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Private Health Insurance for Palliative Care UK

Private Health Insurance for Palliative Care UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 800,000 policies, WeCovr helps people navigate the complexities of private medical insurance in the UK. Facing an advanced illness is one of life's most challenging experiences, and understanding your options for palliative care is a vital part of planning ahead.

Understanding private health cover at advanced illness stages

Receiving a diagnosis for a serious, life-limiting illness raises many difficult questions. Beyond the emotional and physical challenges, there are practical considerations about care, comfort, and quality of life. This is where palliative care comes in.

But what role, if any, does private medical insurance (PMI) play?

This comprehensive guide explains the relationship between private health cover and palliative care in the UK. We will clarify what is typically covered, what is excluded, and how PMI can still offer significant value during the diagnosis and treatment phases of a serious illness.

What Exactly is Palliative Care?

Many people mistakenly think palliative care is only for the very end of life. In reality, its scope is much broader.

Palliative care is a specialised approach to medical care for people with life-limiting illnesses. Its primary goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their family. It focuses on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a serious illness—whatever the diagnosis.

Key principles of palliative care include:

  • Symptom Management: Actively managing pain, breathlessness, nausea, and other distressing physical symptoms.
  • Holistic Support: Addressing psychological, social, and spiritual needs alongside physical ones.
  • Patient-Centred: Focusing on what is important to you and respecting your wishes for treatment and care.
  • Family Support: Offering support and guidance to family members and carers.

Palliative care is not the same as "giving up." It can be provided alongside curative treatments like chemotherapy and can begin at the point of diagnosis, potentially continuing for years. End-of-life care is a part of the palliative care journey, but palliative care itself starts much earlier.

The Critical Question: Does UK Private Health Insurance Cover Palliative Care?

This is the most important point to understand, and the answer is direct:

Standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover palliative care.

The reason for this lies in the fundamental purpose of PMI. Private health insurance is designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

Palliative care, by its nature, is for conditions that are chronic or terminal. Insurers define a chronic condition as one that:

  • Requires long-term or ongoing monitoring.
  • Is incurable.
  • Is likely to recur.
  • Needs palliative care.

Because palliative care is for long-term, incurable conditions, it falls under the "chronic condition" exclusion found in every standard UK PMI policy. Insurers price their policies on the probability of you needing short-term treatment for an unexpected condition, not the certainty of needing long-term, ongoing care.

Where Private Medical Insurance Can Provide Significant Value

While PMI doesn't cover the long-term palliative care pathway, it can be incredibly valuable in the stages leading up to it. A good policy can provide crucial support by accelerating diagnosis and providing access to cutting-edge treatments.

Here’s how a private medical insurance UK policy can help:

  1. Rapid Diagnosis: When you develop concerning symptoms, the waiting time for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests on the NHS can be lengthy. PMI allows you to bypass these queues. You can get a prompt referral to a private specialist and have scans like MRIs, CTs, or PETs within days, not weeks or months. A faster diagnosis means treatment can start sooner, which can be critical for conditions like cancer.

  2. Access to Treatment: Your policy will cover treatments aimed at curing or managing the disease. For cancer, this is a major benefit. Comprehensive cancer cover often includes:

    • Surgery to remove tumours.
    • Chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
    • Access to expensive drugs and treatments that may not be available on the NHS due to funding restrictions.
  3. Choice and Comfort: During treatment, PMI gives you more choice. You can often choose your specialist and the hospital where you are treated. This may include a private room, which can make the difficult experience of treatment more comfortable.

  4. Managing Acute Flare-ups: In some limited cases, a policy might cover a short hospital stay to stabilise an acute symptom flare-up, even if it's related to an underlying chronic condition. This is highly dependent on the insurer and your specific policy wording. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand these nuances.

  5. NHS Cash Benefit: Most policies include an "NHS cash benefit." If you have private cover but choose to have your treatment on the NHS (which is often the case for palliative care), your insurer will pay you a fixed, tax-free sum for each night you spend in an NHS hospital. This can range from £100 to £250 per night and can help with costs like travel, parking, or just making life a little easier.

Understanding Key PMI Exclusions: Chronic and Pre-Existing Conditions

To make an informed decision, it's vital to be crystal clear on what private health cover excludes.

Type of ExclusionWhat It MeansReal-Life Example
Chronic ConditionsYour policy will not cover the day-to-day management of long-term illnesses that cannot be cured.A policy won't cover ongoing insulin for diabetes, regular check-ups for heart failure, or the long-term nursing associated with palliative care for Motor Neurone Disease.
Pre-existing ConditionsYour policy will not cover any medical condition you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before the policy started (typically in the 5 years prior).If you had treatment for breast cancer 3 years before buying a policy, any care related to that cancer would not be covered.

The core principle remains: PMI is for new, acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

An Overview of Palliative Care Providers in the UK

If PMI doesn't cover palliative care, where can you turn? The UK has a robust system of support, primarily led by the NHS and the charitable sector.

ProviderWho They AreHow They Are FundedServices Offered
NHSThe main provider of healthcare in the UK.Publicly funded through taxation. Free at the point of use.Palliative care is provided by GPs, district nurses, hospital teams, and specialist palliative care consultants. Care can be at home, in a hospital, or in a care home.
HospicesIndependent organisations, mostly charities (e.g., Marie Curie, Sue Ryder).Primarily through charitable donations and fundraising, with some NHS funding.Inpatient beds for symptom control or end-of-life care, "Hospice at Home" services, day therapy, and family bereavement support.
Private ProvidersFor-profit companies offering care services.Self-funded by the individual or their family.Private nursing at home, residence in a private care home with palliative services. Offers more choice but comes at a significant cost.

According to analysis from organisations like Hospice UK and Marie Curie, the need for palliative care is growing. With an ageing population, projections based on ONS data suggest demand will rise substantially in the coming years. This makes understanding all your options—NHS, charitable, and private—more important than ever.

When choosing a private health cover plan, certain features can provide a safety net, even if they don't cover palliative care directly. When comparing options, look for policies with strong benefits in these areas.

  • Comprehensive Cancer Cover: This is often the flagship benefit of a PMI policy. The best providers offer extensive cover for diagnosis, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Crucially, they may also cover biologic therapies and drugs not routinely funded by the NHS. Cover typically applies as long as the treatment is considered curative.
  • Mental Health Support: A serious diagnosis affects your mental wellbeing as much as your physical health. Many policies now include cover for a set number of counselling or therapy sessions for both the patient and sometimes their family. This can be a vital lifeline.
  • Second Opinions: The ability to get a second opinion from another leading specialist can provide reassurance and clarity on your diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Home Nursing (Post-Operative): Some policies provide a budget for private nursing at home. It's important to note this is typically for short-term recovery immediately following private surgery or treatment covered by the policy, not for long-term palliative home care.
  • 24/7 Digital GP: Having access to a GP by phone or video call at any time can be incredibly useful for quick advice on symptoms or medication, without having to wait for an appointment.

Navigating these features and finding the best PMI provider for your needs can be complex. An independent broker like WeCovr can compare the market for you at no cost, ensuring you understand exactly what you are—and are not—covered for.

Planning Beyond Insurance: Wellness and Practical Steps

While insurance is one piece of the puzzle, a holistic approach is key when facing an advanced illness. Palliative care itself is focused on overall wellbeing.

Practical Planning

  • Advance Care Plan (ACP): This is a process of thinking about and writing down your preferences for future care. It can cover anything from where you would like to be cared for to what treatments you would or would not want.
  • Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): An LPA for Health and Welfare allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions about your care if you become unable to make them yourself.
  • Financial Planning: Serious illness can have financial implications. It is wise to review your finances. This is where other types of insurance, such as Critical Illness Cover or Life Insurance, become extremely important as they pay out a lump sum on diagnosis of a specified illness or on death, providing financial support for your family.

Maintaining Quality of Life

  • Nutrition: Good nutrition is vital. It can help you maintain strength, manage symptoms, and improve your sense of wellbeing. Tools like WeCovr's complimentary AI calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, can make it easier to monitor your intake and ensure you're getting the right nutrients.
  • Gentle Activity: As much as you are able, gentle movement like walking, stretching, or chair-based exercises can boost mood, reduce fatigue, and maintain muscle tone.
  • Sleep: Pain and anxiety can disrupt sleep. Palliative care specialists can help with strategies and medications to improve sleep quality, which is fundamental to coping day-to-day.
  • Social Connection: Spending time with loved ones and engaging in hobbies you enjoy is powerful medicine for the soul. Prioritise activities that bring you joy and comfort.

WeCovr customers who purchase PMI or Life Insurance can also benefit from discounts on other types of cover, helping to build a comprehensive financial safety net for their family. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing clear, compassionate advice.


Does private health insurance cover hospice care in the UK?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance policies in the UK do not cover hospice care. This is because hospice care is a form of palliative care, which is provided for chronic or terminal conditions. Private health insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that are curable. However, if you are in a hospice but receiving care funded by the NHS, you may be able to claim a "cash benefit" from your insurer for each night you are there.

Will my PMI policy pay for cancer drugs that the NHS won't fund?

Yes, this is one of the most significant benefits of a comprehensive private medical insurance policy. Many policies provide access to a wider range of specialist cancer drugs and treatments than are routinely available on the NHS. This cover applies when the treatment is intended to cure or control the cancer (curative), but it typically ceases if the care plan becomes purely palliative.

What is the difference between palliative care and end-of-life care?

Palliative care is a broad approach that can begin at the moment of diagnosis of a life-limiting illness and may continue for months or years. Its focus is on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. End-of-life care is an important part of palliative care, but it refers specifically to the care provided to someone in their final months, weeks, or days of life.

If I am diagnosed with a terminal illness, can I still buy private health insurance?

You can still apply for a private health insurance policy, but the terminal illness and any related conditions would be classed as "pre-existing" and therefore would be excluded from cover. The policy would not pay for any diagnosis, treatment, or palliative care related to that illness. It would only cover new, unrelated acute conditions that might arise after the policy starts.

Navigating the complexities of private health insurance is challenging, especially when planning for the future. For clear, expert advice and a free comparison of the UK's leading policies, it pays to speak to an expert.

Get in touch with WeCovr today. Our friendly, professional team is here to help you find the right cover for your peace of mind.


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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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Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.