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Private Health Insurance for Over 80 Years Old UK Costs & Challenges

Private Health Insurance for Over 80 Years Old UK Costs &...

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the nuances of the UK private medical insurance market. A common question we encounter is whether securing cover is possible later in life. This guide explains the reality of getting PMI for those aged 80 and over.

Can you still get PMI at 80+? WeCovr explains the reality

The short answer is yes, it is often possible to get private health insurance (PMI) if you are over 80 in the UK. However, the reality is more complex than a simple yes or no. While the door isn't closed, the path to securing a policy is narrower, the options are fewer, and the cost is significantly higher.

Many people assume that once you reach a certain age, private health cover becomes unavailable. This is a myth. Several specialist UK insurers have designed policies specifically for the older market, recognising that many people wish to bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible treatments well into their retirement.

The key challenges you will face are:

  • Limited Choice of Insurers: Not all mainstream providers will offer new policies to applicants over 80.
  • Higher Premiums: Age is the single most significant factor in calculating PMI costs.
  • Strict Underwriting: Insurers will pay close attention to your medical history.
  • Exclusions for Pre-existing Conditions: This is a fundamental rule of PMI that becomes more pronounced with age.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down these challenges, explore the costs, and explain how you can navigate the market to find the right cover for your needs.

Understanding the Insurer's Perspective: Risk and the Over-80s

To understand why getting PMI over 80 is challenging, it helps to see things from the insurer's point of view. Insurance is fundamentally about balancing risk. Insurers calculate premiums based on the statistical likelihood of a person making a claim.

As we age, the probability of needing medical treatment naturally increases. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the UK has an ageing population. Projections suggest that the number of people aged 85 and over is set to rise substantially in the coming decades. This demographic trend means insurers anticipate a higher volume of claims from older policyholders.

For an insurer, an older applicant represents a higher risk of:

  • Developing new medical conditions.
  • Needing more frequent or complex treatments.
  • Having longer recovery times, which can increase the cost of in-patient care.

This increased statistical risk is directly reflected in the premiums charged. It's not a personal judgement; it's a commercial reality based on vast amounts of population health data.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to grasp when considering private medical insurance at any age, but especially over 80.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, or a joint injury requiring replacement. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, asthma, and COPD. Standard UK PMI policies DO NOT cover the management of chronic conditions.

Furthermore, any condition you have received medical advice or treatment for before taking out a policy is considered a pre-existing condition. These will also be excluded from your cover. For an applicant in their 80s, it's highly likely they will have one or more pre-existing or chronic conditions, which will be excluded from any new policy.

Key Takeaway: You are buying insurance for new, unforeseen acute health problems, not for the management of existing or long-term illnesses. The NHS remains your port of call for chronic condition management and emergencies.

What Does PMI for Over 80s Typically Cover and Exclude?

While policies vary, the core structure of what is covered remains consistent. The main benefit is gaining faster access to diagnosis and treatment for eligible conditions, allowing you to bypass potentially long NHS waiting lists. As of early 2025, NHS England data shows millions of people on the waiting list for consultant-led elective care, with a median waiting time of several months. PMI offers a way to circumvent this for specific treatments.

Here’s a typical breakdown of what you can expect to be included and excluded.

FeatureTypically IncludedTypically Excluded
Hospital TreatmentIn-patient and day-patient treatment in a private hospital.Treatment in a hospital not on the insurer's approved list.
ConsultationsConsultations with specialists and consultants.Consultations for conditions not covered by the policy.
Diagnostic TestsScans like MRI, CT, and PET scans, and other diagnostic tests.Routine health screenings not related to specific symptoms.
Cancer CareComprehensive cover for cancer diagnosis and treatment is a core feature of most policies.Experimental treatments; monitoring of pre-existing cancers.
Mental HealthSome cover for acute mental health conditions (often with limits).Chronic mental health conditions.
TherapiesPhysiotherapy, osteopathy, etc., often following a hospital procedure.Therapies for chronic conditions like arthritis.
Pre-existing ConditionsN/AAny condition you had before the policy started.
Chronic ConditionsN/ADiabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, etc.
EmergenciesN/AAccident & Emergency services are provided by the NHS.
Other Common ExclusionsN/ARoutine dental, optical care, cosmetic surgery, mobility aids.

The Big Question: How Much Does Private Health Insurance for Over 80s Cost?

This is often the deciding factor. Premiums for this age group are the highest in the market. The cost is determined by a combination of factors:

  1. Age: The primary driver. Premiums increase steeply with each passing year.
  2. Location: Treatment costs are higher in major cities, particularly London, so postcodes in these areas attract higher premiums.
  3. Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with outpatient cover and cancer care will cost more than a basic plan covering only in-patient treatment.
  4. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will lower your monthly premium.
  5. Hospital List: Choosing a policy with a limited list of local hospitals is cheaper than one with nationwide access.

To give you a realistic idea, here are some estimated monthly premiums for an 82-year-old.

Important: These are illustrative examples only. Your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances and the insurer you choose.

LocationBasic Cover (In-patient only, £500 excess)Comprehensive Cover (In/Out-patient, full cancer care, £250 excess)
Outside London (e.g., Manchester)£250 - £400 per month£450 - £650 per month
Greater London£300 - £480 per month£550 - £800+ per month

As you can see, the costs are substantial. It requires a careful budget assessment to determine if the benefits of faster treatment for new acute conditions justify the significant ongoing expense.

How to Find the Best PMI Policy When You're Over 80

Given the limited options and high costs, a scattergun approach of applying to multiple insurers directly is rarely effective. A strategic approach is essential.

1. Work with a Specialist PMI Broker

This is the most efficient way to navigate the market. An independent broker, like WeCovr, understands the landscape and knows which insurers are most receptive to older applicants.

Benefits of using a broker:

  • Expert Knowledge: We know the underwriting criteria for each specialist provider (such as The Exeter, Saga, and WPA).
  • Market Access: We can compare policies and prices from the whole market, saving you the time and effort of doing it yourself.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer if you decide to take out a policy.
  • Application Support: We can help you complete the application forms accurately, which is crucial for underwriting.

2. Understand Your Underwriting Options

When you apply, the insurer needs to know about your medical history to decide what they will exclude. There are two main ways they do this:

  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire, disclosing your full medical history. The insurer then reviews this and tells you upfront exactly what will be excluded from your policy.
    • Pro: You have complete clarity from day one. There are no grey areas about what's covered.
    • Con: The application process is longer and more intrusive.
  • Moratorium Underwriting: You do not have to disclose your medical history upfront. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years prior to starting the policy. These exclusions can be lifted if you go 2 continuous years without any treatment or advice for that condition after your policy starts.
    • Pro: Quick and simple to set up.
    • Con: You don't know for certain if a condition is covered until you make a claim. This can lead to disappointment and rejected claims.

For applicants over 80, Full Medical Underwriting is almost always the recommended path. It provides certainty and avoids potential disputes later on.

3. Be Realistic About What You Need

Don't pay for cover you don't need. Consider these ways to manage the cost:

  • Increase your excess: Opting for a £1,000 excess can significantly reduce your premium.
  • Choose a '6-week wait' option: Some policies reduce the cost if you agree to use the NHS if the required treatment has a waiting list of less than 6 weeks.
  • Limit your hospital list: If you are happy to be treated at local private hospitals, you don't need to pay for a plan that includes expensive central London facilities.

Alternatives to Private Medical Insurance

Given the high cost, it's wise to consider the alternatives. PMI is not the right choice for everyone.

  1. Self-Funding Treatment: You could choose to pay for private treatment on a case-by-case basis as and when you need it. This avoids monthly premiums, but you need significant savings to cover potential costs.

    • Private cataract surgery: £2,500 - £4,000 per eye.
    • Private hip replacement: £12,000 - £15,000.
    • Private MRI scan: £400 - £800. This can be a viable option if you have the funds readily available and prefer to avoid ongoing insurance costs.

  2. Health Cash Plans: These are not insurance policies but rather savings plans that help you budget for routine healthcare costs. You pay a small monthly fee and can then claim back cash for expenses like dental check-ups, eye tests, glasses, and physiotherapy, up to an annual limit. They are much cheaper than PMI but do not cover the cost of surgery or major treatments.

  3. Relying on the NHS: The NHS provides excellent care, especially for emergencies and complex, chronic conditions. For many, continuing to rely solely on the NHS is the most sensible financial decision. The primary trade-off is the potential for long waits for elective procedures.

Live Well: Health and Wellness Tips for Your 80s and Beyond

Insurance is a safety net, but the best strategy is to invest in your health. Staying active and engaged can have a profound impact on your quality of life.

  • Stay Active: Gentle, regular exercise is key. Walking, swimming, tai chi, or chair-based exercises can improve mobility, balance, and heart health. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week, as advised by your GP.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as the sensation of thirst can diminish with age.
  • Keep Your Mind Engaged: Reading, puzzles, learning a new skill, or socialising are fantastic ways to maintain cognitive function.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular routine and make your bedroom a calm, dark, and quiet environment.
  • Stay Socially Connected: Loneliness can have a negative impact on both mental and physical health. Make an effort to connect with family, friends, and community groups.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you manage your diet and stay on track with your health goals.

The WeCovr Verdict: Is PMI at 80+ a Good Idea?

Whether private medical insurance is a worthwhile investment in your 80s is a deeply personal decision. It hinges on your financial situation, your attitude towards risk, and your health priorities.

It might be a good idea if:

  • You have the disposable income to comfortably afford the high monthly premiums.
  • The peace of mind that comes with fast access to private treatment for new conditions is very important to you.
  • You understand and accept the exclusions, particularly for pre-existing and chronic conditions.

It might not be the right choice if:

  • The high cost would put a strain on your retirement budget.
  • Your primary health concerns are chronic conditions, which PMI will not cover.
  • You are comfortable relying on the excellent care provided by the NHS.

The best first step is to get a clear picture of what's available to you. An expert broker can provide a no-obligation overview of the market, tailored to your age and health. At WeCovr, we help you compare quotes from the UK's leading specialist insurers, explain the policy details in plain English, and empower you to make an informed decision. We can also offer discounts on other types of insurance, such as travel or home cover, when you take out a health or life policy with us.

Can I get private health insurance if I have pre-existing conditions like arthritis or diabetes?

Generally, you cannot get cover for the pre-existing conditions themselves. UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Any condition you have received advice, symptoms, or treatment for before taking out the policy (like arthritis or diabetes) will be specifically excluded from cover. You can, however, still get a policy to cover you for other new, unrelated medical problems that might occur in the future.

Does private health insurance for over 80s cover care home fees?

No, standard private health insurance policies do not cover the costs of long-term social care, such as care homes or domiciliary care. PMI is for acute medical treatment to help you recover from an illness or injury. Funding for long-term care is a separate financial consideration and is not included in health insurance.

What is the absolute maximum age to get a new private health insurance policy in the UK?

There is no single maximum age across the entire industry. While many mainstream insurers set an upper age limit for new applicants at 70, 75, or 80, there are a handful of specialist providers who have no upper age limit at all. This means that, in principle, it's possible to apply for a new policy even if you are in your late 80s or older, provided you go to the right insurer. The key is working with a broker who knows which providers cater to this market.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will help you understand the costs and benefits, allowing you to make the best choice for your health and your future.

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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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