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Private Health Insurance Cost UK NHS Comparison

As an insurance broker that has helped over 900,000 customers find the right protection, WeCovr understands the UK health landscape. The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of British life, offering incredible care to millions, free at the point of use.

Last updated Oct 25, 2026

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TL;DR

As an insurance broker that has helped over 900,000 customers find the right protection, WeCovr understands the UK health landscape. The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of British life, offering incredible care to millions, free at the point of use. Yet, with growing pressures and record waiting lists, more people than ever are considering private medical insurance (PMI) to secure their health and wellbeing.

Key takeaways

  • You feel unwell: You develop a new symptom, like persistent knee pain or concerning digestive issues.
  • Visit your NHS GP: Your first port of call is almost always your GP. Private insurance doesn't cover GP visits (though some premium plans offer access to a private virtual GP service).
  • Get a referral: Your GP diagnoses the issue or, more likely, refers you to a specialist for further investigation. This is called an 'open referral'.
  • Contact your insurer: You call your PMI provider with your referral details. You'll need to provide information about your symptoms and what the GP has recommended.
  • Claim authorised: The insurer checks that your condition may be covered by your policy. For example, they confirm it's not a pre-existing or chronic condition that's excluded. If it's covered, they authorise your claim and give you a pre-authorisation number.

WeCovr explains how PMI compares with free NHS care — and why many still choose private cover

As an insurance broker that has helped over 900,000 customers find the right protection, WeCovr understands the UK health landscape. The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of British life, offering incredible care to millions, free at the point of use. Yet, with growing pressures and record waiting lists, more people than ever are considering private medical insurance (PMI) to secure their health and wellbeing.

Related guide: for the full picture, see how much private health insurance costs.

But is it worth the cost? This comprehensive guide breaks down the comparison between PMI and the NHS. We'll explore the real costs, benefits, and crucial differences to help you decide if private health cover is the right choice for you and your family.

Understanding the Core Difference: NHS vs. Private Health Insurance

At first glance, the two systems seem worlds apart. One is a public service funded by your taxes, and the other is a private insurance policy you pay for monthly or annually.

  • The NHS (National Health Service): A publicly funded healthcare system. It’s designed to provide comprehensive, universal care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. You've already paid for it through National Insurance contributions and general taxation. It covers everything from GP visits and emergency care to long-term chronic conditions and complex surgeries.

  • Private Medical Insurance (PMI): An insurance policy that covers the cost of private healthcare for specific conditions. You pay a regular premium to an insurance company. In return, if you develop an eligible medical condition after taking out the policy, the insurer pays for your diagnosis and treatment in a private hospital or facility.

Think of it this way: the NHS is your safety net for all health issues. PMI is a supplementary service designed to help you reduce waiting times compared with NHS lists (subject to policy terms) for eligible, acute conditions, giving you more choice and control over your treatment. Crucially, PMI does not replace the NHS. You will always have access to the NHS for emergencies, GP services, and conditions your policy doesn't cover.

How Does Private Medical Insurance Work in the UK?

Understanding the process is key. It's not as simple as just buying a policy and getting all healthcare for free.

Here’s a typical journey for a PMI policyholder:

  1. You feel unwell: You develop a new symptom, like persistent knee pain or concerning digestive issues.
  2. Visit your NHS GP: Your first port of call is almost always your GP. Private insurance doesn't cover GP visits (though some premium plans offer access to a private virtual GP service).
  3. Get a referral: Your GP diagnoses the issue or, more likely, refers you to a specialist for further investigation. This is called an 'open referral'.
  4. Contact your insurer: You call your PMI provider with your referral details. You'll need to provide information about your symptoms and what the GP has recommended.
  5. Claim authorised: The insurer checks that your condition may be covered by your policy. For example, they confirm it's not a pre-existing or chronic condition that's excluded. If it's covered, they authorise your claim and give you a pre-authorisation number.
  6. Choose your specialist and hospital: Your insurer will provide a list of approved specialists and private hospitals from their network. You can choose where and when you'd like to be treated.
  7. Receive treatment: You attend your private appointments, scans, and have your procedure. The bills are sent directly to your insurance company.
  8. Pay your excess (if any): You pay the agreed-upon excess amount directly to the hospital. The insurer covers the rest, up to your policy limits.

This process allows you to receive prompt treatment, often within weeks, compared to the months or even years you might wait for the same procedure on the NHS.

What Does Private Health Insurance Cover (and What Does it Exclude)?

This is the most important section to understand. A common misconception is that PMI covers everything. It doesn't. UK private medical insurance is designed to treat acute conditions that begin after you take out the policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment).

  • A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, requires palliative care, or is likely to recur (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis).

Standard PMI policies do not cover chronic conditions. The NHS remains the best place for managing these long-term illnesses.

Here is a general breakdown of what is typically included and excluded:

Typically Covered by PMITypically Excluded from PMI
In-patient & Day-patient Treatment: Surgery and procedures requiring a hospital bed.Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of or treatment for before your policy started.
Out-patient Cover (often optional): Consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans that don't require a hospital bed.Chronic Conditions: Long-term illnesses like diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.
Cancer Cover: Comprehensive cover for diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery is a core feature of most policies.Emergency Treatment: A&E visits are handled by the NHS.
Mental Health Cover (often optional): Access to therapy, counselling, and psychiatric treatment.Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Complications may be covered, but routine maternity care is not.
Therapies: Physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment following a referral.Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
Advanced Medical Technology: Access to drugs and treatments not yet available on the NHS.GP Services: Your day-to-day GP care remains with the NHS.

Critical Note on Pre-existing Conditions: Insurers use 'underwriting' to decide how to handle conditions you've had in the past. The two main types are 'Moratorium' and 'Full Medical Underwriting'. With a moratorium, any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining is automatically excluded for the first 2 years of the policy. With full underwriting, you declare your medical history upfront, and the insurer tells you exactly what is excluded from day one. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand which is best for your situation.

The Real Cost of Private Health Insurance in the UK: 2025 Breakdown

So, how much does this peace of mind actually cost? The price of a PMI policy varies hugely based on several factors. There's no "one-size-fits-all" premium.

Below are some illustrative monthly premiums for a non-smoker on a mid-range policy with a £250 excess. These are estimates for 2025 and your actual quote will differ.

Table 1: Estimated Monthly PMI Premiums by Age and Location

AgeLondon PostcodeRest of UK (e.g., Manchester)
30£65 - £85£50 - £70
40£80 - £110£65 - £90
50£115 - £160£95 - £130
60£180 - £250£150 - £210

As you can see, age and location are significant drivers. Premiums are higher in London and the South East due to the higher cost of private medical care in those areas.

Cost Breakdown by Cover Level

Your premium also depends heavily on the level of cover you choose.

  • Basic: Covers in-patient and day-patient treatment only. Designed to protect against the cost of major surgery.
  • Mid-Range: Includes basic cover plus a set limit for out-patient diagnostics and consultations (e.g., up to £1,000). This is the most popular level of cover.
  • Comprehensive: Full cover for in-patient and out-patient treatment, often with higher limits and additional benefits like mental health, dental, and optical cover.

Table 2: Estimated Monthly Premiums by Cover Level (45-year-old, non-smoker, outside London)

Cover LevelEstimated Monthly PremiumKey Features
Basic£55 - £75In-patient and day-patient care only. Cancer cover included.
Mid-Range£70 - £95Adds out-patient diagnostics and consultations up to a limit (e.g., £1,000-£1,500).
Comprehensive£100 - £140+Full out-patient cover, plus options for therapies, mental health, and dental/optical.

Factors That Influence Your PMI Premium

Understanding what affects your premium can help you tailor a policy to your budget.

  1. Age: The single biggest factor. The older you are, the higher the statistical likelihood of claiming, so premiums rise.
  2. Location: As shown above, costs are higher in major cities, especially London.
  3. Smoking Status: Smokers pay significantly more than non-smokers due to the increased health risks.
  4. Level of Cover: The more comprehensive the policy, the higher the cost. Limiting out-patient cover is a common way to reduce premiums.
  5. Policy Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will lower your monthly premium. A £0 excess will result in a much higher premium.
  6. Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. Choosing a list that excludes the most expensive central London hospitals could reduce your premium.
  7. Underwriting Type: The method used to assess your medical history can sometimes affect the price.
  8. No Claims Discount: Similar to car insurance, you can build up a no-claims discount over time, which reduces your renewal premium.

The "Cost" of Using the NHS: Waiting Times and Opportunity Costs

While the NHS is free at the point of use, relying on it entirely can have other "costs". The most significant of these is time.

According to the latest NHS England statistics (as of early 2025), the situation remains challenging:

  • Total Waiting List: The referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting list stands at over 7.5 million cases.
  • Long Waits: Hundreds of thousands of patients have been waiting over 52 weeks for treatment. A significant number have been waiting over 18 months.
  • Cancer Targets: Key targets for seeing a specialist within two weeks of an urgent GP referral, and starting treatment within two months, are frequently being missed.
  • Diagnostic Waits: Over a million people are waiting for key diagnostic tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and endoscopies.

These delays aren't just an inconvenience; they have real-world consequences:

  • Health Deterioration: A condition can worsen while you wait, making treatment more complex and recovery longer.
  • Pain and Discomfort: Living with pain for months or years impacts your quality of life, mental health, and ability to work or care for family.
  • Loss of Earnings: If your condition prevents you from working, a long wait can lead to significant financial hardship. This is a major reason why self-employed people and business owners choose private health cover.
  • Mental Strain: The uncertainty and anxiety of waiting for a diagnosis or treatment can take a heavy toll.

For a self-employed plumber with a painful knee requiring a replacement, waiting 18 months on the NHS could mean 18 months of lost income. A PMI policy costing £80 a month could get them treated and back to work in under two months. In this scenario, the cost of the insurance is far less than the cost of waiting.

NHS vs. Private Care: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Let's put the two side-by-side to see how they stack up on the key things that matter to patients.

Table 3: Detailed Comparison of NHS vs. Private Healthcare

FeatureNHS CarePrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)The WeCovr Verdict
CostFree at the point of use (funded by taxes).Monthly/annual premium plus an excess on claims.NHS wins on direct cost, but PMI can be more cost-effective if it prevents loss of earnings.
Waiting TimesCan be very long, from months to over a year for non-urgent procedures.Very short. Typically a few weeks from GP referral to treatment.Clear win for PMI. This is the primary reason people buy it.
Choice of SpecialistLimited choice. You are treated by the consultant on duty.Full choice of specialist from the insurer's approved list.PMI offers greater control and the ability to choose a doctor based on reputation or speciality.
Choice of HospitalLimited choice, usually based on your postcode.Wide choice of private hospitals across the UK from your insurer's list.PMI provides flexibility on where you are treated.
Hospital EnvironmentTypically in a shared ward with several other patients.A private, en-suite room is standard.For comfort, privacy, and a quieter recovery, PMI is far superior.
Visiting HoursOften restricted to specific times of the day.Flexible, open visiting hours for family and friends.PMI offers a more accommodating environment for your support network.
Access to DrugsTreatments are approved by NICE. Some newer, expensive drugs may not be available.Access to some licensed drugs and treatments not yet approved by NICE for NHS use.A key benefit, especially for cancer treatment, where new drugs can offer better outcomes.
Cover ScopeComprehensive. Covers everything from A&E to chronic conditions.Covers acute conditions only. Excludes pre-existing, chronic, and emergency care.The NHS is the essential safety net for all health issues. PMI is supplementary.

Why Do People in the UK Choose Private Health Insurance?

Given that the NHS provides excellent medical care, why do over 4 million people in the UK choose to pay for PMI? The reasons go beyond just "skipping the queue."

  1. Speed of Access: This is the number one driver. The ability to get a diagnosis and start treatment in weeks, not months, provides immense peace of mind and leads to better outcomes.
  2. Choice and Control: Choosing your surgeon and the hospital where you'll be treated empowers patients. You can research the best specialist for your specific condition.
  3. Comfort and Privacy: Recovering in a private room with an en-suite bathroom, better food, and flexible visiting hours makes a stressful experience much more comfortable.
  4. Access to Specialist Treatments: For certain conditions, particularly cancer, PMI can provide access to newer drugs or therapies that aren't yet available on the NHS due to cost or pending NICE approval.
  5. Reduced Impact on Work and Family: For the self-employed, business owners, or those in key roles, a long absence from work is financially and operationally disastrous. PMI gets them back on their feet quickly.
  6. Mental Wellbeing: Many policies now offer excellent mental health support, providing fast access to therapy and counselling, an area where NHS waiting lists can be particularly long.

How to Get good value from Your Private Health Cover

If you decide PMI is for you, you'll want to ensure you're getting the best possible value for your money.

  • Choose the Right Excess: Opting for a higher excess (e.g., £500) can dramatically reduce your premium. You only pay this if you make a claim.
  • Consider a 6-Week Option: Some policies offer a reduced premium if you agree to use the NHS if the waiting list for your required treatment is less than six weeks. If it's longer, you can go private.
  • Review Your Hospital List: Do you need access to the most expensive central London hospitals? If not, choosing a more restricted list can save you money.
  • Use a Regulated Broker: A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners compares policies from all the UK providers on our panel (like Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and Vitality) to find an appropriate level of cover for your specific needs and budget. Our regulated guidance is free, and we can often find deals you wouldn't find by going direct.
  • Leverage Wellness Benefits: Many modern policies come with added perks. These can include discounted gym memberships, free cinema tickets, or health tracking rewards. WeCovr also offers complimentary access to our AI-powered diet and calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay healthy, as well as discounts on other insurance policies when you take out PMI.

The UK private medical insurance market is complex. There are dozens of providers, each with multiple policy options, different hospital lists, and unique terms and conditions. Trying to compare them yourself can be overwhelming and lead to choosing the wrong cover.

This is where a regulated PMI broker is invaluable.

  • Expertise: We live and breathe health insurance. We know the market inside out and can explain the complex jargon in simple terms.
  • Panel-based Comparison: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from our panel to find the one that truly fits you.
  • Personalised Advice: We take the time to understand your health, your budget, and what's important to you before recommending a policy.
  • No Separate Broker Fee: Our service has no separate broker fee for you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, but this does not affect the premium you pay.
  • Claims Support: If you need to make a claim, we can be on hand to help you navigate the process.

Do I still need the NHS if I have private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. You will still rely on the NHS for GP services, Accident & Emergency care, and the management of any chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma) that are not covered by your private policy. PMI is for accessing faster treatment for new, acute conditions.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. These are any diseases, illnesses, or injuries for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy start date. Insurers use underwriting to exclude these, either through a moratorium period or by explicitly listing them as exclusions after you declare your medical history.

Can I buy private health insurance if I am over 65?

Yes, you can. While premiums are higher for older individuals due to the increased likelihood of needing medical treatment, many insurers offer policies with no upper age limit for joining. There are also specialist providers who design policies specifically for the over-65 market. A regulated broker can help you find the most suitable and cost-effective options.

Is cancer treatment covered by private health insurance?

Yes, comprehensive cancer cover is a core feature of almost all private medical insurance policies in the UK. This typically includes the cost of diagnosis, surgery, and treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy. A key benefit of private cover is often faster access to treatment and a wider range of specialist drugs and therapies than may be available on the NHS.

Get Your Personalised Private Health Insurance Quote Today

The decision to invest in private health cover is a personal one, weighing the monthly cost against the invaluable benefits of speed, choice, and peace of mind. While the NHS remains a world-class service, PMI offers a powerful way to complement it, ensuring you and your family can access the most appropriate care exactly when you need it.

Ready to see how affordable your cover could be?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Specialists at WeCovr and its broker partners will compare the insurers on our UK panel to find a strong fit for your needs and budget.

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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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.

Key guides

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