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Private Health Insurance and Pre-Authorisation UK

Private Health Insurance and Pre-Authorisation UK 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating the world of private medical insurance in the UK can feel complex. This guide demystifies one of the most crucial steps in using your policy: getting pre-authorisation for your medical treatment.

WeCovr explains how to get approval before treatment

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is your key to accessing fast, high-quality healthcare when you need it most. But before you can see a specialist or book a procedure, there's a vital gatekeeper: pre-authorisation.

Think of it as getting the green light from your insurer. It’s their official confirmation that the treatment you need is covered by your policy, ensuring you won't face unexpected bills later. Without it, you risk having your claim rejected and being left personally liable for the full cost of your private medical care.

This guide will walk you through every step of the pre-authorisation process, from your initial GP visit to receiving your treatment, making sure you feel confident and in control of your health journey.

What is Pre-Authorisation in Private Health Insurance?

Pre-authorisation is the process of getting your private medical insurer's approval before you undergo any consultation, test, or treatment. It is a mandatory step for almost all non-emergency private healthcare.

When you request pre-authorisation, your insurer will check several key things:

  • Is the condition covered? They will confirm that the medical issue is an acute condition (a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment) that began after your policy started.
  • Is the treatment eligible? They will verify that the specific consultation, diagnostic test, or procedure is included in your plan.
  • Is the specialist or hospital recognised? Insurers have a network of approved hospitals and specialists. Pre-authorisation confirms your chosen provider is on their list.
  • Are you within your policy limits? They will check if the cost of the treatment falls within any annual financial limits or benefit limits on your policy.

Once approved, you'll be given an authorisation number or code. This code is your proof of cover, which you will give to the hospital and specialist. It's the signal for them to send the bill directly to your insurer, not to you.

Why is Pre-Authorisation So Important?

Pre-authorisation is a cornerstone of how the UK private medical insurance market functions. It protects both you and the insurer.

For You, the Policyholder:

  • Financial Peace of Mind: The primary benefit is certainty. You know your treatment is paid for (up to your policy limits), eliminating the stress of potentially huge medical bills.
  • Clarity on Cover: The process forces a clear conversation about what is and isn't included in your plan, preventing misunderstandings.
  • Smooth Treatment Journey: With an authorisation code, the hospital's billing department deals directly with your insurer, making the process seamless for you.

For the Insurer:

  • Cost Management: It allows them to manage costs by ensuring that the proposed treatment is medically necessary and appropriate for the condition.
  • Eligibility Checks: It is their opportunity to verify that the claim is valid under the terms of your specific policy, particularly concerning exclusions like pre-existing and chronic conditions.
  • Fraud Prevention: It acts as a crucial check to prevent fraudulent or ineligible claims.

According to NHS England data from 2024, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care was over 14 weeks. With private health cover, this can be reduced to a matter of days or weeks, but only if the pre-authorisation process is followed correctly.

The Golden Rule of UK PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Before we detail the pre-authorisation steps, it's vital to understand the fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A condition that is curable and short-lived. For example, a cataract that can be removed, a joint that needs replacing, or appendicitis. Your body is expected to return to its previous state of health after treatment.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-term and requires ongoing management but has no known cure. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. PMI will not cover the routine management of these conditions.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before the start date of your policy. These are typically excluded for a set period (e.g., two years) or permanently, depending on your underwriting type.

Understanding this distinction is the single most important factor in avoiding a rejected claim. If you attempt to get pre-authorisation for the long-term management of diabetes, it will be declined because it's a chronic condition.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Pre-Authorisation

Navigating the process can feel daunting at first, but it follows a logical path. Here’s a breakdown of the typical journey.

Step 1: Visit Your GP

Your journey to private treatment almost always begins with your NHS General Practitioner (GP). Even if your policy includes a "digital GP" service, you will likely need a formal referral from your registered NHS GP for specialist care.

  • Discuss your symptoms: Explain your health concerns to your GP as you normally would.
  • Request an "Open Referral": If your GP agrees you need to see a specialist, ask them for an open referral letter. This is crucial. An open referral recommends a type of specialist (e.g., a cardiologist or an orthopaedic surgeon) rather than a specific named person. This gives you and your insurer the flexibility to choose a specialist from their approved network.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurer to Start the Claim

As soon as you have your GP referral letter, it's time to contact your private health insurance provider. Do not book any appointments yet!

You can usually do this:

  • By phone (the most common method)
  • Through their online portal or app

This is the point where you officially start your claim and request pre-authorisation.

Step 3: Provide the Necessary Information

Your insurer will need specific details to assess your claim. Having this information ready will make the call much quicker and smoother.

Information Checklist for Your Pre-Authorisation Call

Information RequiredWhy It's Needed
Your Policy NumberTo identify you and your specific level of cover.
Your Full Name & Date of BirthFor security and verification.
Details of Your SymptomsTo understand the medical issue you're facing.
The Date Symptoms First StartedTo check this is a new condition that started after your policy began.
Your GP's DetailsTo confirm the source of the referral.
The Type of Specialist Referrede.g., Dermatologist, Gastroenterologist, etc.
Details of Any Prior TreatmentBe honest about any past consultations or medication for similar issues.

Based on this, the insurer will make an initial assessment. If the condition appears to be a new, acute one, they will proceed to authorise the first step: your initial consultation with a specialist.

Step 4: Receive Your Authorisation Number

If your initial request is approved, your insurer will give you an authorisation number.

  • For the Consultation: They will authorise the initial consultation with a specialist. They may give you a list of 2-3 approved specialists in your area to choose from.
  • Take note of the number: Write it down carefully and keep it safe.

Step 5: Book Your Specialist Appointment

Now, and only now, should you book your appointment.

  1. Choose a specialist from the insurer's approved list.
  2. Contact the specialist's secretary to book the appointment.
  3. When booking, state that you are a patient with private medical insurance and provide your policy number and the authorisation number.

This tells the specialist's office to bill your insurer directly.

Step 6: After the Consultation – Authorising Treatment

During your consultation, the specialist will determine what happens next. This could be:

  • Further diagnostic tests (e.g., an MRI scan, blood tests, an endoscopy).
  • A course of treatment (e.g., physiotherapy).
  • A surgical procedure.

Crucially, each of these subsequent steps requires a new pre-authorisation.

You or the specialist's secretary will need to contact your insurer again with the details of the proposed tests or treatment. This will include:

  • The name of the procedure.
  • The Procedure Code (a unique code for the medical treatment, also known as a CCSD code).
  • The estimated cost.
  • The hospital where it will take place.

The insurer will review this new request. If approved, they will issue a new or updated authorisation number covering these specific next steps. This process is repeated for each stage of your treatment pathway.

What to Do in a Medical Emergency

The pre-authorisation process is designed for planned, elective treatment. It does not apply in the same way for genuine medical emergencies.

If you are admitted to a hospital in an emergency (e.g., for a suspected heart attack or severe injury), your priority is to get immediate medical attention. Most private policies state that you or a family member must contact them within 48 hours of admission to inform them.

The insurer will then work with the hospital to assess cover. In many cases, emergency stabilisation happens in an NHS A&E, and you might then be transferred to a private room or facility once your condition is stable and cover is confirmed.

Common Reasons for a Pre-Authorisation Request Being Denied

It can be distressing to have a claim denied, but it almost always comes down to the terms and conditions of the policy.

Top Reasons for Denial:

  1. Pre-existing Condition: The insurer's medical team determines that your symptoms or the underlying condition existed before your policy began. This is the most common reason for rejection.
  2. Chronic Condition: The treatment is for the ongoing management of a long-term condition, not for an acute flare-up that can be resolved.
  3. General Policy Exclusion: The treatment itself is not covered by your plan. Common exclusions include cosmetic surgery, treatment for addiction, fertility issues, and uncomplicated pregnancy.
  4. Outpatient or Benefit Limit Exceeded: Your policy may have a financial limit on outpatient services (like consultations and scans). If the proposed treatment exceeds this limit, it will be denied.
  5. Specialist or Hospital is Not Recognised: You have tried to book with a provider who is not part of the insurer's approved network.

What to Do if Your Claim is Denied:

  1. Ask for a Reason in Writing: Request a clear, written explanation for the denial, referencing the specific clause in your policy document.
  2. Review Your Policy: Read the section your insurer has referenced. Does their reasoning seem fair?
  3. Provide More Information: Sometimes a denial is due to a misunderstanding. You or your specialist may be able to provide more clinical information to support the claim that the condition is acute and eligible.
  4. Use the Formal Appeals Process: All insurers have a formal complaints and appeals procedure. Follow it step-by-step.
  5. Contact the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS): If you have exhausted the insurer's internal process and are still unsatisfied, you can take your case to the FOS. They are an independent body that settles disputes between consumers and financial services firms.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable in these situations. We understand policy wording inside-out and can often help advocate on your behalf to resolve disputes with insurers.

How Different Insurers Handle Pre-Authorisation

While the core principles are the same across the market, there can be slight variations in process between the best PMI providers.

General Comparison of Pre-Authorisation Processes (Illustrative)

ProviderTypical Process HighlightsDigital Tools
AXA HealthStrong emphasis on their "Fast Track Appointments" service, often arranging the specialist appointment for you. Clear online portal for claims.Excellent member online portal and app for claim tracking.
BupaWell-established telephone-based claims process. Often provides an "open referral" search tool to find approved consultants.Robust Bupa Touch app for managing policies and starting claims.
VitalityHealthProcess is integrated with their wellness programme. May require engagement with their "Vitality GP" service first. Strong focus on their premier consultant panel.Highly integrated app that combines claims, GP access, and wellness rewards.
WPAKnown for flexible policies and good customer service. Often allows more freedom in choosing a specialist, as long as they are fee-assured.Simple and effective online portal for claim submission and management.

At WeCovr, we work with all these leading insurers and more. Our expertise allows us to not only find you the right policy but also to explain the specific claims process for your chosen provider, so you know exactly what to expect.

WeCovr's Extra Benefits: More Than Just Insurance

We believe in a holistic approach to your health and wellbeing. That's why when you arrange your private medical insurance through us, you get more than just a policy.

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All our clients receive free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet can significantly reduce your risk of developing many acute conditions, helping you stay healthier for longer.
  • Discounts on Other Insurance: Protecting your health goes hand-in-hand with protecting your family's future. Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr are eligible for exclusive discounts on other types of cover, such as income protection or critical illness insurance.
  • Expert, Ongoing Support: WeCovr enjoys high customer satisfaction ratings because our service doesn't stop once you've bought a policy. We are here to help you understand your cover and navigate processes like pre-authorisation, at no extra cost to you.

Wellness Tips to Help You Stay Out of the Doctor's Office

The best claim is the one you never have to make. Investing in your health is the most effective way to reduce your need for medical treatment.

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods – fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A Mediterranean-style diet is consistently linked to better cardiovascular health. Use your free CalorieHero app to track your intake and make healthier choices.
  • Regular Physical Activity: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) a week.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a weakened immune system, weight gain, and higher stress levels. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can have a real physical impact on your body. Incorporate stress-management techniques into your day, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does private health insurance pre-authorisation take?

For a straightforward initial consultation, pre-authorisation can often be granted in a single phone call that takes 15-20 minutes. For more complex procedures or tests, the insurer may need to review clinical information from your specialist, which could take a few working days. It's best to contact your insurer as soon as you have the referral to avoid delays.

Do I need pre-authorisation for every single appointment?

Generally, yes. You need authorisation for the initial consultation. If that consultant recommends a follow-up appointment for the same condition, it may be covered under the initial authorisation, but you must check. Any new step, such as a diagnostic scan (MRI, CT) or a surgical procedure, will always require a new, specific pre-authorisation. Never assume you are covered; always call your insurer to check first.

What happens if my treatment plan changes midway through?

This is quite common in medicine. For example, a surgeon might discover something unexpected during a procedure that requires additional work. In these situations, the hospital's clinical team will typically contact your insurer directly during or immediately after the procedure to get authorisation for the change. As a patient, you are not usually involved in this mid-treatment authorisation process.

Why can't I just book an appointment and claim the money back later?

Attempting to do this is extremely risky. Without pre-authorisation, you have no guarantee that the condition, treatment, or provider is covered by your policy. The insurer could reject your claim, leaving you responsible for the entire bill, which can run into thousands or even tens of thousands of pounds. The pre-authorisation process is mandatory to protect you from this financial risk.

Take Control of Your Health with WeCovr

Understanding pre-authorisation transforms your private medical insurance from a confusing document into a powerful tool for your health. By following the steps, being prepared, and always communicating with your insurer, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey through private healthcare.

The UK private medical insurance market offers a wide array of choices, and finding the policy that truly fits your needs and budget is the first step. At WeCovr, our expert advisors provide independent, no-obligation advice to help you compare the UK's leading insurers. We'll help you find the right cover and be there to support you when you need to use it.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and take the first step towards faster healthcare and total peace of mind.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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