WeCovr.

Private Health Insurance for Cardiovascular Screening UK

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
📚 Recommended reads

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026

Read

Average Cost of PMI (UK)

Read

PMI Provider Reviews

Read



Watch this on a dedicated video page
Scroll for the full guide
↓

TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside out. This guide explores how a private health cover policy can provide crucial access to cardiovascular screening, helping you take a proactive approach to your heart health. PMI for early detection of heart and vascular problems Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is primarily designed to cover the costs of treatment for acute medical conditions.

Key takeaways

  • Coronary Heart Disease: When the heart's blood supply is blocked or interrupted by a build-up of fatty substances in the coronary arteries. This can lead to angina and heart attacks.
  • Strokes and TIAs: A stroke is a serious, life-threatening condition that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. A Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) or "mini-stroke" is similar but temporary.
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease: A condition where a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries restricts blood supply to leg muscles.
  • Aortic Diseases: Conditions affecting the aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body.
  • Heart disease

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside out. This guide explores how a private health cover policy can provide crucial access to cardiovascular screening, helping you take a proactive approach to your heart health.

PMI for early detection of heart and vascular problems

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is primarily designed to cover the costs of treatment for acute medical conditions. However, the landscape of private health cover is evolving. Many modern policies now include valuable wellness and preventative benefits, which can provide access to sophisticated cardiovascular screenings long before symptoms appear. This shift empowers you to move from reactive healthcare to proactive health management, using PMI as a tool for early detection of heart and vascular issues.

Understanding how to leverage these benefits is key. While a standard policy might not cover a "health MOT" on demand, selecting a plan with a dedicated wellness or screening component can unlock access to tests that go far beyond the basics offered on the NHS.

Understanding Cardiovascular Disease in the UK

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a general term for conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels. It remains one of the UK's biggest health challenges.

According to the British Heart Foundation, CVD causes around a quarter of all deaths in the UK; that's more than 170,000 deaths each year, or one every three minutes. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data for 2022 showed that ischaemic heart diseases were the leading cause of death in England and Wales.

These aren't just statistics; they represent families and communities across the country. The major types of CVD include:

  • Coronary Heart Disease: When the heart's blood supply is blocked or interrupted by a build-up of fatty substances in the coronary arteries. This can lead to angina and heart attacks.
  • Strokes and TIAs: A stroke is a serious, life-threatening condition that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. A Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) or "mini-stroke" is similar but temporary.
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease: A condition where a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries restricts blood supply to leg muscles.
  • Aortic Diseases: Conditions affecting the aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body.

Many of the underlying causes of CVD, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, have no obvious symptoms in their early stages. This is why early and effective screening is so vital. It can identify risk factors and early signs of disease when they are most treatable, often through lifestyle changes alone.

The NHS Health Check vs. Private Screening

The NHS provides a fantastic, free service to help prevent CVD. However, it's important to understand its scope and limitations compared to what private screening can offer.

The NHS Health Check

The NHS Health Check is a free check-up of your overall health. It's offered to everyone in England aged 40 to 74 who has not already been diagnosed with a long-term condition. You should receive an invitation every five years.

The check aims to spot early signs of:

  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney disease
  • Stroke
  • Dementia

A standard NHS Health Check typically involves a 20-30 minute appointment that includes:

  • Asking you some simple lifestyle questions.
  • Recording your height and weight to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI).
  • Taking your blood pressure.
  • A simple blood test, usually a finger-prick test, to check your cholesterol levels.

While incredibly valuable, the five-year interval and the 40+ age gate mean that significant changes could occur between checks, or that risks in younger individuals may not be identified.

Private Cardiovascular Screening

Private screening offers a more detailed, frequent, and personalised approach. It isn't limited by age or five-year intervals. You can choose when to have a screen and select a package that is tailored to your specific concerns or family history.

Here is a comparison of the two approaches:

FeatureNHS Health CheckPrivate Cardiovascular Screening
EligibilityAges 40-74, no pre-existing conditionsGenerally available to any adult, regardless of age
FrequencyOnce every 5 yearsAt your discretion (e.g., annually, biennially)
Scope of TestsBasic: BMI, blood pressure, basic cholesterolComprehensive: Can include ECG, Echocardiogram, advanced bloods
PersonalisationStandardised for the general populationCan be tailored to individual risk factors (e.g., family history)
SpeedSubject to NHS waiting times for appointmentsFast access, often within days or weeks
CostFree at the point of useSelf-funded or covered by specific PMI benefits
Follow-upLifestyle advice and potential GP follow-upDetailed report and consultation with a private doctor/cardiologist

Private screening is not about replacing the NHS; it's about supplementing it for those who want a deeper, more proactive insight into their heart health.

Does Standard Private Health Insurance Cover Cardiovascular Screening?

This is a critical question, and the answer requires a clear understanding of how private medical insurance UK policies work.

In short: a standard, basic PMI policy generally does not cover preventative health screenings.

PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that begin after your policy starts.

  • 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., a cataract, joint pain requiring a hip replacement, or appendicitis).
  • 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 has no known cure, it's likely to come back, or it requires palliative care (e.g., diabetes, asthma, or most forms of heart disease once diagnosed).

Crucially, standard UK private health insurance does not cover the management of chronic conditions. It also does not cover pre-existing conditions—any illness or injury you had before taking out the policy.

Therefore, simply wanting a heart check-up without any symptoms would be considered preventative and would not be covered by a basic policy. The insurer would see this as screening, not as diagnosing a new, acute problem.

How to Get Cardiovascular Screening Through Your PMI Policy

While basic policies don't cover screening, the good news is that most leading UK insurers now offer pathways to access these valuable checks. This is usually achieved in one of two ways:

  1. Wellness and Screening Benefits: Many mid-tier and comprehensive policies include a specific benefit for health screenings as an incentive for proactive health management.
  2. Diagnostic Tests Following a GP Referral: If you develop symptoms (like chest pain, palpitations, or shortness of breath), your PMI policy would cover the cost of diagnostic tests referred by a GP to find the cause.

1. Policies with Built-in Screening and Wellness Benefits

This is the most direct way to use PMI for screening. Insurers are increasingly recognising that preventing illness is better (and cheaper) than treating it. They offer benefits that reward healthy living and provide access to health checks.

Here’s how some of the best PMI providers approach this:

ProviderBenefit / ProgrammeHow it Works
AXA HealthProactive HealthAvailable on certain plans, this can provide access to health checks and a 'health MOT' at partner facilities. The level of screening depends on your policy tier.
Aviva"Healthier Solutions" Add-onsAviva often offers optional benefits that can include a contribution towards health screening. They may provide a cash benefit up to a set limit (e.g., £400) that you can put towards a screen of your choice.
BupaBupa Be.WellAn app-based service on some policies that encourages healthy habits. Depending on your engagement and policy level, it can unlock rewards, including Bupa health assessments.
VitalityVitality ProgrammeThis is the most well-known example. Policyholders earn points for healthy activities (like walking, gym visits). As you reach certain status levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum), you can unlock benefits, including subsidised or free advanced health screenings.

When choosing a policy, it's vital to look beyond the core cover and examine these added-value benefits. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you compare these nuanced features across different insurers to find a policy that genuinely supports your preventative health goals.

2. Diagnostic Tests Following Symptoms

This is the more traditional route covered by almost all PMI policies. If you experience new symptoms that could be related to a heart condition, the process is straightforward:

  1. Visit a GP: You can see your NHS GP or, if your policy includes it, a private GP service (often available 24/7 via phone or video).
  2. Get a Referral: If the GP believes your symptoms warrant investigation, they will refer you to a specialist (a cardiologist).
  3. Authorisation: You contact your insurer with the referral details. They will check your cover and authorise the specialist consultation and any recommended diagnostic tests.
  4. Tests and Diagnosis: The policy will then cover tests like an ECG, an echocardiogram, or a stress test to diagnose the cause of your symptoms.

This is not preventative screening; it's diagnostic investigation. However, it provides rapid access to specialists and state-of-the-art testing when you need it most, bypassing potentially long NHS waiting lists for cardiology appointments.

What Do Private Cardiovascular Screenings Typically Involve?

A comprehensive private heart screen goes much further than a basic check-up. While packages vary between clinics, a thorough assessment often includes a combination of the following:

  • Detailed Consultation: A discussion with a doctor about your lifestyle, family history, and any concerns.
  • Advanced Blood Tests: This goes beyond a simple cholesterol check. It can include:
    • Full Lipid Profile: Measuring HDL ("good" cholesterol), LDL ("bad" cholesterol), and triglycerides.
    • Inflammation Markers: Such as C-Reactive Protein (CRP), which can indicate inflammation in the arteries.
    • Key Health Indicators: Checking kidney function, liver function, and screening for diabetes (HbA1c).
  • Resting Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the electrical activity of your heart at rest. It can detect abnormal rhythms (arrhythmias) and evidence of a previous heart attack.
  • Exercise ECG (Stress Test): You walk on a treadmill while connected to an ECG machine. This shows how your heart performs under stress and can reveal problems not apparent at rest, like coronary artery disease.
  • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound scan of the heart. It provides a detailed look at the structure of your heart, including the chambers and valves, and assesses how well it's pumping blood.
  • CT Coronary Angiogram: A highly advanced scan that uses CT imaging to visualise the coronary arteries and detect any plaque build-up or narrowing. This is one of the most effective non-invasive tests for detecting early-stage coronary artery disease.

The results are typically compiled into a detailed report, followed by a consultation with a doctor to discuss the findings and recommend next steps, which could range from lifestyle advice to a referral to a cardiologist for further treatment.

The Cost of Private Cardiovascular Screening without Insurance

Paying for a private heart screen out-of-pocket can be a significant investment. The cost highlights the value of having a private health cover policy with a screening benefit.

Here are some typical price ranges in the UK (as of late 2024/early 2025):

Type of Screening / TestAverage Cost RangeWhat's Included
Basic Heart Screen£300 - £700Consultation, ECG, blood pressure, basic blood tests (cholesterol, glucose).
Comprehensive Heart Screen£800 - £1,500Includes all basic tests plus an Exercise ECG and/or an Echocardiogram.
Advanced / Premier Screen£1,800 - £3,000+Includes all comprehensive tests plus advanced imaging like a CT Coronary Angiogram.
Standalone Echocardiogram£400 - £800The ultrasound scan of the heart only.
Standalone CT Coronary Angiogram£1,500 - £2,500The CT scan of the coronary arteries only.

Note: Prices vary significantly based on the clinic, location (London is typically more expensive), and the specific tests included.

If a PMI policy with a £1,000 annual wellness benefit costs an extra £30-£40 per month, it can represent excellent value compared to paying for these services directly. (illustrative estimate)

Choosing the Right PMI Policy for Heart Health

Finding the right private medical insurance can feel complex. When your focus is on cardiovascular health, here are the key factors to consider:

  1. Check for Screening Benefits: Don't assume they are included. Ask specifically about benefits for "health screening," "wellness checks," or "health assessments." Check the annual financial limit for this benefit.
  2. Review the Outpatient Cover: Strong outpatient cover is crucial. This ensures that if you develop symptoms, you are covered for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests without needing to be admitted to hospital.
  3. Examine Digital GP Services: A good 24/7 private GP service allows you to get a quick referral when you need one, accelerating the entire diagnostic process.
  4. Understand Policy Exclusions: Read the fine print. All policies have exclusions. Be clear on how they treat pre-existing and chronic conditions.
  5. Use an Expert Broker: A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr does the hard work for you. We compare policies from across the market, explain the differences in plain English, and find the plan that best aligns with your health priorities and budget—all at no cost to you.

Lifestyle and Prevention: More Than Just Insurance

While insurance provides a financial safety net and access to care, true heart health is built day by day. Proactive prevention is the most powerful tool you have.

A Heart-Healthy Diet

Small changes can make a big difference. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil, is consistently linked to better heart health.

  • Reduce: Salt, sugar, and saturated fats found in processed foods.
  • Increase: Fibre, potassium (from fruits and veg), and omega-3 fatty acids (from oily fish).
  • Calorie Management: WeCovr provides clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you stay on track with your dietary goals.

Stay Active

The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity.

  • Moderate: Brisk walking, cycling on level ground, dancing.
  • Vigorous: Running, swimming, sports like football or tennis.
  • Remember to include muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

Prioritise Sleep

Poor sleep is linked to high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes—all risk factors for CVD. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and make your bedroom a calm, screen-free environment.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure and unhealthy behaviours. Find what works for you:

  • Mindfulness and meditation
  • Yoga or tai chi
  • Spending time in nature
  • Engaging in hobbies you love

Heart Health While Travelling

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially on flights.
  • Move Around: On long journeys, get up and stretch regularly to prevent blood clots (DVT).
  • Medication: Keep any medication in your hand luggage.
  • Watch the Food: It's easy to overindulge on holiday. Be mindful of alcohol and rich foods.

The WeCovr Advantage: More Than Just a Policy

Choosing private medical insurance is a significant decision. At WeCovr, we believe in providing more than just a policy; we offer a partnership in your health journey.

  • Expert, Impartial Advice: As an FCA-authorised broker, our loyalty is to you, not the insurance companies. We have helped over 900,000 clients find the right cover and enjoy high satisfaction ratings for our service.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We compare plans from all leading UK providers, ensuring you see the full picture and get the best possible value.
  • Value-Added Benefits: We go the extra mile for our clients. When you take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us, you get:
    • Complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI app, helping you manage your diet and nutrition.
    • Exclusive discounts on other types of insurance you may need, such as life insurance or income protection.
  • Clarity and Simplicity: We translate the jargon and make complex policy details easy to understand, so you can make a confident choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private health insurance cover heart surgery?

Yes, absolutely. Private medical insurance is specifically designed to cover major surgical procedures for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. If you were diagnosed with a condition requiring a procedure like a coronary bypass, stent insertion, or valve replacement, your PMI policy would cover the costs of the surgery, hospital stay, and specialist fees, subject to your policy's terms and limits. This allows you to bypass NHS waiting lists and be treated in a private hospital.

Can I get PMI if I have a pre-existing heart condition?

You can still get private health insurance, but the pre-existing heart condition and any related issues will almost certainly be excluded from cover. Insurers use two main methods for this: 'moratorium underwriting', where any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the last five years is automatically excluded for an initial period (usually two years), or 'full medical underwriting', where you declare your full medical history upfront and the insurer specifies any permanent exclusions. PMI is for new, unforeseen conditions, not for managing existing ones.

Are health screenings included as standard in all UK PMI policies?

No, they are not. Basic or budget private medical insurance policies typically do not cover preventative screenings. These benefits are usually found in mid-tier or comprehensive policies, often as an optional add-on or as part of an integrated wellness programme (like those offered by Vitality or Bupa). It is essential to check the policy details carefully or speak to a broker to ensure the plan you choose includes the level of screening you want.

What's the difference between a screening and a diagnostic test for PMI purposes?

This is a key distinction. A 'screening' test is preventative; it's performed on someone with no symptoms to look for early signs of disease. These are only covered if your policy has a specific screening or wellness benefit. A 'diagnostic' test is performed to find the cause of symptoms you are already experiencing (e.g., an ECG because you have chest pain). All standard PMI policies cover diagnostic tests when referred by a GP for an eligible condition.

Take the first step towards proactive heart health management today. Let our experts at WeCovr provide you with a free, no-obligation quote and find the perfect private health cover to protect you and your family.

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
Get Quote

Related tools

NHS Wait vs Private Cost MapOpen →
Private Surgery Price ListOpen →
Health Risk AssessmentOpen →
Can I Get Covered? CheckerOpen →
International PMI CalculatorOpen →
PMI Provider ReviewsOpen →
Back to Private Health Insurance (PMI) hub

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.

Flagship guides

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Average Cost of Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Should I Get Private Health Insurance?
Read now →

Explore insurance hubs

PMI Guides Hub
Life Insurance Guides Hub
Income Protection Guides Hub

Related guides

UK's Silent Cardiovascular Time Bomb
UK's Silent Cardiovascular Time Bomb
Read more →
Bowel Cancer in the UK Private Screening & Care
Bowel Cancer in the UK Private Screening & Care
Read more →
Breast Lumps Private Screening
Breast Lumps Private Screening
Read more →
Breast Screening and Mammograms
Breast Screening and Mammograms
Read more →
Cervical Cancer Private Screening & Treatment
Cervical Cancer Private Screening & Treatment
Read more →
Cervical Screening in the UK
Cervical Screening in the UK
Read more →

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!