WeCovr.

Login

Private Health Insurance for COPD UK

Private Health Insurance for COPD UK 2025

Navigating the UK’s private medical insurance market can be complex, especially with a long-term health condition. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we provide clear, expert guidance. This article explains how private health insurance in the UK treats Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

How PMI handles chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Let's be clear from the start: standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover acute conditions, not chronic ones. This means that as a general rule, PMI policies will not cover the routine monitoring, management, or treatment of COPD.

Why? Because COPD is a chronic condition. To understand this, it's vital to know the difference between 'acute' and 'chronic' in the eyes of an insurer.

  • An Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like a cataract, a hernia, or a broken bone.
  • A Chronic Condition: 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, or tests.
    • It has no known "cure".
    • It is likely to come back.
    • It continues indefinitely.

COPD fits every definition of a chronic condition. Therefore, insurers exclude it from cover.

FeatureAcute Condition (e.g., Gallstones)Chronic Condition (e.g., COPD)
OnsetUsually suddenTypically gradual
DurationShort-termLong-term or lifelong
Treatment GoalTo cure the conditionTo manage symptoms and slow progression
PMI CoverageGenerally CoveredGenerally Excluded

This core principle is the foundation of the UK PMI market. But it's not the end of the story. Even with COPD, a private health insurance policy can offer immense value by providing rapid access to care for a whole host of other health concerns.

Understanding COPD: A Quick Overview for UK Patients

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It includes:

  • Emphysema: Damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs.
  • Chronic Bronchitis: Long-term inflammation of the airways.

According to the NHS, it's estimated that around 1.2 million people in the UK are living with a diagnosis of COPD. However, many more may have the condition without realising it, with some estimates suggesting the true number could be closer to 3 million.

The main symptoms include:

  • Increasing breathlessness, especially when active
  • A persistent chesty cough with phlegm
  • Frequent chest infections
  • Wheezing

In the UK, COPD is primarily managed by the NHS. This care pathway usually involves your GP, practice nurses, and, for more severe cases, referral to a specialist respiratory team at a hospital. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing flare-ups through medication (inhalers), lifestyle changes, and pulmonary rehabilitation programmes.

The Crucial Role of Underwriting in PMI for COPD

When you apply for private health insurance, the insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover. This process is called underwriting. For someone with COPD, this is the stage where the condition will be excluded.

There are two main types of underwriting in the UK:

Moratorium Underwriting

This is the most common type. It's simpler and quicker because you don't have to fill out a detailed medical questionnaire.

  • How it works: A moratorium policy automatically excludes any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or medical advice in the five years before the policy started.
  • The "2-5-2" Rule: An insurer might agree to cover a pre-existing condition, but only after you have served a continuous two-year period on the policy without experiencing any symptoms or seeking any treatment or advice for it.
  • Impact for COPD: Because COPD is a permanent, managed condition requiring ongoing care, it will never satisfy the two-year clear period. Therefore, COPD and any related conditions will be permanently excluded from a moratorium policy.

Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)

With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring your entire medical history, including your COPD.

  • How it works: The insurer assesses your application and provides you with a definitive list of what is and isn't covered from day one.
  • Impact for COPD: Your COPD will be explicitly listed as an exclusion on your policy certificate. While this feels definitive, it provides absolute clarity. You know exactly where you stand.

Table: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting for COPD

FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Application ProcessSimple, no initial health forms.Detailed health questionnaire required.
COPD CoverageAutomatically excluded as it's a pre-existing chronic condition.Explicitly excluded in writing from Day 1.
Clarity of CoverCan be uncertainty about what's linked to COPD.Crystal clear from the start.
Best ForSomeone wanting a quick and simple application.Someone wanting complete certainty about their cover.

An expert broker, such as WeCovr, can help you decide which underwriting method is best for your personal circumstances, ensuring there are no surprises down the line.

So, Is Private Health Insurance Worth It If You Have COPD?

Absolutely, yes. While it won't cover your COPD, a PMI policy acts as a powerful partner to the NHS, protecting you against long waits for a wide range of other health problems.

With NHS waiting lists for consultant-led elective treatment in England remaining a significant challenge (often exceeding 7 million appointments, according to NHS England data), PMI provides a crucial alternative.

Faster Access to Diagnosis for New Symptoms

Imagine you have COPD and you start experiencing persistent pain in your hip.

  • On the NHS: You would see your GP, who might refer you for physiotherapy. If that doesn't work, you'd be referred to an orthopaedic specialist, which could take many months. An MRI scan, if needed, would involve another wait.
  • With PMI: You would get an open referral from your GP, and your PMI provider could arrange a consultation with a private specialist in a matter of days or weeks. Any required diagnostic scans, like an MRI or CT scan, would happen just as quickly.

This speed is not just about convenience; it's about getting peace of mind and a treatment plan in place without the anxiety of a long wait.

Swift Treatment for Unrelated Acute Conditions

PMI truly shines when you need treatment for a new, acute condition. Let's say you are diagnosed with one of the following:

  • Hernia requiring repair
  • Gallstones needing gallbladder removal
  • Cataracts impairing your vision
  • Joint problems requiring a hip or knee replacement

With a private health insurance policy, you can bypass the NHS waiting list and have your procedure carried out at a time and in a private hospital of your choice. This means less time in discomfort and a quicker return to your daily life.

Access to Advanced Cancer Care

This is one of the most compelling reasons for anyone, with or without a pre-existing condition, to have PMI. If you were diagnosed with cancer, a comprehensive PMI policy could provide:

  • Fast access to leading oncologists and cancer centres.
  • Choice of treatment at high-quality private hospitals.
  • Access to breakthrough drugs and treatments that may not yet be approved for use on the NHS or rationed due to cost.

For someone already managing a serious respiratory illness, the added security of first-class cancer cover can be invaluable.

Added Value Services and Mental Health Support

Modern PMI policies are more than just hospital cover. They often include a suite of benefits that can be incredibly useful for someone managing COPD:

  • Digital GP: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call. This is perfect for getting quick advice without having to leave home, especially if you're feeling unwell.
  • Mental Health Support: Living with a chronic condition can take a toll on your mental wellbeing. Many policies include access to counselling and therapy sessions.
  • Wellness Programmes: Some insurers offer rewards and discounts for healthy living, which can motivate you to stay active and manage your health effectively.

What About Acute Flare-Ups of COPD?

This is a common and important question. An "acute exacerbation" or "flare-up" of COPD is when your symptoms suddenly get much worse.

Unfortunately, because these flare-ups are a direct result of the underlying chronic condition, they are not covered by private medical insurance. The insurer's view is that the root cause is the excluded condition (COPD), so its complications are also excluded.

Think of it like this: if your car insurance policy has an exclusion for engine failure, it won't pay out when the engine inevitably breaks down. In the same way, a PMI policy that excludes COPD won't cover a COPD flare-up. Emergency care for a severe flare-up remains the responsibility of the NHS, which is excellently equipped to handle such acute medical events.

How to Choose the Right PMI Policy with a Pre-Existing Condition

  1. Be Completely Honest: When applying, especially for a fully medically underwritten policy, you must declare your COPD and any other health conditions. Hiding a condition can lead to your policy being cancelled and claims being denied.
  2. Focus on What Is Covered: Shift your mindset. You're not buying insurance for your COPD. You're buying it for fast access to diagnosis and treatment for all the other acute conditions that could happen to you, from joint pain to cancer.
  3. Scrutinise the Exclusions: Once you receive your policy documents, read the list of exclusions carefully. With FMU, COPD will be clearly stated. With a moratorium policy, understand that it is implicitly excluded.
  4. Work with an Expert Broker: This is the most important step. The UK PMI market is vast, with dozens of policies from providers like Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, and Vitality. An independent broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurer. Our specialists understand the intricate differences between policies and can:
    • Explain the pros and cons of each underwriting type for you.
    • Compare the market to find the best value.
    • Highlight policies with the strongest 'added value' benefits, like digital GPs or mental health support.
    • All this comes at no extra cost to you.

Living Well with COPD: Complementary Health and Wellness Tips

While PMI manages other health risks, effectively self-managing your COPD is key to your quality of life. These tips can complement the care you receive from your NHS team.

Diet and Nutrition

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Being underweight can weaken your immune system, while being overweight can increase breathlessness.

  • Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
  • Stay well-hydrated to keep mucus thinner and easier to clear.
  • Consider using an app to monitor your intake. As a benefit to our clients, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on track.

Staying Active

Regular, gentle exercise can significantly improve your symptoms and fitness.

  • Ask your GP about NHS pulmonary rehabilitation programmes – they are highly effective.
  • Activities like walking, swimming, and tai chi are excellent.
  • The key is to start slow and build up gradually. Listen to your body.

Managing Your Environment

  • Avoid Triggers: Cigarette smoke is the biggest trigger. If you smoke, getting help to quit is the single most important thing you can do. Avoid dusty environments and strong chemical fumes.
  • Check Air Quality: On days with high pollution or pollen counts, you may find it better to stay indoors.
  • Weather: Cold, dry air or hot, humid air can trigger symptoms. Wrapping a scarf loosely over your nose and mouth in winter can help warm the air you breathe.

Travel Tips for COPD Patients

You can still travel with COPD, but planning is essential.

  1. Talk to Your GP: Discuss your travel plans well in advance.
  2. Medication: Carry all your medications (especially inhalers) in your hand luggage. Take enough to last the whole trip, plus extra in case of delays.
  3. Air Travel: You may need a "fit to fly" assessment. If you use oxygen, you must arrange this with the airline long before you travel.
  4. Travel Insurance: This is separate from PMI and absolutely essential. Ensure you declare your COPD to your travel insurer to be fully covered for any medical emergencies abroad.

WeCovr: Your Partner in Navigating the PMI Market

Choosing a private medical insurance policy can feel daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. At WeCovr, our mission is to bring clarity and simplicity to insurance. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing clear, honest, and personalised advice.

We help you compare policies from across the market to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Furthermore, clients who purchase private medical or life insurance through us may be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, providing even greater value.

Do I need to declare my COPD when applying for private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. You must always be honest and provide full disclosure of your medical history. If you are applying for a "Full Medical Underwriting" policy, you will declare it on a health questionnaire. On a "Moratorium" policy, while you don't declare it upfront, the condition is still considered pre-existing and will be excluded. Failing to disclose a condition can lead to your policy being voided.

Will my PMI premiums be higher because I have COPD?

Not necessarily. Because the insurer will exclude cover for your COPD, they are not taking on risk for that specific condition. Your premium will be calculated based on standard factors: your age, your location, the level of cover you choose (e.g., hospital lists, outpatient limits), and your excess. Your premium is for the cost of covering you for new, eligible acute conditions.

Can I get private health insurance if I am a smoker?

Yes, you can still get private health insurance if you are a smoker or use nicotine products. However, you must declare it, and your premiums will be significantly higher than for a non-smoker of the same age. This is because smoking is a major risk factor for a wide range of acute and chronic health conditions, increasing the likelihood you will need to make a claim.

What's the difference between private medical insurance and a health cash plan for COPD?

They are very different. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is designed to cover the high costs of private diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions. A Health Cash Plan, on the other hand, helps with everyday healthcare costs. It gives you a set amount of money back each year for things like dental check-ups, eye tests, physiotherapy, or podiatry. A cash plan can be a useful, low-cost addition for someone with COPD to help budget for routine care, but it will not cover the cost of a private operation or specialist consultation.

Ready to explore how private medical insurance can provide you with peace of mind and faster access to healthcare?

Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will help you compare leading UK providers and find a policy that fits your needs and budget.

Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ 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!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London