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Private Gps Work with Insurers for Speed

Struggling to get a timely GP appointment in the UK? WeCovr, an insurance broker that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies, explains how private medical insurance is using digital GPs to provide faster access, where available, to care and specialist referrals, transforming the patient experience.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

Struggling to get a timely GP appointment in the UK? WeCovr, an insurance broker that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies, explains how private medical insurance is using digital GPs to provide faster access, where available, to care and specialist referrals, transforming the patient experience.

Key takeaways

  • Book Your Appointment: Log in to your insurer's app or online portal. You can usually choose between a video or phone consultation and select a time that suits you, often on the same day where available.
  • The Consultation: A GMC-registered private GP will call you at the scheduled time. You can discuss your symptoms in confidence, just as you would with your regular GP. For video calls, you can show the doctor visible symptoms like rashes or swelling.
  • Issue a private prescription, which can be sent to a local pharmacy for collection or delivered to your door.
  • Provide immediate medical advice and peace of mind.

Struggling to get a timely GP appointment in the UK? WeCovr, an insurance broker that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies, explains how private medical insurance is using digital GPs to provide faster access, where available, to care and specialist referrals, transforming the patient experience.

Digital-first consultations and referral strategies

In a healthcare landscape where time is a precious commodity, the partnership between private medical insurance (PMI) providers and digital GP services has become a game-changer. This collaboration is built on a simple yet powerful premise: to provide policyholders with swift, convenient access to medical advice and, crucially, a streamlined pathway to specialist treatment.

The strategy is "digital-first." Instead of waiting weeks for a face-to-face appointment, you can speak to a qualified GP, often within hours, via your smartphone or computer. This initial consultation is the gateway to the entire private healthcare system. If the GP determines you need to see a specialist—like a dermatologist, cardiologist, or orthopaedic surgeon—they can issue an immediate referral, allowing your insurer to authorise the next steps without delay. This integrated approach cuts out weeks of waiting, moving you from symptom to solution faster than ever before.

The Growing Challenge: NHS Pressures and Patient Wait Times

It's no secret that the National Health Service (NHS), while a cherished institution, is under immense pressure. Securing a GP appointment can be a challenge, and the subsequent wait for specialist treatment can be lengthy.

According to the latest data from NHS England, the elective care waiting list remains a significant concern, with millions of treatments outstanding. Many patients wait well over the 18-week target for referral-to-treatment. This delay can cause anxiety, prolong discomfort, and potentially worsen health outcomes.

The Statistics Behind the Strain

  • GP Appointments: While the NHS is delivering millions more appointments than before the pandemic, a significant portion of patients still wait more than two weeks to see a GP.
  • Referral to Treatment (RTT): The median waiting time for non-urgent, consultant-led treatment can often exceed 14 weeks, with some specialities and regions experiencing much longer delays.
  • Patient Satisfaction: These pressures have an understandable impact on public satisfaction with the health service, driving many to explore faster alternatives for their healthcare needs.

This is the gap that private medical insurance, supercharged with digital GP services, is designed to fill. It offers a parallel path for those who want to bypass the queues for eligible, acute conditions.

The Private Sector's Answer: Integrated Digital GP Services

To counter these delays, nearly all major UK private health cover providers now include a digital GP service as a core component of their policies. These services are often available 24/7, 365 days a year, putting healthcare at your fingertips.

Think of it as having a GP in your pocket. Whether you're at home, at work, or even on holiday, you can get medical advice without disrupting your day.

How a Virtual GP Consultation Works

The process is designed for simplicity and speed:

  1. Book Your Appointment: Log in to your insurer's app or online portal. You can usually choose between a video or phone consultation and select a time that suits you, often on the same day where available.
  2. The Consultation: A GMC-registered private GP will call you at the scheduled time. You can discuss your symptoms in confidence, just as you would with your regular GP. For video calls, you can show the doctor visible symptoms like rashes or swelling.
  3. Receive Your Outcome: Following the consultation, the GP can:
    • Issue a private prescription, which can be sent to a local pharmacy for collection or delivered to your door.
    • Provide immediate medical advice and peace of mind.
    • If necessary, write a referral letter for specialist investigation or treatment.

The "Golden Ticket": Rapid Referrals to Specialist Care

The single most powerful feature of this system is the referral strategy. A fast referral from a private GP is your "golden ticket" to accessing the full benefits of your private medical insurance.

When the digital GP believes you need to see a specialist, they generate a referral letter. This is the key that unlocks the next stage of your private treatment journey. You send this letter to your insurer, who will then pre-authorise your specialist consultation based on the cover you have.

This process sidesteps the NHS waiting list for specialist appointments entirely. Instead of waiting months, you could be seeing a consultant in a matter of days.

Open Referrals vs. Guided Options: What's the Difference?

When you receive a referral, your insurer may offer different ways to choose a specialist.

Referral TypeDescriptionProsCons
Open ReferralThe GP refers you to a type of specialist (e.g., a dermatologist) rather than a named individual. Your insurer then provides a list of approved specialists in your area.More choice, allows you to research specialists.Can be overwhelming; you have to do the legwork.
Guided OptionYour insurer may have a "guided" or "consultant choice" list. Choosing from this curated list often results in a lower premium.Lower policy cost, simplifies the choice.Less choice of specialists or hospitals.

An expert PMI broker can help you understand these options and choose a policy that balances cost with the level of choice you desire.

Comparing Digital GP Services from Leading UK Insurers

While most insurers offer a digital GP service, the specifics can vary. Some use their own in-house service, while others partner with established telehealth providers like Teladoc Health or Doctor Care Anywhere.

Here’s a simplified look at what some of the main PMI providers in the UK typically offer.

ProviderDigital GP Service NameTypical AvailabilityKey Features
BupaDigital GP (powered by Babylon)24/7Video/phone appointments, symptom checker, open referrals.
AXA HealthDoctor at Hand (powered by Teladoc Health)24/7Video consultations, prescription service, seamless specialist referrals.
AvivaAviva Digital GP (powered by Square Health)24/7Video consultations, choice of GP by gender, prescription delivery.
VitalityVitality GP24/7Video/phone appointments, direct referrals, integrated with the Vitality wellness programme.

Note: Service features are subject to change and depend on the specific policy chosen. It's vital to check the details of your plan.

The Crucial Rule of Private Health Insurance: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to understand when considering private medical insurance UK. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

They do not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

What is an Acute Condition?

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like:

  • Joint pain requiring a hip replacement
  • Cataracts
  • Hernias
  • Diagnosing and treating most cancers
  • Infections or unexpected illnesses

PMI is designed to get you diagnosed and treated for these conditions swiftly, returning you to your previous state of health.

What are Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions?

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you have sought advice or treatment for in the years before your policy starts (typically the last 5 years). Most policies exclude these, although some may cover them again if you remain symptom-free for a set period (usually 2 years) after your policy begins.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that cannot be cured but can be managed. This includes illnesses like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. The day-to-day management of these conditions will remain with your NHS GP, as they are not covered by standard PMI.

PMI may cover an acute flare-up of a chronic condition, but it will not cover the ongoing management. Always be transparent about your medical history during the application process.

Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Policy with a PMI Broker

The private medical insurance market is complex. With dozens of providers, different underwriting options, and varying levels of cover, choosing a strong fit for your needs can be daunting. This is where a regulated, FCA-authorised broker becomes an invaluable ally.

Why Use a WeCovr Specialist or Trusted Broker Partner?

  1. Expert Market Knowledge: A specialist broker understands the nuances of each insurer's offering, including the quality and integration of their digital GP services.
  2. Personalised Advice: WeCovr takes the time to understand your specific needs, budget, and health priorities to find a strong fit for your needs for you. We don't use a one-size-fits-all approach.
  3. No Separate Broker Fee: Our regulated guidance and comparison service are completely free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get the benefit of our expertise without any additional fees.
  4. Application Support: We help you through the entire application process, ensuring you understand the questions about your medical history and the terms of your policy.
  5. Ongoing Support: Our relationship doesn't end once you buy a policy. A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner can help with claims queries and at renewal time to ensure you continue to have an appropriate level of cover at a competitive price.

Beyond Diagnosis: How Insurers Champion Your Overall Wellbeing

Modern private health cover is about more than just treating you when you're ill. Insurers are increasingly focused on preventative care, helping you stay healthy in the first place.

Many policies now come bundled with a comprehensive wellness programme, offering a range of benefits and incentives designed to support a healthier lifestyle. These can include:

  • Discounted gym memberships
  • Rewards for hitting activity goals (tracked via a smartwatch)
  • Access to mental health support, including counselling sessions
  • Nutritional advice and support for quitting smoking

Your Health in Your Hands: Apps and Incentives

WeCovr believes in empowering our clients to take control of their health. That's why, in addition to finding you the right PMI policy, we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero.

Furthermore, clients who purchase private medical or life insurance through us may also be eligible for exclusive discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your health and your finances all in one place.

Real-Life Examples: How Digital GPs Make a Difference

Let's look at two hypothetical scenarios to see how this works in practice.

Scenario 1: Sarah's Knee Pain

Sarah, a 45-year-old teacher, develops persistent knee pain after a long hike. Her local NHS GP has a three-week waiting list for an appointment.

  • With PMI: Sarah uses her insurer's app and books a video GP appointment for that same evening.
  • The Consultation: The private GP discusses her symptoms and suspects a possible meniscal tear. He issues an open referral for an orthopaedic consultation and an MRI scan.
  • The Outcome: Sarah sends the referral to her insurer. Within 48 hours, her specialist appointment and scan are authorised. She sees a consultant the following week, has her scan, and is booked in for keyhole surgery a fortnight later. The entire process takes less than a month.

Scenario 2: David's Skin Condition

David, a 30-year-old graphic designer, notices an unusual mole on his back. He is worried and wants it checked quickly.

  • With PMI: David books a video call with a digital GP through his policy. He uses his phone's camera to show the GP the mole.
  • The Consultation: While the GP reassures him it's likely benign, they agree it should be examined by a specialist for peace of mind. They issue an immediate referral to a dermatologist.
  • The Outcome: David's insurer authorises the consultation. He sees a dermatologist within days, who confirms the mole is harmless. The speed of the process provides immense relief and prevents weeks of anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Private GPs and PMI

Can a private GP refer me back to the NHS?

Yes, absolutely. If you decide not to use your private medical insurance for the next stage of treatment, or if the condition is not covered by your policy (for example, if it's a chronic condition), the private GP can write a letter for your NHS GP. This letter will detail their findings and recommend the next steps, which your NHS GP can then use to make an NHS referral, saving you from needing another initial appointment.

Are prescriptions from a digital GP covered by my insurance?

Generally, the cost of the medication itself is not covered by your health insurance policy. The digital GP service covers the consultation and the issuing of the private prescription. You will need to pay for the cost of the medication at the pharmacy, which can sometimes be more than the standard NHS prescription charge. However, the cost of eligible drugs administered as part of private inpatient or day-patient treatment is usually covered.

What happens if the digital GP thinks I need a physical examination?

This is a common and important question. If the virtual GP determines that a physical, face-to-face examination is necessary to make a diagnosis, they will advise you accordingly. They may either refer you to a private face-to-face GP service (if included in your policy) or recommend you see your own NHS GP. From there, you can still get the necessary referral to use the rest of your private medical insurance benefits for specialist care.

Does using the 24/7 digital GP service affect my premium or no-claims discount?

In most cases, no. The majority of UK insurers offer their digital GP service as a value-added benefit. This means you can use it as often as you need (within fair usage limits) without it counting as a claim. Therefore, using the virtual GP for advice, prescriptions, or referrals will typically not affect your no-claims discount or your premium at renewal. However, making a claim for subsequent specialist treatment will.

The integration of digital GP services has fundamentally improved the value proposition of private medical insurance in the UK. It provides a tangible, immediate benefit that gives you control over your health journey from the very first step.

Ready to explore how private health cover can give you the speed, choice, and peace of mind you deserve?

Speak to one of our friendly, expert advisors at WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and find a strong fit for your needs.

Sources

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

Important Information and Risks

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

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

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

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

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

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

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

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

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

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

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

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

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

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

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

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

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

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

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

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

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

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

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

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

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

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

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

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

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

To find the right health insurance for you, compare policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has published research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

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



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