health cover comes into its own.

The primary benefit of PMI is speed of access. While the NHS provides outstanding care, it is facing unprecedented pressure. According to NHS England data from mid-2025, the total waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at over 7.5 million treatment pathways. Of these, hundreds of thousands of patients have been waiting for more than 52 weeks for treatment to begin.

PMI allows you to bypass these queues for eligible conditions, giving you:

  • Prompt Diagnosis: Quickly see a specialist for tests and scans to find out what's wrong.
  • Fast Treatment: Receive surgery or treatment at a time and place that suits you.
  • Choice and Comfort: Select your consultant and hospital, often with the benefit of a private, en-suite room.
  • Access to Advanced Treatments: Some policies offer access to new drugs or therapies not yet available on the NHS due to cost or approval delays.

The Golden Rule of UK Private Health Insurance

Before we go any further, it's vital to understand the fundamental principle of PMI in the UK.

Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like cataracts, joint replacements, or hernias.

PMI does not cover chronic conditions – illnesses that are long-lasting and cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure. It also does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are any health issues you had before taking out the policy. The way pre-existing conditions are handled depends on your choice of underwriting, which we'll explore next.

Underwriting Explained: A Crucial Choice for Over-50s

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your health and medical history to decide the terms of your policy. For those over 50, who may have a more extensive medical history, choosing the right underwriting method is critical. There are two main types.

1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting

This is the most common and straightforward option.

  • How it works: You don't need to provide your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a general exclusion for any medical conditions you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the five years before your policy starts.
  • The "rolling" period: This exclusion isn't necessarily permanent. If you then complete two full, continuous years on the policy without experiencing any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that specific condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Pros: Quick and easy application process. You don't need to dig out old medical records.
  • Cons: There can be uncertainty. You might not know if a condition is covered until you make a claim, which can lead to delays while the insurer investigates your history.

Example: David, 58, takes out a moratorium policy. He had knee pain two years prior but hasn't seen a doctor for it since. If his knee pain returns within the first two years of his policy, it won't be covered. If he remains free of knee trouble for two full years, future knee problems might be covered.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

This method offers more certainty from the outset.

  • How it works: You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your full medical history. The insurer's underwriting team reviews this information and may contact your GP for more details.
  • The outcome: The insurer will then issue your policy documents with a list of specific, named exclusions. These are typically permanent and will not be covered at any point.
  • Pros: Complete clarity from day one. You know exactly what is and isn't covered.
  • Cons: The application process is longer and more involved. It may result in more permanent exclusions if you have a complex medical history.
Underwriting TypeApplication ProcessCertainty of CoverBest For...
Moratorium (Mori)Quick and simple; no initial medical questionnaire.Less certain; cover for past issues is determined at the point of a claim.Individuals with a clean bill of health or minor past issues who want a fast application.
Full Medical (FMU)Detailed; requires a full health declaration.High certainty; exclusions are clearly stated from the start.Individuals with a more complex medical history who want absolute clarity on their cover.

Our Advice: For clients over 50, Full Medical Underwriting often provides valuable peace of mind. Knowing precisely where you stand can prevent unwelcome surprises down the line. An expert broker, like WeCovr, can guide you through the FMU questionnaire to ensure it's completed accurately.

Tailoring Your Policy: Key Considerations for Mature Clients

As we age, our health priorities shift. A good PMI policy for someone over 50 should reflect this, offering robust cover for conditions that become more common later in life.

Common Health Concerns for Over-50s and How PMI Helps

  • Joint Problems: Arthritis, hip replacements, and knee replacements are common. PMI provides fast access to orthopaedic specialists and surgery, helping you stay mobile and active.
  • Cancer: This is a major concern for many. All leading PMI providers offer extensive cancer cover, often including access to specialist drugs and treatments not routinely available on the NHS.
  • Heart Conditions: Policies can cover diagnostic tests, consultations with cardiologists, and surgical procedures for eligible acute heart conditions.
  • Eye Care: Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures claimed on PMI policies, restoring sight quickly and efficiently.
  • Diagnostics: MRI, CT, and PET scans are crucial for a swift diagnosis. PMI ensures you aren't left waiting and worrying.

How to Get the Best Value: 5 Ways to Manage Your Premiums

It's a fact that PMI premiums increase with age. Insurers' risk models show that older individuals are more likely to claim. However, this doesn't mean cover has to be unaffordable. Here are five effective strategies to manage the cost of your policy.

1. Choose a Higher Excess

The excess is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250, and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750. Opting for a higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) can significantly reduce your monthly or annual premium.

2. Select a Guided Hospital List

Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A comprehensive list including prime central London hospitals is the most expensive. By opting for a list that covers a quality network of private hospitals in your local area but excludes the priciest ones, you can achieve substantial savings.

3. Add a "6-Week Wait" Option

This is one of the most popular cost-saving options. If the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks of it being recommended, you will use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list is longer than six weeks, your private medical insurance policy kicks in. This single change can reduce premiums by 20-30%.

4. Customise Your Outpatient Cover

PMI policies are built around a core of inpatient and day-patient cover (for treatment requiring a hospital bed). Outpatient cover (for consultations, tests, and therapies that don't require admission) is often an optional extra. You can choose to:

  • Have full outpatient cover.
  • Cap the financial limit (e.g., to £500, £1,000, or £1,500 per year).
  • Remove it entirely and use the NHS or self-fund for initial consultations. Capping outpatient cover is a very effective way to control costs.

5. Use an Independent PMI Broker

This is perhaps the most important tip. A specialist broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurer. We compare policies from across the market to find the one that best fits your health needs and budget. Our expert advice is free to you, and we can often find deals and policy combinations you wouldn't find by going direct.

Comparing the Best UK Insurers for Over-50s

The UK private medical insurance market is dominated by several excellent providers. While there is no single "best" insurer for everyone, some have particular strengths for mature clients.

ProviderKey Strengths for Over-50sUnique FeaturesUnderwriting Options
BupaExtensive hospital network, strong brand reputation, and comprehensive cancer cover.Direct access to services (no GP referral needed for some conditions).Mori & FMU
AXA HealthExcellent mental health support, flexible policy options, and a focus on preventative care.Doctor@Hand digital GP service and a guided "Fast Track" appointments service.Mori & FMU
AvivaStrong value proposition, often competitively priced, with excellent core cancer cover."Expert Select" hospital option offers good value. Good digital services.Mori & FMU
VitalityRewards healthy living with discounts and benefits, which can help offset age-related costs.Active Rewards programme encourages exercise. Health screening and wellness benefits.Mori, FMU & Switched
The ExeterSpecialist insurer known for its flexible underwriting, often more accommodating of prior health conditions.Fixed premiums for the first few years on some plans. Strong community-rated scheme for older ages.Mori & FMU

A Closer Look:

  • Bupa and AXA Health are the established giants. They offer vast hospital networks and a reassuringly comprehensive service, which many clients in their 50s and 60s value.
  • Aviva often presents a compelling balance of price and quality cover, making it a strong contender for those looking for robust protection without the highest price tag.
  • Vitality is unique. If you are an active person who is happy to track your activity, its programme can provide significant premium discounts and lifestyle rewards, helping to counteract age-related price increases.
  • The Exeter is a friendly society and a true specialist. Their more individual approach to underwriting can be a significant advantage if you have some pre-existing medical conditions that might lead to broad exclusions elsewhere.

Healthy Ageing: Tips to Support Your Wellbeing

A PMI policy is a safety net, but the best strategy is to invest in your health every day. Many insurers now actively support this with wellness benefits.

  • Stay Active: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity, like brisk walking, and two strength-training sessions per week. This helps maintain muscle mass, bone density, and cardiovascular health.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is proven to support long-term health.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Good quality sleep is vital for mental and physical repair. Aim for 7-8 hours per night and establish a regular sleep routine.
  • Nurture Your Mind: Stay socially connected, engage in hobbies, and practise mindfulness or meditation to manage stress. Many PMI providers include access to mental health support lines and therapy sessions.

WeCovr's Commitment to Your Health

We believe in a holistic approach to your wellbeing. That's why, when you arrange your private medical insurance through WeCovr, we provide:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you manage your diet and health goals.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect everything that matters for less.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will my pre-existing conditions be covered by a new PMI policy?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that occur after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and chronic conditions are not covered. However, the way pre-existing conditions are treated depends on your underwriting. With moratorium underwriting, a condition may become eligible for cover if you remain symptom-free for two years after your policy begins. With full medical underwriting, pre-existing conditions are typically excluded permanently.

Are my health insurance premiums guaranteed to stay the same?

No, premiums are not guaranteed. Your premium will be reviewed annually and will almost certainly increase for two main reasons. The first is your age – as you get older, the statistical risk of you needing treatment increases, so your premium rises. The second is medical inflation, which is the rising cost of private medical treatments, new drugs, and advanced technology. This typically runs much higher than general inflation. Using cost-containment options like a 6-week wait or a higher excess can help manage these increases.

Is cancer cover included as standard in PMI for over-50s?

Yes, comprehensive cancer cover is a cornerstone of all major UK private health insurance policies. This typically includes cover for diagnosis, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Many policies also provide access to advanced cancer drugs that may not be available on the NHS, as well as ongoing monitoring and support. It is always vital to read the policy details to understand the full extent and any limits of the cancer cover provided.

Can I still use the NHS if I have private medical insurance?

Absolutely. Private medical insurance and the NHS work alongside each other. You will always remain entitled to full use of the NHS. Many people use their PMI for eligible elective treatments while relying on the NHS for accident and emergency services, GP visits, and the management of any chronic conditions. Having PMI gives you more options, it doesn't take any away.

Take the Next Step with WeCovr

Choosing the right private medical insurance is a significant decision, especially when you want to ensure you have the best possible protection for the years ahead. You don't have to navigate this complex market alone.

The friendly, expert team at WeCovr is here to provide impartial advice and help you compare quotes from all the leading UK insurers. We'll take the time to understand your needs and budget, explaining your options in plain English to help you find the perfect cover for your peace of mind.

Get your free, no-obligation quote today and secure the health protection you deserve.


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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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