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Private Health Insurance with Virtual GP Services

Private Health Insurance with Virtual GP Services 2025

As an FCA-authorised UK broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands the evolving landscape of private medical insurance. This article explores one of the most valuable modern benefits: virtual GP services, a feature revolutionising how we access primary care in the UK.

WeCovr reviews PMI providers offering 247 GP access

Getting a timely GP appointment on the NHS can be a challenge. The long waits and difficulty in securing a convenient time slot have led many to seek faster, more flexible alternatives. This is where private medical insurance (PMI) steps in, with virtual GP services becoming a cornerstone of modern health cover.

These digital services offer round-the-clock access to a qualified GP from the comfort of your home, office, or even while on holiday. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about PMI with virtual GP access, review the top providers, and explain how to choose the right policy for you.

What Exactly Are Virtual GP Services?

A virtual GP service, also known as a digital GP or remote GP, allows you to have a medical consultation with a UK-registered General Practitioner over the phone or via a video call. Think of it as a doctor's appointment conducted through your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

These services are typically delivered through a dedicated app provided by your insurer. During the consultation, a GP can:

  • Discuss your symptoms and medical history.
  • Provide a diagnosis for a wide range of common conditions.
  • Issue private prescriptions, which you can have delivered or collect from a local pharmacy.
  • Offer medical advice and recommend next steps.
  • Provide an 'open referral' for specialist tests or consultations if your PMI policy covers it.

It’s a fast, convenient, and secure way to get the primary care you need, when you need it.

The Growing Need for 24/7 GP Access in the UK

The demand for faster access to primary healthcare has never been higher. While the NHS remains a cherished institution, its resources are under immense pressure.

Recent data paints a clear picture. According to NHS Digital figures for 2024, millions of patients face significant waits for a GP appointment. For instance, in a single recent month:

  • Over 14 million appointments involved a wait of more than one week.
  • Almost 4.5 million of those appointments took place more than 28 days after they were booked.

These delays can cause anxiety, prolong discomfort, and potentially worsen health outcomes. For busy professionals, parents with young children, or anyone who values their time, waiting weeks for a 10-minute consultation is simply not practical.

Benefits of a Virtual GP Service:

  • Speed: Get an appointment in hours, not weeks.
  • Convenience: No travel, no waiting rooms. Speak to a doctor from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Flexibility: Services are often available 24/7, 365 days a year, fitting around your work and life commitments.
  • Peace of Mind: Immediate access to medical advice can be incredibly reassuring, especially for urgent but non-emergency issues.
  • Privacy: Discuss health concerns discreetly from your own home.

How Virtual GPs Integrate with Your Private Medical Insurance

A virtual GP service is more than just a convenient add-on; it's the gateway to your entire private health insurance policy. Here’s how it typically works:

  1. You Feel Unwell: You develop a new symptom or health concern.
  2. Book a Virtual Appointment: Instead of calling your local NHS surgery, you open your insurer's app and book a digital GP appointment, often for the same day.
  3. Consult with the GP: You have a video or phone consultation. The GP assesses your condition.
  4. Receive an Outcome:
    • Simple Advice/Prescription: If it's a straightforward issue, the GP might offer advice or a private prescription.
    • Referral for Treatment: If you need to see a specialist (like a cardiologist, dermatologist, or physiotherapist), the GP will issue an 'open referral'.

An open referral is a crucial document. It confirms that you need further investigation or treatment without naming a specific specialist. You then give this referral to your insurance provider, who will use their network to help you find a covered specialist at a convenient time and location. This process activates the main benefit of your PMI: fast access to private diagnosis and treatment.

Comparing UK PMI Providers and Their Virtual GP Services

Most leading UK private medical insurance providers now include a virtual GP service as a standard or optional benefit. However, the specifics of the service can vary. Here, we review what the major players offer in 2025.

ProviderService NamePlatform ProviderKey Features
BupaDigital GPTeladoc Health24/7 access; video & phone; unlimited usage on most plans; prescription service; open referrals.
AXA HealthDoctor at HandDoctor Care Anywhere24/7 access; video consultations; up to 5 appointments per person, per year on some plans; prescriptions and referrals.
AvivaAviva Digital GPSquare Health24/7 access; video & phone; choice of GP by gender; unlimited usage on core policies; prescription service.
VitalityVitality GPVitality's own network24/7 video GP advice line; bookable video consultations (may have a small excess); prescriptions and referrals. Integrates with their wellness programme.
The ExeterHealthwiseSquare HealthIncluded as standard; 24/7 GP access via phone or video; prescription service; access to second medical opinions.

A Deeper Look at Each Provider

Bupa

Bupa's 'Digital GP' service is one of the most established in the market. Powered by Teladoc Health, it offers robust 24/7 availability. A key advantage is that most of Bupa's core policies include unlimited use of this service, so you don't have to worry about hitting a cap on appointments. It's a seamless way to get a diagnosis or a referral to start a claim.

AXA Health

AXA Health offers 'Doctor at Hand', provided by Doctor Care Anywhere. It's a high-quality service, but it's important to check the policy details. Some plans may limit the number of free consultations per year (e.g., five per person). While this is often sufficient for many, families or individuals with more frequent needs should bear this in mind.

Aviva

Aviva's 'Digital GP' is powered by Square Health and is a core component of their 'Healthier Solutions' policy. It stands out by offering unlimited appointments and giving users the choice to select a GP by gender, which can be an important factor for comfort and privacy. The integration is smooth, making it easy to get a referral and begin the claims process.

Vitality

Vitality is unique in its focus on wellness and rewards. Its 'Vitality GP' service is part of this ecosystem. While they offer a 24/7 advice line, bookable video consultations may sometimes require a small payment or be subject to an excess depending on your plan. The real strength is how it integrates with the wider Vitality programme, which rewards you for healthy living.

The Exeter

As a friendly society, The Exeter often packs a lot of value into its policies. Their 'Healthwise' app, which includes the GP service from Square Health, is typically included as standard. It not only provides 24/7 GP access but also bundles in other valuable services like second medical opinions and mental health support, making it a comprehensive health and wellbeing package.

Comparing these subtle differences is where an expert PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable. We help you look past the headlines and understand which policy truly fits your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.

A Crucial Note: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is one of the most important aspects to understand about private medical insurance in the UK.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your 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 pain requiring a hip replacement, cataracts, or hernias).
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date. These are generally excluded from cover, at least for an initial period.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or Crohn's disease). Standard PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

While you can use the virtual GP service to discuss a pre-existing or chronic condition, any subsequent referrals for private treatment for that specific condition would not be covered by your insurance. The NHS remains the primary provider for managing these ongoing health issues.

Beyond the GP: The Rise of Digital Wellbeing Hubs

Modern private health cover is about more than just reacting to illness; it’s about proactively supporting your wellbeing. The same apps that provide virtual GP access often serve as a hub for a range of other valuable services.

These can include:

  • Mental Health Support: Many policies now offer a set number of counselling or therapy sessions (e.g., via video call) without needing a GP referral. This provides fast, confidential support for issues like stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Remote Physiotherapy: Get assessed by a physiotherapist via video and receive a personalised exercise plan to manage musculoskeletal issues like back or neck pain.
  • Nutritional Advice: Consultations with registered dietitians or nutritionists to help you achieve health goals.
  • Health and Fitness Programmes: Access to gym discounts, fitness tracking, and rewards for staying active (a key feature of Vitality).
  • Second Medical Opinions: If you have a serious diagnosis, some services allow you to have your case reviewed by a second world-leading expert to confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan.

When choosing a policy, it's wise to consider the entire package of benefits. A policy that supports your overall health can be far more valuable than one that simply waits for you to get sick.

Simple Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle

While having great health insurance is a fantastic safety net, the best strategy is always to invest in your own health. Here are some simple, evidence-based tips to enhance your wellbeing.

1. Nourish Your Body

A balanced diet is fundamental to good health. Focus on whole foods:

  • Fruit and Vegetables: Aim for at least five portions a day. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
  • Lean Protein: Chicken, fish, beans, and lentils are essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Wholegrains: Oats, brown rice, and wholewheat bread provide sustained energy.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. The NHS recommends 6-8 glasses.

As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on track with your diet goals.

2. Prioritise Sleep

Sleep is not a luxury; it's a biological necessity. Poor sleep is linked to a host of health problems, from a weakened immune system to an increased risk of chronic disease.

  • Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
  • Create a Routine: Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time each day.
  • Optimise Your Environment: Make your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Avoid Screens: The blue light from phones and tablets can interfere with your body's production of melatonin, the sleep hormone.

3. Move Your Body

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for both physical and mental health. The NHS recommends adults aim for:

  • At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week (like brisk walking or cycling).
  • Or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity a week (like running or swimming).
  • Plus, strength exercises on two or more days a week.

Find an activity you enjoy, as you're more likely to stick with it. It could be dancing, gardening, hiking, or team sports.

How WeCovr Can Help You Navigate Your Options

Choosing the right private medical insurance UK policy can feel overwhelming. With different underwriting options, benefit levels, and hospital lists, it’s easy to get lost in the details.

This is where an independent broker makes all the difference.

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our allegiance is to you, not the insurance companies.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We compare policies from all the leading providers to find the best private health cover that matches your specific needs and budget.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, but this doesn't affect the price you pay.
  • Added Value: When you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us, we offer exclusive benefits like complimentary access to our CalorieHero app and discounts on other types of insurance you may need. Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings for our helpful and professional service.

Let us handle the complexity so you can focus on what matters most: your health.


Can a virtual GP prescribe medication?

Yes, absolutely. The GPs working for these virtual services are fully qualified and registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). They can issue private prescriptions for a wide range of medications. You can then choose to have the medication delivered to your home or collect it from a pharmacy of your choice. You will need to pay for the cost of the privately prescribed medication.

What is an 'open referral' and why is it important?

An 'open referral' is a letter from a GP recommending that you see a specialist for your symptoms, but without naming a specific doctor. This is important for private medical insurance because it gives your insurer the flexibility to guide you to a specialist and hospital that are covered under your policy. This ensures your treatment will be paid for and helps keep the claims process smooth.

Will my pre-existing conditions be covered if I use the virtual GP?

No. This is a critical point to understand. Standard UK private health insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic, long-term illnesses. While you can certainly use the virtual GP service to discuss any health concern, if the GP refers you for treatment for a condition you had before taking out the policy, your insurance will not cover the costs of that private treatment.

Does using the 24/7 GP service affect my insurance premium or no-claims discount?

Generally, no. Most insurers treat their virtual GP service as a value-added benefit that sits outside the main claims process. Using it for a consultation or a prescription does not typically count as a claim and therefore should not affect your no-claims discount or your premium at renewal. However, if the GP refers you for treatment and you then make a claim, that claim would affect your policy as normal. Always check your specific policy wording.

Ready to find a private health insurance policy that gives you the peace of mind of 24/7 GP access? The expert team at WeCovr is here to help. Get your free, no-obligation quote today and let us compare the market to find the perfect cover for you.


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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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