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Private Health Insurance for New Parents in the UK

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

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in finding the right private medical insurance in the UK for your growing family. This guide is designed to give new and expectant parents the clear, authoritative information you need to make the best choice. Health cover designed to protect new parents and newborns Becoming a parent is a monumental life event, filled with joy, excitement, and a new sense of responsibility.

Key takeaways

  • Chronic Conditions: These are long-term illnesses that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and most types of arthritis. The NHS provides ongoing management for these conditions.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: This refers to any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice from a medical professional in the years before your policy starts (typically the last 5 years).
  • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer will automatically exclude any condition you've had in the 5 years before the policy starts. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy begins, the insurer may then agree to cover it in the future.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your medical history and explicitly lists any conditions that will be excluded from your cover from day one. This provides more certainty but can be more time-consuming.
  • Routine Care (Usually Excluded): Antenatal scans, midwife appointments, and the delivery itself (whether natural or caesarean) are not covered by standard PMI.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in finding the right private medical insurance in the UK for your growing family. This guide is designed to give new and expectant parents the clear, authoritative information you need to make the best choice.

Health cover designed to protect new parents and newborns

Becoming a parent is a monumental life event, filled with joy, excitement, and a new sense of responsibility. Your world shifts to focus on the health and well-being of your little one. In the UK, we are incredibly fortunate to have the National Health Service (NHS), providing care for everyone. However, the pressures on the system can lead to long waiting times for non-urgent consultations and treatments.

For new parents, waiting is the last thing you want to do when you or your baby need medical attention. This is where private medical insurance (PMI) comes in. It's a way to supplement the care offered by the NHS, giving you fast access to specialists, diagnosis, and treatment when you need it most.

This article will explore everything you need to know about private health insurance for new parents and newborns in the UK, from what's covered to how to choose the right policy for your family's unique needs.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in the UK

Before we dive into the specifics for new families, it's vital to understand the fundamentals of how private health cover works in the UK.

PMI is an insurance policy that pays for the costs of private medical care for acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint pain requiring surgery, hernias, or investigations for unexplained symptoms.

What PMI Does Not Cover: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important principle to understand about standard UK PMI. It is not designed to cover:

  • Chronic Conditions: These are long-term illnesses that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and most types of arthritis. The NHS provides ongoing management for these conditions.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: This refers to any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice from a medical professional in the years before your policy starts (typically the last 5 years).

Think of PMI as cover for unexpected health issues that arise after you take out your policy. It's for peace of mind against future, unforeseen problems, rather than a way to get private treatment for a known condition.

How Underwriting Affects Your Cover

When you apply for a policy, the insurer "underwrites" it to decide what they will and won't cover. There are two main types:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer will automatically exclude any condition you've had in the 5 years before the policy starts. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy begins, the insurer may then agree to cover it in the future.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your medical history and explicitly lists any conditions that will be excluded from your cover from day one. This provides more certainty but can be more time-consuming.

What Does Private Health Insurance for New Parents Typically Cover?

While every policy is different, a good family-oriented PMI plan will offer benefits that are particularly valuable during the post-natal period and your baby's first years. The primary benefit is always speed: quick access to consultants and diagnostic tests, bypassing potential NHS waiting lists which, according to recent NHS England data, can stretch for many months for elective treatments.

Here’s a breakdown of features that are especially useful for new parents and their children:

BenefitDescription for ParentsDescription for Newborns & Children
Fast Specialist AccessGet a prompt appointment with a private consultant (e.g., a gynaecologist for post-natal issues or a dermatologist for skin changes).See a private paediatrician quickly if your GP has concerns about your baby's health, development, or recurring illnesses.
Advanced DiagnosticsQuick access to MRI, CT, and PET scans to investigate any post-natal health concerns without a long wait.Rapid diagnostic tests and scans for your child, providing swift answers and reducing parental anxiety.
Mental Health SupportAccess to therapy or counselling for post-natal depression, anxiety, or the general stress of new parenthood. Many policies now include this as a core benefit.While less direct for newborns, parental mental well-being is crucial for a child's environment. Some policies extend support to child psychology services.
Digital GP Services24/7 access to a virtual GP via phone or video call. Invaluable for late-night worries about your baby's fever or your own recovery.A quick and convenient first port of call when your baby is unwell, saving a trip to the surgery and getting professional advice instantly.
Post-Natal PhysiotherapyCover for physiotherapy to help with recovery from childbirth, such as strengthening the pelvic floor or addressing diastasis recti (abdominal separation).N/A
In-patient & Day-patient CareCovers the cost of hospital stays, including surgery, accommodation, and nursing care in a private hospital with a private room.Should your child need an operation (e.g., for grommets, hernia repair, or tonsillectomy), PMI covers the hospital and surgeon fees.

Real-Life Example: The Value of Quick Access

Sarah, a new mum, noticed her six-month-old son, Leo, was constantly suffering from ear infections. Her NHS GP was supportive but recommended a "watch and wait" approach. Worried, Sarah used her family's private health insurance. She got a next-day Digital GP appointment, who referred her to a private ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist. Within a week, Leo had been seen, diagnosed with glue ear, and scheduled for grommet surgery the following month, resolving the issue and preventing potential speech development delays.

The Big Question: Is Pregnancy and Childbirth Covered?

This is a common point of confusion. In short, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover routine pregnancy and childbirth.

The NHS provides comprehensive and high-quality maternity care, from antenatal appointments to the birth itself, and this is the established pathway for the vast majority of births in the UK.

PMI is designed for unforeseen illness, not planned events like childbirth. However, some policies may offer limited benefits or cash payouts, while others might cover complications.

  • Routine Care (Usually Excluded): Antenatal scans, midwife appointments, and the delivery itself (whether natural or caesarean) are not covered by standard PMI.
  • Complications (Sometimes Covered): Some more comprehensive policies may provide cover for specific, serious medical complications that can arise during pregnancy or childbirth. This is a very specialist area and will be clearly defined in the policy documents. It will not cover the birth itself, but rather the treatment required for the unforeseen complication.
  • Cash Benefit: A small number of high-end policies offer a "baby bonus" or "maternity cash benefit". This is a fixed sum of money paid out upon the birth of a child if you have been with the insurer for a certain period (e.g., 10-12 months). It's a goodwill gesture, not cover for private delivery.

If having a private birth is your priority, you would typically need to fund this yourself, which can cost anywhere from £7,000 to over £20,000 in London. Alternatively, some international health insurance plans offer maternity cover, but these are significantly more expensive and have waiting periods. (illustrative estimate)

Adding Your Newborn to a PMI Policy: A Practical Guide

Congratulations, your baby has arrived! One of the first administrative tasks you might consider is adding them to your health insurance. This is usually a straightforward process, but timing is key.

The "Medical History Disregarded" Window

Most UK insurers offer a special "newborn window," typically within the first 90 to 120 days of birth. If you add your baby to your policy during this time, they are often accepted on a "Medical History Disregarded" (MHD) basis.

What does this mean? It means the insurer agrees to cover your baby for any new, acute conditions without applying exclusions for conditions they were born with (congenital conditions). This is a hugely valuable benefit and one of the most compelling reasons to add a newborn promptly.

If you miss this window, you will likely have to add your child with moratorium or full medical underwriting, which could result in exclusions for any health issues identified since birth.

How to Add Your Baby to Your Policy:

  1. Contact Your Insurer or Broker: As soon as is practical after the birth, get in touch with your provider. If you used a broker like WeCovr, they can handle this for you.
  2. Provide the Details: You'll need to give your baby's full name and date of birth.
  3. Confirm the Terms: Check that your baby is being added on an MHD basis (if within the window) and understand how it will affect your premium.
  4. Receive New Documents: The insurer will issue updated policy documents that list your new dependant and confirm their cover.

The Cost of Family Health Insurance: What to Expect

The price of private medical insurance varies widely based on several factors. Adding a child will increase your premium, but it's often less expensive than adding another adult.

Key Factors Influencing Your Premium:

  • Age: Premiums are lowest for children and increase with age.
  • Location: Costs are generally higher in Central London and the South East due to the higher cost of private medical care.
  • Level of Cover: A basic policy might only cover in-patient treatment, while a comprehensive plan will include out-patient consultations, diagnostics, and therapies.
  • Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospital lists. A plan that includes prime Central London hospitals will be more expensive than one with a national network of private hospitals.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums for Family PMI

The table below provides a rough estimate of monthly costs. These are for illustrative purposes only; your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances.

Family ProfileBasic Cover (In-patient only, £500 excess)Mid-Range Cover (Out-patient limits, £250 excess)Comprehensive Cover (Full out-patient, £100 excess)
Two Parents (35) + Newborn£90 - £130£150 - £210£220 - £300+
Single Parent (35) + Newborn£60 - £90£100 - £140£150 - £200+

To get an accurate price, the best approach is to get a personalised quote that reflects your family's needs and budget.

Comparing the Best PMI Providers for Families in the UK

The UK market is home to several major providers, each with its own strengths when it comes to family cover. Here’s a brief comparison of some leading names.

ProviderKey Family-Friendly FeaturesMental Health SupportWellness Programme
BupaStrong paediatric network. Direct Access for certain conditions (no GP referral needed). Family mental health support lines.Well-established mental health pathways, covering therapy and counselling.Extensive online health resources and Bupa Touch app for managing policies and health.
AXA HealthFlexible family policies. 'Doctor@Hand' digital GP service is highly rated. Excellent cancer cover as standard.Strong focus on mental health, often with generous out-patient limits for therapy.ActiveHealth programme with resources and support for getting and staying healthy.
Aviva"Expert Select" hospital option can reduce costs. Strong digital offering with the Aviva Digital GP app. Often competitive on price for families.Good mental health cover included as standard on most policies, with options to enhance it.Access to the Aviva Wellbeing app with health tracking and challenges.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that rewards healthy living (e.g., activity tracking) with cinema tickets, coffee, and lower premiums.Integrated approach linking physical and mental health. Cover for talking therapies and counselling.The core of their offering. Rewards for being active, which can be a great motivator for new parents.

Navigating these options and their subtle differences can be complex. This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr provides immense value. We compare the market for you at no extra cost, explaining the pros and cons of each policy to ensure you don't overpay or end up with inadequate cover. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to finding the right fit for every client.

Beyond Medical Treatment: The Rise of Wellness and Mental Health Support

Modern private health cover is about more than just paying for hospital stays. Insurers now provide a suite of tools designed to keep you and your family healthy and support your overall well-being. For new parents, these benefits can be a lifeline.

  • 24/7 Digital GP: No need to drag a sick baby to the surgery. Get a video consultation from your sofa at 10 PM.
  • Mental Health Helplines: The "baby blues" and post-natal depression are serious. Having a direct line to a qualified counsellor can make all the difference. Recent ONS data highlights that around 1 in 5 new mothers experience some form of perinatal mental health issue.
  • Nutrition and Diet Support: Some insurers offer consultations with nutritionists to help with post-natal recovery and healthy eating.
  • Fitness Rewards: Programmes like Vitality's encourage you to get active – even a daily walk with the pram counts – and reward you for it.

When you arrange your policy through WeCovr, you also gain complimentary access to our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It's the perfect tool to support your post-natal health journey, helping you manage your energy levels and nutrition with ease. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us may also be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance.

Practical Health & Wellness Tips for New Parents

Your PMI policy is a safety net, but prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple tips for looking after yourself and your baby in those challenging early months.

  1. Prioritise Sleep (As Much as Possible): The advice "sleep when the baby sleeps" is golden. Don't worry about the laundry or tidying up. Your physical and mental recovery depends on rest.
  2. Accept Help: If friends and family offer to cook a meal, watch the baby for an hour, or run an errand, say yes! You don't have to do it all yourself.
  3. Nourish Your Body: Focus on nutrient-dense foods that are easy to prepare. Think whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Staying hydrated, especially if you are breastfeeding, is crucial.
  4. Gentle Movement: Once you have the all-clear from your doctor, incorporate gentle exercise into your day. A walk in the park with the pram is fantastic for both your physical and mental health.
  5. Stay Connected: It's easy to feel isolated as a new parent. Make an effort to connect with your partner, friends, or a local parent and baby group. Talking to others who are going through the same experience can be incredibly reassuring.
  6. Trust Your Instincts: You know your baby best. If you feel something isn't right with your health or your baby's, don't hesitate to seek medical advice from your GP or a 24/7 service.

How to Choose the Right PMI Policy with WeCovr

Finding the best private medical insurance for your new family involves balancing cost and coverage. Here's a simple process to follow:

  1. Define Your Priorities: What's most important to you? Is it comprehensive mental health support, a low premium, or access to specific hospitals?
  2. Consider Your Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford each month. Remember that a policy with a higher excess can significantly reduce your premium.
  3. Think About Underwriting: Are you happy to go with a Moratorium policy, or do you prefer the certainty of Full Medical Underwriting?
  4. Speak to an Expert: This is the most crucial step. An independent broker does the hard work for you. At WeCovr, we take the time to understand your family's needs. We'll compare policies from across the market, explain the jargon, and present you with clear, easy-to-understand options. Our service is completely free to you, as we are paid by the insurer you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get private health insurance if I'm already pregnant?

Yes, you can get a policy, but it will not cover your routine pregnancy or the birth itself. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover unforeseen acute conditions that arise after your policy starts, and pregnancy is considered a planned event. However, the policy would cover you for other new, unrelated medical conditions that might occur during your pregnancy.

Will my newborn be covered for conditions they are born with?

Generally, if you add your baby to your policy within the insurer's specified timeframe (usually the first 90-120 days), they will be covered on a "Medical History Disregarded" basis. This is a significant benefit, as it means congenital conditions (conditions present from birth) would typically be covered, provided they are acute and treatable. If you add them after this window, congenital conditions would likely be excluded as pre-existing.

Is it cheaper to get a joint family policy or separate policies for me and my baby?

It is almost always more cost-effective to have a single family policy. Insurers offer discounts for adding family members, and managing one policy is far simpler than juggling multiple plans and renewal dates. A family policy ensures everyone is on the same plan with consistent benefits.

Does private medical insurance UK cover vaccinations for my baby?

No, routine childhood immunisations are provided by the NHS and are not covered by private medical insurance. PMI is for the diagnosis and treatment of illness, not for preventative measures like vaccinations.

Protecting your family's health is one of the most important investments you can make. Private medical insurance offers the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can access expert care quickly, when it matters most.

Ready to find the right health cover for your growing family? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find you the best policy at the best price.

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.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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