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Private Health Insurance Quotes Compare Cover Prices Online

Considering private medical insurance in the UK? At WeCovr, our unbiased experts have helped thousands of clients compare quotes and find a strong fit for your needs.

Last updated Oct 29, 2026

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Private Health Insurance Quotes Compare Cover Prices Online

TL;DR

Considering private medical insurance in the UK? At WeCovr, our unbiased experts have helped thousands of clients compare quotes and find a strong fit for your needs. This authoritative guide cuts through the jargon, empowering you to compare providers, cover levels, and costs to protect your health and budget effectively.

Key takeaways

  • Define Your Core Needs: Before looking at quotes, consider what's most important to you.
  • Budget: How much can you comfortably afford each month?
  • Cover Level: Do you just want cover for major surgery (in-patient) or also for consultations and tests (out-patient)?
  • Priorities: Is fast access to cancer treatment your number one priority? Or perhaps mental health support?

Considering private medical insurance in the UK? At WeCovr, our unbiased experts have helped thousands of clients compare quotes and find a strong fit for your needs. This authoritative guide cuts through the jargon, empowering you to compare providers, cover levels, and costs to protect your health and budget effectively.

Get private health insurance quotes and compare providers, cover levels and costs

Finding the right private medical insurance (PMI) can feel overwhelming. With dozens of providers, complex policy options, and confusing terminology, it's easy to feel lost. This guide is designed to be your definitive resource for comparing private health insurance quotes online.

We will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what drives your premium to comparing the insurers on our UK panel. Our goal is to give you the confidence to choose a policy that provides genuine peace of mind.

How to Compare Private Health Insurance Quotes in 3 Simple Steps

Comparing PMI doesn't have to be complicated. By following a structured approach, you can efficiently find an appropriate level of cover for your needs.

  1. Define Your Core Needs: Before looking at quotes, consider what's most important to you.

    • Budget: How much can you comfortably afford each month?
    • Cover Level: Do you just want cover for major surgery (in-patient) or also for consultations and tests (out-patient)?
    • Priorities: Is fast access to cancer treatment your number one priority? Or perhaps mental health support?
  2. Gather Like-for-Like Quotes: To compare apples with apples, ensure the quotes you receive have the same core components. Use a consistent set of requirements for:

    • Excess Level: The amount you pay towards a claim.
    • Hospital List: The network of private hospitals you can use.
    • Out-patient Cover Limit: The maximum value of diagnostics and consultations covered.
  3. Speak to a Regulated Broker: A WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners can handle the comparison work for you. We search the market on your behalf, explain the differences between policies in plain English, and often have access to deals not available to the public. Our service has no separate broker fee for you, as we are paid by the insurer you choose.

Get a quote through WeCovr, and a specialist from WeCovr or one of its broker partners will help you compare policies from a range of UK insurers.

Understanding Your Private Health Insurance Quote: What Affects the Price?

Your private medical insurance premium is not a random number. It is a carefully calculated price based on several risk factors. Understanding these factors is key to knowing how you can adjust your policy to meet your budget.

FactorImpact on PremiumBroker Insight & How to Manage Cost
AgeHigh. The single biggest factor. Premiums increase as you get older.You can't change your age, but locking in a policy when you are younger and healthier is the most effective way to secure lower starting premiums.
LocationHigh. Living in or near major cities with expensive private hospitals (e.g., London) increases costs.Most insurers offer different hospital lists. Choosing a list that excludes the most expensive city-centre hospitals can significantly reduce your premium.
ExcessHigh. This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim.A higher excess leads to a lower premium. Choosing an excess of £250 or £500 is a popular way to make cover more affordable. Some excesses are per claim, others per year.
Cover LevelHigh. Comprehensive policies with full out-patient cover are more expensive than basic in-patient-only plans.Start with core cover (in-patient and cancer care) and only add the extras you truly need. You can often cap out-patient cover at £500 or £1,000 to manage costs.
UnderwritingMedium. The method used to assess your medical history affects the initial price and future claims.Moratorium underwriting is often slightly cheaper upfront, but Full Medical Underwriting provides more certainty about what is covered from day one.
No Claims DiscountMedium. Similar to car insurance, you can build up a discount for not claiming.Be mindful that making small claims could reduce your NCD and increase your premium at renewal, sometimes by more than the cost of the claim itself.
Smoker StatusLow-Medium. Smokers or recent vapers may pay slightly more, though some insurers don't load premiums for this.Being a non-smoker for at least 12 months will ensure you get the best possible rate.

Expert Tip: The most common mistake we see is clients focusing only on the headline monthly price. The details of the policy—like the out-patient limits and the hospital list—are what determine the true value. A WeCovr adviser can help you balance cost and coverage perfectly.

Comparing UK Private Health Insurance Providers

The UK private health insurance market is dominated by a few key players, each with its own strengths and focus. While they all provide access to private treatment, their approach, benefits, and policy structures differ.

Here is a high-level comparison of the well-known providers for individuals and families in the UK.

ProviderBest Known ForKey Features & Differentiators
BupaThe UK's largest and most recognised health insurer.Strong brand trust, extensive hospital network, and direct settlement with many facilities (no need to pay upfront). Offers a wide range of plans from basic to comprehensive.
AXA HealthPremium service and a focus on clinical expertise.Excellent mental health support pathways, a large network of specialists, and a strong emphasis on guided care options where a dedicated case manager helps you.
AvivaA major UK insurer offering a wide range of financial products.Often competitively priced. Their "Expert Select" hospital option can offer significant savings. Good digital tools and a straightforward claims process.
VitalityA unique focus on rewarding healthy living.Members can earn rewards like cinema tickets and coffee for being active. This can offset the cost of the premium, but the core cover is robust, with excellent cancer care.
The ExeterA specialist friendly society known for flexible underwriting.Often a good choice for those with some pre-existing medical history, as their underwriting can be more accommodating. Strong customer service focus.

Important Note: The "best" PMI provider is entirely subjective and depends on your personal circumstances, health needs, and budget. What works for one person may not be right for another. This is why regulated guidance is so valuable.

Core Cover vs. Optional Extras: Tailoring Your PMI Policy

Think of a private medical insurance policy like building with LEGOs. You start with a solid foundation (Core Cover) and then add optional bricks (Extras) to build the exact policy you want.

Core Cover: The Essentials

Almost every UK PMI policy includes this as standard. It is the foundation of your health insurance.

  • In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: This covers costs when you are admitted to a hospital for treatment that requires a bed, even if just for the day. This includes surgeons' fees, anaesthetists' fees, hospital accommodation, and nursing care.
  • Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of modern PMI. Most policies offer extensive cancer cover, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and specialist consultations. Some policies offer access to drugs and treatments not yet available on the NHS.

These are the most common add-ons you can choose to enhance your policy.

  1. Out-patient Cover: This is arguably the most important optional extra. It covers diagnostic tests, scans (MRI, CT, PET), and specialist consultations that do not require a hospital bed. Without this, you would still rely on the NHS for your initial diagnosis, which can involve long waiting lists. You can choose a full-cover option or a capped limit (e.g., £1,000 per year) to manage costs.

  2. Therapies Cover: This provides cover for treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, often up to a set number of sessions per year.

  3. Mental Health Cover: While some basic mental health support may be included in core cover, this optional extra provides more extensive access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapy sessions.

  4. Dental and Optical Cover: This provides a cashback benefit for routine check-ups, glasses, and dental treatment. It's often less comprehensive than dedicated dental plans but can be a convenient add-on.

The Critical Role of Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting

Underwriting is how an insurer assesses your medical history to decide what they will and will not cover. This is one of the most crucial—and often misunderstood—parts of any policy. There are two main types.

A core principle of UK PMI: Standard policies are designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you join. They do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

FeatureMoratorium Underwriting (MORI)Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
How it WorksYou don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a general exclusion for any condition you've had symptoms, advice or treatment for in the last 5 years.You complete a detailed medical questionnaire, declaring your full medical history. The insurer reviews it and states from the outset what is covered and what is excluded.
Application ProcessFast and simple. You can be on cover in minutes.Slower and more detailed. Can take several days or weeks for the underwriting team to assess your application.
Clarity at Claim TimeUncertain. When you claim, the insurer will investigate your medical history to see if the condition is pre-existing. This can cause delays or claim denials.Certain. You know exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. There are no surprises when you need to make a claim.
Cover for Pre-existing ConditionsA pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover if you go 2 continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for it.Conditions are typically excluded permanently, though you can sometimes negotiate to have an exclusion reviewed after a certain period.
Who is it for?People with a clean bill of health who want a quick and easy application process.Anyone with a more complex medical history, or those who value certainty above all else.

Broker Insight: While Moratorium underwriting is popular for its simplicity, we often recommend Full Medical Underwriting at WeCovr. The peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what is covered is invaluable when you are unwell.

What is Not Covered by Private Health Insurance?

It's vital to understand the limitations of private medical insurance to avoid disappointment at the point of a claim. PMI is not a replacement for the NHS; it is a complementary service.

UK private health insurance does not typically cover:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness, injury, or symptom you had before your policy started. This is the most significant exclusion.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term conditions that require ongoing management rather than a curative fix. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and most types of arthritis. PMI is for acute conditions.
  • Emergency Services: If you have a medical emergency like a heart attack, stroke, or major trauma, you must call 999 and use the NHS A&E department.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Routine maternity care is not covered, though complications of pregnancy may be.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Including those related to substance abuse.

Understanding these exclusions is fundamental to having realistic expectations of what your policy can and cannot do.

How to Make a Claim on Your Private Health Insurance

The claims process is designed to be straightforward and is a key reason people buy PMI—to get fast access to care.

  1. Visit Your GP: Your journey almost always starts with your GP. If you have a symptom, you see your GP as normal. You do not need a private GP.
  2. Get an Open Referral: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist, they will write you a referral letter. Ask for an 'open referral' rather than one to a specific named specialist, as this gives your insurer more flexibility to find a recognised consultant for you quickly.
  3. Contact Your Insurer: Call your insurer's claims line with your policy number and referral details. They will check your cover and approve the next steps.
  4. Book Your Consultation: Your insurer will provide you with a list of approved specialists. You book the appointment, and the insurer will provide an authorisation number.
  5. Undergo Treatment: If the specialist recommends a test, scan, or procedure, you get it authorised by your insurer before proceeding. The bills are usually settled directly between the hospital/specialist and the insurer. You only pay your chosen excess.

Get a quote through WeCovr, and a specialist from WeCovr or one of its broker partners will help you compare policies from a range of UK insurers.

Why Use a WeCovr Specialist or Trusted Broker Partner?

In a complex market, using a specialist broker offers significant advantages over going direct to an insurer.

  • Panel-based Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from our panel to find the right fit for your specific needs and budget.
  • Expert Knowledge: We understand the subtle but important differences between policies. We can explain the pros and cons of different hospital lists, cancer cover definitions, and underwriting types.
  • No Separate Broker Fee: Our service has no separate broker fee for you. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium price. You don't pay more by using us.
  • Save Time & Hassle: Instead of filling out multiple forms on different websites, you only need to provide your details once. We do all the legwork.
  • Ongoing Support: Our relationship doesn't end once you buy. A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner can help with renewals, policy queries, and can offer assistance at the point of a claim.
  • Exclusive Benefits: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. We also offer discounts on other insurance products, like life or income protection cover, when you take out a PMI policy.

WeCovr is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), giving you confidence that you are dealing with a professional and accountable organisation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Is private health insurance worth it in the UK?

Whether private health insurance is worth it depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. With NHS waiting lists at record highs, many people value PMI for the speed of access to diagnostics and treatment for acute conditions. It provides peace of mind, choice over your specialist and hospital, and access to a private room. However, it is an ongoing cost and does not cover everything, so it's a personal financial decision.

How much does private health insurance cost per month?

The monthly cost of private health insurance in the UK varies widely, from around £40 for a healthy 30-year-old to over £150 for a 60-year-old. The final price depends on your age, location, smoker status, the level of cover chosen, the excess you select, and the underwriting method. The most accurate way to find out the cost is to get a personalised quote.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. A condition is considered pre-existing if you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment for it in the 5 years prior to your policy start date. Some conditions may become eligible for cover under moratorium underwriting if you remain symptom-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy begins.

Can I switch my private health insurance provider?

Yes, you can switch private health insurance providers. It is important to do this on a "Continued Medical Exclusions" (CME) or "switch" basis. This allows you to transfer your underwriting from your old policy to the new one, meaning you won't have new exclusions applied for conditions that have developed while you were insured. An expert broker can manage this process for you to ensure continuous cover.

Ready to Compare Your Options?

Navigating the world of private health insurance is simpler with an expert on your side. WeCovr provides free, regulated advice to help you compare quotes from the insurers on our UK panel.

Let us help you find the right cover at the right price.

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Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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 experienced 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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.



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