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Private Health Insurance for Over 60s in the UK

Private Health Insurance for Over 60s in the UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies arranged, WeCovr specialises in helping you navigate the private medical insurance market in the UK. This guide provides authoritative, clear advice on finding the right health insurance policy as you move into your 60s, a time when looking after your health is more important than ever.

Health insurance options designed for people over 60

Entering your 60s is a milestone. It’s often a time of transition—perhaps retirement is on the horizon, the grandchildren are growing, and you have more freedom to travel and pursue hobbies. To enjoy this chapter to the fullest, having peace of mind about your health is paramount.

While the NHS provides an essential service to the nation, growing waiting lists and pressures on the system mean that many people are considering private medical insurance (PMI) for the first time. For those over 60, policies are specifically designed to cater to the health needs that can become more common with age, focusing on providing swift access to diagnosis and treatment for new, acute conditions.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know, from the benefits and costs to how to choose the right policy for your unique circumstances.

Why Consider Private Health Insurance in Your 60s and Beyond?

The primary reason many people over 60 opt for private health cover is to bypass long waiting times for the NHS. It's about taking control of your health and ensuring you get seen quickly when a new medical issue arises.

According to the latest NHS England data (as of mid-2024), the referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list remains extensive, with millions of treatments outstanding. The British Medical Association highlights that a significant number of patients wait more than 18 weeks, and many thousands wait over a year for planned hospital treatment.

Key benefits of private health insurance for over 60s include:

  • Prompt Access to Specialists: See a consultant quickly for diagnosis, often within days or weeks, rather than months.
  • Faster Treatment: Once diagnosed, receive eligible treatment without the lengthy NHS wait. This is crucial for conditions where early intervention improves outcomes, such as for joint replacements or cataract surgery.
  • Choice and Comfort: You can often choose your specialist and the hospital where you're treated. A private room with an en-suite bathroom, more flexible visiting hours, and better food can make a hospital stay much more comfortable.
  • Access to Advanced Treatments: Some policies provide access to drugs, treatments, or procedures that may not yet be available on the NHS due to funding decisions.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a plan in place to deal with unexpected health issues can significantly reduce anxiety for you and your family.

Real-Life Example: Margaret, a 67-year-old retired teacher, started experiencing severe hip pain. Her GP referred her to an NHS specialist, but she was told the wait for an initial consultation would be nine months, with a further 12-18 month wait for a hip replacement. Using her private medical insurance, she saw a specialist within two weeks and had her surgery a month later at a private hospital near her home. She was back to her passion, gardening, within a few months.

How Does Private Medical Insurance Work for Over 60s?

Private medical insurance is designed to cover the costs of diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

It’s crucial to understand two key definitions:

  1. Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain requiring a replacement, cataracts, hernias, or diagnosable symptoms like a persistent cough.
  2. Chronic Condition: An illness that cannot be cured and needs long-term management. Examples include diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and asthma.

UK private medical insurance does not cover chronic conditions. It is designed to get you diagnosed and treated for new, curable issues, returning you to the care of your NHS GP for any ongoing management.

The Critical Point: Pre-Existing Conditions

Insurers will also not cover medical conditions you had before you took out the policy. This is a fundamental principle of private health cover in the UK. How they handle this is determined by the type of underwriting you choose. We'll explore this in more detail later, but it means if you have a history of heart trouble, for example, your policy won't cover future treatment for that specific heart condition.

Key Features of Health Insurance Policies for Seniors

PMI policies are built from a core foundation with optional extras, allowing you to tailor the cover to your needs and budget.

FeatureDescriptionTypically Included?
In-Patient & Day-Patient CoverCovers costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed, including surgery, accommodation, and nursing care.Core (Standard)
Out-Patient CoverCovers diagnostic tests and consultations that don't require a hospital bed. This is often limited or an optional extra.Optional Add-On
Cancer CoverUsually comprehensive, covering diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Some policies include access to new drugs.Core (Usually Comprehensive)
TherapiesCovers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, often up to a set number of sessions.Optional Add-On
Mental Health CoverProvides access to psychiatric treatment and therapy. Cover levels can vary significantly between insurers.Often an Add-On
Dental & Optical CoverCovers routine check-ups, dental treatment, and the cost of glasses or contact lenses.Optional Add-On

Understanding Your Cover Levels

  • In-Patient Cover: This is the bedrock of any policy. It covers you if you need to be admitted to hospital for a procedure, from cataract surgery to a heart bypass or joint replacement.
  • Out-Patient Cover: This is one of the biggest variables affecting your premium. A basic policy might have no out-patient cover, meaning you'd rely on the NHS for diagnostics. A comprehensive policy might offer unlimited out-patient cover. A popular mid-range option is to have a financial limit, for example, £1,000 per year for consultations and tests.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a major reason people buy PMI. Most policies offer extensive cancer cover, but it's vital to check the details. Will it cover advanced therapies and new, experimental drugs? An expert broker like WeCovr can help you compare these crucial differences.

How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost for Over 60s?

Age is the most significant factor in determining the cost of private health insurance. Premiums naturally increase as we get older because the statistical likelihood of needing to make a claim rises. However, the price is also influenced by several other factors.

Factors Influencing Your Premium:

  1. Age: The older you are, the higher the premium.
  2. Location: Treatment costs vary across the UK. Central London is the most expensive, so premiums are higher for residents there compared to someone in Scotland or the North of England.
  3. Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with full out-patient and therapy cover will cost more than a basic in-patient-only plan.
  4. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  5. Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospital lists. A plan that includes premium London hospitals will be more expensive than one with a national network of quality private hospitals.
  6. No-Claims Discount: Similar to car insurance, you can build up a no-claims discount over time, which reduces your renewal premium.

Example Monthly Premiums for Over 60s

These are illustrative examples to give you a general idea. Costs will vary based on your individual circumstances. An independent broker can provide you with precise quotes.

AgeLocationLevel of CoverExcessEstimated Monthly Premium
65ManchesterBasic (In-patient only)£500£90 - £130
65ManchesterComprehensive (Full Out-patient)£250£180 - £250
70SurreyBasic (In-patient only)£500£140 - £190
70SurreyComprehensive (Full Out-patient)£250£270 - £380

*These figures are for illustrative purposes only (checked mid-2024).

How to Reduce the Cost of Your PMI Policy

While premiums for over 60s are higher than for younger individuals, there are several effective ways to make your private medical insurance UK policy more affordable without sacrificing essential cover.

  1. Increase Your Excess: Choosing a higher excess is the quickest way to lower your premium. If you have savings, you might be comfortable with a £500 or £1,000 excess, knowing you'd only pay it if you make a claim.
  2. Opt for a 6-Week Wait Option: This is a clever compromise. Your policy will only pay for in-patient treatment if the waiting time for that treatment on the NHS is longer than six weeks. If the NHS can treat you within six weeks, you use the NHS. This can reduce your premium by 20-30%.
  3. Choose a Guided Consultant List: Some insurers offer a "guided" or "expert select" option. Instead of having a free choice of any consultant, the insurer provides you with a shortlist of 3-5 specialists they have vetted for quality and value. This gives you less choice but comes with a lower premium.
  4. Tailor Your Out-Patient Cover: Do you need unlimited out-patient cover? Perhaps a limit of £1,000 per year is sufficient for initial diagnostics, which provides a good balance between cost and cover.
  5. Pay Annually: Most insurers offer a small discount (around 5%) if you pay for your policy annually instead of monthly.
  6. Use an Independent PMI Broker: A specialist broker like WeCovr does the shopping for you. We have access to the whole market and can find policies that aren't available on comparison websites. Our service is free to you, as we are paid by the insurer you choose. We can pinpoint the best value policy for your specific age and health needs.

Comparing the Best UK Private Health Insurance Providers for Over 60s

The UK has several excellent insurers, each with slightly different strengths. There is no single "best" provider; the right one depends entirely on your priorities.

ProviderKey Strengths for Over 60sWellness & Lifestyle Benefits
BupaStrong brand reputation, extensive hospital network, and direct access to some services without a GP referral.Offers a range of health information and support lines.
AXA HealthExcellent customer service, comprehensive cancer cover, and flexible policy options.Focuses on proactive health support, including a 24/7 health support line.
AvivaKnown for its "Expert Select" guided option and strong digital tools. Often very competitive on price.Good digital GP service and well-being support.
VitalityUnique approach that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks. Can be great value if you are active.The active rewards programme can reduce future premiums and offer perks like cinema tickets and coffee.
The ExeterA friendly society known for its focus on individuals and excellent claims service. No upper age limit for joining.Strong customer-first ethos, which many older clients appreciate.

The Vital Role of a Health Insurance Broker

Choosing a PMI policy, especially later in life, can feel complex. The terminology is confusing, and the implications of your choices are significant. This is where an independent broker adds immense value.

Why use WeCovr?

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are experts in the private medical insurance UK market. We work for you, not the insurers. Our job is to understand your needs and find the policy that offers the best cover at the most competitive price.
  • Market Comparison: We compare plans from all the leading UK insurers, including specialist providers you might not find online.
  • No Cost to You: Our advice and support are completely free. You pay the same premium as you would going direct to the insurer, but with the benefit of our expert guidance.
  • Help with the Details: We'll explain the jargon, compare the small print on things like cancer cover, and guide you through the application process.
  • Added Value: As a WeCovr client, you'll receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on top of your health goals. You may also be eligible for discounts on other insurance products, like travel or life insurance.

Beyond Insurance: Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle in Your 60s

Private health insurance is a safety net for when things go wrong, but the best strategy is to invest in your health every day. A healthy lifestyle not only improves your quality of life but can also help manage the risk of developing conditions that require treatment.

  • Stay Active: The NHS recommends adults aged 65 and over aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, dancing, or water aerobics. Activities that improve strength, balance, and flexibility, like yoga or tai chi, are also highly beneficial.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Staying hydrated is also key. A healthy diet helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Good sleep is vital for mental and physical repair. Aim for 7-8 hours per night. If you struggle with sleep, speak to your GP, as it can be a symptom of other issues.
  • Stay Socially Connected: Loneliness and social isolation can have a significant negative impact on health. Make time for friends, family, and community groups. Joining clubs or volunteering are great ways to stay engaged.
  • Regular Health Checks: Don't skip your NHS health checks, eye tests, and dental appointments. Early detection is key to managing many health conditions effectively.

Understanding Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting

This is perhaps the most technical but most important decision you'll make when buying a policy. Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover.

Underwriting TypeHow It WorksProsCons
Moratorium (Mori)You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of, or treatment for, in the 5 years before your policy started. This exclusion lasts for the first 2 years of your policy. If you remain symptom-free and treatment-free for that condition for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.Quicker and simpler application process.Lack of clarity from day one. You may not know if a condition is covered until you claim.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring all previous medical conditions. The insurer then assesses your history and tells you exactly what is excluded from cover from the very beginning.Complete clarity. You know precisely what is and isn't covered from day one.The application process is longer and more intrusive. The exclusions are permanent.

Which is right for you?

  • If you have a clean bill of health or haven't seen a doctor for minor issues in the last 5 years, Moratorium can be a simple and fast option.
  • If you have a more complex medical history and want absolute certainty about what's covered, Full Medical Underwriting is the better choice.

An expert at WeCovr can talk you through your personal situation and help you decide which path is most suitable.

Do I need to have a medical examination to get health insurance over 60?

No, it is very rare for UK insurers to require a medical exam to take out a private health insurance policy. Instead, they will assess your health through the underwriting process, which involves either a detailed health questionnaire (Full Medical Underwriting) or a blanket exclusion of recent pre-existing conditions (Moratorium underwriting).

What happens if I develop a chronic condition after I've taken out the policy?

Private medical insurance will typically cover the initial diagnosis of the condition. For example, if you develop symptoms that lead to a diagnosis of arthritis, your PMI policy would cover the consultant fees and diagnostic tests (like X-rays or MRI scans) to confirm it. However, once it is diagnosed as a chronic condition, the long-term management, including routine check-ups and medication, would be passed back to your NHS GP. The policy has fulfilled its role of providing a prompt diagnosis.

Is there an age limit for taking out private medical insurance?

This varies by insurer. Many mainstream providers have an upper age limit for new customers, which can be anywhere from 65 to 79. However, some specialist insurers and friendly societies, like The Exeter, have no upper age limit for joining. This is why using a broker is so important, as they can quickly identify the insurers who will offer cover to someone in your specific age bracket. Once you have a policy, it is nearly always renewable for life, provided you keep paying the premiums.

Can I add my partner to my health insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most insurers offer joint policies for couples and families. It is often simpler and can sometimes be slightly cheaper to have one policy rather than two separate ones. The premium will be calculated based on the age and health circumstances of both individuals.

Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind

Navigating the world of private medical insurance can be daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. Protecting your health is one of the most important investments you can make for your future.

The expert team at WeCovr is here to provide free, no-obligation advice tailored to your needs. We'll help you compare the market, understand your options, and find a policy that gives you the right cover at the right price.

Contact WeCovr today to get your free, personalised health insurance quote and take control of your health journey.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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