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:
- 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.
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.
| Benefit | Description | Real-World Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Speed & Convenience | Access 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 Mind | 24/7 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 Access | Bypasses 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 Access | Many 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):
| Provider | Name of Digital GP Service | Typical Availability | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AXA Health | Doctor at Hand | 24/7 | Up to 5 appointments per person per year. Video or phone. Prescriptions and referrals. |
| Bupa | Digital GP (powered by eMed) | 24/7 | Unlimited use. Video calls. Prescriptions and open referrals. Can be used worldwide. |
| Vitality | Vitality GP | 48-hour access | Video consultations. Direct referrals into Vitality's network. Integrated with their wellness programme. |
| Aviva | Aviva Digital GP (from Square Health) | 24/7 | Unlimited 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
- 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?
- 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.
- 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.
- Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
- 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?
Does a digital GP from my insurer replace my NHS GP?
How much does private medical insurance UK cost?
Can I get a private prescription from a digital GP?
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.











