Login

Private Health Insurance for Parole Board Staff in the UK

Private Health Insurance for Parole Board Staff in the UK

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies arranged, WeCovr provides specialist advice on private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK. This guide explores the unique benefits of PMI for Parole Board staff, offering peace of mind and swift access to high-quality healthcare when it is needed most.

Comprehensive PMI for justice system staff

Working for the Parole Board for England and Wales involves navigating a complex and often high-pressure environment. Your decisions carry immense weight, and the role demands exceptional resilience, focus, and emotional fortitude. In such a demanding profession, your health and wellbeing are not just personal assets—they are essential tools of the trade.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) becomes a vital consideration. It’s not a luxury; it's a practical solution designed to help you bypass lengthy NHS waiting lists and get back to your crucial work, and your life, as quickly as possible. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing the right private health cover for you and your family.

Why Should Parole Board Staff Consider Private Health Insurance?

The demands placed on Parole Board members, independent members, and administrative staff are unique. The combination of analytical rigour, emotional labour, and public scrutiny can take its toll. Here are the key reasons why a PMI policy is a sensible investment.

1. Bypass NHS Waiting Lists

The most compelling reason for many is speed. While the NHS provides excellent emergency care, waiting times for elective treatments, diagnostic tests, and specialist consultations can be significant.

According to NHS England data, the waiting list for consultant-led elective care stood at 7.54 million treatments at the end of March 2024. For professionals in high-stakes roles, a long wait for a diagnosis or treatment like a knee operation or cataract surgery can mean extended time off work, discomfort, and uncertainty. PMI offers a direct route to prompt private care.

2. Prioritise Your Mental Health

The emotional and psychological strain of working within the justice system cannot be overstated. Dealing with sensitive cases, complex human stories, and the weight of public safety is mentally taxing.

  • Burnout: The risk of burnout is high, characterised by emotional exhaustion and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.
  • Stress and Anxiety: Constant pressure and the gravity of your decisions can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.

PMI policies can offer comprehensive mental health support, providing fast access to counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. This proactive support can be instrumental in managing stress before it becomes overwhelming.

3. Greater Control and Convenience

Private healthcare offers a level of flexibility that is often difficult to achieve within the NHS. With PMI, you can typically expect:

  • Choice of Specialist: You can research and choose a leading consultant for your condition.
  • Choice of Hospital: Policies offer access to a network of private hospitals across the UK.
  • Convenient Appointments: Schedule consultations and treatments at times that fit around your work and personal commitments.
  • Private Facilities: Benefit from a private room, en-suite facilities, and more flexible visiting hours, creating a more comfortable and restful recovery environment.

4. Access to Advanced Treatments and Drugs

While the NHS provides a wide range of treatments, some newer drugs or therapies may not be available due to funding decisions by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Some comprehensive PMI policies provide cover for cancer drugs and treatments that are not yet routinely available on the NHS, offering an extra layer of reassurance.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in the UK

Before diving into policy specifics, it's crucial to understand the fundamental principles of PMI.

PMI is designed to cover the cost of treating 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. Examples include joint replacements, hernia repairs, and cataract surgery.

Crucially, standard UK PMI policies do not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • A chronic condition is an illness that is long-lasting and cannot be fully cured. It can be managed but not resolved. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy start date.

This distinction is the cornerstone of how private medical insurance UK works. It is there for new, unexpected health issues, not for ongoing management of long-term illnesses.

How are Pre-existing Conditions Handled?

Insurers use two main methods to assess pre-existing conditions. This is called 'underwriting'.

Underwriting TypeHow it WorksPros & Cons
Moratorium (Most Common)You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.Pros: Quicker to set up, less intrusive.
Cons: Lack of certainty at the start; a claim might be rejected if it's linked to a recent condition.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You provide your complete medical history via a detailed questionnaire. The insurer reviews it and states from the outset exactly what is and isn't covered. Any exclusions are permanent and listed on your policy documents.Pros: Complete clarity from day one. You know exactly where you stand.
Cons: Slower application process; requires more paperwork.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you decide which underwriting option is best for your personal circumstances.

What Does a Typical PMI Policy Cover?

PMI policies are built in layers. You start with core cover and can then add optional extras to create a plan that suits your needs and budget.

Core Cover (Included as Standard)

This is the foundation of every policy and typically includes:

FeatureDescriptionExample
In-patient TreatmentCovers costs when you are admitted to hospital and need to stay overnight. This includes surgeon fees, anaesthetist fees, hospital charges, and nursing care.A hip replacement surgery requiring a few days' stay in a private hospital.
Day-patient TreatmentCovers procedures where you are admitted to a hospital bed but do not need to stay overnight.An endoscopy or minor arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Comprehensive Cancer CoverThis is a key benefit. Most policies offer extensive cover for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.Access to specialist cancer centres and drugs not always available on the NHS.

These allow you to enhance your cover for an additional premium.

  • Out-patient Cover: This is one of the most valuable additions. It covers costs for consultations and diagnostic tests that don't require a hospital bed. This is key for getting a speedy diagnosis. This can range from a limited number of consultations per year to full, unlimited cover.
  • Therapies Cover: Covers treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care. Essential for recovery from musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Mental Health Cover: This is highly recommended for justice system staff. It extends cover beyond what might be offered in a core policy, providing access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
  • Dental and Optical Cover: Provides money back towards routine check-ups, treatments, glasses, and contact lenses.
  • Alternative Therapies: Some policies allow you to add cover for treatments like acupuncture or homeopathy.

Tailoring Your PMI Policy: Key Considerations for Parole Board Staff

A generic policy is rarely the best option. Here’s how to customise your cover to match your professional and personal needs.

1. Prioritise Comprehensive Mental Health Cover

Given the nature of your work, this should be a primary consideration. When reviewing this option, look for:

  • High limits for psychiatric treatment, both in- and out-patient.
  • Cover for a wide range of talking therapies.
  • Access to digital mental health platforms and 24/7 support lines.

2. Choose the Right Hospital List

Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals, which directly impacts your premium.

  • Local/Trust Network: A list of specific hospitals, often partner facilities, which offers the most affordable option.
  • National Network: A comprehensive list of several hundred private hospitals across the UK.
  • Premium/London List: Includes the top-tier private hospitals, particularly those in Central London (e.g., The Lister, The London Clinic), and comes with the highest premium.

For most people outside Central London, a national network provides an excellent balance of choice and cost.

3. Set a Sensible Excess

An 'excess' is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £2,750.

  • Higher Excess = Lower Premium
  • Lower Excess = Higher Premium

Choosing an excess of £250 or £500 can be a smart way to make your monthly premiums more affordable without significantly impacting your ability to claim.

4. Consider a 'Guided' Option

Some insurers, like Aviva and AXA Health, offer 'guided' or 'expert select' options. With these, the insurer provides a shortlist of 3-5 approved specialists for your condition. Because this helps them manage costs, they pass the savings on to you in the form of a lower premium. It's a great middle ground between full choice and no choice at all.

The Cost of Private Health Insurance in the UK

The price of a PMI policy is highly individual. Several factors determine your monthly premium:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Premiums are often higher in London and the South East due to the higher cost of private treatment.
  • Level of Cover: The more optional extras you add, the higher the cost.
  • Excess: A higher excess reduces your premium.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers pay more than non-smokers.
  • Provider: Different insurers have different pricing structures.

To give you an idea, here are some illustrative monthly premiums for a non-smoker living outside London.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums (Comprehensive Cover, £250 Excess)

AgeMid-Range PolicyPremium Policy
35£55 - £70£80 - £100
45£75 - £95£110 - £140
55£110 - £140£160 - £200

Disclaimer: These are example figures only and not a quote. Your actual premium will depend on your specific circumstances and chosen cover.

The best way to find an affordable policy that meets your needs is to compare the market with the help of an independent PMI broker.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

The UK private health cover market is dominated by a few key players, each with its own strengths.

ProviderKnown ForPotential Best Fit For...
AvivaStrong core product, excellent cancer cover, and good value 'guided' options.Those seeking solid, reliable cover from a major UK brand without excessive frills.
AXA HealthComprehensive mental health support and extensive out-patient options.Parole Board staff who prioritise mental wellbeing and fast diagnostic access.
BupaThe UK's best-known health insurer with a vast network and direct access services (no GP referral needed for some conditions).Individuals wanting a premium brand and the convenience of self-referral.
VitalityA unique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with premium discounts, cinema tickets, and more.Active individuals who are motivated to engage with their health to reduce their long-term costs.
The ExeterA friendly society known for its excellent customer service and flexible underwriting, particularly for older applicants.Those who value a personal touch and may have a more complex medical history.

The Role of a Specialist PMI Broker like WeCovr

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market alone can be confusing and time-consuming. A specialist broker acts as your expert guide.

Why use WeCovr?

  1. No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which doesn't affect the price you pay.
  2. Impartial Market Advice: As an FCA-authorised broker, we are not tied to any single insurer. We provide unbiased advice on which provider and policy best suit your specific needs as a Parole Board professional.
  3. Expert Guidance: We understand the nuances of different policies—from the definitions in the small print to the quality of the claims service. We translate the jargon so you can make an informed decision.
  4. Save Time and Money: We do the legwork, comparing dozens of policies to find you the best possible cover at the most competitive price.
  5. Support for Life: We're here to help not just with the initial setup, but also at renewal time or if you need assistance with a claim.

Beyond PMI: Holistic Wellbeing for Justice System Professionals

While PMI provides a crucial safety net, a proactive approach to your health is the best long-term strategy. The pressures of your role make self-care non-negotiable.

Mental Resilience and Stress Management

  • Mindfulness and Debriefing: Practice mindfulness or meditation to create mental space. Ensure you have a formal or informal debriefing process to offload the emotional weight of difficult cases.
  • Set Firm Boundaries: Protect your personal time. Avoid checking work emails outside of hours and ensure you fully disconnect to allow your mind to rest and recharge.

The Power of Diet and Sleep

  • Nutrient-Dense Foods: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates fuels brain function and stabilises mood.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular sleep routine and create a restful environment free from screens to improve sleep hygiene.

Physical Activity as a Release

Regular exercise is one of the most effective tools for managing stress. Whether it's a brisk walk, a run, yoga, or team sports, physical activity releases endorphins, improves mood, and helps dissipate the tension that builds up during the workday.

As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on top of your dietary goals. Furthermore, customers who purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us are often eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your family's future in a more affordable way.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. Pre-existing conditions—any illness you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the 5 years before joining—are typically excluded. However, under 'moratorium' underwriting, these conditions may become eligible for cover after you have been on the policy for two years, provided you have remained completely trouble-free from that condition.

Is mental health treatment included in a standard PMI policy?

Core PMI policies may offer limited mental health support, such as access to a 24/7 stress counselling helpline. However, for comprehensive cover including specialist consultations with psychiatrists and sessions with psychologists or therapists, you will almost always need to add a dedicated mental health option to your policy. Given the high-pressure nature of working for the Parole Board, this is a highly recommended addition.

How much excess should I choose for my health insurance?

The excess you choose is a personal decision that balances your monthly premium with what you can afford to pay in the event of a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your premium. A common choice is £250, which makes the policy more affordable while keeping the amount you need to contribute manageable. An expert PMI broker can help model different options for you.

Ready to secure your peace of mind? Take the first step towards fast, high-quality healthcare today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts find the perfect private health cover for you.


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.


Learn more


...

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.