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Private Health Insurance for UK Expats in Dubai

Private Health Insurance for UK Expats in Dubai 2025

Moving to Dubai? At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 800,000 policies, we specialise in finding the right private medical insurance for UK citizens. This guide explains how to secure the best health cover for your new life in the United Arab Emirates.

Specialist cover for British expats in the UAE

The move from the UK to Dubai is an exciting adventure, filled with opportunities for career growth, sunshine, and a new lifestyle. However, one of the most critical parts of your relocation plan is securing the right health insurance. Unlike the UK, where the National Health Service (NHS) provides free care at the point of use, healthcare in Dubai is private and mandatory insurance is a legal requirement for all residents.

For the thousands of British expats who call Dubai home, navigating this system can be daunting. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) policies are not designed for long-term residency abroad. You need a specialist international health insurance plan that not only meets Dubai's legal requirements but also provides the comprehensive protection you and your family are used to.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about private health insurance for UK expats in Dubai, from understanding the local laws to choosing a policy that fits your needs and budget.

Why UK Expats in Dubai Need Specialist Health Insurance

Relying on a basic, employer-provided plan or assuming your UK cover will work can be a costly mistake. The healthcare landscape in Dubai is fundamentally different from the UK's.

1. It's the Law Since 2014, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has made it mandatory for all residents, including expats and their dependents, to have health insurance. Your residency visa is directly linked to you having a compliant health insurance policy. Without it, you cannot legally live and work in Dubai. Fines for non-compliance are steep and are charged monthly.

2. The High Cost of Healthcare The quality of healthcare in Dubai is exceptionally high, with state-of-the-art facilities and internationally trained medical staff. However, this quality comes at a significant cost. Without adequate insurance, even a minor medical issue can lead to substantial bills.

  • GP Consultation: Can range from £70 to £150.
  • A&E Visit: A simple visit for a minor injury could cost several hundred pounds.
  • Hospital Stay: A few nights in a private hospital for a procedure like an appendectomy can easily exceed £10,000.

A comprehensive international health plan protects you from these potentially crippling out-of-pocket expenses.

3. Standard UK PMI Won't Cover You Your domestic private medical insurance UK policy is designed for UK residents. While it might offer limited emergency cover for short holidays (typically up to 30 or 60 days), it is not valid for someone who is a resident in another country. To be properly protected as an expat, you need a dedicated international policy.

Understanding the Dubai Health Insurance System

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) regulates the local insurance market. All policies sold must meet certain minimum standards.

The Essential Benefits Plan (EBP)

For lower-income workers, employers must provide at least an Essential Benefits Plan (EBP). This is the most basic level of cover mandated by law.

  • Annual Claim Limit: Capped at AED 150,000 (around £32,000).
  • Coverage Area: Primarily the Emirate of Dubai, with limited emergency cover in other Emirates.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Covered, but only after an initial 6-month waiting period.
  • Co-payments: You typically have to pay a percentage of the cost for consultations and treatments (e.g., 20%).

While an EBP meets the legal minimum, it is often insufficient for British expats who are accustomed to more comprehensive care. The annual limit can be quickly exhausted by a single serious illness or accident.

Comprehensive vs. Basic Cover: What's the Difference?

Most professionals and their families will want a plan that goes far beyond the EBP. This is where international private medical insurance comes in.

FeatureBasic Employer Plan (EBP)Comprehensive International PMI
Annual LimitCapped at ~£32,000£1,000,000+ (often unlimited)
Geographic CoverDubai only (limited elsewhere)Worldwide or Worldwide excluding USA
Hospital NetworkLimited network of basic clinics/hospitalsExtensive network including premium hospitals
Out-patient CareBasic cover with co-paymentsFull cover for specialists, diagnostics, physio
Dental & OpticalNot usually includedCan be added as an optional benefit
RepatriationNot includedIncluded as a standard or optional benefit
Direct BillingLimited to networkWidespread 'cashless' access to care

For many expats, their employer's plan serves as a starting point. They then choose to "top up" this cover with a more robust personal policy, or their employer offers a comprehensive international plan as part of their employment package. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you assess your employer's plan and find the perfect top-up policy.

What Does International Private Health Insurance Cover?

A good international PMI policy is modular, allowing you to build the cover that's right for you. It typically starts with a core plan and allows you to add optional benefits.

Core In-patient and Day-patient Cover

This is the foundation of any health insurance policy and is non-negotiable. It covers you for treatment that requires a hospital bed.

  • Hospital accommodation in a private room.
  • Surgeon, anaesthetist, and physician fees.
  • Diagnostic tests, such as MRIs, CT scans, and blood tests, related to your hospital stay.
  • Prescription drugs and dressings during your stay.
  • Intensive care unit (ICU) costs.
  • Cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.

Out-patient Cover

This is one of the most valuable parts of a comprehensive plan, covering medical care that doesn’t require a hospital bed.

  • GP and specialist consultations.
  • Physiotherapy, chiropractic, and osteopathy.
  • Diagnostic tests not related to a hospital stay.
  • Prescription medications.
  • Mental health support, including consultations with psychologists and psychiatrists.

Essential Expat Benefits

International plans include features specifically designed for people living abroad.

  • Medical Evacuation: If the required specialist treatment isn't available locally in Dubai, this covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest centre of medical excellence (e.g., in Germany or the UK).
  • Repatriation: This covers the cost of returning you to your home country (the UK) for treatment or, in the worst-case scenario, compassionate repatriation.
  • 24/7 Multilingual Helpline: Invaluable for getting advice and authorisations, especially when you're in a stressful medical situation.
  1. Dental and Optical: Covers routine check-ups, fillings, and major restorative work (crowns, bridges), as well as eye tests and contributions towards glasses or contact lenses.
  2. Maternity Cover: If you plan on starting or expanding your family, this is essential. It covers pre-natal care, delivery costs, and post-natal check-ups. Note that there is usually a waiting period of 10-12 months before you can claim maternity benefits, so you need to add this to your policy well in advance.
  3. Wellness and Preventative Care: Many modern policies now include benefits that help you stay healthy, such as:
    • Annual health check-ups and screenings.
    • Vaccinations.
    • Contributions towards gym memberships or wellness apps.

At WeCovr, we believe in proactive health. That's why clients who purchase private health or life insurance through us receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help them manage their health goals.

The Critical Rule: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is one of the most misunderstood areas of private medical insurance. It's vital to be clear on this point:

Standard international and UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a broken bone, appendicitis, pneumonia).
  • A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it is likely to recur, or it requires palliative care (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis).

Private insurance does not typically cover the routine management of chronic conditions. Likewise, pre-existing conditions – any ailment you knew about, had symptoms of, or received treatment for before your policy began – are also generally excluded.

How Insurers Handle Pre-existing Conditions

When you apply, you will choose an underwriting method which determines how the insurer treats your medical history.

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common and straightforward option. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the past few years (usually 5). This exclusion can be lifted if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you provide your complete medical history on the application form. The insurer's underwriting team then reviews it and decides whether to:
    • Cover you in full.
    • Exclude specific conditions permanently.
    • Charge a higher premium to cover certain conditions.

FMU provides certainty from day one about what is and isn't covered, whereas a moratorium can lead to uncertainty when you make a claim. A PMI broker can help you decide which option is best for your circumstances.

How Much Does Expat Health Insurance in Dubai Cost?

The cost of your premium is influenced by several key factors. Understanding these will help you tailor a policy to your budget.

FactorImpact on PremiumHow to Manage Cost
AgeThe older you are, the higher the premium. This is the most significant factor.You cannot change your age, but buying a policy when you are younger is cheaper.
Level of CoverComprehensive plans with high limits and many add-ons cost more.Choose only the add-ons you truly need. For example, if you don't plan on having children, you don't need maternity cover.
Area of Cover'Worldwide' is the most expensive. 'Worldwide excluding USA' is a popular, more affordable option.If you don't travel to the USA frequently, choosing a plan that excludes it can save you 30-40%.
Excess (Deductible)This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess lowers your premium.Choosing a modest excess (£250 or £500) can make your premium much more affordable without exposing you to huge costs.
Hospital NetworkPlans with access to the most premium hospitals are more expensive.Opt for a plan with a wide but standard network of excellent hospitals if you don't need access to the most exclusive facilities.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums for UK Expats in Dubai

These are example costs for a comprehensive international plan with out-patient cover and a £250 excess, excluding the USA. Prices are for illustrative purposes and will vary between insurers.

ProfileAgeEstimated Monthly Premium
Single Professional30£120 - £180
Couple40£350 - £500
Family (2 adults, 2 children)45 & 42£600 - £950

Working with an independent broker ensures you get a true market comparison to find the best value.

How WeCovr Helps You Find the Best Cover

Choosing the right international health insurance can feel overwhelming. As an FCA-authorised broker with deep expertise in the UK and expat insurance markets, WeCovr simplifies the process for you. Our clients regularly give us high satisfaction ratings for our expert, friendly service.

Why use WeCovr?

  • Expert Advice: We understand the nuances of the Dubai market and the needs of British expats. We'll help you decode the jargon and compare policies like-for-like.
  • Market Comparison: We work with a wide panel of the world's leading international insurers, including Bupa Global, Cigna Global, Aetna, and Allianz, to find you the best private health cover at a competitive price.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is completely free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, impartial advice without paying a penny more.
  • Added Value: On top of finding you the right policy, we offer discounts on other insurance products, like life or travel insurance, when you become a client.

Our goal is to ensure you have peace of mind, knowing you have robust and reliable health protection for your new life in Dubai.

Living Well in Dubai: Health and Wellness Tips

Your insurance is your safety net, but the best approach is to stay healthy. Living in Dubai presents unique environmental factors to consider.

  • Stay Hydrated: The desert climate means dehydration is a constant risk. The UK government advises drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks.
  • Sun Protection: The sun is intense year-round. Always use a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear a hat, and seek shade during the peak hours of 11 am to 3 pm.
  • Embrace Indoor Activities: In the scorching summer months, take advantage of Dubai's world-class indoor facilities. From indoor ski slopes and ice rinks to vast gyms and fitness studios, there are plenty of ways to stay active away from the heat.
  • Healthy Diet: Explore the incredible variety of fresh food available. Focus on a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, which is well-suited to the climate.
  • Manage Your Sleep: Adjusting to a new routine and climate can disrupt sleep. Ensure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. A consistent sleep schedule is vital for your immune system and mental well-being.

Is health insurance mandatory in Dubai for British expats?

Yes, absolutely. Since 2014, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has mandated that all residents, including British expats and their dependents, must have valid health insurance. Your residency visa application and renewal are directly tied to having a compliant insurance policy. Significant fines are imposed for any gaps in cover.

Will my employer's health insurance plan be enough?

It depends on the plan. Many employers provide a basic "Essential Benefits Plan" which meets the legal minimum but offers limited coverage, a low annual claim limit, and a restricted hospital network. This is often insufficient for UK expats used to comprehensive care. It is wise to review the policy in detail and consider a "top-up" international plan for more robust protection.

Can I get cover for my pre-existing conditions in Dubai?

Generally, standard private medical insurance is for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Pre-existing and chronic conditions are typically excluded. Some plans may cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period (a moratorium) or for an increased premium after a full medical review. However, the routine management of chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma is not usually covered.

What is the difference between medical evacuation and repatriation?

Medical evacuation covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest suitable medical facility if the required treatment is not available where you are. Repatriation covers the cost of returning you to your home country (the UK) for treatment or compassionate reasons. Both are crucial benefits for an expat health insurance policy.

Ready to secure your peace of mind for your move to Dubai? The team of experts at WeCovr is here to help. We'll take the time to understand your needs and compare the best private medical insurance UK expat plans for you, all at no cost.

Get your free, no-obligation quote today and ensure you're protected from day one.


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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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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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