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Private Healthcare in Edinburgh Best Hospitals & Clinics

Private Healthcare in Edinburgh Best Hospitals & Clinics

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides this expert guide to private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the excellent private healthcare facilities available in Edinburgh, helping you understand your options for faster access to high-quality medical treatment.

WeCovr's guide to private care options in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is not only Scotland's stunning capital but also a major centre for medical excellence. While the NHS provides incredible care, many residents are increasingly looking towards private healthcare for speed, comfort, and choice. This guide will walk you through the landscape of private medical services in Edinburgh, from leading hospitals to specialist clinics, and explain how private medical insurance (PMI) can make it all accessible.

Why Consider Private Healthcare in Edinburgh?

The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of British life, and NHS Scotland provides comprehensive care to millions. However, the system is facing unprecedented demand. According to recent Public Health Scotland statistics, waiting lists for consultations and procedures have been growing. In early 2025, a significant number of patients are waiting longer than the target times for outpatient appointments and inpatient treatment.

This is where private healthcare offers a compelling alternative. The main benefits include:

  • Speedy Access: The primary reason people choose private care is to bypass long NHS waiting lists. A private consultation can often be arranged within days, with treatment following swiftly after.
  • Choice and Control: You can often choose your specialist consultant and schedule appointments and surgery at a time that suits you.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Private hospitals typically offer individual rooms with en-suite bathrooms, more flexible visiting hours, and enhanced menus, creating a more comfortable and restful recovery environment.
  • Access to Specialist Treatments: Some advanced drugs or treatments may not be available on the NHS due to funding decisions but can be accessed privately.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Private Medical Insurance, often called private health cover, is a policy you pay for that covers the costs of private medical treatment for specific conditions. Instead of paying for a £12,000 knee replacement out-of-pocket, your insurance policy covers the bill.

It's designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. You will still use the NHS for GP visits, Accident & Emergency, and the management of long-term chronic conditions.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to understand about private medical insurance in the UK. Standard policies are designed to cover acute conditions.

  • An Acute Condition: An illness, injury, or disease that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include cataracts, joint replacements, hernia repair, or removing gallstones.
  • A Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and requires ongoing management rather than a cure. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

Standard private health cover does not pay for the routine management of chronic conditions. It also does not cover any pre-existing conditions you had before you took out the policy. It is for new, eligible medical problems that arise after your cover begins.

Edinburgh's Leading Private Hospitals

Edinburgh is home to world-class private hospitals, recognised by all major UK health insurers. These facilities combine state-of-the-art technology with leading consultants, many of whom also hold senior positions within NHS Lothian.

HospitalKey SpecialitiesFacilities & FeaturesInsurer Recognition
Spire Murrayfield HospitalOrthopaedics, Cardiology, General Surgery, Gynaecology, Urology, Cosmetic Surgery68 private rooms, 5 operating theatres, advanced diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray), physiotherapy gym, on-site pharmacy.Recognised by all major insurers (Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality).
The Edinburgh ClinicOrthopaedics, Ophthalmology, Pain Management, Dermatology, DiagnosticsOutpatient clinic, day-case theatre, MRI, X-ray, Ultrasound, physiotherapy suite. Part of the Aspen Healthcare group.Recognised by all major insurers. Strong focus on diagnostics and day surgery.
Nuffield Health Edinburgh HospitalOrthopaedics, Women's Health, Men's Health, Weight Loss Surgery47 private rooms, 3 theatres, physiotherapy services, focus on end-to-end connected healthcare.Recognised by all major insurers. Offers a unique "Health MOT" and recovery promise.

A Closer Look at Edinburgh's Top Hospitals

Spire Murrayfield Hospital Located in the west of the city, Spire Murrayfield (often known locally by its former name, Bupa Murrayfield) is the largest private hospital in Edinburgh. It has a strong reputation for complex surgery, particularly in orthopaedics (hip and knee replacements) and cardiology. The hospital's comprehensive diagnostic facilities mean you can often have a consultation, scan, and diagnosis in a single visit.

The Edinburgh Clinic Situated in Colinton, The Edinburgh Clinic offers a calm and modern environment. While it provides a range of day-case surgical procedures, it truly excels in diagnostics and outpatient services. If your GP suspects an issue, The Edinburgh Clinic is a prime destination for a swift MRI or CT scan. It also has a dedicated minor injuries unit for less severe, non-life-threatening issues, offering a private alternative to A&E.

Nuffield Health Edinburgh Hospital Nuffield Health takes a "connected health" approach. They not only provide hospital treatment but also operate fitness and wellbeing centres across the country. Their model focuses on the entire patient journey, from diagnosis through to recovery and rehabilitation, often incorporating physiotherapy and lifestyle support. This integrated approach can be particularly beneficial for musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions.

Specialist Private Clinics and Services in Edinburgh

Beyond the main hospitals, Edinburgh has a thriving ecosystem of specialist private clinics. Your PMI policy may give you access to these for diagnostics or therapies.

  • Diagnostics: ROC Private Clinic and other independent providers offer rapid access to scans (MRI, CT, Ultrasound) and blood tests.
  • Physiotherapy: Numerous clinics like Physis and Balanced Physiotherapy work with PMI providers to deliver rehabilitation programmes for sports injuries and post-operative recovery.
  • Mental Health: While mental health cover varies significantly between PMI policies, clinics like The Priory Well being Centre in Edinburgh offer private talking therapies, psychiatry, and addiction support.
  • Dermatology: For concerns about moles, skin cancer, or conditions like eczema and psoriasis, private dermatologists can offer quick consultations and treatment.

How to Access Private Healthcare in Edinburgh

There are two main routes to accessing private care:

  1. Via Private Medical Insurance (PMI): This is the most common path.

    • Step 1: You visit your NHS GP. They assess your symptoms and, if necessary, provide an open referral letter to see a specialist.
    • Step 2: You contact your insurance provider with the referral. They will confirm your cover is active and provide a pre-authorisation number.
    • Step 3: You choose a specialist and hospital from your insurer's approved list (e.g., a consultant at Spire Murrayfield).
    • Step 4: You book your appointment. The hospital and consultant will bill your insurer directly.

  2. Self-Pay: If you don't have insurance, you can pay for treatment yourself.

    • You can either get a GP referral or, for some services, contact the hospital directly.
    • The hospital will provide a fixed-price package for the procedure, which typically includes the consultant's fees, hospital costs, and one follow-up appointment.
    • This is a good option for one-off procedures but can be prohibitively expensive for complex treatments or if complications arise.

Example: The Patient Journey for a Knee Problem

Let's imagine you've developed persistent knee pain.

  • NHS Route: You see your GP. They refer you to an NHS orthopaedic specialist. The waiting time for this first appointment could be several months. After the consultation, if you need an MRI scan, there's another wait. If surgery is required, you join the surgical waiting list, which could be over a year.
  • PMI Route: You see your GP, who gives you a referral letter. You call your insurer, who authorises a consultation. You book to see a private consultant at The Edinburgh Clinic within a week. The consultant sends you for an MRI scan the same day. A week later, you have your results and are booked for keyhole surgery at Spire Murrayfield for the following month.

Estimating the Cost of Private Healthcare in Edinburgh

The cost of private medical insurance and self-pay treatment can vary significantly.

Self-Pay Costs (Illustrative Examples)

Paying directly gives you a clear, one-off cost, but it can be substantial. These are guide prices and you should always get a fixed quote from the hospital.

Procedure/ServiceEstimated Self-Pay Cost in EdinburghWhat It Typically Includes
Initial Consultant Appointment£200 – £35030-minute consultation.
MRI Scan (One Part)£400 – £750The scan and a radiologist's report.
Cataract Surgery (One Eye)£2,500 – £4,000All surgical fees, lens, and follow-up.
Hip Replacement£12,000 – £16,000Surgeon/anaesthetist fees, hospital stay, implant, initial physio.
Hernia Repair£3,000 – £5,000All surgical fees and hospital day-case costs.

Private Medical Insurance Costs

The price of a PMI policy depends on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums increase as you get older.
  • Location: Living in central London is more expensive than in Edinburgh, but your postcode still affects the price.
  • Level of Cover: Comprehensive plans covering all diagnostics, therapies, and inpatient/outpatient care cost more than basic plans.
  • Excess: Choosing a higher excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Policies with a limited list of hospitals are cheaper than those giving you access to every private hospital in the UK.

Illustrative Monthly PMI Premiums in Edinburgh (2025)

Age ProfileBasic Cover (High Excess, Core Cover)Comprehensive Cover (Low Excess, Full Cover)
30-year-old£35 - £50£70 - £95
45-year-old£50 - £75£100 - £140
60-year-old£90 - £130£200 - £280

Disclaimer: These are illustrative estimates. The actual cost will depend on your individual circumstances and the insurer you choose.

Working with an expert PMI broker like WeCovr is the best way to navigate these options. We can compare policies from leading UK providers to find a plan that matches your budget and healthcare needs, at no extra cost to you.

Choosing the Right PMI Policy for Life in Edinburgh

When selecting a policy, consider your priorities.

  • Comprehensive Outpatient Cover: If you want rapid diagnosis for peace of mind, ensure your policy has a high level of outpatient cover for consultations and scans.
  • Therapies: If you're active and sporty, check that the policy includes a good level of physiotherapy cover.
  • Mental Health: If this is a priority, look for providers like Bupa and AXA Health who offer more extensive mental health support as a policy option.
  • Hospital List: Ensure Edinburgh's main hospitals (Spire, Nuffield, The Edinburgh Clinic) are on your chosen list. Most standard "national" hospital lists will include them.

A WeCovr Bonus: Enhancing Your Wellbeing

At WeCovr, we believe in proactive health management. That's why clients who purchase Private Medical Insurance or Life Insurance through us receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of developing many acute and chronic conditions.

Furthermore, WeCovr customers can benefit from discounts on other types of insurance, helping you protect your health, family, and finances all in one place.

Living Well in Edinburgh: Beyond the Hospitals

Your health isn't just about what happens in a hospital. Edinburgh offers a fantastic environment for a healthy lifestyle.

  • Get Active: From climbing Arthur's Seat for panoramic city views to cycling along the Water of Leith Walkway or joining a local rowing club on the Union Canal, the city is full of opportunities to stay fit.
  • Eat Well: Explore the farmers' markets on Castle Terrace or in Leith for fresh, local Scottish produce. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and oily fish (like Scottish salmon) is a cornerstone of good health.
  • Mindful Moments: The Royal Botanic Garden and the peaceful Princes Street Gardens offer beautiful green spaces to de-stress and reconnect with nature, which is proven to boost mental wellbeing.

Taking proactive steps with your diet, sleep, and exercise can significantly lower your long-term health risks. A good private health cover policy acts as your safety net for when the unexpected happens.

Final Thoughts: Is Private Healthcare in Edinburgh Right for You?

Choosing private healthcare is a personal decision. For many, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can access expert medical care quickly is invaluable. With world-class facilities like Spire Murrayfield and The Edinburgh Clinic on your doorstep, residents of Scotland's capital have some of the best private care options in the UK.

Private medical insurance is the key that unlocks this care affordably. It protects you from hefty one-off bills and puts you in control of your health journey. The UK market offers a huge range of policies, and finding the best one can feel overwhelming. An independent broker removes the guesswork, comparing the market to find cover that's right for you.

Do I need a GP referral to use my private medical insurance in Edinburgh?

Yes, in almost all cases. Most UK private medical insurance providers require a referral from your NHS GP before they will authorise treatment. This ensures that the specialist you are seeing is appropriate for your symptoms and that your condition is not something that requires emergency NHS care. The GP referral begins the process for your insurer to pre-authorise the costs.

Does private health cover pay for pre-existing conditions?

No, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions. These are any diseases, illnesses, or injuries for which you have experienced symptoms or received advice or treatment before your policy start date. It also does not cover chronic conditions that require long-term management, like diabetes. PMI is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

Can I choose any hospital or consultant in Edinburgh with my insurance?

It depends on your policy's 'hospital list'. Insurers offer different tiers of cover. A basic policy might have a limited list of hospitals, while a comprehensive policy will offer a national list including all major private hospitals in Edinburgh like Spire Murrayfield and The Edinburgh Clinic. You must choose a consultant who is recognised by your insurer. It is always essential to check your policy documents and get authorisation from your insurer before booking any appointments.

What happens in an emergency? Should I go to a private hospital?

No. Private medical insurance does not cover emergency services. In any medical emergency, such as a suspected heart attack, stroke, or serious injury, you should always call 999 or go to your nearest NHS Accident & Emergency department. Private hospitals in the UK are not equipped to handle major trauma or life-threatening emergencies.

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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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