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Private Health Insurance vs NHS UK

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds arranged, WeCovr helps UK consumers navigate the world of private medical insurance. The debate often framed as "Private Health Insurance vs NHS" is misleading. The reality is far more collaborative, with PMI designed to work alongside our cherished National Health Service.

Key takeaways

  • Emergency Care: For accidents, serious injuries, or sudden life-threatening conditions (like a heart attack or stroke), the NHS Accident & Emergency (A&E) department is always the right and only choice. Private hospitals are not equipped to handle these emergencies.
  • GP Services: Your local GP is your first port of call for any health concern. They diagnose common illnesses, manage long-term conditions, and provide preventative care.
  • Chronic Condition Management: The NHS is responsible for the ongoing care of long-term conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.
  • Maternity Services: The vast majority of births and antenatal/postnatal care in the UK are handled by the NHS.
  • Certain Specialised Treatments: The NHS leads in highly complex procedures like organ transplants and provides certain expensive cancer drugs not always available on standard PMI policies.

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds arranged, WeCovr helps UK consumers navigate the world of private medical insurance. The debate often framed as "Private Health Insurance vs NHS" is misleading. The reality is far more collaborative, with PMI designed to work alongside our cherished National Health Service.

How PMI works alongside the NHS — not against it

Many people in the UK view private health insurance and the NHS as opposing forces. It's a common misconception that choosing one means abandoning the other. In reality, they form a complementary system, offering you a powerful combination of healthcare options.

Think of the NHS as the foundation of UK healthcare. It's comprehensive, free at the point of use, and a world-class service for emergencies, chronic condition management, and a vast range of treatments. It is, and will remain, your primary safety net.

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) acts as a supplement to this. It's an optional layer of cover that gives you more choice, speed, and comfort for specific, non-emergency situations. You don't "leave" the NHS when you buy a PMI policy. You simply gain an alternative route for eligible treatments, often bypassing long waiting lists for specialist consultations and elective surgery.

In short: You use the NHS for emergencies, GP visits, and ongoing chronic care. You use PMI for swift access to diagnostics, specialist appointments, and planned treatments for new, acute conditions.

Understanding the NHS: The UK's Healthcare Cornerstone

The National Health Service is a remarkable institution, providing comprehensive healthcare to all UK residents, largely free at the point of use. It's funded through general taxation and National Insurance contributions.

What the NHS Excels At:

  • Emergency Care: For accidents, serious injuries, or sudden life-threatening conditions (like a heart attack or stroke), the NHS Accident & Emergency (A&E) department is always the right and only choice. Private hospitals are not equipped to handle these emergencies.
  • GP Services: Your local GP is your first port of call for any health concern. They diagnose common illnesses, manage long-term conditions, and provide preventative care.
  • Chronic Condition Management: The NHS is responsible for the ongoing care of long-term conditions like diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.
  • Maternity Services: The vast majority of births and antenatal/postnatal care in the UK are handled by the NHS.
  • Certain Specialised Treatments: The NHS leads in highly complex procedures like organ transplants and provides certain expensive cancer drugs not always available on standard PMI policies.

The Challenge: NHS Waiting Times

Despite its incredible strengths, the NHS is under significant pressure. As of mid-2024, NHS England data showed the elective care waiting list contained over 7.5 million treatment pathways. This means millions of people are waiting for procedures like hip replacements, cataract surgery, and hernia repairs.

The median waiting time for non-emergency treatment can be several months. This is where the strain is most felt by patients and where private medical insurance can offer a valuable alternative.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Private Medical Insurance, also known as private health cover, is an insurance policy that covers the cost of private healthcare for specific conditions. You pay a monthly or annual premium to an insurer. In return, if you develop a new medical condition after your policy starts, the insurer pays for your private diagnosis and treatment, as defined by your policy terms.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about UK private health insurance.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint injuries, hernias, cataracts, and most infections. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions.

  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and hypertension. Standard PMI policies do NOT cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

A Real-Life Example:

Sarah develops sudden, sharp knee pain after a run. Her GP suspects a torn meniscus (an acute injury).

  • NHS Route: Sarah is referred to an NHS physiotherapist, with a potential 8-week wait. If that doesn't work, she'll be put on a waiting list for an MRI scan (several more weeks), followed by a wait to see an orthopaedic consultant, and finally, a longer wait for surgery if needed. The entire process could take 9-12 months.
  • PMI Route: Sarah calls her PMI provider, who may arrange a private GP video call the same day. With a GP referral, she sees a private orthopaedic consultant within a week. An MRI is done days later, and surgery is scheduled for the following week in a private hospital. She is back on the road to recovery in under a month.

In this scenario, Sarah never "left" the NHS. Her GP initiated the process. She simply used her PMI policy to accelerate the diagnostic and treatment stages.

The Collaborative Journey: How PMI and the NHS Work Together

Let's map out a typical patient journey to see how the two systems interact seamlessly.

  1. The Symptom: You feel unwell or have a new health concern.
  2. GP Visit (NHS): Your first stop is almost always your NHS GP. You discuss your symptoms, and they conduct an initial examination. Private GP services exist, but most PMI journeys start here.
  3. The Referral: Your GP believes you need to see a specialist. They can write you one of two referrals:
    • An NHS referral, which places you on the NHS waiting list.
    • An open referral (or a named private referral), which you can use to activate your private medical insurance.
  4. Activating Your PMI: You contact your insurance provider with the referral details. They will check your policy coverage and authorise the next steps.
  5. Private Diagnosis & Treatment (PMI): You use your PMI to see a specialist quickly, have diagnostic tests (like MRI or CT scans), and receive treatment or surgery in a private hospital.
  6. Post-Treatment & Emergencies (NHS): After your successful private treatment, you return to the care of your NHS GP for any follow-up medication or general care. If any complications or new emergencies arise at any point, you would go directly to NHS A&E.

This partnership model gives you the best of both worlds: the robust, all-encompassing safety net of the NHS, combined with the speed and choice of the private sector for eligible treatments.

NHS vs Private Health Insurance: A Head-to-Head Comparison

FeatureNational Health Service (NHS)Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
Cost to YouFree at the point of use (funded by tax)Monthly or annual premium
EmergenciesYes - The only option for A&E careNo - Not equipped for emergencies
GP AccessYes, your local NHS GPSometimes included (e.g., virtual GP apps)
Waiting TimesCan be long (months, even years) for non-urgent careMinimal - typically days or weeks
Choice of SpecialistLimited - you see the next available consultantHigh - you can often choose your specialist
Choice of HospitalLimited - you go to your local NHS trustHigh - you can choose from a nationwide network
Hospital StayUsually on a shared wardUsually a private, en-suite room
Chronic ConditionsYes - Manages all long-term conditionsNo - Excluded from standard cover
Pre-existing ConditionsYes - Covers all your health needsNo - Typically excluded for a set period or entirely
Cancer CareComprehensive coverExtensive cover, sometimes with access to drugs not yet on the NHS

What Does Private Medical Insurance UK Typically Cover?

While policies vary, most comprehensive PMI plans in the UK will cover the costs for:

  • In-patient and day-patient treatment: Surgery and procedures where you need a hospital bed, either overnight or for the day.
  • Out-patient consultations and diagnostics: Seeing a specialist and having tests like MRI scans, CT scans, and blood tests to find out what's wrong.
  • Cancer treatment: Including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Many policies offer access to new drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS.
  • Mental health support: Cover varies widely, from limited out-patient sessions to more comprehensive in-patient care.
  • Therapies: Physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment following a specialist referral.
  • Private ambulance services: For non-emergency transfers between hospitals.

What is Almost Always Excluded?

Understanding exclusions is just as important as knowing what's covered.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical condition you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began. Some policies may cover them after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment.
  • Chronic Conditions: As mentioned, ongoing management of conditions like diabetes or asthma is not covered.
  • Emergency Services: A&E visits are an NHS service.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Routine maternity care is handled by the NHS. PMI may cover complications, but this varies.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures done purely for aesthetic reasons are excluded.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Including those related to substance abuse.
  • Infertility Treatment: IVF and other fertility procedures are usually excluded.

Navigating these inclusions and exclusions can be challenging. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can demystify the small print, comparing policies from leading providers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

The Tangible Benefits of Holding a PMI Policy

  1. Speed of Access: This is the number one reason people buy private health insurance. Bypassing lengthy waiting lists means getting diagnosed and treated faster, reducing anxiety and allowing you to return to work and life sooner.
  2. Choice and Control: You have more say in your healthcare journey. You can often choose the specialist who treats you and the hospital where you receive your care.
  3. Comfort and Privacy: Treatment in a private hospital typically means a private, en-suite room with amenities like a TV, better food choices, and more flexible visiting hours. This can make a significant difference to your comfort and recovery.
  4. Access to Advanced Treatments: Some PMI policies provide access to the latest licensed cancer drugs and treatments that may not yet be approved for widespread NHS use due to cost-effectiveness assessments.
  5. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a backup plan in place for your health can provide invaluable reassurance for you and your family.

How Much Does Private Health Insurance Cost in the UK?

The cost of PMI is not one-size-fits-all. Premiums are highly personalised and depend on several key factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older, as the statistical risk of needing treatment rises.
  • Location: Healthcare costs are higher in certain areas, particularly London and the South East, which is reflected in premiums.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive policy with full out-patient cover will cost more than a basic plan that only covers in-patient surgery.
  • Policy Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Smoker Status: Smokers pay significantly more than non-smokers due to the associated health risks.
  • Underwriting Type: The method the insurer uses to assess your medical history.

Example Monthly PMI Premiums (Illustrative)

This table provides a rough guide to monthly costs for a non-smoker with a mid-level policy and a £250 excess. Costs are for illustrative purposes only.

Age GroupLocation: ManchesterLocation: London
30-39£45 - £65£60 - £85
40-49£60 - £90£80 - £120
50-59£90 - £140£120 - £180
60-69£150 - £250£200 - £330

To get an accurate picture of what you would pay, it's essential to get personalised quotes. You can compare private medical insurance quotes easily online.

Enhancing Your Wellbeing: More Than Just Insurance

Modern private health insurance is evolving. The best PMI providers now include a host of wellness benefits and resources designed to help you stay healthy, not just treat you when you're ill.

These can include:

  • 24/7 Virtual GP Services: Speak to a doctor via video call or phone, often within hours, for quick advice and prescriptions.
  • Mental Health Support Lines: Access to confidential counselling and support for issues like stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Gym Discounts: Reduced membership fees at popular fitness chains.
  • Wearable Tech Deals: Discounts on smartwatches and fitness trackers to encourage an active lifestyle.
  • Health and Wellness Apps: Access to apps for nutrition, mindfulness, and fitness coaching.

For example, at WeCovr, we go a step further. When you arrange a PMI or life insurance policy with us, we provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. We also offer our valued clients discounts on other types of insurance, helping you protect more of what matters for less. Our high customer satisfaction ratings on independent review sites reflect our commitment to providing genuine value beyond the policy itself.

A healthy lifestyle is your first line of defence. A balanced diet, regular exercise (aiming for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week), and 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night are foundational to good health and can reduce your long-term risk of many conditions.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover

Selecting a PMI policy involves making several key decisions.

  1. Choose Your Underwriting:

    • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. If you then go 2 continuous years on the policy without symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your history and explicitly states what is and isn't covered from the outset. This provides more certainty but can be a longer process.

  2. Decide on Your Level of Cover:

    • Basic/In-patient Only: Covers treatment where you need a hospital bed.
    • Mid-Level (illustrative): Adds some out-patient cover, perhaps with a limit of £500-£1,500 for diagnostics and consultations.
    • Comprehensive: Offers full in-patient and out-patient cover, often with added benefits like mental health and therapies.

  3. Select a Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A list excluding expensive central London hospitals will be cheaper than a list that includes them.

  4. Set Your Excess: Decide how much you're willing to pay towards a claim. A higher excess means a lower premium.

This process highlights why seeking advice is so valuable. An independent broker's role is to understand your unique circumstances and search the market to find the optimal balance of cover and cost from the UK's best PMI providers.

Do I still pay National Insurance if I have private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Private medical insurance is an optional top-up to the NHS, not a replacement for it. You will continue to pay National Insurance and taxes to fund the NHS, and you will retain your full right to use all NHS services, including A&E, your GP, and treatment for chronic conditions, regardless of whether you have a private policy.

Can I use the NHS if I have a PMI policy?

Yes. Holding a PMI policy does not affect your entitlement to NHS care. You can choose to use the NHS for any treatment, even if it would be covered by your private policy. Many people use a combination of both systems, using PMI for urgent elective procedures while relying on the NHS for everything else. The choice is always yours.

Does private medical insurance UK cover cancer?

Generally, yes. Cancer cover is a core component of most private medical insurance policies in the UK. This typically includes the cost of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and consultations. A key benefit is that some policies provide access to specialist drugs or treatments that may not yet be available through the NHS. However, the level of cover can vary, so it is vital to check the policy details carefully.

What is the main difference between an NHS hospital and a private hospital?

The main differences relate to facilities, speed, and choice. Private hospitals typically offer private en-suite rooms, more flexible visiting hours, and a wider food menu. NHS hospitals usually have shared wards. The most significant difference, however, is that private hospitals are used for pre-booked, non-emergency procedures, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists. NHS hospitals handle everything, including all emergency care, which private hospitals are not set up to do.

The UK healthcare landscape offers a powerful dual system. By understanding how private medical insurance works with the NHS, you can make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for you. It's about adding a layer of speed, choice, and comfort to the solid, essential foundation the NHS provides for everyone.

Ready to explore your options?

Get a fast, free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare leading policies to help you find the perfect cover for your needs and budget.

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
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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.

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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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Any questions?

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

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

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

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

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

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

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

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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