WeCovr.

Login

Private Health Insurance for Surgeons in the UK

Private Health Insurance for Surgeons in the UK 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures facing UK professionals. This guide explores why private medical insurance is not a luxury, but a vital tool for surgeons to protect their health, wellbeing, and career.

Protecting the protectors: health insurance for surgical professionals

A surgeon's hands are their livelihood. Your focus, stamina, and physical dexterity are the cornerstones of a demanding and vital profession. The slightest health issue—a strained back, a loss of concentration due to stress, or a worrying symptom that needs investigating—can have profound consequences not just for your own wellbeing, but for your career and your patients.

While the NHS is a national treasure, the reality of its current pressures means that waiting for diagnostics or treatment can translate into weeks or months away from the operating theatre. For a surgeon, this downtime isn't just an inconvenience; it's a period of lost income, skill fade, and professional uncertainty.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) steps in. It's not about replacing the NHS; it's about providing a parallel route to swift diagnosis and treatment, giving you control over your health and safeguarding the career you've worked so hard to build.

Why Surgeons Need More Than Just the NHS

The National Health Service provides exceptional care, a fact that surgeons know better than most. However, the system is facing unprecedented demand. For a high-performing professional whose career depends on being in peak physical and mental condition, relying solely on the NHS can pose significant risks.

The Reality of NHS Waiting Times

According to the latest NHS England data, the referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list remains a significant challenge. As of mid-2024, millions of treatments were on the waiting list. While urgent cases are prioritised, the wait for elective procedures—including many that could sideline a surgeon—can be substantial.

  • Diagnostic Delays: Waiting weeks for an MRI or CT scan can turn a minor concern into a major source of anxiety and prolong time off work.
  • Treatment Backlogs: The average wait for routine treatment can stretch for months, a timeframe that is simply unworkable for most practising surgeons.
  • Financial Impact: For locum surgeons or those with private practices, every week not working is a week without income. For NHS consultants, prolonged absence can impact career progression and departmental stability.

A Surgeon's Biggest Risks

Risk FactorHow It Impacts a Surgeon's CareerHow PMI Can Help
Musculoskeletal IssuesBack, neck, and shoulder pain are common due to long hours standing in awkward positions. A debilitating injury could end a career.Rapid access to physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic care, and specialist consultations. Swift surgical intervention if needed.
Mental Fatigue & BurnoutThe high-stakes environment, long hours, and emotional toll can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout, affecting concentration and decision-making.Access to confidential counselling, therapy, and psychiatric support without a long wait or the need for a GP referral.
Unexpected IllnessA condition requiring investigation or elective surgery can lead to extended time on an NHS waiting list.Fast-track consultations and diagnostics to get a clear picture quickly. Choice of leading specialists and hospitals for treatment.

Private health cover acts as your professional safety net, ensuring a health issue is addressed on your terms and timeline, not the system's.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI): The Essentials

Before diving into the specifics, it's vital to understand what private medical insurance is—and what it isn't.

In simple terms, PMI is an insurance policy that covers the cost of private healthcare for acute conditions.

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. Think of things like joint replacements, hernia repairs, or cataract surgery.

The Crucial Point: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to grasp: Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, received advice for, or were treated for before your policy started. Most policies exclude these, at least initially.
  • Chronic Conditions: Illnesses that cannot be cured and are managed over a long period, such as diabetes, asthma, or Crohn's disease. The day-to-day management of these conditions is not covered by PMI and remains under the care of your NHS GP and specialists.

PMI is designed for new, unexpected health problems that arise after you join, giving you a fast-track route back to health.

Key PMI Terminology Explained

TermWhat It Means in Plain English
UnderwritingThe method an insurer uses to assess your health history and decide what they will and won't cover. The two main types are Moratorium and Full Medical Underwriting.
Moratorium (Mori)You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. If you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's simple and fast to set up.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer reviews it and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. This provides certainty but can mean more permanent exclusions for past conditions.
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards a claim. 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. A higher excess typically means a lower monthly premium.
Outpatient CoverCovers costs for consultations, tests, and diagnostics where you are not admitted to a hospital bed. This is often an optional add-on but is highly recommended for speedy diagnosis.
Inpatient CoverCovers costs when you are admitted to a hospital bed for treatment or surgery, including surgeons' fees, anaesthetist fees, and hospital charges. This is the core of any PMI policy.

Key PMI Features Tailored for a Surgeon's Lifestyle

A standard PMI policy is good, but a policy tailored to your professional needs is better. As a surgeon, you should look for features that directly address the risks of your job.

1. Unrestricted Access to Diagnostics and Treatment

This is the primary benefit. If you feel a twinge in your back or develop a concerning symptom, you can bypass the NHS queue. A typical private journey might look like this:

  1. See your GP: Get a referral to a specialist.
  2. Contact your insurer: Get the claim authorised, usually in one phone call.
  3. See a specialist: Often within a matter of days.
  4. Diagnostics: MRI, CT, or other scans can happen within the same week.
  5. Treatment: If surgery is needed, it can be scheduled at your convenience, minimising downtime.

For a surgeon, this means the difference between a few weeks of disruption and six months of uncertainty.

2. Comprehensive Musculoskeletal (MSK) Cover

Given the physical demands of surgery—long hours standing, leaning over patients, and performing repetitive fine motor tasks—MSK health is paramount. Standard PMI policies offer good MSK cover, but you should ensure it is comprehensive.

  • Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, and Chiropractic Care: Look for policies that offer a good number of sessions without always needing a GP referral.
  • Specialist Consultations: Fast access to orthopaedic surgeons or rheumatologists.
  • Pain Management: Access to clinics and procedures to manage chronic pain that may be affecting your work.

3. Robust Mental Health Support

The "always-on" nature of being a surgeon, combined with life-and-death decisions, can take a significant mental toll. A report by the Royal College of Surgeons highlighted the high levels of burnout and stress within the profession. Modern PMI policies recognise this and provide extensive mental health cover.

  • Confidential Helplines: 24/7 access to trained counsellors.
  • Therapy and Counselling: Cover for a set number of sessions with psychologists or therapists, often accessible virtually.
  • Inpatient Psychiatric Care: Cover for more intensive treatment if required.

This support is confidential and separate from your NHS record, providing a discreet way to manage your mental wellbeing.

4. Digital GP and Virtual Services

Your time is precious. Taking a morning off to visit a GP for a minor issue or a repeat prescription is inefficient. Most leading PMI providers now include a Digital GP service.

  • 24/7 Video Consultations: Speak to a GP from your home or office, often within a few hours.
  • Private Prescriptions: Get prescriptions sent directly to your local pharmacy.
  • Instant Referrals: Get referred directly to a specialist without delay.

These services offer the convenience and speed that a demanding surgical schedule requires.

How to Choose the Best Private Health Insurance Policy

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. The "best" policy is the one that best fits your individual needs, budget, and professional risks.

Step 1: Assess Your Priorities

Ask yourself what matters most:

  • Budget: Are you looking for basic cover for major issues, or a comprehensive policy that covers almost everything?
  • Hospital Access: Do you want access to all private hospitals, including those in Central London, or are you happy with a more limited local list to save money?
  • Cover Level: Is inpatient-only cover enough, or do you need full outpatient cover for diagnostics? For a surgeon, comprehensive outpatient cover is highly recommended.
  • Add-ons: Do you want cover for dental, optical, or mental health?

Step 2: Compare Leading UK PMI Providers

The UK market is dominated by a few excellent providers, each with its own strengths.

ProviderKey Strengths & FocusIdeal For Surgeons Who...
BupaThe UK's largest provider with a huge network of hospitals and consultants. Known for comprehensive cancer care and mental health support.Value a trusted brand name and want extensive, reliable cover with a wide choice of facilities.
AXA HealthStrong focus on clinical excellence and customer service. Offers a "Guided" option where they help you choose a specialist to manage costs.Want high-quality, doctor-led support and are open to a more guided pathway to keep premiums down.
AvivaKnown for its large hospital list and clear, straightforward policies. Often offers competitive pricing and a strong digital offering.Are looking for a solid, all-round policy from a major UK insurer with excellent value for money.
VitalityUnique approach that rewards healthy living. Earn points for being active (walking, gym visits) which can reduce your premium and unlock rewards.Are motivated by proactive health and wellness, and want their insurance to double as a lifestyle and wellbeing programme.

Step 3: Work with a Specialist Broker like WeCovr

Trying to compare these options yourself can be overwhelming. A specialist broker works for you, not the insurer.

  • Expert Advice: We understand the nuances of each policy and can match them to your specific needs as a surgeon.
  • Market Comparison: We compare quotes from across the market to find you the best cover at the most competitive price.
  • Application Support: We handle the paperwork and ensure your application is submitted correctly.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you; we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

An expert broker like WeCovr can save you time and money, ensuring you don't overpay for cover you don't need or, more importantly, end up underinsured when it matters most.

Beyond Treatment: Wellness Benefits and Proactive Health

The best private health cover today goes beyond just paying for treatment. Insurers are increasingly focused on helping you stay healthy in the first place. For a surgeon, maintaining peak performance is a non-negotiable part of the job.

These wellness benefits can include:

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Making it cheaper and easier to maintain your physical fitness.
  • Health Screenings: Proactive check-ups to catch potential issues early.
  • Mindfulness and Meditation Apps: Subscriptions to apps like Headspace or Calm to help manage stress.
  • Nutrition and Diet Support: Access to expert advice on maintaining a healthy diet to fuel your demanding days.

At WeCovr, we enhance this by providing our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a simple, effective tool to help you stay on top of your diet and energy levels. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover, from income protection to home insurance, providing even greater value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Generally, standard private medical insurance policies do not cover injuries or illnesses that are a direct result of your occupation, especially if they could be covered by an employer's liability insurance. However, musculoskeletal conditions that develop over time (like back pain) are often covered, provided they weren't pre-existing. It's crucial to check the specific wording of your policy's exclusions. An expert PMI broker can help you find a policy with favourable terms for this.

Can I add my family to my private health insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most UK insurers allow you to add your partner and children to your policy. It is often more cost-effective and simpler to manage one family policy than multiple individual ones. This ensures your loved ones also have access to the same high-quality, fast-track care, giving you complete peace of mind.

What happens if I develop a chronic condition after my policy starts?

This is an important distinction. Private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and initial treatment to stabilise a condition. For example, if you develop symptoms that lead to a diagnosis of Crohn's disease, your PMI would typically cover the consultations, endoscopies, and initial treatment to get the condition under control. However, the long-term, ongoing management (routine check-ups, repeat prescriptions) would then revert to the NHS, as it has become a chronic condition.

Is the cost of private health insurance tax-deductible for surgeons?

It can be. If you are a self-employed surgeon or operate through your own limited company, you can often treat the private medical insurance premium as a tax-deductible business expense. However, it is typically considered a 'P11D' or 'benefit-in-kind', meaning you might have to pay income tax on the value of the premium. The rules can be complex, so it is always best to seek advice from your accountant to understand the most tax-efficient way to structure it.

Your health is your most valuable asset. For a surgeon, it is the foundation of your entire career. Investing in a robust private medical insurance policy is one of the most sensible and strategic decisions you can make.

Take the next step to protect your health and career. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation comparison of the UK's leading private health insurance policies.

Related guides

Life Insurance for Surgeons UK
Life Insurance for Surgeons UK
Read more →
Life Insurance for Veterinary Surgeons UK
Life Insurance for Veterinary Surgeons UK
Read more →
What Private Health Insurance Do UK Doctors & Surgeons Choose
What Private Health Insurance Do UK Doctors & Surgeons Choose
Read more →
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 900,000+ 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.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London