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Private Health Insurance for School Governors in the UK




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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures faced by UK leaders. This guide explores private medical insurance specifically for school governors, helping you safeguard your health while you dedicate your time to improving education for the next generation. Cover designed for governors and trustees in education Being a school governor or trustee in the UK is a demanding, often unpaid, and hugely important voluntary role.

Key takeaways

  • High-Stakes Decisions: Governors make critical decisions that affect the futures of children and the careers of staff. The weight of this responsibility can lead to stress and anxiety.
  • Time Commitment: The role often demands more time than anticipated, with evening meetings, school visits, and extensive reading. Juggling this with a full-time job and personal life can lead to burnout.
  • Navigating Conflict: Disagreements on the board or dealing with parental complaints can be emotionally draining.
  • Chronic Conditions: PMI does not cover the routine management of long-term conditions that cannot be cured, such as diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or arthritis. While the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition might be covered, the ongoing monitoring and treatment will typically be managed by the NHS.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment in the years before your policy starts (usually the last five years). These are typically excluded from cover, at least initially.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures faced by UK leaders. This guide explores private medical insurance specifically for school governors, helping you safeguard your health while you dedicate your time to improving education for the next generation.

Cover designed for governors and trustees in education

Being a school governor or trustee in the UK is a demanding, often unpaid, and hugely important voluntary role. You dedicate countless hours to strategic planning, financial oversight, and holding school leadership to account. This commitment, layered on top of your own career and family life, can place significant strain on your time and, most importantly, your health.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a powerful tool designed to give you peace of mind. It ensures that if you fall ill, you can access high-quality medical care quickly, at a time and place that suits your busy schedule. This allows you to get back to health, and back to the crucial work of steering your school, without the added stress of long waiting lists.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about private health insurance for school governors, from understanding what's covered to finding a policy that fits your specific needs and budget.

Why School Governors Need to Prioritise Their Health

The role of a governor is more intense than ever. You are tasked with navigating complex challenges, from budget constraints and staff wellbeing to Ofsted inspections and evolving educational policies. This responsibility, while rewarding, is a significant source of pressure.

  • High-Stakes Decisions: Governors make critical decisions that affect the futures of children and the careers of staff. The weight of this responsibility can lead to stress and anxiety.
  • Time Commitment: The role often demands more time than anticipated, with evening meetings, school visits, and extensive reading. Juggling this with a full-time job and personal life can lead to burnout.
  • Navigating Conflict: Disagreements on the board or dealing with parental complaints can be emotionally draining.

According to the charity Education Support's 2023 survey, 78% of all UK education professionals reported feeling stressed. While governors are volunteers, they operate within this same high-pressure environment. When you're feeling unwell, the last thing you need is a long, uncertain wait for diagnosis or treatment.

The NHS Reality in 2025

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is under immense pressure. As of early 2025, the referral-to-treatment (RTT) waiting list in England remains stubbornly high, with millions of people waiting for consultant-led elective care.

NHS Waiting List Snapshot (England, early 2025)Data
Total Waiting ListOver 7.5 million cases
Waiting over 18 weeksApproximately 40% of patients
Waiting over 52 weeksTens of thousands of patients

Source: NHS England RTT data analysis.

For a governor, a six-month wait for a knee operation or a three-month delay for a diagnostic scan isn't just an inconvenience; it can impact your ability to attend meetings, perform your duties, and manage your professional life. Private health cover is the primary way to bypass these queues.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI) in the UK

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify what private medical insurance is and, crucially, what it isn't.

PMI is designed for 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 conditions like cataracts, joint problems needing replacement, hernias, or appendicitis.

The Critical Point: What PMI Does NOT Cover

It is essential to understand the limitations of standard private medical insurance in the UK.

  1. Chronic Conditions: PMI does not cover the routine management of long-term conditions that cannot be cured, such as diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or arthritis. While the initial diagnosis of a chronic condition might be covered, the ongoing monitoring and treatment will typically be managed by the NHS.

  2. Pre-existing Conditions: A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment in the years before your policy starts (usually the last five years). These are typically excluded from cover, at least initially.

  3. Other Standard Exclusions:

    • Emergency services (A&E) – this is always handled by the NHS.
    • Normal pregnancy and childbirth.
    • Cosmetic surgery (unless for reconstructive purposes after an accident).
    • Drug and alcohol misuse treatment (though some policies offer limited support).

PMI is not a replacement for the NHS; it's a complementary service designed to work alongside it, giving you more choice, speed, and comfort for eligible treatments.

What Does Private Health Insurance Typically Cover?

A PMI policy is built from a core foundation of cover, with optional extras you can add to create a plan that suits you.

Core Cover (Usually Included as Standard)

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This is the heart of any policy. It covers costs when you are admitted to hospital for a procedure and occupy a bed, either overnight (in-patient) or for the day (day-patient). This includes:
    • Hospital accommodation and nursing care.
    • Surgeon's and anaesthetist's fees.
    • Operating theatre costs.
    • Specialist consultations while in hospital.
    • Post-operative physiotherapy (often a limited number of sessions).

Optional Add-ons

You can choose to enhance your policy with additional benefits for an increased premium.

  • Out-patient Cover: This is one of the most valuable additions. It covers diagnostic tests and consultations with specialists that do not require a hospital admission.

    • Specialist consultations to diagnose a condition.
    • Diagnostic scans (MRI, CT, PET).
    • Blood tests and X-rays.
    • Therapies like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.
    • Policies often offer different levels of out-patient cover, from a few hundred pounds to 'full cover'.

  • Mental Health Cover: Given the pressures of a governor role, this is a highly recommended option. It provides access to support for conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression. Cover can range from out-patient therapy sessions to in-patient psychiatric treatment.

  • Dental and Optical Cover: This helps with the costs of routine check-ups, dental treatments (like fillings and crowns), and new glasses or contact lenses. It's often less comprehensive than dedicated dental plans.

  • Therapies Cover: Extends the cover for treatments like physiotherapy beyond what is offered as standard post-operatively.

Example Policy Structures

FeatureBasic 'In-patient Only' PolicyComprehensive Policy
In-patient/Day-patient✅ Full Cover✅ Full Cover
Cancer Cover✅ Core Cover (surgery, chemo)✅ Enhanced Cover (new drugs, monitoring)
Out-patient Diagnostics❌ Not included✅ Full Cover (MRI, CT scans etc.)
Out-patient Consultations❌ Not included✅ Full Cover
Mental Health Cover❌ Not included✅ Included (out-patient & in-patient)
Therapies (Physio etc.)❌ Limited to post-op✅ Included (e.g., up to 10 sessions)
Hospital List👤 Limited network of hospitals🏥 Full national network + London
Digital GP✅ Included✅ Included

Tailored Benefits for School Governors and Trustees

How does a PMI policy translate into real-world benefits for someone in your position?

1. Fast-Track Appointments and Diagnosis

This is the number one reason people buy private health cover. Instead of waiting weeks or months for an NHS appointment, you can typically see a specialist within days.

Real-Life Example: A school governor, aged 55, experiences persistent knee pain, making it difficult to walk around school for site inspections. Their GP suspects a torn meniscus and refers them for an MRI scan on the NHS, with an estimated 14-week wait. With a comprehensive PMI policy, they see an orthopaedic consultant privately within a week, have an MRI the following day, and are booked in for keyhole surgery three weeks later. They are back on their feet and attending board meetings within two months of the initial symptoms.

2. Unrivalled Choice and Flexibility

PMI puts you in control. You can choose:

  • The Specialist: You can research and select a leading consultant for your condition.
  • The Hospital: You can choose from a nationwide network of high-quality private hospitals, often with private en-suite rooms.
  • The Appointment Time: Schedule consultations and treatments around your work and governor meetings, not the other way around.

3. Comprehensive Mental Health Support

The voluntary nature of the governor role shouldn't mean your mental wellbeing is overlooked. Many modern PMI policies offer robust mental health pathways. This can include:

  • Digital self-help tools and apps.
  • Direct access to telephone or video counselling, without a GP referral.
  • Cover for out-patient consultations with psychiatrists and psychologists.
  • In-patient treatment for more severe mental health conditions.

This rapid access can be vital in managing stress before it escalates into a more serious problem.

4. Digital GP and Wellness Services

Almost all PMI providers now offer a 24/7 digital GP service. For a busy governor, this is invaluable.

  • Book a video or phone appointment with a GP at any time, day or night.
  • Get prescriptions, advice, and referrals quickly.
  • Avoid taking time off work to visit your local NHS surgery.

Furthermore, providers actively encourage a healthy lifestyle. This can include:

  • Discounts on gym memberships and fitness trackers.
  • Access to online health assessments and coaching.
  • Rewards for healthy behaviour.
  • When you arrange a policy through WeCovr, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on top of your health goals.

How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost for a School Governor?

The cost of PMI, known as the premium, varies significantly based on a range of personal and policy-related factors.

Key Factors Influencing Your Premium:

  1. Age: The primary factor. Premiums increase as you get older because the statistical likelihood of needing treatment rises.
  2. Location: Your postcode affects the price. Premiums are generally highest in Central London and major cities where hospital costs are greater.
  3. Level of Cover: A basic, in-patient-only policy will be much cheaper than a comprehensive plan with full out-patient, mental health, and dental cover.
  4. Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim you make. A higher excess (e.g., £500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.
  5. Hospital List: Insurers have different lists of approved hospitals. Choosing a more restricted list that excludes expensive central London hospitals can reduce the cost.
  6. Underwriting Type: The method the insurer uses to assess your medical history.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums (2025)

The table below provides an estimated monthly cost for a non-smoker living outside London. These are for illustrative purposes only.

AgeBasic Cover (In-patient, £500 excess)Comprehensive Cover (Full out-patient, £250 excess)
40£45 - £60£85 - £110
50£65 - £85£120 - £160
60£90 - £120£180 - £250
70£150 - £200£300 - £400+

An expert broker like WeCovr can run a detailed market comparison based on your exact needs to find the most competitive price without compromising on the quality of cover.

Choosing the Right Underwriting for Your Policy

When you apply for PMI, the insurer needs to know about your medical history to decide what they will and won't cover. There are two main ways they do this.

Underwriting TypeHow it WorksProsCons
Moratorium (Mori)You do not declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. This exclusion can be lifted if you go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition.Quick & Simple: No lengthy forms.Uncertainty: You might not know if a condition is covered until you claim. The "2-year clock" can reset easily.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews your history and tells you from day one if anything is specifically excluded from your policy, either permanently or for a set period.Clarity & Certainty: You know exactly what is and isn't covered from the start.Longer Application: Requires you to gather medical information. Pre-existing conditions may be permanently excluded.

For most people, moratorium underwriting is the most common and straightforward choice. However, if you have a complex medical history or simply want absolute clarity, FMU can be a better option. An adviser can help you decide which is right for you.

Can a School or Trust Pay for a Governor's Health Insurance?

This is an excellent question and an emerging area of interest for school governance. While governors are volunteers, Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) and some local authority schools are exploring ways to support their wellbeing.

  • Individual Policy: The most common route is for a governor to purchase their own individual policy. This gives you complete control over the level of cover and the provider.
  • Business/Group Policy: It is possible for a school or Trust to set up a small group health insurance scheme to cover its governors and senior leadership team. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than individual policies and ensures a consistent level of cover.
  • Tax Implications: If a Trust pays for your private health insurance, it is considered a 'benefit in kind'. This means you would need to pay income tax on the value of the premium, which would be declared on a P11D form by the Trust.

If your governing body is interested in this, it's a topic worth raising with the Chair of Governors or the Trust's CEO. An expert broker can provide quotes for both individual and group schemes.

How to Find the Best Private Health Insurance for Governors

The UK private medical insurance market is complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy variations. Trying to compare them on your own can be confusing and time-consuming. This is where an independent broker adds immense value.

Why use a broker like WeCovr?

  1. Whole-of-Market Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from all the leading UK providers, including AXA Health, Bupa, Aviva, Vitality, and The Exeter, to find the best fit for you.
  2. Expert Guidance: Our FCA-authorised advisers are experts in the field. They will take the time to understand your needs as a governor, explain the jargon, and recommend the most suitable options.
  3. No Extra Cost: Our service is completely free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price (or often less) than going direct, but with the added benefit of expert, impartial advice.
  4. Hassle-Free Process: We handle the application process for you and are on hand to help with any queries or claims issues you might have in the future. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to excellent service.
  5. Extra Benefits: When you arrange a policy with us, we can also offer discounts on other types of insurance you might need, such as life insurance or income protection.

Wellness Tips for Busy School Governors

A PMI policy is a safety net, but the best approach to health is prevention. Given your demanding role, proactively managing your wellbeing is crucial.

  • Protect Your Time: Learn to say "no". You don't have to be on every sub-committee. Be realistic about the time you can commit and protect your evenings and weekends for rest and family.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep impairs decision-making, mood, and long-term health. Avoid looking at screens (especially emails about school business) for at least an hour before bed.
  • Move Your Body: Even 30 minutes of moderate activity, like a brisk walk, most days can significantly reduce stress levels and improve cardiovascular health. Use your school site inspections as an opportunity for a walk.
  • Mindful Nutrition: Busy schedules can lead to convenience food. Plan your meals and focus on a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and lean protein. Use an app like CalorieHero to stay mindful of your intake.
  • Practice Detachment: It's easy to become emotionally over-invested. Remember your role is strategic, not operational. Practice mindfulness or other relaxation techniques to de-stress after difficult meetings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Pre-existing conditions, which are any health issues you've had symptoms or treatment for in the 5 years before joining, are generally excluded. With moratorium underwriting, this exclusion may be lifted after a continuous 2-year period on the policy without any issues relating to that condition. It's vital to be aware that PMI does not cover the ongoing management of chronic or pre-existing illnesses.

Is mental health treatment covered by private health insurance?

Most basic PMI policies do not include mental health cover as standard, but it is a widely available and highly recommended optional extra. Adding it to your policy can give you access to services like counselling, therapy with a psychologist, and consultations with a psychiatrist. Given the high-pressure nature of a governor's role, ensuring your policy includes robust mental health support is a very wise investment.

Can I add my family to my policy?

Yes, absolutely. You can take out an individual policy for yourself, a joint policy with your partner, or a family policy to cover your children as well. Insurers often provide a small discount for adding multiple people to a single policy. Covering your whole family provides peace of mind and ensures everyone has access to fast, high-quality care when they need it.

Take the Next Step to Protect Your Health

Your commitment as a school governor is invaluable. Protecting your own health is the most important thing you can do to ensure you can continue making a difference.

An FCA-authorised expert at WeCovr can help you navigate the market and find the perfect private health insurance policy for your needs and budget. Our advice is independent, impartial, and comes at no cost to you.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation Quote Today]

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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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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.

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