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PMI Tax Implications for Employers UK

As an insurance intermediary with over 1,000,000 policies arranged, WeCovr understands the nuances of private medical insurance in the UK. This guide demystifies the tax implications for employers, explaining exactly how offering private health cover affects your company's finances and your employees' tax positions.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

As an insurance intermediary with over 1,000,000 policies arranged, WeCovr understands the nuances of private medical insurance in the UK. This guide demystifies the tax implications for employers, explaining exactly how offering private health cover affects your company's finances and your employees' tax positions.

Key takeaways

  • Annual PMI Premium Cost (illustrative): 800 per employee x 10 employees = 8,000
  • Company's Profit Before PMI (illustrative): 100,000
  • Corporation Tax Rate (2025): 25%
  • The Rate: The Class 1A NICs rate for the 2024/2025 tax year is 13.8%.
  • Calculation: The employer pays 13.8% of the total BIK value. In our Innovate Ltd example, the total value of the PMI benefit is 8,000.

As an insurance intermediary with over 1,000,000 policies arranged, WeCovr understands the nuances of private medical insurance in the UK. This guide demystifies the tax implications for employers, explaining exactly how offering private health cover affects your company's finances and your employees' tax positions.

Can companies deduct PMI costs as a business expense?

Yes, absolutely. For a limited company in the UK, the cost of providing private medical insurance (PMI) to its employees is almost always considered an allowable business expense. This means the full cost of the insurance premiums can be deducted from your company's revenue before calculating its Corporation Tax bill.

In simple terms, HMRC views employee health insurance as a staff welfare and remuneration cost, similar to a salary or a pension contribution. As long as the expense is "wholly and exclusively" for the purpose of the trade—which rewarding and retaining staff certainly is—it is tax-deductible.

This deduction makes offering PMI significantly more affordable than the headline premium price might suggest. By reducing your taxable profit, you directly lower the amount of Corporation Tax you owe.

How the Tax Deduction Works in Practice

Let's imagine a small software company, "Innovate Ltd," decides to provide PMI for its 10 employees.

  • Annual PMI Premium Cost (illustrative): £800 per employee x 10 employees = £8,000
  • Company's Profit Before PMI (illustrative): £100,000
  • Corporation Tax Rate (2025): 25%
ScenarioWithout PMIWith PMI
Gross Profit£100,000£100,000
PMI Expense Deduction£0£8,000
Taxable Profit£100,000£92,000
Corporation Tax Owed (at 25%)£25,000£23,000
Tax Saving-£2,000

As you can see, by spending £8,000 on a valuable employee benefit, Innovate Ltd saves £2,000 in Corporation Tax. This effectively reduces the net cost of the health insurance scheme to just £6,000. (illustrative estimate)

Understanding Corporation Tax and Allowable Expenses

To fully grasp the benefit, it's helpful to understand the two key concepts at play: Corporation Tax and allowable expenses.

Corporation Tax is a tax paid by UK limited companies and certain other organisations on their annual profits. The profit is calculated by subtracting all business costs from total revenue. The current main rate of Corporation Tax is 25%.

Allowable Expenses are the costs that your company can deduct from its revenue to arrive at its taxable profit. The fundamental rule from HMRC is that for a cost to be allowable, it must be "wholly and exclusively for the purposes of the trade."

Providing private health cover for employees easily meets this test. It serves several clear business purposes:

  • Attracting and retaining top talent: A strong benefits package makes your company more competitive.
  • Reducing sickness absence: Faster access to diagnosis and treatment gets employees back to work sooner.
  • Boosting morale and productivity: Showing you care for your team's wellbeing fosters a positive work environment.

Because PMI is a legitimate staff cost, it is treated just like any other allowable expense, such as office rent, utility bills, or salaries.

The Tax Implications for Employees: P11D and Benefit in Kind (BIK)

This is a critical part of the equation. While the company enjoys tax relief, the employee who receives the health cover must pay income tax on its value. This is because HMRC classifies private medical insurance as a 'Benefit in Kind' (BIK).

A BIK is any non-cash benefit that an employee receives from their employer. Think of company cars, gym memberships, or, in this case, private health cover. These benefits have a cash equivalent value, and that value is subject to income tax.

The P11D Form

Each year, employers must report the value of any benefits in kind provided to their employees to HMRC. This is done using a P11D form.

  • Who is it for? A P11D must be completed for each employee who receives benefits in kind.
  • What does it do? It details the type of benefit and its cash value for the tax year (which runs from 6th April to 5th April).
  • Deadline: The P11D form must be submitted to HMRC by 6th July following the end of the tax year.

The value reported on the P11D form is then added to the employee's total earnings for the year, and they pay income tax on it at their marginal rate (20%, 40%, or 45% in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland).

How Employee BIK Tax is Calculated: An Example

Let's return to our example employee at Innovate Ltd, who receives a PMI policy with an annual premium of £800. How much extra tax will they pay? It depends on their income tax band.

Employee's Income Tax BandTax RateAnnual Premium (BIK Value)Annual Tax Owed on PMIMonthly Tax Owed
Basic Rate Taxpayer20%£800£160£13.33
Higher Rate Taxpayer40%£800£320£26.67
Additional Rate Taxpayer45%£800£420£35.00

This tax is usually collected automatically through a change in the employee's tax code, which reduces their potentially tax-efficient personal allowance. This means they will see a small reduction in their net pay each month. It's crucial for employers to communicate this clearly to staff when launching a PMI scheme.

How Class 1A National Insurance Contributions Work for Employers

The tax implications don't end with Corporation Tax relief for the company and income tax for the employee. There is one more important cost for the employer: Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs).

Employers are required to pay Class 1A NICs on the total value of most benefits in kind they provide to their employees. This is a separate payment made to HMRC.

  • The Rate: The Class 1A NICs rate for the 2024/2025 tax year is 13.8%.
  • Calculation: The employer pays 13.8% of the total BIK value. In our Innovate Ltd example, the total value of the PMI benefit is £8,000.
  • Cost to Employer (illustrative): 13.8% of £8,000 = £1,104.

This Class 1A NIC payment is also an allowable business expense, so it can be deducted from profits before calculating Corporation Tax.

The Full Picture: Calculating the True Net Cost for an Employer

Let's put all the pieces together to find the true, final cost for Innovate Ltd to provide PMI for its 10 employees.

ItemCost / (Saving)Calculation
1. Annual PMI Premium£8,000£800 x 10 employees
2. Class 1A National Insurance£1,10413.8% of £8,000
Total Gross Outlay£9,104(Line 1 + Line 2)
3. Corporation Tax Relief(£2,276)25% of £9,104
True Net Cost to Company£6,828(Gross Outlay - Tax Relief)

So, while the initial premium was £8,000, the final, after-tax cost to the business is only £6,828. This represents a total saving of 27.2% on the gross outlay. For a benefit that can dramatically improve employee health and loyalty, this represents outstanding value for money. (illustrative estimate)

Are There Any Exceptions or Special Cases?

While the rules are straightforward for most limited companies and their employees, there are a few scenarios where the tax treatment differs.

Sole Traders and Partnerships

For self-employed sole traders or members of a partnership, the tax situation is less favourable. If you buy private medical insurance for yourself, HMRC will generally not allow you to claim it as a business expense.

The "wholly and exclusively" rule is interpreted much more strictly here. HMRC argues that an individual's health is a personal matter, not a business one, even if illness would prevent you from working. Any benefit you receive is considered a dual-purpose expense (personal and business), which disqualifies it from tax relief.

However, if a sole trader or partnership employs other people, they can provide PMI to their employees and claim the full cost as an allowable business expense, just like a limited company. The employees would still be liable for BIK tax.

Company Directors

Company directors are treated as employees for tax purposes. This means:

  • A company may pay for a director's private medical insurance.
  • The premium is an allowable business expense for the company.
  • The director must pay income tax on the value of the benefit (it's a BIK).
  • The company must pay Class 1A NICs on the premium cost.

Business Health Insurance Trusts

For very large organisations, a Business Health Insurance Trust can be a more tax-efficient way to manage employee healthcare. A trust is a separate legal entity that holds funds specifically for paying employees' medical claims.

  • How it works: The company makes payments into the trust, which are an allowable business expense.
  • Tax benefit: When the trust pays for an employee's treatment, it is not usually considered a BIK. This means the employee does not pay income tax, and the employer does not pay Class 1A NICs.
  • Considerations: Setting up and administering a trust is complex and expensive. It is typically only viable for companies with hundreds or thousands of employees.

For most small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a standard group PMI scheme is the most practical and cost-effective solution. A specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners can help you determine the best structure for your specific business needs.

The Broader Benefits of Offering PMI: Beyond the Tax Deduction

The significant tax efficiencies are a major advantage, but the true value of offering private medical insurance UK lies in the profound positive impact it has on your workforce and your business operations.

1. Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

In a competitive job market, a comprehensive benefits package is a powerful differentiator. After salary and pension, health and wellbeing benefits are consistently ranked as what employees value most. Offering PMI signals that you are a caring employer who invests in your team's long-term health.

2. Reducing Sickness Absence

This is perhaps the most direct and measurable return on investment. With NHS waiting lists reaching record levels—the latest NHS England data shows over 7.5 million cases on the referral-to-treatment waiting list—employees can face long, anxious waits for diagnosis and treatment.

PMI provides a faster route to specialist consultations, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and surgical procedures. This can reduce an employee's time off work from months to mere weeks. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), a record 185.6 million working days were lost due to sickness or injury in 2022, costing the UK economy billions. Reducing this figure in your own business can have a huge impact on productivity and profitability.

3. Boosting Productivity and Morale

It's not just about absence. An employee worried about a health issue or struggling with pain while waiting for treatment is unlikely to be fully focused or productive. This 'presenteeism' can be just as costly as absenteeism. Quick access to care alleviates this stress, improving focus and overall morale across the team.

4. Comprehensive Wellness and Preventative Care

Modern private health cover is about much more than just treating illness. The main PMI providers now include a host of proactive wellness benefits, such as:

  • 24/7 Virtual GP Access: Allowing employees to speak to a doctor anytime, anywhere, often getting a prescription the same day where available.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling and therapy sessions without a long wait.
  • Gym Discounts and Fitness Programmes: Encouraging an active lifestyle.
  • Diet and Nutrition Advice: Supporting healthy habits.

WeCovr goes a step further. All our clients who purchase health or life insurance receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our cutting-edge AI-powered calorie tracking and nutrition app, helping your team build healthy habits day by day. We also offer exclusive discounts on other insurance products to help your employees protect their families and finances.

A Note on What UK Private Medical Insurance Covers

It is essential for both employers and employees to understand the scope of a standard UK PMI policy. This helps manage expectations and ensures the benefit is properly understood.

PMI 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 (e.g., joint replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment).

PMI is NOT designed to cover CHRONIC or PRE-EXISTING conditions.

  • A chronic condition is an illness that continues indefinitely and has no known cure. It can be managed but not resolved (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis). Day-to-day management of chronic conditions remains with the NHS.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness, injury, or symptom for which you have sought advice, diagnosis, or treatment in the years before your policy starts (typically the last 5 years).

Underwriting: How Insurers Handle Pre-existing Conditions

There are two main ways that insurers assess pre-existing conditions, and you will need to choose one when setting up a group scheme.

  1. Moratorium Underwriting (Most Common): This is a "don't ask, just cover" approach. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. However, if you remain symptom-free, treatment-free, and advice-free for that condition for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts, the exclusion may be lifted.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): This involves completing a detailed health questionnaire for each employee. The insurer then reviews their medical history and may apply specific, permanent exclusions to the policy for any pre-existing conditions they identify. It provides certainty from day one but is more administratively intensive.

A knowledgeable broker can advise on which underwriting method is best for your group.

How to Set Up a Company PMI Scheme: A Step-by-Step Guide

Implementing a private medical insurance scheme for your business is a straightforward process when you have expert guidance.

  1. Define Your Budget and Objectives:

    • How much can you afford to spend per employee, per year? Remember to factor in the tax savings.
    • How many employees will be covered? Just senior management, or the whole company?
    • What is your primary goal? Is it to reduce sickness absence, attract new hires, or reward long-serving staff?

  2. Speak to a Regulated PMI Broker:

    • This is the most important step. A specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners does not charge you for their service. Their fee is paid by the insurer you choose.
    • A broker works for you, not the insurance company. They provide regulated advice and use their market knowledge to find the most suitable terms and price for your business.

  3. Compare the Market and Customise Your Policy:

    • Your broker will present you with quotes from leading UK insurers (e.g., Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, Vitality). They will help you compare not just the price, but the crucial details of the cover.
    • You can customise the policy to fit your budget by adjusting options like:
      • Level of Outpatient Cover: The limit for consultations and diagnostics.
      • Hospital List: Which private hospitals are included.
      • Excess: An amount the employee pays towards any claim.

  4. Choose Your Underwriting Method:

    • Your broker will explain the pros and cons of Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting for your specific group and help you make the right choice.

  5. Implement and Communicate:

    • Once you've chosen a policy, your broker will handle the application process.
    • It's vital to then communicate the new benefit clearly to your staff. Explain what is covered, how to make a claim, and—importantly—the personal tax implications (Benefit in Kind). A clear launch helps ensure the benefit is valued and used correctly.

The UK private health insurance market is complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy combinations. Trying to navigate this alone can be time-consuming and risks you choosing a policy that isn't right for your business or your people.

Partnering with a WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners simplifies the entire process and provides invaluable peace of mind.

  • Panel-based Access: We compare policies from all the UK insurer panel to find the right fit.
  • regulated guidance: Our specialists understand the fine print and can tailor a plan to meet your specific business goals and budget.
  • Unbeatable Value: We leverage our relationships with insurers to negotiate competitive terms on your behalf.
  • No Separate Broker Fee: Our regulated guidance and support are completely free for our clients.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our reputation is built on providing clear, honest, and effective advice that puts our clients first.

Do employees have to pay tax on company health insurance?

Yes. In the UK, private medical insurance paid for by an employer is considered a 'Benefit in Kind' (BIK). The value of the insurance premium is added to the employee's income for the year, and they must pay income tax on it at their marginal rate (e.g., 20% or 40%). This is usually collected via a change to their tax code.

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

Generally, no. A sole trader cannot usually claim their own private medical insurance as a tax-deductible business expense. HMRC considers an individual's health a personal matter, not a business one. However, if a sole trader has employees, they can provide health insurance to them and claim the cost as an allowable business expense.

What is a P11D form and who is responsible for it?

A P11D form is used by an employer to report the value of any benefits in kind (like private health insurance) provided to an employee during the tax year. The employer is responsible for completing the P11D form for each relevant employee and submitting it to HMRC by the 6th of July each year.

Does company PMI cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK private medical insurance policies are designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after the policy begins. They do not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses that cannot be cured).

Ready to explore how a private medical insurance scheme can benefit your business and your team? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation chat and a comparison of the market's leading policies. Let our experts handle the complexity, so you can focus on what you do best: running your business.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

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

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

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

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.

Key guides

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