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Private Hip Replacement Costs vs PMI Cover

Private Hip Replacement Costs vs PMI Cover 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands that navigating healthcare choices can be daunting. This guide explores the costs of private hip replacement surgery in the UK and explains how private medical insurance can provide a timely and affordable solution for your peace of mind.

Understand the price of private hip surgery and how PMI can help

A hip replacement can be a life-changing operation, restoring mobility and freeing you from the chronic pain of arthritis or injury. In the UK, you have two main routes to this surgery: the NHS or the private sector.

While the NHS provides excellent care, long waiting lists for elective procedures like hip replacements are a significant concern for many. According to recent NHS England data, the median waiting time for trauma and orthopaedic treatments, which includes hip operations, can stretch to many months. This extended wait often means living with debilitating pain, reduced independence, and a lower quality of life.

This is where the private healthcare route becomes an attractive alternative. It offers two primary paths:

  1. Self-Pay: Paying for the entire procedure out of your own pocket.
  2. Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Using an insurance policy to cover the costs.

This comprehensive guide will break down the costs of a private hip replacement, explain exactly how PMI works in this context, and help you decide which path is right for you.

Why Choose a Private Hip Replacement?

Beyond skipping the queue, patients opt for private surgery for several compelling reasons:

  • Speed of Access: From initial consultation with a specialist to the surgery itself, the process is typically completed within weeks, not months or years.
  • Choice of Surgeon: You can research and select a leading consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in hip procedures.
  • Choice of Hospital: You can choose a private hospital that is convenient for you, with amenities like a private room, en-suite facilities, and more flexible visiting hours.
  • Scheduling Flexibility: You have greater control over the timing of your surgery, allowing you to fit it around your life and work commitments.

The Reality of NHS Waiting Times for Hip Replacements

Understanding the current state of NHS waiting lists provides crucial context for anyone considering private healthcare. The pressure on the health service, particularly since the pandemic, has led to a significant backlog in elective surgeries.

According to the latest NHS England Referral to Treatment (RTT) statistics, hundreds of thousands of patients are waiting for trauma and orthopaedic surgery. A substantial portion of these individuals are waiting for more than 18 weeks, and tens of thousands have been waiting for over a year.

What this means for you:

  • Prolonged Pain: A long wait means enduring daily pain and discomfort, often requiring strong painkillers.
  • Loss of Mobility: Your ability to walk, work, and enjoy hobbies can be severely restricted.
  • Mental Health Impact: Living with chronic pain and reduced independence can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and depression.
  • Deterioration: In some cases, waiting can lead to muscle wastage and make the eventual recovery from surgery more challenging.

For many, the prospect of waiting over a year in such conditions is untenable, making the speed of private treatment a vital lifeline.

What is the Cost of a Private Hip Replacement in the UK?

If you decide to pay for the surgery yourself (self-pay), the cost can be significant. Private hospitals often offer "package prices" for common procedures like hip replacements. These packages provide a fixed, all-inclusive cost, which is reassuring as it protects you from unexpected bills if your stay is slightly longer than planned.

A typical private hip replacement in the UK in 2025 costs between £12,000 and £20,000. This price varies based on:

  • The Hospital: Hospitals in London and the South East are generally more expensive.
  • The Surgeon: The fees for a highly experienced, renowned surgeon will be higher.
  • The Prosthesis: The type of artificial hip joint used can affect the price.
  • The Complexity of the Surgery: A straightforward primary hip replacement will cost less than a more complex revision surgery.

Breakdown of Self-Pay Hip Replacement Costs

To understand where the money goes, here is a typical breakdown of the costs included in a package price.

Cost ComponentTypical Price Range (Estimate)Description
Initial Consultation£200 – £350Your first meeting with the consultant surgeon.
Diagnostic Imaging£300 – £800Includes X-rays and potentially an MRI or CT scan.
Surgeon & Anaesthetist Fees£4,000 – £7,000The fees for the core medical team performing the operation.
Hospital Costs£7,000 – £12,000Covers the operating theatre, nursing care, medication, and your private room for 2-4 nights.
Prosthesis (Implant)£1,500 – £3,000+The cost of the artificial hip joint itself.
Post-Operative CareIncluded in packageTypically includes initial physiotherapy sessions and a follow-up consultation with your surgeon.
Total Estimated Cost£12,000 – £20,000+The all-inclusive package price you would expect to pay.

Paying this sum requires substantial savings or the means to finance it. This is why private medical insurance is such a popular alternative.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Covers Hip Replacement Surgery

Private medical insurance is designed to cover the costs of private treatment for acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

A hip replacement, needed to treat severe osteoarthritis or an injury, typically falls into this category. The surgery treats the problem, and the patient is expected to recover.

The Most Important Rule: Pre-existing Conditions

This is the single most critical point to understand about private medical insurance in the UK: standard policies do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or symptom you had before your policy start date. If you already have a diagnosis of hip arthritis or have been experiencing hip pain when you take out a policy, that hip will be excluded from cover.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that cannot be cured, only managed. While the surgery itself is an acute treatment, long-term management of some forms of arthritis might be considered chronic.

Therefore, PMI is a forward-planning tool. You take out cover when you are well to protect yourself against the cost of treatment for new conditions that arise in the future. If you develop debilitating hip pain after your policy has been active, it is likely to be covered.

How Insurers Handle Pre-existing Conditions

There are two main ways insurers assess your medical history, known as underwriting:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy began. However, if you then go for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, the insurer may reinstate cover for it.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire when you apply. The insurer assesses your medical history and tells you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered. It provides certainty from day one but may result in permanent exclusions for certain conditions.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can explain these options in detail, helping you choose the one that best suits your circumstances.

What Does a Typical PMI Policy Include for Hip Surgery?

Assuming your hip condition is eligible for cover, a good PMI policy will typically fund the entire patient journey from diagnosis to recovery. However, the level of cover depends on the policy you choose.

Here's what a comprehensive policy usually covers versus what might be limited on a more basic plan.

FeatureComprehensive Policy CoverBasic/Budget Policy Cover
Consultant FeesPaid in fullMay have annual limits.
Hospital ChargesPaid in fullPaid in full (but may have a restricted hospital list).
Diagnostic TestsPaid in full (in-patient & out-patient)May have a low annual limit for out-patient tests (£500-£1,000).
Out-patient CoverUnlimited or high limit (£1,500+)Limited or no out-patient cover. This is a key area of difference.
PhysiotherapyGenerous number of sessions (e.g., 10+)Limited number of sessions (e.g., 4-6).
Hospital ListExtensive list including top city hospitals.A more limited network of hospitals, excluding premium centres.
ExcessYour chosen amount (e.g., £0, £250, £500).Your chosen amount. A higher excess lowers the premium.

Key Terms Explained:

  • Out-patient Cover: This is crucial. It covers your initial consultation with the specialist and diagnostic scans before you are admitted to hospital. A policy with poor out-patient cover means you might have to pay for these initial steps yourself.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. For a £15,000 hip replacement, if you have a £250 excess, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £14,750.
  • Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. If you want access to a specific hospital, you need to ensure it's on your policy's list.

Comparing Self-Pay vs. Using PMI for Your Hip Replacement

The right choice depends entirely on your financial situation and medical history.

AspectSelf-Pay (Paying Yourself)Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
Upfront CostVery high (£12,000 - £20,000+)Low (your chosen excess, e.g., £250)
Ongoing CostNoneMonthly/annual premium payments.
EligibilityAnyone with the funds can access it.Subject to medical underwriting. Pre-existing conditions are excluded.
TimingImmediate. You can book as soon as you are ready.The condition must arise after the policy starts.
ChoiceAbsolute freedom to choose any surgeon and hospital.Choice of surgeons and hospitals from your insurer's approved list.
Financial RiskRisk of extra costs from complications (unless on a guaranteed package).Costs are covered up to your policy limits, providing financial certainty.

Real-Life Scenarios

  • Scenario 1: Anne (Self-Pay) Anne, 68, has been managing hip arthritis for a decade. Her NHS wait is 16 months. As her condition is pre-existing, it wouldn't be covered by a new PMI policy. She uses £16,000 from her pension savings to fund a private operation at a Spire hospital and is back on her feet in 8 weeks. For her, the cost was worth it to regain her quality of life.

  • Scenario 2: Tom (PMI) Tom, 58, took out a comprehensive private medical insurance UK policy with WeCovr five years ago when he was healthy. He recently developed severe hip pain and was diagnosed with avascular necrosis. As this was a new condition, his PMI policy covered everything. He saw a top surgeon within a week of his GP referral and had his £17,500 surgery covered in full, only paying his £500 policy excess.

Choosing the Right Private Medical Insurance UK Policy

If you're considering PMI for future peace of mind, it's vital to choose the right policy. When orthopaedic cover is a priority, focus on:

  1. Comprehensive Out-patient Cover: Ensure your policy has a high limit (or is unlimited) for out-patient diagnostics and consultations. This is essential for a swift diagnosis.
  2. A Good Hospital List: Check that the list includes reputable private hospitals near you with strong orthopaedic departments, such as those in the Nuffield Health, Circle Health, or Spire groups.
  3. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation: Look for policies that offer generous post-operative physiotherapy cover to support your recovery.
  4. Find the Best PMI Provider: The market has several excellent insurers like Aviva, AXA Health, Bupa, and Vitality. Their policies differ, so comparing them is key.

This is where an independent broker is invaluable. The team at WeCovr can compare the market on your behalf, explaining the nuances of each policy to find cover that matches your needs and budget, all at no cost to you.

Beyond Surgery: Wellness and Recovery After a Hip Replacement

A successful outcome isn't just about the surgery; it's about your recovery and long-term wellbeing.

  • Diet and Nutrition: Your body needs fuel to heal. Focus on a protein-rich diet to repair tissues. Foods high in Vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries), Calcium, and Vitamin D (dairy, fortified foods) are vital for bone health. With WeCovr, you get complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI app to help you track your nutrition and support your recovery.
  • Pre-hab and Re-hab: Strengthening the muscles around your hip before surgery ("pre-hab") can significantly speed up your recovery. Afterwards, diligently following your physiotherapist's exercise programme is the single most important factor in regaining full function.
  • Preparing Your Home: Make simple adjustments before your operation. A raised toilet seat, a shower stool, and grab rails can make the first few weeks at home much safer and more comfortable.
  • Travel: Most surgeons advise against flying for at least 6 weeks post-surgery due to the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis). For long-haul flights, you may be advised to wait 3 months. Always get the all-clear from your surgical team.

As a WeCovr customer, you may also benefit from discounts on other types of cover, such as life or travel insurance, providing holistic protection for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will my PMI premium go up after a hip replacement claim?

Generally, yes. Making a significant claim like a hip replacement will likely lead to an increase in your premium at your next renewal. Insurers base renewal prices on several factors, including your age, medical inflation, and your claims history. Most insurers have a "no claims discount" scale, and a claim will reduce this discount, leading to a higher price.

How long do I need a PMI policy before I can claim for a hip replacement?

There is no specific waiting period like 'you must have the policy for one year'. The crucial rule is that the condition must begin *after* you take out the policy. If you buy a policy on Monday and have a sudden injury on Tuesday that requires a hip replacement, you would be covered. However, if you have a history of hip pain, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and excluded from cover, regardless of how long you hold the policy.

Can I get PMI if I already have arthritis in my hip?

Yes, you can still get a private medical insurance policy. However, the policy will specifically exclude cover for your arthritic hip as a pre-existing condition. You would still be covered for new, unrelated acute medical conditions that might arise in the future, such as heart conditions, cancer (check policy terms), or knee problems in your other leg, for example.

Does PMI cover the cost of a 'super-premium' or custom hip joint?

Typically, private medical insurance covers the cost of standard, high-quality prostheses that are widely used and have a proven track record. If a surgeon recommends a more expensive, custom, or "premium" joint, the insurer may only cover it if it is deemed medically essential for your specific case and pre-approved. Otherwise, they will cover the cost up to the price of a standard implant, and you would have to pay the difference.

Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind

Navigating the world of private surgery and medical insurance can feel complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether you're considering self-funding your operation or want to plan for the future with a robust insurance policy, understanding your options is the first step.

The expert team at WeCovr is here to provide clear, independent advice tailored to your needs. We compare policies from the UK's leading insurers to find the right cover at the right price, with no fee for our service.

Get your FREE, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today and secure your health for tomorrow.

Get A Free Quote

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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