Private GP Services The New Standard in PMI

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

In the UK, getting a timely GP appointment can feel like a challenge. That’s why WeCovr, an FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, is explaining a game-changing feature: 24/7 private GP access, now a cornerstone of modern PMI. WeCovr explains how 24/7 digital GP access is changing health insurance Waiting for a doctor's appointment can be a source of significant stress.

Key takeaways

  • Download the App: You download the provider's dedicated app onto your device.
  • Register Your Details: You create an account, linking it to your private health cover policy.
  • Book a Consultation: You open the app and choose a time that suits you. In many cases, appointments are available within minutes or hours, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Have Your Consultation: At the appointed time, a GP will contact you via a secure video or phone call.
  • Receive Your Outcome: Following the consultation, the GP can issue private prescriptions, open referral letters for specialists, or provide a fit note (sick note) for work.

In the UK, getting a timely GP appointment can feel like a challenge. That’s why WeCovr, an FCA-authorised private medical insurance broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, is explaining a game-changing feature: 24/7 private GP access, now a cornerstone of modern PMI.

WeCovr explains how 24/7 digital GP access is changing health insurance

Waiting for a doctor's appointment can be a source of significant stress. Recent NHS data highlights the pressure on primary care, with millions waiting over two weeks to see a GP. This delay not only causes anxiety but can also postpone the crucial first step towards diagnosis and treatment.

Historically, private medical insurance (PMI) required a referral from your NHS GP before you could see a private specialist. While this system eventually led to faster specialist care, the initial bottleneck remained.

Today, the landscape of private medical insurance UK has been transformed. The vast majority of modern PMI policies now include integrated digital GP services as a standard benefit. This feature has fundamentally changed the policyholder's journey, shifting the focus from simply treating illness to providing immediate, convenient access to primary care. It represents a move towards a more proactive and user-centric model of healthcare.

What Are Private GP Services and How Do They Work?

A private GP service, often called a 'digital' or 'virtual' GP, provides on-demand medical consultations via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Instead of travelling to a surgery and sitting in a waiting room, you can speak to a qualified UK-based GP from the comfort of your home, office, or even while travelling.

The process is designed for simplicity and speed:

  1. Download the App: You download the provider's dedicated app onto your device.
  2. Register Your Details: You create an account, linking it to your private health cover policy.
  3. Book a Consultation: You open the app and choose a time that suits you. In many cases, appointments are available within minutes or hours, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  4. Have Your Consultation: At the appointed time, a GP will contact you via a secure video or phone call.
  5. Receive Your Outcome: Following the consultation, the GP can issue private prescriptions, open referral letters for specialists, or provide a fit note (sick note) for work.

These services offer a suite of features designed for modern life:

  • Round-the-Clock Access: Speak to a doctor at 3 am about a sick child or at 7 pm after a long day at work.
  • Choice of GP: Many services allow you to view GP profiles and choose between male and female doctors.
  • Private Prescriptions: If medication is needed, a private prescription can be sent directly to your local pharmacy or delivered to your door. You will have to pay for the cost of the prescribed medicine.
  • Fast-Track Referrals: This is the game-changer. If the GP believes you need to see a specialist, they can write an 'open referral' letter immediately, allowing you to begin the claims process with your insurer without visiting your NHS GP.

The Key Benefits for PMI Policyholders

The inclusion of digital GP services delivers tangible benefits that enhance the value of private health cover.

BenefitDescriptionReal-World Impact
Speed & ConvenienceAccess a GP in minutes or hours, not weeks. No travel or waiting room time.A busy professional gets a diagnosis and prescription during their lunch break without leaving the office.
Peace of Mind24/7 availability removes the "what if" anxiety, especially for families with young children.A parent gets immediate advice for a child's high fever in the middle of the night, avoiding a trip to A&E.
Faster Specialist AccessBypasses the NHS GP referral queue, directly unlocking the core benefit of PMI.A patient with worrying symptoms gets a specialist referral in hours, leading to a diagnosis and treatment plan weeks sooner.
Global AccessMany services can be used from anywhere in the world, providing support while on holiday or business.A traveller gets a consultation for a minor illness abroad, receiving advice and a prescription to be filled locally.

The Impact on the UK Private Medical Insurance Market

What was once a premium add-on is now an essential, standard feature of any competitive PMI policy. The leading UK health insurers have all invested heavily in their digital GP platforms, recognising that modern consumers demand speed, convenience, and digital-first solutions.

How Top PMI Providers Compare on Digital GP Services

While most providers offer a similar core service, there can be subtle differences in their offerings. As expert PMI brokers, the team at WeCovr stays on top of these details to help you make an informed choice.

Here is a general comparison of the digital GP services from leading providers (features are subject to change and depend on the specific policy chosen):

ProviderName of Digital GP ServiceTypical AvailabilityKey Features
AXA HealthDoctor at Hand24/7Up to 5 appointments per person per year. Video or phone. Prescriptions and referrals.
BupaDigital GP (powered by eMed)24/7Unlimited use. Video calls. Prescriptions and open referrals. Can be used worldwide.
VitalityVitality GP48-hour accessVideo consultations. Direct referrals into Vitality's network. Integrated with their wellness programme.
AvivaAviva Digital GP (from Square Health)24/7Unlimited use. Choice of GP. Includes an annual health check. Prescriptions and referrals.

Note: This table provides a general overview for 2025. Policy terms and service providers can change. It is crucial to check the specific details of your chosen policy.

Is 'Unlimited' Access Really Unlimited?

Many providers advertise "unlimited" use of their digital GP service. In most cases, this is genuinely the case for consultations. However, it's wise to be aware of potential 'fair usage' policies or caps on specific plans. For example, a more basic policy might limit the number of consultations per year.

This is where the guidance of an impartial expert is invaluable. At WeCovr, we help you navigate the small print to ensure there are no surprises, matching you with a policy that truly fits your needs.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is one of the most important principles to understand about private medical insurance UK. PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain needing a replacement, hernias, cataracts, infections, and most cancers.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease.

Standard UK PMI policies do not cover the treatment of chronic or pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any medical issue you had, sought advice for, or experienced symptoms of before taking out the policy.

While a digital GP can offer advice on any health concern you have, including a chronic condition, your PMI policy will not pay for the ongoing private treatment of that chronic illness. The onward referral to a private specialist will only be covered by your insurance if it is for an eligible acute condition.

Beyond the GP: Integrated Wellness and Preventative Health

The best PMI providers understand that healthcare isn't just about treating sickness; it's about promoting wellness. Digital GP services are often just one part of a much broader ecosystem of health and wellbeing support.

This trend is about empowering you to take control of your health through:

  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling, therapy apps (like Headspace or Calm), and mental wellbeing resources.
  • Fitness Incentives: Discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers (like Apple Watch or Garmin), and rewards for being active.
  • Nutrition Advice: Access to dieticians and apps that help you make healthier food choices.
  • Proactive Health Checks: Some policies include regular health screenings to catch potential issues early.

Vitality is a pioneer in this area, with its entire model built around rewarding healthy behaviour. However, nearly all major insurers now offer compelling wellness benefits, recognising that a healthier client is less likely to make a claim.

WeCovr's Added Value: Supporting Your Health Journey

At WeCovr, we believe in this proactive approach. That's why, in addition to finding you the best PMI provider for your needs, we provide our PMI and Life Insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This tool makes it simple to monitor your diet and make informed choices, aligning perfectly with the preventative ethos of modern health insurance.

Furthermore, when you arrange your private health cover through WeCovr, you may be eligible for discounts on other types of insurance, such as life, home, or travel cover, providing even greater value.

Practical Tips for a Healthier You

A PMI policy is a fantastic safety net, but the best strategy is always prevention. Here are some simple, evidence-based tips for a healthier lifestyle.

  • Nourish Your Body: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, as recommended by the NHS Eatwell Guide. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also crucial for energy and concentration.
  • Prioritise Sleep: According to The Sleep Charity, a large proportion of UK adults suffer from a lack of sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours per night. Improve your sleep hygiene by creating a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, and ensuring your bedroom is dark and cool.
  • Move Every Day: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or swimming) a week. Find an activity you enjoy to make it a sustainable habit.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover for You

With so many options, choosing the right policy can feel overwhelming. Here are the key factors to consider when comparing private health cover.

Key Decision Factors

  1. Level of Cover: Do you want cover for just inpatient treatment (when you're admitted to a hospital bed), or do you want comprehensive outpatient cover for diagnostics and consultations as well?
  2. Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium: Simpler to set up. Pre-existing conditions from the last 5 years are excluded, but can become eligible for cover after a continuous 2-year period on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for that condition.
    • Full Medical Underwriting: You declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer gives you a clear list of what is and isn't covered from day one.
  3. Hospital List: Insurers have different lists of eligible hospitals. If you want access to a specific hospital, ensure it's on your chosen policy's list.
  4. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  5. The Digital GP Service: As we've discussed, compare the specifics. Is it 24/7? Is it unlimited? Does it integrate well with the insurer's claims process?

Why Use a Specialist PMI Broker Like WeCovr?

Navigating the private medical insurance market alone can be complex and time-consuming. An independent broker works for you, not the insurance company.

  • Expert, Impartial Advice: We are experts in the field. We know the providers, the policies, and the pitfalls. WeCovr is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for our clients.
  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare policies from all the leading UK insurers to find the one that offers the best value and the right features for your unique circumstances and budget.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which does not affect the price you pay.
  • We Handle the Hassle: From application to claim, we can provide support and assistance, making the entire process smoother.

Can I use a private GP service for my pre-existing conditions?

Generally, yes, you can use the digital GP service for advice on any medical concern, including pre-existing or chronic conditions. However, it's crucial to remember that your private medical insurance policy will not cover the cost of any subsequent private specialist consultations, tests, or treatment for conditions that are excluded from your policy, such as those that pre-date your cover.

Does a digital GP from my insurer replace my NHS GP?

No, it does not. A private digital GP service is designed to be a complementary service that works alongside your existing NHS primary care. You should always remain registered with an NHS GP practice, as they manage your long-term health records, oversee chronic condition management, and handle routine vaccinations and screenings.

How much does private medical insurance UK cost?

The cost of private medical insurance varies significantly based on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, the level of cover you choose (e.g., outpatient limits, cancer care), your chosen excess, and the underwriting method. Premiums can range from as little as £30 per month to several hundred. The best way to get an accurate figure is to speak to a broker like WeCovr who can provide tailored quotes from across the market.

Can I get a private prescription from a digital GP?

Yes, if the consulting GP deems medication necessary, they can issue a private prescription. This can often be sent electronically to a pharmacy of your choice or via a delivery service. It is important to note that you will be responsible for paying the full cost of the prescribed medication itself, which is not typically covered by your PMI policy.

Ready to experience the speed and convenience of modern private health cover?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will compare the market to find the perfect policy for you, complete with 24/7 GP access and tailored wellness benefits.

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

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

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

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

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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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