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Private Health Insurance for UK Expats in France

Private Health Insurance for UK Expats in France 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with a history of advising on over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands that moving abroad requires careful planning. This guide to private medical insurance in France is designed for UK nationals, providing clear, authoritative advice to ensure your health and peace of mind are fully protected.

Tailored PMI for UK nationals living in France

Making the move to France is an exciting chapter, filled with visions of charming villages, vibrant cities, and a renowned quality of life. Yet, amidst the excitement of finding a new home and embracing the culture, one of the most critical steps for any UK expat is navigating the French healthcare system. While France boasts one of the world's best state healthcare systems, understanding your options—and the potential gaps in coverage—is essential.

This is where specialist private medical insurance (PMI) for expats comes in. It’s not the same as the policy you might have held in the UK. This is a different type of cover, designed specifically for the needs of those living abroad, ensuring you have comprehensive protection, choice, and support when you need it most.

Understanding the French Healthcare System: PUMA

Before exploring private options, it’s vital to grasp the fundamentals of France's state healthcare. The system is known as Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMA).

Since 2016, PUMA has granted a right to healthcare coverage for anyone who works or resides in France on a "stable and regular" basis. For most UK expats, this means you can apply to join the state system after three months of residency. Once your application is approved, you'll be issued a social security number and, eventually, the all-important Carte Vitale.

What is the Carte Vitale?

The Carte Vitale is a green plastic card with a chip that contains your healthcare information. You present it at every medical appointment—doctor, specialist, pharmacy, or hospital. The system automatically processes your reimbursement, with the state's portion of your costs typically paid directly into your bank account within a week.

What Does PUMA Cover (and What Does It Not)?

The French state system is generous, but it is not entirely free. It operates on a co-payment model. The state health insurance fund (Assurance Maladie) typically reimburses a percentage of a government-set tariff for medical procedures and consultations. The average reimbursement is around 70%.

The remaining portion, known as the ticket modérateur, is the patient's responsibility. This can be a significant out-of-pocket expense, especially for specialist care or hospital stays.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

ServiceStandard Government Tariff (Example)State Reimbursement (approx. 70%)Patient's Co-payment (approx. 30%)
GP Consultation€26.50€17.55€8.95
Specialist Visit€31.50+Varies (e.g., 70% of tariff)Varies, can be substantial
Prescription MedicinesVaries15% to 100%The remainder
Hospital StayVaries80% of costs20% + a daily fee (€20)

Important Note: The state only reimburses based on its official tariffs. Many specialists and private clinics in Sector 2 (secteur 2) charge fees above this tariff (dépassements d'honoraires). The patient is responsible for 100% of these excess charges, which are not covered by the state system.

Why UK Expats Need Private Health Insurance in France

The 30% co-payment and excess fees charged by many specialists are precisely why almost all French residents—and savvy UK expats—take out complementary private health insurance. There are two main types of private cover to consider: a local 'top-up' policy (mutuelle) or comprehensive International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI).

  1. To Cover the Co-payments (Ticket Modérateur): This is the most basic function of private cover. It pays the 20-30% of costs that the state system doesn't, protecting you from routine out-of-pocket expenses.
  2. To Access Private Specialists Without Financial Worry: If you want the freedom to choose any doctor or specialist, including those who charge above the state tariff, a robust private policy is essential. It will cover the dépassements d'honoraires, which can otherwise run into hundreds of euros.
  3. For Comfort and Convenience: The state system won't pay for a private room during a hospital stay. If you value your privacy and comfort during recovery, you'll need private insurance.
  4. Comprehensive Dental and Optical Cover: State reimbursements for dental crowns, bridges, and orthodontics, as well as for high-quality glasses and contact lenses, are notoriously low. A good private plan can save you thousands.
  5. English-Speaking Support: Navigating a foreign healthcare system can be daunting. Leading international PMI providers offer 24/7 multilingual helplines, so you can get advice and authorise treatment in English.
  6. Faster Access to Treatment: While France has excellent urgent care, waiting times for non-urgent specialist consultations and elective surgery can exist. Private insurance can help you get seen and treated faster.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare local mutuelles against comprehensive international plans to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

The Critical Difference: UK PMI vs. International Health Insurance

This is a point that cannot be stressed enough: a standard UK private medical insurance policy will not cover you once you become a resident of France.

UK PMI is designed for people living in the United Kingdom. Its network of hospitals, its pricing, and its terms are all based on the UK healthcare landscape. Once you move your primary residence to France, your UK policy is no longer valid for treatment in your new home country.

You need International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI). This is a specific category of private health cover designed for expats.

Here's a clear comparison:

FeatureStandard UK PMIInternational PMI (for Expats in France)
Geographical CoverUnited Kingdom only.France, often with options for UK & global cover.
Designed ForUK residents seeking private care in the UK.Expats living and working abroad.
CurrencyPremiums and claims paid in Pounds Sterling (£).Flexible currency options (EUR, GBP, USD).
Network & Direct BillingUK-based hospital and specialist network.Global network of medical facilities with direct billing.
Support ServicesUK-based, English-speaking customer service.24/7 multilingual emergency and support helplines.
Scope of CoverComplements the NHS.Complements or replaces local state healthcare (like PUMA).

Essentially, you are moving from a domestic product to a global one. The best PMI providers in this space offer plans specifically tailored to the European market, with an understanding of how they work alongside systems like France's PUMA.

Choosing the Right Expat Health Insurance Policy in France

With so many options, choosing the right policy can feel overwhelming. A methodical approach is key. Here are the main factors to consider:

1. Area of Cover

Think about your lifestyle. Do you need:

  • France Only? The most basic and affordable option.
  • Europe-wide Cover? Ideal if you plan to travel frequently to neighbouring countries.
  • Worldwide Cover Excluding USA? A popular choice, offering comprehensive global protection at a lower cost than a fully worldwide plan.
  • Worldwide Cover Including USA? The most expensive option, necessary only if you plan to spend significant time in the United States, where healthcare costs are exceptionally high.
  • Cover for Trips Home: Check if the policy includes cover for temporary trips back to the UK, allowing you to see family or even access private treatment there if you wish.

2. Level of Cover

Policies are typically structured in tiers:

  • In-patient Only: This is the foundational level, covering costs associated with a hospital stay (surgery, accommodation, tests).
  • In-patient + Out-patient: A more comprehensive and highly recommended option. This adds cover for services that don't require a hospital stay, such as GP visits, specialist consultations, diagnostic scans (MRI, CT), and physiotherapy.
  • Comprehensive Cover: The top tier, which usually includes extensive in-patient and out-patient care, plus significant benefits for routine dental and optical treatment. Some plans may also include wellness benefits, health screenings, and maternity cover.

3. Deductibles and Excess

An excess (or deductible) is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer contributes.

  • Higher Excess = Lower Premium: If you are happy to cover smaller medical bills yourself, choosing a higher excess (e.g., €500 or €1,000) can significantly reduce your monthly or annual premium.
  • Lower Excess = Higher Premium: If you want the insurer to cover almost everything from the start, you'll choose a low or zero excess, but your premium will be higher.

4. Underwriting Options

This is how the insurer assesses your medical history.

  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a detailed medical history questionnaire. The insurer assesses it and may place exclusions on specific pre-existing conditions. The advantage is clarity—you know exactly what is and isn’t covered from day one.
  • Moratorium Underwriting: You do not need to declare your full history upfront. Instead, the policy will automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the past 5 years. These conditions may become eligible for cover later, but only after you complete a set period (usually 24 months) on the policy without any symptoms or treatment for that condition.

How an Expert PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

Navigating the complexities of international health insurance alone can be a challenge. Using a specialist broker like WeCovr provides invaluable support at no extra cost to you. Our fee is paid by the insurer you choose, so you get impartial, expert advice for free.

Here’s how we help UK expats in France:

  • Market Expertise: We live and breathe the expat insurance market. We know which insurers offer the best value, service, and network in France.
  • Tailored Comparison: We listen to your specific needs—your budget, your family's health, your travel plans—and compare suitable policies from leading providers to find the perfect match.
  • Plain English Advice: We demystify the jargon of underwriting, excesses, and benefit limits, ensuring you understand exactly what you are buying.
  • Application Support: We guide you through the application process, making it smooth and stress-free.
  • Ongoing Assistance: Our relationship doesn't end once you've bought the policy. We're here to help if you have questions or need assistance with a claim.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you arrange your PMI with us, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, to support your wellness goals. Furthermore, customers who purchase PMI or life insurance often qualify for discounts on other insurance products, such as home or travel cover.

With high customer satisfaction ratings, our focus is on finding you the right protection, not just selling a policy.

Estimated Costs of Private Health Insurance for Expats in France

Premiums for international PMI vary widely based on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase with age.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan costs more than an in-patient only plan.
  • Area of Cover: Worldwide cover is more expensive than Europe-only.
  • Excess: A higher excess lowers the premium.

To give you a general idea, here are some illustrative estimates for 2025.

ProfileLevel of CoverEstimated Monthly Premium
Single Person, age 35Mid-range (In & Out-patient, Europe-wide)€120 - €220
Couple, age 55Comprehensive (incl. Dental, Worldwide ex-USA)€450 - €700
Family of 4 (Parents 42, Kids 8 & 10)Mid-range (In & Out-patient, Europe-wide)€500 - €800

Disclaimer: These figures are for illustrative purposes only. They are not a quote. The actual premium will depend on your personal circumstances and the specific insurer. The most accurate way to find out the cost is to request a personalised quote.

Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions: A Critical Consideration

This is one of the most important aspects of private medical insurance to understand. It is a fundamental principle of how insurance works in the UK and internationally.

Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you have taken 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, infections). PMI is excellent for these unforeseen events.
  • A Chronic Condition is an illness that is long-lasting or recurring, cannot be fully cured, and requires ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, hypertension, arthritis, Crohn's disease).
  • A Pre-existing Condition is any ailment or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before the start of your policy.

Standard private medical insurance—both in the UK and internationally—does NOT cover the treatment of chronic or pre-existing conditions.

For ongoing management of a chronic condition in France, you will need to rely on the state system (PUMA). Your approved chronic illness (Affection de Longue Durée or ALD) may even be covered at 100% of the state tariff by Assurance Maladie. A private mutuelle can then be useful to cover any associated costs that the state doesn't, but a full international PMI plan will typically exclude the condition itself.

Being transparent about your medical history during application is vital to ensure there are no surprises when you need to make a claim.

Embracing life in France also means embracing its approach to health and wellness. Here are a few practical tips to help you settle in.

  1. Register with a Médecin Traitant: This is your chosen GP. Registering is a crucial step. Not only does it establish a relationship with a doctor who knows your history, but it is also key to maximising your reimbursement from the state system. Visits to specialists are reimbursed at a much lower rate if you haven't been referred by your médecin traitant.

  2. Use Your Carte Vitale Everywhere: Always present your Carte Vitale at the GP, pharmacy, lab, or hospital. This ensures the electronic reimbursement process works smoothly.

  3. Lean on the Pharmacist: French pharmacists are highly trained and respected health professionals. For minor ailments, they are an excellent first port of call and can provide effective over-the-counter advice and remedies, often saving you a trip to the doctor.

  4. Embrace the French Diet and Lifestyle:

    • Diet: The famous paradox of the French diet is its richness combined with good health outcomes. Focus on fresh, high-quality, seasonal ingredients from your local marché. Enjoy whole foods, healthy fats, and smaller portion sizes.
    • Activity: France's diverse geography is an invitation to be active. From hiking in the Alps and Pyrenees to cycling through Provence or walking along the Normandy coast, there are endless opportunities to stay fit.
    • Wellness: Adopt the concept of joie de vivre. The French culture places a high value on leisure, social connection, and work-life balance. Slowing down and savouring moments can have a profound impact on your mental wellbeing.

Do I still need a Carte Vitale if I have comprehensive private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. The two systems are designed to work together. Your Carte Vitale ensures you are registered in the French state system (PUMA), which acts as your primary layer of cover. Your private insurance then tops this up, covering the co-payments, excess charges, and services that PUMA doesn't. Many international PMI plans require you to be enrolled in the local state system.

Can I keep my UK NHS rights as an expat in France?

Once you become a resident of France, you are no longer automatically entitled to comprehensive NHS treatment, as the NHS is a residency-based system. UK state pensioners can get an S1 form from the UK government, which they register in France. This means the UK funds their state healthcare in France. For others, your healthcare is provided by France. Your private health insurance may include an option for elective treatment back in the UK if that is a feature you want.

What is the difference between a French 'mutuelle' and international PMI?

A French mutuelle is a 'top-up' policy. Its main job is to reimburse the co-payments (ticket modérateur) left after the state system (PUMA) has paid its share. International Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is more comprehensive. While it also covers the co-payments, it provides a much broader range of benefits, such as global coverage, choice of any hospital or doctor, private rooms, high-value dental/optical, and 24/7 English-language support. A mutuelle is tied to the French system, whereas international PMI offers standalone global protection.

Will my private health insurance cover me for holidays outside France?

This depends entirely on the 'area of cover' you choose for your policy. If you select a "France Only" plan, you will not be covered for travel. However, if you choose a "Europe-wide" or "Worldwide" plan, you will be covered for medical emergencies and often routine care while travelling within that geographical region, including for trips back to the UK. It is crucial to check the policy details before you travel.

Ready to find the right health protection for your new life in France?

The WeCovr team is ready to help. Get a free, no-obligation quote today and let our experts compare the best private medical insurance UK expat plans for you. Secure your peace of mind and start your French adventure with confidence.


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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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