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Private Health Insurance for Skin Cancer UK

Private Health Insurance for Skin Cancer UK 2025

As FCA-authorised brokers who have helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the growing concern around skin cancer in the UK. This guide provides an expert overview of how private medical insurance can offer peace of mind, from initial mole checks and dermatology consultations to comprehensive cancer treatment.

Cover for mole checks, dermatology and treatment of skin cancers

With skin cancer rates on the rise in the UK, many people are looking for ways to get faster access to specialist care. While the NHS provides excellent treatment, waiting lists for dermatology and subsequent procedures can be a source of anxiety. Private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to work alongside the NHS, offering a pathway to quicker diagnosis and treatment for new, acute medical conditions, including skin cancer.

This comprehensive guide will explore:

  • The current landscape of skin cancer in the UK.
  • How the NHS pathway compares to the private route.
  • Exactly what private health cover includes for dermatology and cancer care.
  • The crucial rules around pre-existing conditions.
  • How to choose the right policy for your needs.

Understanding Skin Cancer in the UK: Why It Matters

Awareness of skin cancer is more important than ever. According to Cancer Research UK, melanoma skin cancer is the 5th most common cancer in the country, with around 16,700 new cases diagnosed each year. Incidence rates have more than doubled since the early 1990s.

It's vital to understand the two main types of skin cancer:

  1. Non-melanoma: This is the most common type and includes Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). These are typically slower-growing and much less likely to spread to other parts of the body. Treatment is usually highly successful, often involving simple surgical removal.
  2. Melanoma: This type is less common but more serious as it can spread to other organs if not caught early. It develops from the cells that give your skin its colour (melanocytes). Early detection and treatment are critical for a positive outcome.

The 'ABCDE' Rule for Checking Moles

Regularly checking your skin is the single most effective way to spot potential problems early. Dermatologists recommend using the 'ABCDE' rule to identify suspicious moles:

  • Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
  • Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
  • Colour: The colour is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, or patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
  • Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm across (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
  • Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or colour.

If you notice any of these signs, or a new mole that looks different from your others, it's essential to see a GP.

The NHS Pathway for Skin Cancer: What to Expect

The NHS provides a clear and effective pathway for suspected cancer cases. Here’s a typical journey:

  1. GP Appointment: You visit your GP with a concerning mole or skin lesion.
  2. Urgent Referral: If your GP suspects skin cancer, they will make an 'urgent two-week wait' referral to a specialist dermatologist. This means you should be offered an appointment to see a specialist within two weeks.
  3. Dermatology Assessment: The dermatologist will examine the lesion, often using a special magnifying tool called a dermatoscope.
  4. Biopsy: If cancer is still suspected, a small sample of the lesion (a biopsy) or the entire lesion will be removed under local anaesthetic and sent to a lab for analysis.
  5. Results and Treatment Plan: You'll receive your results, and if cancer is confirmed, the NHS team will create a treatment plan. This usually involves surgery to remove any remaining cancerous cells and a wider margin of surrounding tissue.

While the NHS aims to meet its targets, the system is under immense pressure. As of mid-2024, NHS England data showed that millions of people were on waiting lists for consultant-led elective care. While urgent cancer cases are prioritised, waits for diagnostic tests and non-urgent dermatology appointments can still be lengthy, causing significant worry.

This is where private medical insurance offers a valuable alternative.

How Private Health Insurance Covers Skin Cancer: A Detailed Breakdown

Private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. Skin cancer, when newly diagnosed, falls squarely into this category.

Important Note: Standard UK PMI policies do not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management rather than a cure (e.g., eczema or psoriasis). A pre-existing condition is any ailment for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice before your policy began.

Here’s how PMI typically covers the skin cancer journey:

1. The Diagnostic Stage

If you find a suspicious mole after your policy has started, PMI can significantly speed up the diagnostic process.

StageHow PMI HelpsTypical Policy Requirement
GP ReferralMost insurers require a GP referral to ensure the specialist visit is medically necessary. Some modern policies now offer direct access to a digital GP service, speeding this up.An open referral from your NHS or a private GP.
Specialist ConsultationYour policy will cover the cost of an initial consultation with a private dermatologist, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists. You can often get an appointment within days.The consultation must be with a specialist from the insurer's approved network.
Diagnostics & TestsThe cost of any necessary diagnostic tests, such as a dermoscopy (detailed mole examination) or a biopsy (lesion removal for testing), is typically covered.These tests must be recommended by the specialist to investigate the specific, symptomatic lesion.

2. The Treatment Stage

If the biopsy confirms a diagnosis of skin cancer, your PMI policy's cancer cover will activate. The level of cover you have is crucial.

  • Surgery: The cost of surgically removing the tumour (e.g., a Wide Local Excision for melanoma) in a private hospital is a standard benefit.
  • Reconstructive Surgery: Medically necessary reconstructive surgery following the removal of a tumour, such as a skin graft, is also usually covered.
  • Further Treatment: If the cancer is more advanced and requires further treatment, your policy may cover radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapies.

Understanding Your Level of Cancer Cover

Insurers typically offer different tiers of cancer cover. It's one of the most important choices you'll make when selecting a policy.

Level of CoverWhat It Typically IncludesBest For
Core Cancer CoverCovers the essentials: diagnosis, surgery, and sometimes a basic level of chemotherapy/radiotherapy. May have financial or time limits.Those on a budget who want core protection against the most common treatments.
Full Cancer CoverComprehensive cover for diagnosis, surgery, and all established cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and biological therapies.The majority of people, offering robust peace of mind that all standard UK treatments are covered without limits.
Advanced Cancer CoverIncludes everything in 'Full Cancer Cover' plus access to some experimental or newly licensed drugs and treatments not yet available on the NHS.Those wanting access to the very latest medical innovations and clinical trials.

Navigating these options can be complex. An expert broker like WeCovr can demystify the jargon and compare providers to find the level of cancer cover that matches your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

Does PMI Cover Routine Mole Checks and Screening?

This is a common and important question. In short, standard private medical insurance does not cover preventative screening.

Insurers draw a clear line between:

  • Diagnosis: Investigating a specific mole or skin lesion that is new, changing, or causing symptoms. This is usually covered following a GP referral.
  • Screening: A routine, full-body mole check or 'mole mapping' service that you request for general peace of mind, without any specific symptomatic mole. This is generally not covered.

The logic is that PMI is designed to cover unforeseen health events, not routine or preventative check-ups. However, some of the more comprehensive policies from providers like Bupa and Vitality may include a separate 'wellness' or 'health screening' benefit, which might offer a contribution towards a skin check as part of a wider assessment. These are often add-ons and not part of the core policy.

Pre-existing Conditions and Skin Cancer: A Critical Exclusion

This is the most critical aspect to understand before buying a policy. Private health insurance is for future, unknown medical problems.

If you have sought advice for, been treated for, or had symptoms of a skin condition before your policy starts, it will be classed as pre-existing and excluded from cover.

Examples of Pre-existing Conditions related to skin:

  • A mole that your GP is already monitoring.
  • A previous diagnosis of any type of skin cancer.
  • Atypical Mole Syndrome (having a large number of unusual moles).

Insurers use two main methods to handle pre-existing conditions:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they apply a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the 5 years before your policy began. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, the insurer may then cover it.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer assesses your medical history and may place specific, permanent exclusions on your policy for any pre-existing conditions. This provides certainty from day one about what is and isn't covered.

Real-Life Example: Sarah had a suspicious mole removed 3 years before she took out a PMI policy with moratorium underwriting. A year into her new policy, she finds another suspicious mole on a different part of her body. Because this is a new, unrelated problem, her PMI covers the consultation, biopsy, and treatment. If the 'new' mole was related to the one she had removed previously, the insurer would likely decline the claim.

Comparing Top UK Health Insurance Providers for Skin Cancer Care

Different insurers have unique strengths when it comes to cancer care. Here's a high-level comparison of some of the best PMI providers in the UK.

ProviderCore Cancer Cover ApproachAdvanced Cancer OptionsNoteworthy Dermatology/Skin Benefits
AXA HealthOffers comprehensive cancer cover as standard on most policies, including surgery, chemo, and radiotherapy.'Full Cancer Cover' promise ensures no financial limits for eligible treatment. Access to the latest licensed drugs.Strong specialist network and clear pathways from diagnosis to treatment.
AvivaProvides an 'Expert Select' hospital network to manage costs, with extensive cancer cover. Their 'Cancer Care with Aviva' is highly regarded.Offers options to include additional therapies and access to drugs not routinely available on the NHS.Focuses on a smooth, supported patient journey with dedicated cancer care teams.
BupaFull cancer cover is a cornerstone of Bupa policies, covering diagnostics, treatment, and aftercare.Bupa's 'Cancer Care' includes access to breakthrough drugs and treatments, and covers eligible treatment for as long as you have the policy.Direct access to dermatology for specific conditions may be available, bypassing the need for a GP referral in some cases.
VitalityOffers full cover for cancer treatment as standard. Unique focus on rewarding healthy living.'Advanced Cancer Cover' provides access to a wider range of treatments and screening.Members can earn rewards and discounts for being active, which promotes overall health and potentially reduces cancer risk.

This table shows that while all major providers offer robust cancer cover, the specifics can vary. This is why using a broker is so valuable. We can compare the fine print on your behalf to ensure you get the cover that truly matters to you.

The Role of an Expert Health Insurance Broker like WeCovr

Choosing a private medical insurance policy can feel overwhelming. The terminology is complex, and the consequences of choosing the wrong cover can be significant. This is where an independent broker adds immense value.

Benefits of Using WeCovr:

  • Independent, Expert Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best policy for your specific needs from across the market.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which doesn't affect the price you pay.
  • We Do the Hard Work: We compare policies, explain the differences in cancer cover, clarify the rules on underwriting, and handle the application process for you.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly for its clarity, efficiency, and expert guidance.
  • Added Value: As a WeCovr client, you'll receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. You can also benefit from discounts when you purchase other policies like life or home insurance with us.

Practical Tips for Skin Health and Early Detection

While insurance provides a safety net, prevention and early detection are your first lines of defence.

  • Be Sun Smart: Sun exposure is the number one cause of skin cancer.
    • Use a high-factor (SPF 30+) broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
    • Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing when in direct sun.
    • Seek shade between 11 am and 3 pm when the sun's UV rays are strongest.
  • Know Your Skin: Perform a self-exam once a month to check for any new or changing moles. Use a mirror to check hard-to-see areas like your back and scalp.
  • Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking are linked to a lower risk of developing many types of cancer. Our CalorieHero app can help you maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

By being proactive, you empower yourself. And with the right private health insurance in place, you can have the confidence that if you do spot something worrying, you'll have fast access to the best possible care.


Will my private health insurance premium go up after a skin cancer claim?

Yes, it is very likely that your premium will increase at your next renewal after making a claim for cancer treatment. The size of the increase depends on the insurer, the cost of the treatment, and your overall claims history. Your no-claims discount would also be affected. However, the insurer cannot cancel your policy because you have claimed, and they will continue to cover you for eligible treatment for that condition as long as you remain a member.

Is cosmetic mole removal covered by private health insurance?

No, private medical insurance does not cover procedures that are purely cosmetic. The removal of a mole is only covered if it is deemed medically necessary by a specialist dermatologist – for example, if it is suspected to be cancerous and needs to be sent for a biopsy. If you want to remove a mole for aesthetic reasons, you would need to pay for this privately.

Do I always need a GP referral to see a private dermatologist for a mole check?

Generally, yes. Most private medical insurance policies in the UK operate on a GP referral system. This ensures that the specialist visit is medically appropriate. You would visit your NHS or a private GP, and if they have concerns, they provide an 'open referral' letter. You then contact your insurer, who will use this letter to authorise your consultation with a dermatologist from their approved list. Some newer policies offer direct access or self-referral pathways, but this is less common.

What happens if my skin cancer is considered 'chronic' rather than 'acute'?

Private medical insurance is designed to cover 'acute' conditions, which are curable with treatment. If a cancer, including skin cancer, progresses to a stage where it can no longer be cured but only managed on an ongoing basis, it may be reclassified by the insurer as 'chronic'. At this point, PMI cover for active treatment would typically cease, and your long-term care would transition back to the NHS, which is set up for managing chronic illness. Policies vary on this, so it's important to check the terms.

Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind

Understanding how private medical insurance covers skin cancer is the first step. The next is finding a policy that fits you perfectly.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly, expert team will help you compare the UK's leading insurers and build a plan that gives you and your family the protection and peace of mind you deserve.

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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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