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Private Health Insurance Career Break Coverage Maintaining Insurance During Leave

Private Health Insurance Career Break Coverage Maintaining...

Planning a career break, sabbatical, or extended leave is an exciting prospect. But amidst the dreams of travel or personal projects, a crucial question arises: what happens to your private medical insurance? As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the importance of seamless health cover. This guide provides expert advice on maintaining your private medical insurance in the UK, ensuring you remain protected without jeopardising your cover history.

Options for continuing PMI during sabbaticals, career breaks, and extended leave periods without losing coverage history or triggering new moratoriums

Taking a break from your career shouldn't mean taking a break from your health security. If you leave a job where you enjoyed a company-paid private medical insurance (PMI) plan, you face a critical decision. Simply letting the cover lapse can have significant long-term consequences, particularly if you have a history of medical conditions.

A gap in your insurance record can force you into a new underwriting process when you eventually take out a new policy. This could mean that conditions you were previously covered for are now excluded. The primary goal is to maintain continuous cover. Fortunately, you have several robust options to explore to ensure your health remains a top priority, no matter where your career break takes you.

This article will walk you through the three main pathways:

  1. Continuing on your existing group scheme.
  2. Using a 'continuation option' to switch to a personal plan.
  3. Taking out a new individual policy.

We'll break down the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed choice that safeguards your health and financial wellbeing.

Why Maintaining Continuous Health Insurance Coverage is Crucial

To understand the importance of continuous cover, you first need to understand how insurers assess risk. This process is called underwriting. When you lose your company health plan and later start a new one, the insurer will underwrite you as a new customer. This is where the problems can begin.

The Critical Point on Pre-existing Conditions: It is vital to remember that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond to treatment. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions that you had before the policy started.

A gap in cover creates a window where any new health issue, or even a symptom you visit a GP for, can be classed as 'pre-existing' by a future insurer.

The Dangers of a Coverage Gap

  • New Moratoriums: Most new personal policies are sold on a 'moratorium' basis. This means the insurer will not cover any medical condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the five years before the policy start date. If you remain trouble-free for a continuous two-year period after your policy begins, that condition may become eligible for cover. A gap in cover resets this clock entirely.
  • Development of New Conditions: During your career break, you might develop a new health concern. If you are uninsured at this time, that condition will be considered 'pre-existing' when you apply for a new policy later and will almost certainly be excluded from cover.
  • Loss of 'Medical History Disregarded' (MHD) Terms: Some larger company schemes offer MHD underwriting, which is the most comprehensive type available. It covers pre-existing conditions. If you leave a scheme with this benefit, you will not be able to get it on an individual policy. Maintaining continuous cover, even on a lesser basis, is far better than starting from scratch.

Underwriting Types at a Glance

Underwriting TypeHow It WorksKey Implication for Career Breaks
Moratorium (Mori)Automatically excludes conditions from the past 5 years. No medical questionnaire.Starting a new policy after a break means a new 5-year look-back period. Any issues during your break are excluded.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer decides what to cover or exclude from the start.More transparent, but any conditions declared (including those from your break) will likely be permanently excluded.
Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME)When switching from another underwritten policy, your existing exclusions are carried over.This is the goal. A 'continuation option' uses this, meaning no new exclusions are added.

Losing your cover, even for a few months, can undo years of continuous protection. Your top priority should be to find a way to maintain your policy history.

Understanding Your Current Group PMI Scheme Before You Leave

The very first step, before you even hand in your notice, is to become an expert on your current company health plan. Do not assume anything. Your HR department and your policy documents are your best friends at this stage.

Key Questions to Ask Your HR Department:

  1. Is there a 'continuation option' for employees leaving the company? This is the most important question. Many group schemes have a built-in facility that allows leavers to switch to an individual policy with the same insurer, preserving their underwriting terms.
  2. Can I remain on the group scheme if I pay the full premium myself? This is less common, especially for smaller businesses, but some larger organisations may allow it for a set period, particularly for sabbaticals where you are technically still an employee.
  3. Who is the insurer? Knowing whether you're with Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, Vitality, or another provider is crucial for your research.
  4. What is the name of the group scheme and what is my policy number? You will need this information when speaking to the insurer or a broker.
  5. Can I have a copy of the full policy wording and table of benefits? This document details exactly what is and isn't covered, which is essential for comparing your options.

Being proactive can save you a significant amount of money and stress. Going into conversations with your HR team or a broker armed with this information will make the process much smoother.

Option 1: Continuing Your Group Health Insurance Policy

This is often the 'gold standard' solution if it's available. Some employers, particularly for formal sabbaticals where you remain an employee on unpaid leave, may allow you to continue as a member of their group scheme, provided you cover the cost.

How it works: Your employer will calculate the total monthly or annual premium for your cover (including the portion they usually pay) and arrange for you to pay it directly to them or, in some cases, the insurer.

Benefits of Staying on the Group Scheme:

  • Perfect Continuity: You experience zero gap in cover. Your underwriting history remains completely intact.
  • Comprehensive Cover: Group schemes, especially from large companies, often have very generous benefits and 'Medical History Disregarded' underwriting that you cannot buy on the individual market.
  • Simplicity: There is no new application process, no medical questionnaires, and no new exclusions. It's simply a change in who pays the bill.

Potential Downsides:

  • Availability: This option is not always offered. Many companies cease all benefits the day an employee leaves.
  • Cost: You will be paying the full 'group rate' premium, which could be substantial without your employer's subsidy.
  • Limited Duration: This arrangement may only be offered for a fixed period, such as 12 months.
FeatureStaying on Group SchemeStarting a New Individual Policy
UnderwritingNo change. All history preserved.New underwriting (Moratorium or FMU).
Pre-existing ConditionsCoverage for pre-existing conditions continues (if on MHD).New exclusions for recent conditions.
Application ProcessSimple administrative change.Full new application required.
Benefit LevelOften more comprehensive.May need to reduce cover to manage cost.
Best ForShort-term sabbaticals where you remain an employee.When no other continuation option exists.

Expert Tip: If your company agrees to this, get the terms in writing. Ensure you are clear on the cost, payment method, and the process for notifying them of your return to work.

Option 2: Switching to a Personal PMI Policy with a 'Continuation Option'

This is the most common and effective solution for most people leaving a company health scheme. A 'continuation option' (sometimes called a 'switcher' or 'leaver' scheme) is a facility offered by an insurer that allows you to move seamlessly from your company's group plan to a new, individual plan without further medical underwriting.

How it works: You are essentially carrying your underwriting history with you. The insurer agrees to continue your cover on a Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME) basis. This means any exclusions you had on your group policy will carry over, but crucially, no new ones will be added for conditions that may have developed while you were on the group plan.

Key Steps to Using a Continuation Option:

  1. Identify your Insurer: Find out who provides your group cover (e.g., Aviva, Bupa, AXA).
  2. Act Quickly: You usually have a limited time window (often 30-90 days) after leaving your job to exercise this option. Don't delay!
  3. Contact a Broker or the Insurer: An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can manage this entire process for you. They know the specific 'switcher' products each insurer offers and can ensure you get the best terms. Alternatively, you can contact the insurer's dedicated leaver department directly.
  4. Choose Your Plan: You will be offered a choice of their individual plans. You can often tailor the cover level (e.g., hospital lists, excess) to suit your new budget, while still keeping your continuous cover history.

Advantages of a Continuation Option:

  • No New Medical Underwriting: This is the single biggest benefit.
  • Peace of Mind: You know you are covered for any conditions that arose while you were in your previous job.
  • Flexibility: You can adjust your cover level and premium to match your new circumstances.

Finding the right continuation plan can be complex. Working with an independent broker gives you a view of the entire market and ensures the advice is tailored to your specific situation, at no extra cost to you.

Option 3: Taking Out a New Individual Private Medical Insurance Policy

If your employer doesn't offer a continuation option and their insurer doesn't have a suitable switcher plan, your final choice is to take out a brand-new individual policy from the open market.

While this ensures you have cover, it comes with the significant drawback of fresh underwriting.

This means:

  • Any consultations, symptoms, or treatments you've had in the last five years will now be taken into account.
  • Conditions that were previously covered under your old group scheme could now be excluded.

You will typically be offered two main underwriting choices:

1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting

This is the most common type for new policies. It's quick and doesn't require a medical questionnaire.

  • How it works: The policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical condition for which you have sought advice, experienced symptoms, or received treatment in the 5 years prior to the policy start date.
  • The "2-Year Rule": If you then go for 2 continuous years on the policy without needing treatment, advice, or having symptoms of that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • The Risk: Aches, pains, or minor ailments you had investigated during your previous employment could now lead to exclusions on your new policy.

2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

This involves a more detailed upfront process.

  • How it works: You complete a full health questionnaire, declaring your medical history. The insurer's underwriting team reviews it and offers terms.
  • Clarity: The major benefit is that you know from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. Your policy documents will list any specific exclusions.
  • The Downside: It's more intrusive, and you must be scrupulously honest. Any undeclared condition could invalidate your policy.
FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
ApplicationQuick, no formsLong questionnaire, requires medical details
Clarity on CoverAmbiguous initially; exclusions are determined at the point of claimClear from the start; exclusions are listed in writing
Pre-existing ConditionsAutomatically excluded for a periodAssessed individually; may be permanently excluded
Best ForPeople with a clean bill of health seeking a quick startPeople who want absolute certainty about their cover from day one

If you find yourself in this situation, using a PMI broker is more important than ever. An expert at WeCovr can compare the best PMI providers, help you navigate the complexities of underwriting, and find the policy that offers the most comprehensive cover for your specific health profile and budget.

How to Choose the Right PMI Policy for Your Career Break

Whether you're using a continuation option or starting fresh, you'll need to make decisions about the level of cover you need. A career break is a perfect time to re-evaluate your priorities.

1. Assess Your Needs and Budget

Your income may be different during your break, so budget is key. Think about:

  • Core Cover: All policies cover inpatient treatment (when you need a hospital bed). Most cover day-patient treatment too.
  • Outpatient Cover: This is a crucial add-on. Do you want cover for specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans? You can often choose a limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited) to manage the premium.
  • Therapies: Do you want cover for physiotherapy, osteopathy, or chiropractic treatment?
  • Mental Health: This is an increasingly important benefit. Cover can range from basic counselling sessions to full psychiatric inpatient care.

2. Ways to Manage Your Premium

  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£250, £500, £1,000) will significantly lower your premium.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have tiered hospital lists. Choosing a list that excludes the most expensive central London hospitals can reduce your premium.
  • 6-Week Option: This is a popular cost-saving measure. If the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks of it being recommended, you would use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your PMI policy kicks in. This can reduce premiums by up to 25%.

3. Leverage Expert Broker Services

Navigating these options alone can be daunting. A specialist broker offers:

  • Market-wide Comparison: They compare policies from all leading UK insurers.
  • Expert Guidance: They explain the jargon and help you find the best value.
  • No Fee: Brokers are paid by the insurer, so their service is free for you.
  • Added Value: At WeCovr, we also provide clients with complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, and offer discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection when you take out a PMI policy.

Special Considerations for Your Sabbatical or Career Break

Travel Insurance vs. PMI

A common point of confusion is cover while abroad. Standard UK private medical insurance is not travel insurance.

  • UK PMI: Designed for treatment within the United Kingdom. Some policies include a very limited benefit for emergency overseas treatment, but this is not a substitute for proper travel insurance.
  • Travel Insurance: Essential for any trip abroad. For a long sabbatical, you will need a specialist 'long-stay' or 'backpacker' policy. This covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage, and personal liability.

Do not rely on your PMI for medical cover while travelling. You need both.

Focusing on Your Wellbeing

A career break is a fantastic opportunity to invest in your health.

  • Stay Active: Regular exercise is proven to boost mood and reduce the risk of many health conditions. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it's hiking, yoga, or joining a local sports club.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your hormones, improve cognitive function, and strengthen your immune system.
  • Mindful Eating: Without the rush of a daily commute, you have more time to prepare nutritious meals. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Leverage Your PMI's Wellness Benefits: Many modern PMI policies from providers like Vitality and Aviva include wellness programmes, discounts on gym memberships, and access to virtual GP and mental health support apps. Use them!

Real-Life Scenarios: Navigating PMI During a Career Break

Let's look at how three different people might handle this situation.

Scenario 1: Sarah, the Lawyer on Sabbatical Sarah works for a large law firm with a comprehensive Bupa plan. She's taking a 6-month, pre-agreed sabbatical.

  • Action: She speaks to HR, who confirm she can remain on the group scheme as long as she pays the full premium.
  • Outcome: Sarah sets up a direct debit and enjoys seamless, top-tier cover throughout her break. Her underwriting is completely unaffected.

Scenario 2: David, the IT Manager Changing Careers David leaves his mid-sized company to retrain as a landscape gardener. His company's AXA Health scheme does not allow leavers to remain on the group plan.

  • Action: David contacts WeCovr within a week of leaving. The broker confirms that AXA offers a 'switcher' policy. They help David choose an individual plan with a £500 excess and a reduced hospital list to make it affordable.
  • Outcome: David moves to his new personal policy on a CPME basis. No new underwriting is required, and he retains cover for a shoulder issue he had investigated two years ago.

Scenario 3: Chloe, the Teacher Taking a Gap Year Chloe leaves her teaching job, which had a basic group plan with a small insurer. There is no continuation option. She plans to travel through Southeast Asia for 10 months.

  • Action: Chloe realises she needs a new policy. She works with a broker to find the best value individual plan on the market. She chooses a moratorium policy from Vitality because she is in good health and likes their wellness rewards.
  • Critical Extra Step: The broker also stresses that this UK PMI will not cover her travels. Chloe takes out a separate, comprehensive 12-month long-stay travel insurance policy.
  • Outcome: Chloe is fully insured, with one policy for her health back in the UK and another for emergencies while abroad. She understands that her new PMI policy has a new moratorium period.

What happens to my private health insurance if I'm made redundant?

If you are made redundant, your situation is the same as if you had resigned. Your cover under the company's group scheme will cease on your last day of employment. It is crucial to act quickly. Your best option is to see if your insurer offers a 'continuation option' or 'switcher' plan, which allows you to move to a personal policy without new medical underwriting. Contact your insurer or a specialist broker immediately to arrange this and avoid a gap in cover.

Can I just pause my private health insurance during my career break?

No, you generally cannot 'pause' a private health insurance policy in the UK. A policy is either active or it is cancelled. Attempting to pause it would be treated as a cancellation, creating a gap in cover. This would trigger new underwriting when you restart, potentially leading to new exclusions for any health issues that arose during the break. The correct approach is to maintain continuous cover, either by continuing your group plan or switching to a personal policy.

Does my UK PMI cover me if I travel abroad on my sabbatical?

No, your standard UK private medical insurance policy is not a substitute for travel insurance. UK PMI is designed for treatment within the UK. While some policies may offer a limited benefit for emergency overseas treatment, it is not comprehensive. For any travel outside the UK, especially for an extended period, you must purchase a separate, specialist travel insurance policy. This will cover you for medical emergencies, repatriation, cancellations, and other travel-related risks.

What is the difference between a 'continuation option' and just buying a new policy?

The key difference is the underwriting. A 'continuation option' allows you to switch from a group scheme to a personal policy with the same insurer without new medical underwriting. This means your cover history is preserved, and no new exclusions are added for conditions that developed while on the group plan. Buying a completely new policy means you will be fully re-underwritten, either via a moratorium or a full medical questionnaire. This will likely result in new exclusions for any medical conditions you've experienced in the past few years.

Your Next Step to a Secure Career Break

Planning a career break is an investment in yourself. Don't let a gap in health cover undermine that investment. By understanding your options and acting proactively, you can ensure you have the right protection in place, giving you the freedom to enjoy your time off with complete peace of mind.

The private medical insurance UK market can be complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone.

Ready to secure your health cover? Contact our friendly, expert team at WeCovr today. We'll compare the market for you, explain your options in simple terms, and handle the paperwork—all at no cost to you. Get your free, no-obligation quote and start your career break with confidence.


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

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

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

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

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

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

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

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

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

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

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

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

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

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

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

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

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

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

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

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

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

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

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

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

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

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

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

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

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

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

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

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

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

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

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

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

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.


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