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PMI vs. Self-Pay Whats the Difference

PMI vs. Self-Pay Whats the Difference 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the crucial choice between using insurance and paying for treatment yourself, helping you make an informed decision for your health and finances.

Choosing how to access private healthcare in the UK is a significant decision. Do you rely on a private medical insurance (PMI) policy, or do you pay for treatment directly from your own pocket—a method known as 'self-pay'?

Understanding the difference is more important than ever. Recent trends in the UK's private healthcare market show a fascinating shift. While record NHS waiting lists have pushed more people to consider private options, the way they are funding this care is changing.

This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about PMI vs. self-pay. We'll explore the latest market data, provide a detailed comparison of the pros and cons, and help you decide which path is right for your personal circumstances.

The private healthcare landscape is not static. It responds to economic pressures, public health challenges, and consumer behaviour. The most significant recent influence has been the unprecedented pressure on the NHS.

According to the latest data from the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN), the independent body that monitors the sector, there has been a notable change in how private treatment is funded.

  • Rise in PMI-Funded Admissions: The volume of admissions funded by private medical insurance has seen a steady increase. In late 2023 and early 2024, PMI-funded procedures grew significantly, accounting for the majority of all private hospital admissions. This suggests that more individuals and employers are turning to insurance as a predictable way to manage potential health costs.
  • Decline in Self-Pay Admissions: Conversely, the number of people choosing to self-pay for treatment has experienced a downturn. After an initial surge post-pandemic, self-pay admissions have fallen. This trend is widely attributed to the UK's cost-of-living crisis, which has made large, one-off medical bills less affordable for many households.
  • NHS Waiting Lists as a Driver: The core reason for the overall growth in the private sector remains the extensive NHS waiting lists. As of mid-2024, millions of treatments are on the waiting list in England alone, prompting patients to seek faster alternatives for diagnosis and procedures.

This data paints a clear picture: while the need for private healthcare is high, the method of payment is leaning heavily towards the security and predictability of insurance.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Private Medical Insurance, often called private health cover, is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private healthcare for specific medical conditions. You pay a regular fee, known as a premium (usually monthly or annually), and in return, the insurer agrees to pay for eligible treatment at a private facility.

Think of it like car insurance, but for your health. You hope you never need it, but it provides immense peace of mind and financial protection if you do.

How Does PMI Work?

  1. You feel unwell: You visit your NHS GP as usual.
  2. You get a referral: If your GP recommends seeing a specialist, you can ask for a 'private referral'.
  3. You contact your insurer: You inform your PMI provider about the referral and the recommended treatment.
  4. Authorisation: The insurer checks that the condition and treatment are covered by your policy and authorises the claim.
  5. Treatment: You proceed with your consultation, tests, or procedure at a private hospital in your insurer's network.
  6. Payment: The insurer pays the hospital and specialist directly, minus any excess you agreed to pay.

The Critical Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to understand about UK private medical insurance:

  • PMI is for ACUTE conditions. 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 does NOT cover CHRONIC or PRE-EXISTING conditions.
    • A chronic condition is an illness that is long-lasting and needs ongoing management, rather than a cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure).
    • A pre-existing condition is any ailment you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began.

Standard PMI is designed to protect you against new and unexpected health issues that arise after you take out the cover.

What is Self-Pay Private Healthcare?

Self-pay is the most straightforward way to access private healthcare. You simply choose the hospital and consultant you want, get a price for the treatment, and pay for it yourself using your own funds.

There are no premiums, no policy documents, and no insurance claims. You are acting as a direct consumer, purchasing a medical service.

Many private hospitals now offer 'fixed-price packages' for common procedures. These packages typically include:

  • The initial consultation
  • The procedure itself (surgeon and anaesthetist fees)
  • Hospital stay for a set number of nights
  • Standard post-operative care and one follow-up appointment

However, it's crucial to read the small print. These packages often don't cover the cost of initial diagnostics (like an MRI or CT scan) or treatment for any unexpected complications that might arise.

Typical Costs for Self-Pay Procedures in the UK

To give you an idea of the costs involved, here are some average price ranges for common self-pay procedures in 2025. Prices vary significantly by hospital and location.

ProcedureTypical Self-Pay Cost Range
MRI Scan£350 - £800
Cataract Surgery (per eye)£2,500 - £4,500
Hip Replacement£12,000 - £17,000
Knee Replacement£13,000 - £18,000
Hernia Repair£3,000 - £5,000

As you can see, while a diagnostic scan might be manageable, major surgery represents a substantial financial outlay.

PMI vs. Self-Pay: A Head-to-Head Comparison

To help you weigh the options, let's compare the two approaches across several key factors.

FeaturePrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)Self-Pay Private Healthcare
Cost StructureRegular, predictable monthly/annual premiums.Large, one-off payment per treatment.
Financial PredictabilityHigh. You know your fixed premium costs, protecting you from huge, unexpected bills.Low. The final bill can escalate if complications occur or further treatment is needed.
Upfront CostLow. Your main initial cost is the first premium and any policy excess upon claiming.Very High. You need thousands of pounds in accessible savings.
Coverage ScopeCovers a range of eligible acute conditions that may arise during the policy term.Covers only the specific treatment you have paid for. A new issue requires a new payment.
Best For...Budgeting for peace of mind and protecting against future, unknown health issues.A single, specific, non-urgent procedure when you have sufficient funds available.
Choice of HospitalExcellent choice from a pre-approved network of high-quality hospitals.Complete freedom to choose any hospital or consultant in the UK or even abroad.
Administrative BurdenMinimal. The insurer and broker handle most of the admin and direct billing.High. You must research hospitals, compare prices, and manage all arrangements yourself.
Financial RiskYou risk premium increases over time. Your policy will have exclusions.You bear 100% of the financial risk if costs spiral beyond the initial quote.

The Pros and Cons of Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Advantages of PMI

  1. Financial Security and Budgeting: PMI replaces a potentially crippling, unknown medical bill with a fixed, manageable monthly premium. This is the primary benefit – it’s a tool for budgeting and risk management.
  2. Fast Access to Treatment: PMI allows you to bypass lengthy NHS waiting lists for consultations, diagnostics, and surgery, getting you treated faster.
  3. Choice and Comfort: You get to choose from a wide network of leading specialists and high-quality private hospitals. Treatment usually includes a private room, en-suite facilities, and more flexible visiting hours.
  4. Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some policies provide access to new, innovative drugs or treatments that may not be available on the NHS due to cost or NICE guidelines.
  5. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a plan in place to deal with future health concerns can significantly reduce anxiety for you and your family.
  6. Added Value: Modern policies from the best PMI providers come with valuable extras like 24/7 digital GP access, mental health support lines, and wellness incentives.

Disadvantages of PMI

  1. The Cost: Premiums are an ongoing financial commitment and typically increase as you get older.
  2. Exclusions are Key: PMI does not cover everything. As stated, chronic conditions and pre-existing conditions are not covered. Other standard exclusions often include cosmetic surgery, organ transplants, and uncomplicated pregnancy.
  3. The Excess: Nearly all policies have an excess. This is the portion of the claim you must pay yourself (e.g., the first £250). Choosing a higher excess can lower your premium.
  4. Policy Limits: Your cover will have annual limits, either on the total value of claims or on specific types of treatment (like outpatient therapies).

The Pros and Cons of Self-Pay

Advantages of Self-Pay

  1. No Ongoing Costs: If you are healthy and don't need treatment, you pay nothing. There are no monthly premiums to worry about.
  2. Ultimate Freedom of Choice: You can choose any consultant, any clinic, and any hospital in the country without being restricted to an insurer's network.
  3. Simplicity and Speed: For a straightforward procedure, it can be very quick. You find a provider, agree on a price, and book the treatment. There's no need to get a claim authorised.
  4. Price Transparency (for some procedures): The growth of fixed-price packages has made it easier to compare costs for common, low-risk operations.

Disadvantages of Self-Pay

  1. Extremely High Cost: As shown in the table above, major surgery can easily cost more than a family car. This is simply unaffordable for most people.
  2. The Risk of Complications: This is the biggest financial danger. A fixed-price package may not cover the costs if something goes wrong during or after surgery. A post-operative infection requiring a longer hospital stay and more treatment could add thousands to your final bill.
  3. Requires Large Savings: You need to have a significant amount of cash readily available. Using your life savings for medical treatment can be a stressful and risky financial decision.
  4. Hidden Costs: The initial quote may not include initial consultations, diagnostic scans (which can cost hundreds of pounds each), or follow-up physiotherapy.

How to Choose: Key Questions to Ask Yourself

The right choice depends entirely on your financial situation, your attitude to risk, and your health priorities. Ask yourself these questions:

  • What is my budget? Can I more comfortably afford a regular monthly payment (PMI), or do I have a large lump sum saved that I am willing to spend (Self-Pay)?
  • What is my tolerance for risk? Would a surprise £15,000 bill for a knee replacement be financially devastating? If so, PMI is a safer option to mitigate that risk.
  • What am I trying to achieve? Am I planning for a specific, one-off procedure (e.g., varicose vein removal), or am I seeking long-term peace of mind against a range of future possibilities?
  • How much time and effort can I spare? Am I willing to spend hours researching hospitals, comparing consultant fees, and managing the logistics (Self-Pay), or would I prefer an expert to guide me (PMI via a broker)?

For most people who want to ensure they can access private care for a range of potential issues without facing catastrophic costs, private medical insurance offers a more sustainable and secure solution.

How a Specialist PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can be complex. The market is filled with different providers, policy types, and confusing jargon. This is where an independent broker is invaluable.

A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies. Our role is to:

  1. Understand Your Needs: We take the time to learn about your budget, health priorities, and what's important to you in a policy.
  2. Compare the Market: We use our expertise and technology to compare dozens of policies from the UK's leading insurers to find the best fit.
  3. Provide Expert, Impartial Advice: We explain the differences between policies in plain English, highlighting the key benefits and, crucially, the exclusions. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are built on this transparent approach.
  4. Save You Money and Time: We do the legwork for you, and because we have access to a wide range of products, we can often find cover that is both more comprehensive and better value than going direct.

Our advice service is provided at no cost to you. We receive a commission from the insurer if you decide to proceed, but our primary duty is to you, our client. As an FCA-authorised firm, we are held to the highest standards of conduct.

Beyond the Policy: The WeCovr Advantage

We believe in providing holistic value. When you arrange a PMI policy through us, you also get:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you manage your health proactively.
  • Discounts on other insurance: Customers who take out PMI or life insurance with us are eligible for discounts on other products like home or travel insurance.

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

Yes, you can still get a private medical insurance policy, but it's crucial to understand that the policy will not cover the pre-existing condition itself or any related ailments. Standard UK PMI is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. When you apply, the insurer will either exclude your condition specifically or offer 'moratorium' underwriting, which automatically excludes anything you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last five years.

Is it cheaper to self-pay for a minor procedure than to claim on my insurance?

It can be, but you must consider your policy excess and No Claims Discount (NCD). If the cost of the minor procedure is less than your policy excess, you would have to pay for it all anyway, so self-paying makes sense. If the cost is slightly above your excess, you need to weigh whether making a small claim is worth the potential increase in your premium at renewal due to a reduced NCD. For very small procedures, self-paying can sometimes be the more economical choice in the long run.

What happens if my self-pay surgery has complications?

This is the single biggest risk of the self-pay route. If you have complications that require further surgery, medication, or a longer hospital stay, you are personally liable for the additional costs. A fixed-price package will have clear limits on what it covers for post-operative care. Any costs beyond that will be billed directly to you, and they can be substantial. With a PMI policy, eligible costs for treating complications would typically be covered, up to your policy limits.

What is the difference between an 'acute' and a 'chronic' condition?

An 'acute' condition is an illness or injury that is short-lived and expected to respond fully to treatment, such as a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract. Private medical insurance is designed to cover these. A 'chronic' condition is a long-term illness that requires ongoing management rather than a cure, such as diabetes, asthma, or arthritis. These are not covered by standard PMI policies and are managed through the NHS.

The choice between PMI and self-pay is a balance of cost, risk, and peace of mind. While self-pay offers simplicity for those with ample funds, the market trend towards PMI reflects a wider desire for financial predictability in uncertain times.

Ready to explore your options and see how affordable peace of mind can be?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our expert advisors help you find the perfect private health cover for your needs.

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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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