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Private Health Insurance for Families What to Consider




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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that your family's health is your top priority. This guide to private medical insurance in the UK is designed to demystify your options, helping you find comprehensive and affordable cover for complete peace of mind. WeCovr's family-focused guide to comprehensive, affordable private health cover Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel overwhelming, especially when you're making decisions for your entire family.

Key takeaways

  • Prompt Access to Specialists: Bypass long waiting lists to see a consultant and get a diagnosis quickly. This can be particularly reassuring when a child is unwell.
  • Faster Treatment: Once a diagnosis is made, you can proceed with eligible treatment without the lengthy waits often experienced for elective procedures on the NHS.
  • Choice and Control: You often have a say in who treats you and where. This includes choosing a specific surgeon or a hospital that is convenient for your family.
  • Comfort and Privacy: A significant benefit is the access to a private room during a hospital stay, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for recovery with more flexible visiting hours for family members.
  • Access to Specialist Treatments: Some policies provide cover for drugs, treatments, or technologies that may not be available on the NHS due to funding decisions or other criteria.

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that your family's health is your top priority. This guide to private medical insurance in the UK is designed to demystify your options, helping you find comprehensive and affordable cover for complete peace of mind.

WeCovr's family-focused guide to comprehensive, affordable private health cover

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel overwhelming, especially when you're making decisions for your entire family. The jargon, the policy options, the cost implications—it’s a lot to take in. Yet, the desire to ensure your loved ones get the best possible care, precisely when they need it, is a powerful motivator.

This guide is here to cut through the noise. We will walk you through every critical aspect of family health insurance, from understanding the core benefits to choosing the right level of cover and making it work for your budget. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make a confident and informed choice for the people who matter most.

Why Consider Private Health Insurance for Your Family in the UK?

The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of British life, providing essential care to millions. We are fortunate to have it. However, the system is facing unprecedented demand, leading to challenges that can directly impact your family’s healthcare journey.

According to recent NHS England data, the waiting list for routine consultant-led hospital treatment stands at several million people. The median waiting time can stretch into many weeks or months, a period of uncertainty and discomfort that no parent wants for their child or partner.

Private medical insurance is not a replacement for the NHS—it works alongside it. It’s a parallel system designed to offer speed, choice, and comfort when you face a new, treatable health issue.

Key Advantages of Family PMI:

  • Prompt Access to Specialists: Bypass long waiting lists to see a consultant and get a diagnosis quickly. This can be particularly reassuring when a child is unwell.
  • Faster Treatment: Once a diagnosis is made, you can proceed with eligible treatment without the lengthy waits often experienced for elective procedures on the NHS.
  • Choice and Control: You often have a say in who treats you and where. This includes choosing a specific surgeon or a hospital that is convenient for your family.
  • Comfort and Privacy: A significant benefit is the access to a private room during a hospital stay, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for recovery with more flexible visiting hours for family members.
  • Access to Specialist Treatments: Some policies provide cover for drugs, treatments, or technologies that may not be available on the NHS due to funding decisions or other criteria.
  • Peace of Mind: This is perhaps the most significant benefit. Knowing you have a plan in place to swiftly address health concerns provides an invaluable sense of security for your family's future.

The Core Concept: PMI Covers Acute Conditions, Not Chronic Ones

This is the single most important principle to understand about private medical insurance in the UK. Failure to grasp this concept is the root of most misunderstandings.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy has started. They are not designed for long-term management of incurable illnesses or for treating conditions you already had when you took out the cover.

  • What is an Acute Condition? An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and from which you are expected to make a full recovery.

    • Examples: A hip replacement, cataract surgery, hernia repair, removal of gallstones, or treatment for an infection.

  • What is a Chronic Condition? A chronic condition is a health issue that is long-lasting and has no known cure. It requires ongoing management rather than a short course of curative treatment.

    • Examples: Diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis, Crohn's disease, and eczema.

  • What is a Pre-existing Condition? This refers to any illness or injury for which you have sought advice, received treatment, or experienced symptoms before the start date of your insurance policy.

Insurers exclude chronic and pre-existing conditions to manage their risk and keep premiums affordable for the collective pool of customers. PMI is for unforeseen, treatable problems, not for the ongoing management of known health issues.

FeatureAcute Condition (Typically Covered)Chronic Condition (Typically Excluded)
DefinitionShort-term, curable, responds to treatment.Long-term, no known cure, needs management.
ExamplesJoint replacement, broken bones, appendicitis.Diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure.
PMI GoalTo return you to your previous state of health.Not designed for long-term, ongoing care.
NHS RoleProvides treatment (often with a wait).Manages the condition throughout your life.

What Does a Typical Family Health Insurance Policy Cover?

Policies are built in layers, allowing you to tailor the cover to your family's needs and budget. It starts with a core foundation, to which you can add optional extras.

Core Cover: The Essentials

Almost every policy includes in-patient and day-patient cover as standard. This is the heart of any PMI plan.

  • In-patient Treatment: When you are admitted to a hospital bed overnight or longer.
  • Day-patient Treatment: When you are admitted to a hospital for a procedure but do not need to stay overnight.

Core cover typically pays for:

  • Hospital accommodation and nursing care.
  • Operating theatre fees.
  • Surgeon and anaesthetist fees.
  • Specialist consultations while you are admitted.
  • Diagnostic tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and X-rays during your hospital stay.
  • Limited post-treatment therapies, such as a few physiotherapy sessions after a knee replacement.

Optional Add-On: Out-patient Cover

This is the most common and valuable addition to a core policy. It covers the diagnostic journey before you are admitted to hospital. Without it, you would rely on the NHS for all your initial tests and specialist appointments.

Out-patient cover typically includes:

  • Specialist Consultations: Seeing a consultant to diagnose your symptoms.
  • Diagnostic Tests & Scans: MRIs, CT scans, blood tests, and X-rays performed on an out-patient basis.
  • Therapies: Physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.

Most insurers offer different levels of out-patient cover, for example, a monetary limit of £500, £1,000, or a fully comprehensive option. Choosing a lower limit is a good way to reduce your premium.

  • Mental Health Cover: Increasingly important for families, this can provide access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapy sessions for conditions like anxiety and depression.
  • Dental and Optical Cover: This helps with the costs of routine check-ups, dental treatments, and prescription eyewear. It's often less about major emergencies and more about managing routine family health costs.
  • Therapies Cover: While some therapies may be included in out-patient cover, you can often purchase enhanced limits for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and even podiatry or acupuncture.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how cover levels build up:

Level of CoverWhat It Typically IncludesBest For
BasicIn-patient and day-patient treatment only.Families on a tight budget who want cover for major procedures but are happy to use the NHS for diagnosis.
Mid-RangeCore cover + limited out-patient cover (e.g., up to £1,000).A good balance of cost and benefit, speeding up diagnosis and providing core hospital cover.
ComprehensiveCore cover + full out-patient cover, often with mental health and therapy options included.Families wanting complete peace of mind and the fastest possible access to the full private healthcare journey.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Family Policy

Choosing the right policy is about balancing four key elements: your family's needs, the level of cover, your budget, and the insurer's terms.

1. Underwriting: How the Insurer Assesses Your Medical History

This is a technical but vital choice that determines how pre-existing conditions are handled.

  • Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common and simplest option. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition that you (or any family member on the policy) have had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past 5 years. However, if you then go for 2 continuous years after your policy starts without any issues related to that condition, the exclusion may be lifted.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): This requires you to complete a detailed health questionnaire for every family member. The insurer assesses this information and gives you a definitive list of what is excluded from day one. These exclusions are usually permanent.
FeatureMoratorium UnderwritingFull Medical Underwriting (FMU)
Application ProcessQuick and simple, no health forms.Longer, requires a detailed health questionnaire.
Clarity on Exclusions"Rolling" exclusions, can be uncertain.Clear list of exclusions from the start.
Claim ProcessInsurer will investigate medical history at the point of a claim.Simpler claim process as exclusions are pre-defined.
Best ForPeople with a clean bill of health or those who prefer a simpler sign-up.People with a complex medical history who want certainty about what is covered.

2. The Excess

An excess is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your eligible treatment costs £4,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £3,750.

  • The Rule: A higher excess leads to a lower monthly premium.
  • Common Options: £0, £100, £250, £500, £1,000.
  • Per Person or Per Policy: Check if the excess applies to each family member who claims in a year, or just once per policy year. A "per policy" excess is often better value for families.

Choosing an excess you can comfortably afford is one of the most effective ways to manage the cost of your premium.

3. The Hospital List

Insurers negotiate rates with private hospitals, creating "hospital lists" or networks. The list you choose directly impacts your premium.

  • Local/Regional List: Includes a good selection of hospitals outside of major city centres. More affordable.
  • National List: A comprehensive list of hospitals across the UK, but may exclude the most expensive facilities in Central London.
  • Premium/London List: Includes everything, even the high-cost hospitals in Central London like The London Clinic or The Cromwell. This is the most expensive option.

Actionable Tip: Check which private hospitals are near your home and work. If a local list covers them, you can save a significant amount of money by not paying for access to hospitals you are unlikely to use.

4. Adding Children to a Policy

You can typically add children to your policy up to the age of 21 (or 25 if they are in full-time education).

  • Newborns: Most insurers allow you to add a newborn baby to your policy, often on a "medical history disregarded" basis if you do so within a set period (e.g., 90 days of birth). This is a fantastic benefit as it means any congenital conditions they may be born with could be covered.
  • Pricing Structure: Some insurers charge per child, while others have a "second child goes free" or "family pricing" structure. A PMI broker like WeCovr can find the most cost-effective structure for your family size.

How to Make Family Private Health Insurance More Affordable

Beyond choosing a higher excess and a sensible hospital list, there are other clever ways to control the cost.

  1. The 6-Week Option: This is a brilliant cost-saving feature. If the NHS waiting list for your required in-patient procedure is less than six weeks, you agree to use the NHS. If the wait is longer, your private cover kicks in. As this significantly reduces the risk for the insurer, it can cut your premium by 20-30%. It provides a fantastic safety net against long waits while keeping costs down.

  2. Guided Consultant Lists: Some of the best PMI providers offer a "guided" or "expert select" option. This means that for a claim, the insurer will provide you with a shortlist of 3-5 specialists they have vetted for quality and value. Agreeing to use a specialist from this list can result in a lower premium. You still get excellent care, just with slightly less choice.

  3. Review Your Cover Annually: Your family's needs change. Don't just let your policy auto-renew. Speak to your broker each year to ensure the cover is still right for you and to check if other insurers are offering better value.

  4. Pay Annually: If you can, paying your premium in one annual lump sum often works out cheaper than paying monthly, as it avoids interest charges.

  5. Utilise Wellness Programmes: Some insurers, like Vitality, offer discounts and rewards for staying active. By engaging with these programmes (tracking steps, going to the gym), you can earn rewards and potentially reduce your renewal premium.

Comparing the Best PMI Providers for Families in the UK

The UK market is served by several outstanding insurers, each with its own strengths. The "best" one is entirely dependent on your specific circumstances. This is where using an impartial PMI broker is invaluable, as they can match your needs to the right provider.

Here is an illustrative comparison of some leading names:

ProviderKey Family-Friendly FeaturesUnique Selling Point
AXA HealthStrong core product, excellent digital GP service, flexible options for adding family members.Focus on proactive health support and a seamless digital customer experience.
Aviva"BacktoBetter" programme for musculoskeletal issues, often competitive on price, strong brand reputation.The 'Aviva Digital GP' app is highly rated for convenient, quick medical advice.
BupaThe UK's best-known health insurer, extensive network of hospitals and clinics, comprehensive mental health cover.Direct access pathways for some conditions (e.g., cancer, mental health) without needing a GP referral.
VitalityShared-value model that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks (cinema tickets, coffee).The wellness programme is its core differentiator, making it great for active families.
The ExeterA friendly society known for excellent customer service and considering members with some pre-existing conditions.Focus on flexibility and a more personal approach to underwriting and claims.

Disclaimer: This table is for illustrative purposes only. Features and benefits change, and the right choice requires a detailed comparison of quotes.

Beyond Insurance: WeCovr's Commitment to Your Family's Wellbeing

We believe that supporting your family's health goes beyond just providing an insurance policy. It’s about empowering you with tools and knowledge to live healthier lives every day. That’s why we offer additional benefits to our clients.

Wellness Tips for a Healthier Family

  • Nourish Together: Make meal times a family affair. Cooking and eating together promotes healthier eating habits and strengthens family bonds. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Consistent sleep schedules are vital for everyone, especially growing children. A good night's sleep boosts immunity, improves mood, and enhances concentration at school and work. Aim for 7-9 hours for adults and 9-12 hours for children, depending on age.
  • Move Every Day: You don’t need a gym membership to stay active. Family walks, bike rides, park visits, or even a simple game of catch in the garden are fantastic ways to build fitness and have fun together.
  • Digital Detox: In today's connected world, scheduling screen-free time is essential for mental health. Encourage reading, board games, or outdoor play to foster creativity and reduce stress.

WeCovr's Added Value for Your Family

At WeCovr, we go the extra mile for our private medical insurance and life insurance clients:

  • Complimentary CalorieHero App: All clients gain free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It’s an easy-to-use tool to help your family make smarter food choices and understand their dietary needs.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: When you take out a PMI or life insurance policy with us, you become eligible for exclusive discounts on other types of cover you may need, such as home or travel insurance. We believe in rewarding loyalty.
  • Exceptional Service: Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment. We provide clear, expert advice and are always here to help you, from choosing your policy to making a claim.

The Application Process: How WeCovr Makes It Simple

We remove the complexity and paperwork, making the journey to getting covered straightforward and stress-free.

  1. Free Consultation: It starts with a conversation. You’ll speak to one of our friendly, UK-based PMI experts. We’ll listen to your needs, your concerns, and your budget. There's no hard sell, just helpful advice.
  2. Whole-of-Market Comparison: We then do the hard work for you. We search the market, comparing policies from all the UK's leading insurers to find the ones that offer the best combination of cover and value for your family.
  3. Personalised Recommendation: We present you with a clear, jargon-free summary of your best options. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each, ensuring you understand exactly what you are buying.
  4. Effortless Application: Once you’ve made your choice, we handle the application process from start to finish, liaising with the insurer on your behalf to get your cover set up smoothly. Our service is completely free to you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Health Insurance

Is private health insurance for families worth it in the UK?

This is a personal decision based on your priorities and financial situation. If you value fast access to specialists, choice over your treatment, and the comfort of private facilities, then it can provide immense peace of mind. It acts as a safety net against long NHS waits for eligible acute conditions, which many families find invaluable.

How much does family health insurance cost?

The cost varies significantly based on factors like the age of family members, your location, the level of cover chosen (especially out-patient), the excess, and the hospital list. A basic policy for a young family of four might start from around £70 per month, while a comprehensive policy could be £200 or more. The only way to know for sure is to get a personalised quote.

Can I add a newborn baby to my private health insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most insurers allow you to add a new baby to your policy, and many offer a special "newborn benefit." If you add your baby within a set timeframe (usually 3 to 6 months of birth), they may be accepted without any medical underwriting. This is a significant benefit, as it means any conditions they are born with may be covered.

What is not covered by standard family PMI?

Standard exclusions across most UK policies include: pre-existing conditions, long-term chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma), routine pregnancy and childbirth, A&E visits, cosmetic surgery, organ transplants, and treatment for drug or alcohol addiction.

Why should I use a broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

An insurer can only sell you their own products. An expert broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurer. We provide impartial advice and compare policies from the entire market to find the one that truly fits your family's needs and budget. We do all the research, explain the complex terms, and our service is free, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

Ready to secure peace of mind for your family's health? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts find the perfect private medical insurance for you.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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