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Private Health Insurance for Nuns 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 understands the unique needs of different communities. This guide explores private medical insurance (PMI) for nuns in the UK, offering clarity and support for religious orders considering private health cover for their valued members. Health cover tailored for female religious workers For centuries, nuns and female religious workers have dedicated their lives to prayer, community, and service.

Key takeaways

  • Emergencies: For accidents and emergencies (like a heart attack or a serious injury), you would still go to an NHS A&E department. PMI does not cover emergency treatment.
  • GP Services: Your NHS GP remains your first point of contact for any health concerns.
  • The PMI Pathway: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist or require diagnostic tests for a new condition, PMI allows you to bypass the NHS waiting list and be seen privately.
  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements (hip, knee), cataract surgery, removal of gallstones, or treatment for many types of cancer. The goal of the treatment is to return you to your previous state of health.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics:

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique needs of different communities. This guide explores private medical insurance (PMI) for nuns in the UK, offering clarity and support for religious orders considering private health cover for their valued members.

Health cover tailored for female religious workers

For centuries, nuns and female religious workers have dedicated their lives to prayer, community, and service. The leaders of these religious orders, such as a Mother Superior or Prioress, hold a profound duty of care for the health and wellbeing of every member within their community. In today's world, fulfilling this duty often involves navigating the complexities of the UK's healthcare landscape.

While the National Health Service (NHS) provides an essential service to everyone, growing pressures and lengthening waiting lists can create uncertainty and anxiety. For a close-knit community like a convent, the extended illness of one member can have a significant impact on the entire group.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) can provide a valuable layer of support. A well-chosen group policy can offer peace of mind, ensuring that when a sister falls ill with a new, treatable condition, she can receive prompt diagnosis and high-quality care, allowing her to return to her vocation and community as swiftly as possible. This guide will walk you through everything a religious order needs to know about securing the right private health cover in the UK.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in the UK

Before diving into the specifics for religious communities, it’s important to grasp the fundamentals of how private health insurance works in the United Kingdom.

What is PMI and How Does It Complement the NHS?

Private medical insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private healthcare for specific medical conditions. It's crucial to understand that PMI is not a replacement for the NHS. It works alongside it.

  • Emergencies: For accidents and emergencies (like a heart attack or a serious injury), you would still go to an NHS A&E department. PMI does not cover emergency treatment.
  • GP Services: Your NHS GP remains your first point of contact for any health concerns.
  • The PMI Pathway: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist or require diagnostic tests for a new condition, PMI allows you to bypass the NHS waiting list and be seen privately.

Think of it as a key that unlocks faster access to diagnosis and treatment for eligible conditions, offering more choice and comfort during a difficult time.

The Critical Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about UK private health insurance. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions, not chronic conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements (hip, knee), cataract surgery, removal of gallstones, or treatment for many types of cancer. The goal of the treatment is to return you to your previous state of health.

  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics:

    • It needs ongoing or long-term monitoring.
    • It requires management through check-ups, medication, or tests.
    • It has no known "cure."
    • It is likely to recur.
    • Examples include diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, and Crohn's disease.

PMI will not cover the day-to-day management of chronic conditions. Likewise, it will not cover any health problems you had before you took out the policy. These are known as pre-existing conditions. The insurance is for new, unexpected, and curable health issues that arise after your policy begins.

Why Might a Religious Order Consider PMI for Its Members?

For a convent, the decision to invest in group PMI is about more than just healthcare; it's an expression of the order's commitment to the wellbeing of its sisters.

1. Faster Access to Diagnosis and Treatment

This is the primary driver for most people seeking private health cover. NHS waiting lists for elective procedures have grown significantly in recent years.

According to NHS England data, the waiting list for consultant-led elective care remains a major challenge. Waiting for a diagnosis or treatment can be a period of immense stress and discomfort, which can be particularly disruptive to the contemplative life and duties within a religious community. PMI allows members to bypass these queues for eligible conditions, getting them seen by a specialist in days or weeks, rather than many months or even years.

Real-Life Example: A 65-year-old sister develops severe hip pain, making it difficult for her to walk, attend chapel, or participate in community activities. Her GP diagnoses osteoarthritis and refers her for a hip replacement. The local NHS waiting time for this surgery is over a year. With a group PMI policy, the order could arrange for her to see a private consultant within two weeks and have the surgery in a private hospital the following month.

2. Choice, Control, and Comfort

PMI provides a level of choice that is often not possible within the NHS system.

  • Choice of Specialist: You can research and choose a leading consultant for your specific condition.
  • Choice of Hospital: Policies come with a "hospital list," allowing you to select a hospital that is convenient or has a reputation for excellence in a particular field. Some orders may even be able to choose hospitals that align with their ethos, such as those with a Catholic heritage.
  • Choice of Timing: You can schedule appointments and surgery at a time that minimises disruption to personal and community life.
  • Privacy and Comfort: Treatment in a private hospital almost always means a private en-suite room, providing a quiet and peaceful environment for recovery. This can be especially important for members of a contemplative order.

3. Supporting an Ageing Community

Many religious orders in the UK have an ageing demographic. While PMI does not cover long-term care or chronic conditions associated with ageing, it is invaluable for the acute conditions that become more common in later life.

Common Age-Related Acute Conditions Covered by PMI
Joint replacement surgery (hips, knees)
Cataract surgery
  • Hernia repair |
  • Gallbladder removal |
  • Cancer treatment (diagnosed after policy start) |
  • Cardiology tests and some surgical procedures |

Providing access to swift treatment for these issues can dramatically improve a sister's quality of life and ability to remain an active member of her community.

4. A Tangible Act of Care

For the leadership of a religious order, implementing a group health insurance scheme is a powerful and practical way to demonstrate its duty of care. It provides tangible reassurance to all members—young and old—that their health is a priority and that support is in place should they become unwell.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help the order's bursar or leadership team explore the market to find a policy that provides robust protection while respecting the community's budget.

Key Features of a Group PMI Policy for a Convent

For a religious order, a group policy is almost always the most sensible and cost-effective approach. It involves covering all or a significant number of members under a single, centrally managed policy.

Group Schemes vs. Individual Policies

FeatureGroup Policy (for an Order)Individual Policy (for one person)
AdministrationOne policy, one renewal date, managed centrally.Each member manages their own policy, payments, and renewals.
CostOften cheaper per person due to economies of scale.Can be more expensive; pricing is based on individual risk.
UnderwritingMore flexible options, including potential for MHD (see below).Typically Moratorium or Full Medical Underwriting only.
AcceptanceThe insurer covers the group as a whole.Acceptance is based on an individual's personal medical history.
Best ForOrganisations like convents, businesses, and associations.Individuals or families buying cover for themselves.

Understanding Underwriting Options

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses risk and decides which conditions it will cover. For a group scheme, there are several options.

  1. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting: This is the most common type. No medical questionnaire is needed at the start. However, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any medical condition that existed in the 5 years before the policy began. This exclusion is typically lifted for a specific condition if the member goes 2 continuous years on the policy without experiencing symptoms, needing treatment, medication, or advice for it.

  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): Each member completes a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews this information and states upfront exactly what will be excluded from cover. It provides clarity but can be more administratively burdensome.

  3. Medical History Disregarded (MHD): This is the most comprehensive type of underwriting, but it is usually only available for larger groups (typically 20+ members). With MHD, the insurer agrees to cover eligible acute conditions, regardless of a member's prior medical history. This is an exceptional benefit as it can include pre-existing conditions, but it comes at a significantly higher premium. An experienced broker can advise if an order is large enough to qualify for MHD terms.

Core Cover vs. Optional Extras

Most private medical insurance UK policies are modular. You start with a core foundation and can add optional benefits to create a more comprehensive plan.

Coverage TypeWhat's Typically Included
Core Cover (Standard)In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: Covers costs when a member is admitted to hospital for a bed overnight (in-patient) or for a day (day-patient). This includes surgery, hospital fees, specialist fees, and accommodation.
Optional Add-on: Out-patient CoverDiagnostics and Consultations: Covers the costs of seeing a specialist and having tests (like MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, blood tests) before being admitted to hospital. This is a highly recommended add-on as it speeds up diagnosis.
Optional Add-on: TherapiesPhysiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic: Covers a set number of sessions to aid recovery after an injury or operation. This is vital for mobility and rehabilitation.
Optional Add-on: Mental HealthPsychiatric and Psychological Support: Provides cover for consultations with psychiatrists and therapy sessions. This can be crucial for supporting the holistic wellbeing of members.
Optional Add-on: Dental & OpticalRoutine check-ups, emergency dental work, and contributions towards glasses/lenses. This is often a lower-priority add-on but can be a valued benefit.

Tailoring a Policy for the Unique Needs of Nuns

A standard, off-the-shelf policy may not be the perfect fit for a religious community. The best PMI provider will allow for customisation, and a broker can help negotiate these specifics.

Mental and Spiritual Wellbeing

The mental and spiritual health of a nun is intrinsically linked to her overall wellbeing. A life of service and contemplation is deeply rewarding but can also have its own unique pressures. When choosing a policy, it's wise to consider comprehensive mental health cover. This ensures that if a sister experiences issues like anxiety, depression, or burnout, she can access professional support from therapists or psychiatrists in a timely and confidential manner.

Holistic Health and Added Value

Modern PMI policies often come with a suite of value-added benefits that can support a healthy lifestyle within the community:

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Access to a GP via phone or video call at any time. This is incredibly useful for minor concerns, getting quick advice, or arranging prescriptions without needing to leave the convent.
  • Wellness Programmes: Many insurers provide access to online resources, health assessments, and wellbeing apps.
  • Nutrition and Diet Support: Some policies offer access to registered dietitians. This can be particularly helpful for communities managing communal kitchens and catering to diverse dietary needs.

As a WeCovr client, your community would also receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, helping members proactively manage their diet and health.

Travel and Geographic Considerations

Does the order have sisters who travel within the UK or overseas for missions, retreats, or to visit other houses of the order?

  • UK Hospital Network: Ensure the policy's hospital list provides good coverage across all the locations where your members reside, including more rural areas.
  • Travel Cover: Some comprehensive PMI plans can include an element of overseas travel medical insurance, which could be a cost-effective alternative to buying separate policies for each trip.

How WeCovr Can Help Religious Orders Find the Right Cover

Navigating the private health insurance market can be complex. The terminology is confusing, and comparing policies from different providers is not always straightforward. This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr provides an invaluable service.

Our role is to act on your behalf, not on behalf of the insurance companies.

  1. Understanding Your Needs: We start by having a detailed, confidential conversation with the order's representative (e.g., the Prioress or Bursar) to understand the community's specific needs, demographics, and budget.
  2. Searching the Market: We use our expertise and relationships with all the UK's leading health insurers to find the most suitable and competitive options. We compare dozens of policies on your behalf.
  3. Clear and Simple Advice: We present the options to you in a clear, easy-to-understand format, explaining the pros and cons of each. We cut through the jargon and answer all your questions.
  4. Handling the Application: Once you've made a decision, we manage the entire application process, ensuring all the paperwork is correct and the policy is set up smoothly.
  5. Ongoing Support: Our service doesn't stop once the policy is live. We are here to help with any queries, provide support at renewal time to ensure you still have the best deal, and offer guidance if you need to make a claim.

Crucially, there is no charge for our service. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. This means you get expert, independent advice at no extra cost. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us may also be eligible for discounts on other types of cover the community might need, such as public liability or travel insurance.

Understanding the Costs and How to Manage Them

The premium for a group policy will depend on several key factors.

Factor Affecting CostHow It Influences the Premium
Average AgeThe higher the average age of the group, the higher the premium will be, as the statistical risk of needing treatment increases.
LocationPremiums are often higher for groups based in and around London and other major cities, where the cost of private treatment is greater.
Level of CoverA basic core policy will be the cheapest. Adding comprehensive out-patient cover, therapies, and mental health support will increase the cost.
Policy ExcessThis is the amount a member pays towards a claim (e.g., the first £100). Choosing a higher excess will lower the overall premium.
Hospital ListPolicies with a limited list of local hospitals are cheaper than those offering a full nationwide or even London-centric choice.
Underwriting TypeA policy with Medical History Disregarded (MHD) underwriting will be significantly more expensive than a Moratorium policy.

Ways to Keep Premiums Affordable

  1. Choose an Excess: A small voluntary excess (£100-£250) per member per year can lead to a meaningful reduction in the total premium.
  2. The 6-Week Wait Option: This is a popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the required in-patient treatment within six weeks of when it is needed, the member will use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, the private medical insurance kicks in. This can reduce premiums by up to 20-30%.
  3. Select a Relevant Hospital List: There's no point paying for access to exclusive London hospitals if your community is based in rural Scotland. Tailoring the hospital list to your likely needs is a smart way to manage cost.
  4. Annual Review: Never just auto-renew. The health insurance market is competitive. By working with a broker like WeCovr, you can review the market each year to ensure your order continues to have the most appropriate and cost-effective cover.

The Claims Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making a claim on a PMI policy is designed to be straightforward.

  1. Visit your NHS GP: A sister feels unwell and visits her GP as normal. The GP identifies a problem that needs further investigation by a specialist.
  2. Request an 'Open Referral': The GP writes a referral letter. It's best to ask for an 'open referral', which doesn't name a specific specialist. This gives you maximum flexibility with the insurer.
  3. Contact the Insurer: The designated person in the order (or the sister herself) calls the insurance company's claims line to get the claim pre-authorised. You will need the policy number and details from the GP's referral.
  4. Get Authorisation: The insurer confirms the condition is covered and provides an authorisation number. They will also provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals you can use.
  5. Book the Appointment: You can now book the consultation or treatment directly with the private hospital or specialist.
  6. Bills are Settled Directly: After the treatment, the hospital sends the invoices directly to the insurance company. Apart from any excess on the policy, the member does not have to handle any payments.

Does private health insurance for nuns cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance, whether for an individual or a group, is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise *after* the policy has started. It does not cover the management of chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions that you had before joining. The only exception is for some large group schemes with a special 'Medical History Disregarded' underwriting, which is very expensive and not always available.

Is a group policy for a convent cheaper than individual policies for each nun?

Yes, in almost all cases. Insurers offer better terms and lower per-person premiums for group schemes because the risk is spread across multiple people. A group policy is also far simpler to administer, with a single point of contact, one renewal date, and unified policy terms for the entire community, making it the most practical and cost-effective solution for a religious order.

Can we choose a hospital that aligns with our Catholic values?

Yes, this is often possible. Many private health insurance policies have extensive hospital lists that include private hospitals with a religious heritage, such as the Hospital of St John & St Elizabeth in London. When discussing your needs with a broker, you can specify your preference for certain hospitals, and they can help you find an insurer and a policy list that includes them.

What happens if a nun leaves the order? Is her health cover lost?

Most group PMI schemes have a 'leaver's option'. This means a member leaving the group can typically switch to an individual policy with the same insurer without needing new medical underwriting. This provides crucial continuity of cover. While the premium for the individual policy will likely be higher than the group rate, it ensures they remain covered for any new conditions that arose while they were part of the group scheme.

Providing for the health of your community is a profound responsibility. A private medical insurance policy, carefully chosen and tailored to your needs, can be a cornerstone of that care.

Ready to explore the best private health cover options for your community? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation consultation and quote. Our expert team is here to provide clear, independent advice to help you protect the health of your sisters.

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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