WeCovr

Private Health Insurance Tax Relief for UK Employers

As an insurance intermediary with over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr provides this guide to help UK businesses understand private medical insurance tax relief. Offering private health cover is a powerful way to support your team, and understanding the tax implications is key to maximising its value.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

Editorial standards

We research and update guides regularly, keep commercial relationships separate from editorial rankings, and publish content for information only rather than personal advice.

Highly rated by our customers
over 1,000,000 policies arranged
Expert guidance



Watch this on a dedicated video page
Scroll for the full guide
↓

TL;DR

As an insurance intermediary with over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr provides this guide to help UK businesses understand private medical insurance tax relief. Offering private health cover is a powerful way to support your team, and understanding the tax implications is key to maximising its value.

Key takeaways

  • Tackling NHS Waiting Times: In mid-2024, the NHS England waiting list for consultant-led elective care stood at over 7.5 million. PMI allows your employees to bypass these queues for eligible conditions, getting them diagnosed and treated faster.
  • Reducing Absenteeism Costs: The CIPD's 2023 Health and Wellbeing at Work report found the average level of employee absence was 7.8 days per employee per year, the highest in over a decade. The direct cost of this to businesses is substantial, not to mention the indirect costs of lost productivity and pressure on other team members. PMI is a direct tool to manage and reduce these costs.
  • Boosting Mental Health Support: Most modern PMI policies include extensive mental health support, from therapy sessions to 24/7 helplines. With stress and mental ill-health being leading causes of absence, this is an invaluable resource for both employees and employers.
  • A Competitive Edge in Recruitment: Offering private health cover makes your benefits package stand out. It signals that you are a caring, forward-thinking employer, helping you attract and secure the best talent.
  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment).

As an insurance intermediary with over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr provides this guide to help UK businesses understand private medical insurance tax relief. Offering private health cover is a powerful way to support your team, and understanding the tax implications is key to maximising its value.

How companies can offset PMI costs and save through business schemes

Providing private medical insurance (PMI) is one of the most highly valued employee benefits a UK company can offer. It sends a clear message that you care about your team's health and wellbeing. But did you know it also comes with significant financial advantages for the business?

By offering a group health insurance scheme, your company can claim the cost of the policy premiums as a legitimate business expense. This means you can offset the entire cost against your Corporation Tax bill, effectively reducing the net cost of the cover. It’s a strategic investment that not only enhances your employee value proposition but also delivers a direct, tangible saving for your business.

What is Business Private Medical Insurance?

Business private health insurance, also known as a group or company scheme, is a policy taken out by an employer to provide healthcare cover for its employees. Instead of individuals arranging their own cover, the company manages a single policy for the whole group.

These schemes are designed to give employees and, often, their families quicker access to diagnosis and treatment for acute medical conditions. In a time of record NHS waiting lists, this benefit is more valuable than ever.

Key benefits for employers offering PMI:

  • Reduced Sickness Absence: Faster access to treatment means employees can return to work sooner. According to the ONS, an estimated 185.6 million working days were lost because of sickness or injury in 2022, the highest on record. PMI can directly combat this.
  • Increased Productivity: A healthier, happier workforce is a more productive one. Knowing they have support when they need it reduces stress and improves focus.
  • Talent Attraction and Retention: In a competitive job market, a strong benefits package is crucial. PMI is a premium benefit that can set you apart from other employers.
  • Improved Employee Morale: Offering health insurance demonstrates a genuine commitment to employee welfare, fostering loyalty and a positive company culture.

The Employer's Perspective: Claiming Corporation Tax Relief

Here is the most significant financial incentive for businesses: the premiums you pay for your company's private medical insurance scheme are considered an allowable business expense by HMRC.

This means you can deduct the full cost of the premiums from your company's profits before calculating your Corporation Tax liability.

How does this work in practice?

  1. Your company pays the annual or monthly premiums for the group health insurance policy.
  2. This total premium cost is recorded as a business expense in your company accounts.
  3. When you calculate your pre-tax profit for the year, this expense is deducted.
  4. Your Corporation Tax is then calculated on this lower profit figure.

The main rate of Corporation Tax in the UK is currently 25% (as of the 2025/26 tax year). Therefore, for every £1,000 you spend on PMI premiums, you can potentially save £250 on your tax bill. (illustrative estimate)

ItemAmount
Annual PMI Premium Cost£10,000
Corporation Tax Rate25%
Tax Relief (Saving)£2,500
Net Cost of Policy to Business£7,500

This tax relief makes providing health insurance significantly more affordable than the headline premium price might suggest. It turns the expense into a highly efficient investment in your team.

The Employee's Perspective: Understanding Benefit in Kind (BIK) Tax

While the company gets tax relief, the provision of private medical insurance is considered a 'perk' or a Benefit in Kind (BIK) for the employee. This means it has a taxable value that the employee must pay tax on.

The company is responsible for reporting this benefit to HMRC for each employee covered by the scheme. This is done using a P11D form at the end of each tax year.

How is the BIK tax calculated for an employee?

  • The 'cash equivalent' of the benefit is the cost of the premium for that specific employee.
  • This amount is added to the employee's total earnings for the tax year.
  • The employee then pays income tax on this amount at their marginal rate (e.g., 20% for a basic rate taxpayer, 40% for a higher rate taxpayer, or 45% for an additional rate taxpayer).

Example: A Basic Rate Taxpayer

  • Cost of PMI premium per employee (illustrative): £800 per year.
  • Employee's tax rate: 20% (Basic Rate).
  • BIK tax payable by employee (illustrative): £800 x 20% = £160 per year (or £13.33 per month).

For a cost of just over £13 a month, the employee gains access to a private medical insurance policy that could cost them £40-£60 a month if they bought it individually. (illustrative estimate)

In addition to the employee's income tax, the employer must also pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the value of the benefit. The Class 1A NICs rate is currently 13.8%.

Employer's NICs Calculation:

  • Cost of PMI premium per employee (illustrative): £800 per year.
  • Class 1A NICs rate: 13.8%.
  • NICs payable by employer (illustrative): £800 x 13.8% = £110.40 per year.

A Worked Example: The Total Cost for a Small Business

Let's imagine a small design agency, "Creative Spark Ltd," with 5 employees. The company wants to offer a mid-range private health cover policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners helps them compare the market and find a policy that costs £700 per employee per year.

Total Annual Premium: 5 employees x £700 = £3,500 (illustrative estimate)

Here's how the tax implications break down for the business:

Financial ElementCalculationAmount
Gross Policy Cost5 employees x £700£3,500
Corporation Tax Relief£3,500 x 25%- £875
Employer's Class 1A NICs£3,500 x 13.8%+ £483
Total Net Cost to Business£3,500 - £875 + £483£3,108

Net Cost Per Employee: £3,108 / 5 = £621.60 per year (illustrative estimate)

For the business, the effective annual cost per employee is £621.60, not the initial £700. For this investment, they get a healthier, more secure workforce, likely leading to reduced absenteeism and higher retention. (illustrative estimate)

For an employee on a basic 20% tax rate, the annual cost is just £140 (£700 x 20%), providing them with peace of mind and fast access to medical care worth many times that amount. (illustrative estimate)

Is Business Health Insurance Still Worth It? The Benefits Outweigh the Tax

Absolutely. While there is a tax liability for the employee and an NIC cost for the employer, the return on investment is immense.

  1. Tackling NHS Waiting Times: In mid-2024, the NHS England waiting list for consultant-led elective care stood at over 7.5 million. PMI allows your employees to bypass these queues for eligible conditions, getting them diagnosed and treated faster.
  2. Reducing Absenteeism Costs: The CIPD's 2023 Health and Wellbeing at Work report found the average level of employee absence was 7.8 days per employee per year, the highest in over a decade. The direct cost of this to businesses is substantial, not to mention the indirect costs of lost productivity and pressure on other team members. PMI is a direct tool to manage and reduce these costs.
  3. Boosting Mental Health Support: Most modern PMI policies include extensive mental health support, from therapy sessions to 24/7 helplines. With stress and mental ill-health being leading causes of absence, this is an invaluable resource for both employees and employers.
  4. A Competitive Edge in Recruitment: Offering private health cover makes your benefits package stand out. It signals that you are a caring, forward-thinking employer, helping you attract and secure the best talent.

Critical: What Business PMI Doesn't Cover

It is vital for both employers and employees to understand the limitations of private medical insurance in the UK. Standard policies are designed for a specific purpose and do not cover everything.

The Golden Rule: UK PMI is designed to treat acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repair, cancer treatment).
  • Chronic Condition: 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 requires palliative care, or it is likely to recur (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis).

Key Exclusions on Standard UK PMI Policies:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical condition you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy began (typically the last 5 years).
  • Chronic Conditions: As defined above, the long-term management of chronic illnesses is not covered. PMI may cover an acute 'flare-up' of a chronic condition, but not the day-to-day management.
  • Emergency Services: A&E visits and emergency treatment remain the domain of the NHS.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Uncomplicated pregnancies are not covered, though some policies offer cover for specific complications.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
  • Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Treatment for addiction is often excluded or available under specialist cover options.

Understanding these exclusions is crucial to managing expectations and ensuring the policy is used correctly.

How to Choose the Right Business PMI Scheme

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. Working with a specialist at WeCovr or one of our broker partners is invaluable, as we can help you tailor a policy to your company's specific needs and budget with no separate broker fee.

Here are the key factors to consider:

  1. Type of Underwriting:

    • Moratorium (Most Common for SMEs): A quick and easy way to set up a policy. The insurer doesn't ask for medical history upfront but will exclude treatment for any condition that existed in the 5 years before the policy start date. This exclusion can be lifted if the member goes 2 continuous years on the policy without symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): Employees complete a full health questionnaire. The insurer assesses this and lists specific exclusions on the policy from day one. It's more admin-heavy but provides absolute clarity on what is and isn't covered.
    • Medical History Disregarded (MHD): Usually only available for larger corporate schemes (e.g., 20+ employees). This is the more comprehensive option, as it agrees to cover eligible pre-existing conditions. It is also the most expensive.

  2. Level of Cover:

    • In-patient and Day-patient Cover: This is the core of any policy, covering treatment where you need a hospital bed.
    • Out-patient Cover (illustrative): This is for consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans that don't require a hospital bed. You can choose a comprehensive level or cap it at a certain monetary value (e.g., £1,000) to manage costs.
    • Therapies: Cover for physiotherapy, osteopathy, etc.

  3. The 'Six-Week' Option: A popular cost-saving measure. The policy will only pay for treatment if the NHS waiting list for that treatment is longer than six weeks. If the NHS can treat you within six weeks, you use the NHS. This can significantly reduce premiums.

  4. Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A national list is standard, but adding central London private hospitals will increase the premium.

  5. Excess (illustrative): This is the amount an employee must pay towards a claim in a policy year. A higher excess (e.g., £250 or £500) will lower the overall premium.

The Added Value of Modern PMI Schemes

Today's PMI options providers offer more than just treatment. They are evolving into holistic health and wellness partners.

  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often with the ability to get prescriptions sent directly to a local pharmacy.
  • Wellness Programmes: Many policies now include discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling, therapy sessions, and self-help resources through dedicated apps and phone lines.
  • Expert Support Services: Second medical opinion services and dedicated cancer care nurses are common features.

WeCovr champions this holistic approach. That's why clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us also receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping your team build healthy habits day-to-day. Furthermore, our clients often benefit from discounts on other types of insurance, providing even greater value.

Reporting to HMRC: A Guide for Employers

As an employer providing PMI, you have a legal duty to report it to HMRC.

  1. Complete a P11D Form: For each employee who receives the health insurance benefit, you must complete a P11D form. This form details the cash equivalent of the benefit (i.e., the premium paid for them).
  2. Complete a P11D(b) Form: This is a summary form where you, the employer, declare the total value of all benefits provided across the company. You use this to calculate and pay the Class 1A National Insurance you owe.
  3. Submission Deadline: The deadline for submitting these forms to HMRC is 6th July following the end of the tax year.
  4. Payment Deadline: The deadline for paying the Class 1A NICs is 22nd July (or 19th July if paying by cheque).

Alternatively, many employers now choose to 'payroll the benefits'. This means the BIK is processed through your monthly payroll. The employee's tax is collected in real-time each month, and a P11D is not required. You must register with HMRC to do this before the start of the tax year.


Is private health insurance tax deductible for the self-employed in the UK?

For sole traders and partners, personal private health insurance is generally not an allowable business expense. This is because HMRC considers it to have a dual purpose – it benefits you personally, not just your business. The cost cannot be offset against your income tax bill. The rules are different for limited companies, where the company may pay for a director's health insurance and claim it as a business expense, subject to Corporation Tax relief. The director would then pay Benefit in Kind tax on the premium.

Does the company have to pay for an employee's family members on the policy?

No, this is flexible. A business can choose a policy that is 'employee-only'. Alternatively, you can offer a 'company-paid family' or 'company-paid partner' option. A common approach is for the company to pay for the employee's cover and then allow the employee to add their family members at their own expense, often at a favourable corporate rate. If the company does pay for family members, this cost is also an allowable business expense for the company but will increase the employee's Benefit in Kind tax liability.

What happens if an employee leaves the company?

When an employee leaves the business, their cover under the group scheme will cease. However, most insurers offer a 'group leaver' option. This allows the departing employee to continue their private medical insurance on a personal basis without needing new medical underwriting. This is a significant benefit, as it means any conditions that were covered under the company scheme will continue to be covered under their new personal policy. They will, of course, be responsible for paying the full premium themselves.

Take the Next Step with WeCovr

Understanding the nuances of business health insurance and its tax implications is the first step. The next is finding a strong fit for your needs that balances comprehensive cover with your company's budget.

As a regulated, FCA-authorised PMI broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr is perfectly placed to help. A WeCovr specialist or trusted broker partner handles the hard work for you, comparing policies from all the insurers on our UK panel to find a solution that fits your team and your bottom line. Our regulated guidance is free, and there is no obligation.

Invest in your team's health and your company's future. Get a free, no-obligation quote for your business today.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

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.

Get Quote
Before you compare PMI quotes

Start with your Protection Score, then decide whether private health cover is the right fit

Check where health access sits in your overall protection picture before deciding whether to compare private health cover.

Check My Health Access GapGet PMI Help If It Fits

Spot whether NHS access risk is the real issue

See if PMI is the gap to fix first

Get health insurance help only if it makes sense for you

📚 Recommended reads

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026

Read

Average Cost of PMI (UK)

Read

PMI Provider Reviews

Read

Get your score

Start with your protection score

Check your current position first, then get health insurance help if you need it.

1

Check your current resilience

Score your income, health access and family protection position in a few minutes.

2

See where private cover helps

Understand whether faster diagnosis and treatment is a priority gap.

3

Continue to tailored PMI help

If health access is the issue, continue to tailored PMI help.

Get My Free Protection ScoreGet Private Health Insurance Help

What you get

A quick view of your current protection position

A clearer idea of where the biggest gaps may be

A direct route to tailored help if you want it

See Plans

Related tools

NHS Wait vs Private Cost MapOpen →
Private Surgery Price ListOpen →
Health Risk AssessmentOpen →
Can I Get Covered? CheckerOpen →
International PMI CalculatorOpen →
PMI Provider ReviewsOpen →
Back to Private Health Insurance (PMI) hub

WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

Flagship guides

Protection Score
Read now →
Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Average Cost of Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Should I Get Private Health Insurance?
Read now →

Explore insurance hubs

PMI Guides Hub
Life Insurance Guides Hub
Income Protection Guides Hub

Related guides

Corporate Health Insurance Benefits What Employers Should Offer in 2025
Corporate Health Insurance Benefits What Employers Should Offer in 2025
Read more →
Corporate Private Health Insurance a UK Employers Guide
Corporate Private Health Insurance a UK Employers Guide
Read more →
Employers Increasingly Offer PMI to Protect Workforce Health
Employers Increasingly Offer PMI to Protect Workforce Health
Read more →
Maximising Your Employers Private Health Insurance a Guide to Unlocking Every Benefit
Maximising Your Employers Private Health Insurance a Guide to Unlocking Every Benefit
Read more →
PMI Tax Implications for Employers UK
PMI Tax Implications for Employers UK
Read more →
Why Some Employers Offer PMI As a Perk — and How to Get It
Why Some Employers Offer PMI As a Perk — and How to Get It
Read more →

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued over 1,000,000 policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

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.

Key guides

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!