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Private Health Insurance Cost UK with Pre-Existing Conditions

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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TL;DR

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex, especially when you have a pre-existing medical condition. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands your concerns. This guide demystifies the costs, exclusions, and options available to you.

Key takeaways

  • Pre-Existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before the start of your policy.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and arthritis.
  • Years 1 & 2 of your policy: Your knee is automatically excluded. If it flares up, you cannot claim for treatment.
  • After 2 years: If you have had absolutely no pain, symptoms, check-ups, or advice related to your knee for two full years, your policy may then cover new issues with that knee.
  • What if it flares up? If you see your GP about knee pain 12 months into your policy, the two-year waiting period for that condition resets from that date.

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex, especially when you have a pre-existing medical condition. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands your concerns. This guide demystifies the costs, exclusions, and options available to you.

What exclusions apply and how much premiums can vary

Understanding how private health insurance works with pre-existing conditions starts with one fundamental principle: standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It is generally not designed to cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

This single point is the most common source of confusion, so let's break it down.

  • Pre-Existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before the start of your policy.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and arthritis.

Insurers exclude these conditions to keep premiums affordable for the wider population. If policies were to cover long-term, pre-diagnosed issues, the cost of insurance would become prohibitively expensive for everyone. The premium you pay is based on the risk of you needing new eligible treatment in the future, not the cost of treating an existing condition.

Understanding Underwriting: The Key to Pre-Existing Conditions

The process an insurer uses to assess your health and decide what it will and will not cover is called 'underwriting'. When it comes to pre-existing conditions, there are two main types of underwriting in the UK. The one you choose will have a significant impact on your cover.

Moratorium Underwriting (The 'Wait and See' Approach)

Moratorium underwriting is the most common type offered in the UK. It's simpler and quicker to set up because you don't need to provide your full medical history upfront.

How it works: A moratorium policy automatically excludes any pre-existing medical conditions you've had in the five years leading up to your policy start date. However, this exclusion isn't necessarily permanent.

If you then serve a continuous period (usually two years) after your policy starts without having any symptoms, treatment, medication, or advice for that specific condition, it may become eligible for cover. This is often called a 'rolling moratorium'.

Real-Life Example: Knee Pain

Imagine you had physiotherapy for knee pain 18 months before you took out a moratorium policy.

  • Years 1 & 2 of your policy: Your knee is automatically excluded. If it flares up, you cannot claim for treatment.
  • After 2 years: If you have had absolutely no pain, symptoms, check-ups, or advice related to your knee for two full years, your policy may then cover new issues with that knee.
  • What if it flares up? If you see your GP about knee pain 12 months into your policy, the two-year waiting period for that condition resets from that date.
Moratorium Underwriting: Pros & Cons
Pros ✅Cons ❌
Quicker and easier to set up.Lack of certainty at the start of the policy.
No lengthy medical questionnaires.Claim process can be slower as underwriting happens at the point of claim.
Pre-existing conditions can become eligible for cover over time.Any symptom or check-up can reset the two-year waiting period.
Less intrusive application process.Can lead to disputes if what constitutes 'advice' or 'symptoms' is unclear.

Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) (The 'Upfront Declaration' Approach)

With Full Medical Underwriting, you provide your complete medical history to the insurer via a detailed questionnaire when you apply. The insurer's underwriting team then reviews this information and makes a clear decision from day one.

How it works: Based on your declarations, the insurer will state precisely what is and isn't covered in your policy documents. Any pre-existing conditions will typically be listed as specific exclusions. These exclusions are often permanent, but you can sometimes ask for them to be reviewed after a number of years if the condition has fully resolved.

Real-Life Example: A Past Skin Condition

Suppose you had treatment for eczema five years ago but it hasn't returned since. You declare this on your FMU application.

  • The insurer might decide the risk is low and agree to cover you for any new dermatological issues.
  • Alternatively, they might apply a permanent exclusion for "eczema and related conditions".
  • The key benefit is that you know exactly where you stand from the very first day of your policy.
Full Medical Underwriting: Pros & Cons
Pros ✅Cons ❌
Complete clarity on what is covered from day one.Application process is much longer and more detailed.
Faster claims process as your medical history is already assessed.You must remember and declare your full medical history accurately.
No ambiguity about cover when you need to make a claim.Exclusions are often permanent.
Better for individuals who prefer certainty.May feel more intrusive than a moratorium.

Which Underwriting is Right for Me?

Choosing between moratorium and FMU depends entirely on your personal circumstances and preferences.

  • Choose Moratorium if: You have had few or no recent health issues, you're generally healthy, and you prefer a quick and simple application.
  • Choose Full Medical Underwriting if: You have a complex medical history, you want absolute certainty about what is covered before you commit, or you've had a condition many years ago that has fully resolved.

This is where an expert PMI broker like WeCovr provides immense value. Our specialists can discuss your health history and help you decide which underwriting method best suits your needs, ensuring there are no nasty surprises down the line.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

We've mentioned this before, but it's worth dedicating a section to it as it is the bedrock of how private medical insurance UK works. Insurers cover acute conditions but exclude chronic ones.

  • An Acute Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. It's a short-term, curable event.
  • 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.
    • It requires management through check-ups, examinations, medication, or tests.
    • It has no known cure.
    • It is likely to recur.

Here’s a table to make the difference clear:

Condition TypeExamplesIs it Covered by PMI?
Acute ConditionsCataracts, hernia repair, joint replacement (e.g., hip/knee), appendicitis, broken bones, new cancer diagnosis (post-policy).Yes, these are the primary focus of PMI. Treatment aims to return you to your previous state of health.
Chronic ConditionsDiabetes, asthma, arthritis, hypertension (high blood pressure), Crohn's disease, epilepsy.No, the long-term, ongoing management of these conditions is not covered. It remains under the care of your NHS GP.

It's important to note that while the management of a chronic condition isn't covered, an acute flare-up or a new, related acute condition might be. This is a grey area and depends heavily on the specific insurer and policy wording. For example, a person with well-managed asthma (chronic) would not be covered for their inhalers or routine check-ups. However, if they developed a severe, acute chest infection requiring a hospital stay, that treatment might be covered.

How Much Do Premiums Vary with Pre-Existing Conditions?

This is the million-dollar question. Counter-intuitively, having a pre-existing condition doesn't usually make your premium more expensive. Instead, it results in an exclusion for that condition.

Your premium is calculated based on a range of other factors that assess your overall risk of needing new, eligible medical treatment in the future.

Key Factors That Actually Determine Your PMI Premium

  1. Age: This is the single biggest factor. The older you are, the higher the statistical likelihood of needing medical care, so premiums increase with age.
  2. Location: Medical treatment costs vary significantly across the UK. Living in Central London, where hospital costs are highest, will result in a higher premium than living in a rural part of Scotland.
  3. Level of Cover:
    • Basic: Covers in-patient and day-patient treatment only.
    • Mid-Range: Includes out-patient cover up to a certain limit (e.g., £1,000 per year) for consultations and diagnostics.
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive out-patient cover, plus options for mental health, dental, and optical benefits.
  4. Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium, while a lower excess (e.g., £100) will increase it.
  5. Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A policy with a nationwide list including prime London hospitals will cost more than one with a more restricted local network.
  6. No-Claims Discount: Similar to car insurance, you build up a discount for every year you don't make a claim. Making a claim will typically reduce this discount and increase your premium at renewal.
  7. Lifestyle: Some insurers offer lower premiums for non-smokers.

Illustrative Monthly PMI Premiums (2025)

To give you a clearer idea of costs, the table below shows example monthly premiums for a non-smoker with a £250 excess. These are illustrative figures and your actual quote will depend on the factors above.

AgeBasic Cover (In-patient only)Mid-Range Cover (+ £1,000 Out-patient)Comprehensive Cover (Full Out-patient)
30-year-old£35 - £50£55 - £75£80 - £110
40-year-old£45 - £65£70 - £95£100 - £140
50-year-old£65 - £90£95 - £130£140 - £200
60-year-old£100 - £145£140 - £190£200 - £280

Disclaimer: These are estimated costs for illustrative purposes only. For a precise quote based on your personal circumstances, it is essential to speak with a PMI broker.

How insurers view your health history can vary. Here’s a look at some common conditions and how they are typically handled.

Mental Health Conditions (e.g., Anxiety, Depression)

Mental health is becoming a more prominent part of private health cover, but pre-existing conditions are still a key consideration.

  • Moratorium: If you've received therapy or medication for anxiety in the last 5 years, it will be excluded for the initial 2-year period.
  • FMU: You would declare the history. The insurer might apply an exclusion for "anxiety, depression, and related conditions". If it was a single, brief episode many years ago, they may disregard it. Many policies now offer access to a limited number of therapy sessions or a mental health support line as a standard benefit, even if you have a mental health exclusion for specialist treatment.

Musculoskeletal Issues (e.g., Back Pain, Joint Problems)

This is one of the most common reasons for claims.

  • Moratorium: A history of back pain or a dodgy knee will be excluded. If you go two years symptom and treatment-free, you could become eligible for cover for that body part again.
  • FMU: You will likely receive a specific exclusion for the affected area (e.g., "lumbar spine" or "right knee"). This provides clarity but removes the possibility of it being covered later.

Cancer

A history of cancer is treated with significant caution by insurers.

  • FMU: If you have had cancer, it will almost certainly be a permanent exclusion on your policy.
  • Moratorium: The situation is more nuanced. The previous cancer would be excluded. However, if you remained cancer-free and then, after the 2-year moratorium period, were diagnosed with a new, completely unrelated primary cancer, it would likely be covered. This is a key advantage of moratorium underwriting for those with a cancer history.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) & High Cholesterol

These are generally considered chronic conditions by insurers. The ongoing monitoring, GP check-ups, and medication (e.g., statins, blood pressure tablets) are managed by the NHS and are not covered by PMI. However, if you were to suffer an acute event that may be linked to these conditions, such as a heart attack or stroke, the subsequent acute treatment in a private hospital could be covered, provided it's not deemed a direct consequence of a long-term, unmanaged condition.

Can I Ever Get a Pre-Existing Condition Covered?

Yes, it is possible, primarily through moratorium underwriting. Let's revisit the rule as it's so important:

The 2-Year Rule (Moratorium): If you take out a moratorium policy, a pre-existing condition you've had in the last 5 years can become eligible for cover if, and only if, you spend a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts where you:

  1. Have no symptoms of the condition.
  2. Receive no treatment for it.
  3. Take no medication for it.
  4. Seek no advice from a doctor or specialist about it.

If you meet these criteria, the condition is no longer considered pre-existing, and you can claim for it.

Warning about Switching Insurers: If you are part-way through a 2-year moratorium period and switch to a new insurer, the clock resets. You will have to start a new 2-year waiting period with the new provider. This is why it's crucial to get expert advice before switching.

The Role of an Expert PMI Broker

Trying to compare policies, underwriting terms, and pricing from a dozen different insurers is a daunting task. This is where an independent, specialist private health cover broker adds enormous value.

An expert broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies.

  • We Understand the Market: We know the intricate underwriting philosophies of each major UK provider. We know which insurers are more lenient with certain conditions.
  • Personalised Advice: We take the time to understand your medical history and priorities, helping you choose between moratorium and FMU and finding a policy that offers the best possible terms for your situation.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, unbiased advice without paying a penny more.
  • Hassle-Free Process: We handle the paperwork and comparisons, presenting you with clear, simple options. Our team has helped arrange policies for over 750,000 people and has exceptionally high customer satisfaction ratings.

Enhancing Your Wellbeing: Added Benefits with WeCovr

Modern private medical insurance is about more than just treating you when you're ill; it's also about helping you stay healthy. Most top-tier policies now include a wealth of wellness benefits, such as:

  • Digital GP services (24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call).
  • Mental health support lines and access to therapy sessions.
  • Discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings.
  • Nutrition consultations and physiotherapy support.

At WeCovr, we believe in a proactive approach to health. That’s why, as a thank you to our clients, we provide complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you manage your diet and achieve your wellness goals.

Furthermore, when you arrange your PMI or Life Insurance with us, you can also benefit from exclusive discounts on other types of cover you may need, providing even greater value.

Do I have to declare a condition I had many years ago?

Generally, yes, especially if you opt for Full Medical Underwriting (FMU). Insurers need a complete and accurate picture of your health history to make a fair assessment. For moratorium underwriting, the focus is on conditions from the last five years, but honesty is always the best policy. Withholding information could invalidate your policy and lead to claims being rejected.

What counts as 'treatment' or 'advice' for a moratorium?

This is a broad category. It includes any consultation with a GP or specialist, physiotherapy, diagnostic tests (like an MRI or blood test), prescribed medication, or even being told to "take it easy" or "use over-the-counter painkillers" for a specific recurring issue. Any medical intervention or professional opinion related to the condition can reset the two-year moratorium clock.

Can I get private health insurance if I have a chronic condition like diabetes?

Yes, you can still get private health insurance. However, the policy will exclude the management of your diabetes. Private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. Your diabetes will continue to be managed by the NHS. The PMI policy would provide cover for other eligible, unrelated health issues.

Will my premiums go up if I claim for a newly covered pre-existing condition?

Yes, making any claim, whether for a newly covered condition or a brand new one, will likely impact your premium at renewal. Most PMI policies operate with a No-Claims Discount (NCD). When you make a claim, your NCD level is typically reduced, which leads to a higher premium the following year. Conversely, if you don't claim, your NCD increases, helping to offset age-related price rises.

Ready to Find the Right Cover?

Finding the best private health cover when you have a pre-existing condition requires expert guidance. Don't navigate the complexities alone.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert team will compare the leading UK insurers to find a policy that fits your needs and your budget, giving you peace of mind and fast access to the best care.

Sources

  • Department for Transport (DfT): Road safety and transport statistics.
  • DVLA / DVSA: UK vehicle and driving regulatory guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Motor insurance market and claims publications.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance conduct and consumer information guidance.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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.

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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