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Private Hernia Repair Surgery Cost and Insurance Cover

Private Hernia Repair Surgery Cost and Insurance Cover 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds arranged for our clients, WeCovr understands the difficult choice between NHS waiting lists and the cost of private treatment. This guide explores the costs of private hernia repair surgery in the UK and how private medical insurance can provide a vital alternative.

How PMI compares to self-pay hernia repair

Deciding how to fund your hernia repair surgery is a significant choice. You can wait for NHS treatment, pay for it yourself (self-pay), or use private medical insurance (PMI). Each path has its own benefits and drawbacks, from cost and waiting times to your level of choice and control.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, comparing the costs, benefits, and realities of using PMI versus paying out-of-pocket for your procedure in the UK.

What Exactly Is a Hernia?

In simple terms, a hernia occurs when an internal part of the body, like an organ or fatty tissue, pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue wall. Imagine the inner tube of a tyre bulging through a weak patch – it's a similar principle.

This bulge can cause pain, discomfort, and a visible lump, especially when you are coughing, straining, or lifting heavy objects. While some hernias are minor, others can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Common Types of Hernias:

  • Inguinal Hernia: The most common type, occurring when part of the bowel pokes through a weak spot in the groin. More frequent in men.
  • Femoral Hernia: Also in the groin area, but lower down than an inguinal hernia. More common in women.
  • Umbilical Hernia: A bulge near the belly button, common in infants but also affecting adults.
  • Hiatus Hernia: Happens when part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm.
  • Incisional Hernia: Can occur at the site of a previous surgical scar where the muscle wall is weaker.

The NHS Pathway for Hernia Repair

For most people in the UK, the first port of call is their GP. If a hernia is diagnosed, you will likely be referred to an NHS consultant surgeon. The NHS provides excellent care, and hernia repair is a routine procedure.

However, the primary challenge is waiting times. Hernia surgery is typically classed as elective surgery, meaning it is not life-threatening. As a result, it is often subject to long waits.

According to the latest NHS England data, the median waiting time for consultant-led elective care was around 15 weeks as of early 2025. However, hundreds of thousands of patients wait much longer, with a significant number waiting over a year for treatment. These delays can mean months of discomfort and anxiety, impacting your quality of life, work, and daily activities.

The Cost of Self-Pay Private Hernia Repair in the UK

Paying for your own surgery, known as 'self-funding' or 'self-pay', is the most direct way to bypass NHS queues. You get to choose your hospital and surgeon and schedule the operation at a time that suits you.

So, how much does it actually cost?

The price varies significantly based on the hospital, the surgeon's reputation, the type of surgery, and your location (London is typically more expensive). Most private hospitals now offer 'package prices' which bundle the main costs into a single, fixed fee.

A typical package price will usually include:

  • The initial consultation with the surgeon
  • The surgery itself (surgeon and anaesthetist fees)
  • Hospital costs (nursing, accommodation, medication, theatre use)
  • Standard post-operative care, including one follow-up appointment

Estimated Self-Pay Hernia Surgery Costs in the UK (2025)

Type of Hernia RepairSurgical MethodEstimated Price RangeNotes
Inguinal Hernia RepairOpen Surgery£2,800 – £4,000The traditional method with a single, larger incision.
Inguinal Hernia RepairLaparoscopic (Keyhole)£3,500 – £5,500Less invasive, often quicker recovery, but more complex.
Umbilical Hernia RepairOpen Surgery£2,500 – £3,800Usually a more straightforward procedure.
Hiatus Hernia RepairLaparoscopic£7,000 – £10,000+A more complex operation involving the stomach and diaphragm.

Important Note: These are guide prices. The final cost could be higher if diagnostic tests like an ultrasound (£200-£400) are needed beforehand, or if complications arise requiring a longer hospital stay. Always get a detailed, written quote before proceeding.

Using Private Medical Insurance (PMI) for Your Hernia Surgery

Private medical insurance is designed to cover the costs of acute medical conditions, and a hernia falls squarely into this category. Instead of facing a large, one-off bill, you pay a monthly premium. When you need treatment, the insurance company pays the hospital and specialists directly, subject to the terms of your policy.

How does it work?

  1. GP Referral: You visit your GP who diagnoses the hernia and writes an 'open referral' letter for private care.
  2. Contact Your Insurer: You call your PMI provider to open a claim and get it pre-authorised. They will confirm your cover and provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals.
  3. Choose Your Specialist: You select a surgeon from the insurer's list and book your consultation.
  4. Treatment: The consultant confirms the need for surgery, and your insurer provides the authorisation codes for the hospital and anaesthetist. You proceed with the operation.
  5. Billing: The hospital and specialists bill your insurer directly. You only pay the pre-agreed excess on your policy, if any.

The Golden Rule: Pre-Existing Conditions Are NOT Covered

This is the most critical point to understand about private medical insurance in the UK. Standard PMI policies are designed for new, unforeseen conditions that arise after you take out the cover.

  • If you already have a hernia, or have experienced symptoms of one before your policy starts, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover.
  • Similarly, PMI does not cover chronic conditions – illnesses that require long-term management rather than a short-term cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma).

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand the nuances of underwriting (how insurers assess your health history) to ensure you get a policy that meets your future needs without any surprises.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Self-Pay vs. PMI for Hernia Repair

FeatureSelf-Pay (Paying Yourself)Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
Upfront CostHigh. You must pay the full amount (often £3,000+) before treatment.Low. You only pay your policy excess (e.g., £0, £100, £250).
Overall CostPotentially cheaper if you are older or have health issues, as PMI premiums would be high.Potentially cheaper over the long term, especially for younger, healthier individuals. Spreads cost over time.
Speed of AccessVery fast. You can often have surgery within a few weeks of your decision.Very fast. Once your claim is authorised, treatment can be arranged quickly.
Choice & ControlMaximum choice. You can choose any private hospital and any surgeon in the UK.Excellent choice, but limited to the hospitals and specialists on your insurer's approved list.
Financial RiskYou bear all the risk. If complications arise, costs can escalate unexpectedly.Minimal risk. The insurer covers unexpected costs, providing financial peace of mind.
EligibilityOpen to everyone who can afford it.You must apply and be accepted. Pre-existing conditions are excluded.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

Not all private health cover is the same. When selecting a policy, especially with surgical procedures in mind, it's essential to look at the details. The best PMI provider for you will depend on your budget, location, and priorities.

Here are key features to consider:

  • Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospital access. A 'national' list gives you wide choice, while a 'local' list can reduce your premium but limit your options. Check that reputable hospitals near you are included.
  • Outpatient Cover: This covers consultations and diagnostic tests before you are admitted to hospital. Some policies have a set limit (e.g., £1,000 per year), while others offer full cover. For a hernia, you'll need at least one consultation and possibly a scan.
  • Policy Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium. A £0 excess means the insurer pays everything, but premiums are higher.
  • No Claims Discount (NCD): Similar to car insurance, your premium may reduce each year you don't make a claim.

Comparing policies from leading UK insurers like Aviva, AXA Health, Bupa, and Vitality can be complex. Using a PMI broker like WeCovr costs you nothing but ensures you get expert, impartial advice tailored to your circumstances. We help you find the right balance of cover and cost.

Living a Hernia-Smart Lifestyle: Prevention and Management

While some hernias are unavoidable, certain lifestyle changes can reduce your risk or prevent an existing one from getting worse while you await treatment.

  1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, puts constant strain on your abdominal wall. Managing your weight is one of the most effective preventative measures. WeCovr is pleased to offer our PMI and Life insurance clients complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support their health goals.
  2. Eat a High-Fibre Diet: Constipation leads to straining during bowel movements, which increases abdominal pressure. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, along with plenty of water, helps keep you regular.
  3. Lift with Your Legs, Not Your Back: When lifting heavy items, bend at your knees, not your waist. Keep your back straight and hold the object close to your body. Avoid lifting things that are too heavy for you.
  4. Stop Smoking: A persistent, heavy cough places repeated stress on the abdominal muscles and can cause or worsen a hernia.
  5. Strengthen Your Core: Gentle core exercises can strengthen the muscles of your abdomen, but avoid activities that cause sharp pain or heavy straining. Consult a physiotherapist for safe exercises.

If you purchase PMI or Life insurance through us, we can also offer you discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, providing even greater value.


Can I get private medical insurance if I already have a hernia?

Yes, you can still get a private medical insurance policy, but the hernia itself, and any related symptoms or treatment, will be specifically excluded from cover as a pre-existing condition. UK PMI is designed to cover new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy has started.

How long after starting a PMI policy can I claim for hernia surgery?

This depends on the underwriting of your policy. With 'moratorium underwriting', there is typically a 2-year waiting period during which the condition cannot have caused symptoms, required treatment, or needed medical advice. If your hernia was diagnosed before you took out the policy, it will be permanently excluded. If it is a brand-new condition that develops after the policy start date, you can usually claim immediately.

Does private health insurance cover both keyhole and open hernia surgery?

Generally, yes. Most comprehensive private medical insurance policies in the UK will cover both laparoscopic (keyhole) and traditional open surgery for hernia repair. The final decision on the type of surgery will be made by you and your consultant based on clinical need and what is most appropriate for your specific case. The cover is always subject to your policy's terms and limits.

What is a policy excess and how does it work for surgery?

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards a claim each policy year. For example, if your excess is £250 and your hernia surgery costs £4,000, you would pay the first £250 and your insurer would pay the remaining £3,750. Choosing a higher excess can significantly lower your monthly premiums, but you must be prepared to pay that amount if you need to make a claim.

Ready to explore your options?

Navigating the world of private medical insurance doesn't have to be complicated. At WeCovr, our expert advisors provide free, no-obligation quotes to help you compare the UK's leading insurers and find the perfect cover for your peace of mind.

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

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

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

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.