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Private Hospitals Near Me Finding Covered Clinics in Your Area

Private Hospitals Near Me Finding Covered Clinics in Your...

Searching for "private hospitals near me" is often the first step when considering private healthcare. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows that finding the right private medical insurance in the UK isn't just about the price—it's about ensuring you have access to the best care in a location that's convenient for you. This comprehensive guide will demystify the process of finding covered clinics and hospitals in your area.

How to use insurer hospital directories, regional differences, and tips for selection

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can feel complex, especially when it comes to understanding which hospitals and clinics you can actually use. Your policy is linked to a specific 'hospital list'—a network of facilities your insurer has approved. Choosing the right list is one of the most important decisions you'll make, as it directly impacts both your premium and your access to care.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from deciphering insurer directories and understanding regional disparities in private healthcare to selecting the perfect policy for your needs.

What Are Insurer Hospital Lists and Why Do They Matter?

An insurer's hospital list is a directory of private hospitals, clinics, and sometimes even NHS private patient units where you can receive treatment paid for by your policy. Insurers don't simply cover every private hospital in the country. Instead, they build curated networks for several key reasons:

  • Cost Management: Insurers negotiate preferential rates with hospital groups for everything from a knee operation to an MRI scan. This helps keep premiums affordable. Hospitals outside this network would be prohibitively expensive.
  • Quality Control: Insurers vet the hospitals on their lists to ensure they meet high standards of clinical excellence, safety, and patient care. They regularly review factors like infection rates and Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings.
  • Streamlined Processes: Having a defined network allows for smooth administrative processes, such as direct billing between the hospital and the insurer, so you don't have to pay for eligible treatment upfront.

Your choice of hospital list is fundamental. A policy that doesn't include a convenient, high-quality hospital near you might not provide the value you expect when you need it most.

The Most Important Rule of UK Private Medical Insurance

Before we go any further, it's vital to understand the primary purpose of PMI in the UK.

Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, hernia repairs, cataract surgery, and diagnosing new symptoms.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions (any ailment you had before your policy started) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses that require ongoing management, like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure).

Cracking the Code: Understanding the Tiers of Hospital Lists

Most UK health insurers categorise their hospital lists into tiers. This allows you to balance the level of access you want against the amount you're willing to pay for your premium. While the names vary between insurers (e.g., 'Key', 'Extended', 'Guided'), the structure is generally similar.

Here is a breakdown of a typical three-tier system:

Tier LevelTypical CoverageCost ImpactBest For...
Basic / EssentialA limited network of private hospitals across the UK. Often excludes central London and other premium city-centre facilities.Lowest PremiumThose on a budget who want access to private care and are happy with a more limited choice of local hospitals.
Standard / ExtendedA comprehensive nationwide network, including most hospitals from major groups like Nuffield Health, Spire Healthcare, and Circle Health Group.Mid-range PremiumThe majority of people, offering an excellent balance of choice, nationwide coverage, and value for money.
Premium / LondonIncludes all hospitals on the standard list, plus the most prestigious and expensive private hospitals, which are mainly concentrated in central London (e.g., HCA facilities, The London Clinic).Highest PremiumIndividuals who want unrestricted access to any private hospital in the UK, including top specialists based in London.

Real-World Example: Imagine you live in Kent. A Basic list might give you access to a local Spire or Nuffield hospital. An Extended list would cover that hospital plus others in neighbouring counties and major cities outside London. A Premium list would add top-tier hospitals on Harley Street and around central London to your options, which could be vital if you need a very specific type of specialist treatment found only there.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Insurer's Hospital Directory

Once you have a policy or are considering one, you'll need to get familiar with the insurer's hospital directory. These are usually available online.

  1. Find the Directory: Look for a "Hospital Finder," "Hospital List," or "Member Area" on the insurer's official website. You can often access these even before you buy, which is crucial for research.

  2. Filter Your Search: The best directories are user-friendly. You should be able to search by:

    • Postcode or Town: This is the most common starting point. See what's within a reasonable driving distance.
    • Hospital Name: If you have a specific hospital in mind, you can check if it's covered.
    • Treatment Type: Some tools let you filter by speciality, such as 'orthopaedics' or 'cardiology', to see which hospitals are recognised for that type of care.
    • Consultant Name: You can also check if your preferred specialist is approved by the insurer and which hospitals they practise at.

  3. Check the Details: Don't just look at the name. Click on the hospital to see more information. Does the insurer cover all treatments there, or are there any restrictions? Some lists might cover diagnostics (scans) at a facility but not surgery.

  4. Confirm, Confirm, Confirm: This is the golden rule. Before booking any appointment or procedure, you must call your insurer to get an authorisation number. During this call, you confirm:

    • That your condition is covered by your policy.
    • That your chosen consultant is approved.
    • That your chosen hospital is on your list and covered for the specific treatment you need.

This simple phone call prevents any nasty surprises, like discovering you are not covered and being left with a significant medical bill.

An expert broker like WeCovr can be invaluable here. Before you even commit to a policy, we can run a comprehensive search across all leading insurers to find policies that include your local hospitals, ensuring you get the coverage you need from day one.

The "Postcode Lottery" of Private Healthcare: Regional Differences in the UK

The availability and type of private hospitals vary significantly depending on where you live in the UK. This "postcode lottery" is a critical factor when choosing a hospital list.

Major Cities: London, Manchester, and Birmingham

These urban centres boast the highest concentration of private healthcare facilities.

  • London: The capital is in a league of its own. It's home to world-renowned, highly specialised hospitals like The Harley Street Clinic, The Lister Hospital (part of HCA Healthcare), The London Clinic, and Cromwell Hospital. These facilities often pioneer new treatments but come at a premium cost, which is why they are typically only included in the most expensive policy tiers.
  • Manchester & Birmingham: These cities also have a superb selection of private hospitals, offering a wide range of services from routine operations to complex cancer care.

Suburban and Rural Areas

Outside of the major cities, your options naturally become more limited.

  • You might find your choice is between one or two hospitals from a major chain like Spire or Nuffield Health that serve a large county.
  • In some more remote areas, the primary private option may be the Private Patient Unit (PPU) within the local NHS hospital. These units allow you to get the speed of private care while using the comprehensive facilities of an NHS trust.

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

These nations have devolved healthcare systems, and their private hospital markets differ from England's.

  • Scotland: Has a well-established private sector in Glasgow and Edinburgh, but options are scarcer in the Highlands and Islands.
  • Wales: The majority of private facilities are concentrated along the M4 corridor in the south.
  • Northern Ireland: Has its own network of private hospitals, and insurers provide specific hospital lists for residents.

According to a 2023 market report by LaingBuisson, there are over 500 private hospitals and clinics across the UK, but their distribution heavily favours urban areas. This makes it essential to check what's realistically available to you before finalising your private health cover.

Selecting the Right Hospital: What to Consider Beyond the Directory

Being on your insurer's list is the first hurdle. But to make the best choice for your health, you should consider a few other factors.

  • Consultant's Practising Privileges: Often, the most important decision is your choice of specialist consultant. Top consultants typically work at several private hospitals. Find out where your preferred specialist operates and ensure that hospital is on your list.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC) Ratings: The CQC is the independent regulator of health and social care in England. It inspects hospitals and rates them as Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, or Inadequate. Always check a hospital's latest CQC report on their website for an objective view of their safety and quality.
  • Specialist Facilities: Not all hospitals are created equal. If you need complex heart surgery, you need a hospital with a dedicated cardiac unit. If you need cancer treatment, look for one with a specialised oncology centre. Check that the hospital has the specific diagnostic and treatment technology required for your condition.
  • Patient Reviews and Outcomes: While subjective, patient reviews can give you a feel for the hospital's service, cleanliness, and staff attitude. Some hospitals also publish their patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), showing how successful their treatments are.
  • Location and Accessibility: Don't underestimate logistics. How easy is it to get to the hospital? Is there parking? What are the visiting hours for your family? A closer hospital can significantly reduce stress during a period of ill health.

How Your Choice of Hospital List Affects Your PMI Premium

There is a direct and simple correlation: the more extensive the hospital list, the higher your monthly premium. Insurers price their policies based on the potential cost of claims, and treatment at a premium central London hospital costs significantly more than at a regional hospital.

Here is an illustrative table showing how premiums can vary for the same person based on the hospital list they choose.

Policy Holder ProfileHospital List TierKey Hospitals Included (Examples)Illustrative Monthly Premium*
45-year-old, non-smoker, living in BristolBasic ("Key")Nuffield Health Bristol, Spire Bristol Hospital£50
45-year-old, non-smoker, living in BristolStandard ("Extended")All Basic list hospitals + facilities in nearby cities like Bath, Cheltenham, and some London hospitals (excluding premium ones)£70
45-year-old, non-smoker, living in BristolPremium ("London Upgrade")All hospitals nationwide, including The Harley Street Clinic, The Wellington Hospital, and all HCA facilities in London.£105

*These are purely illustrative figures for comparison purposes. Actual premiums depend on your age, location, medical history, and chosen insurer.

This is where working with a PMI broker is so valuable. We can provide you with detailed quotes that clearly show how your premium changes with different hospital lists, allowing you to make an informed decision that fits your budget and healthcare needs.

WeCovr's Expert Approach: Matching You with the Perfect Policy and Hospital List

Choosing from dozens of policies and hundreds of hospital options can be overwhelming. This is where WeCovr simplifies everything. As independent, FCA-authorised experts in private medical insurance UK, our service is designed to match you with the perfect cover at no extra cost to you.

Our specialists:

  • Listen to Your Needs: We start by understanding what's important to you. Do you have a preferred local hospital? Do you want access to London specialists?
  • Conduct a Market-Wide Search: We use our expertise to search policies from all the leading UK providers, instantly comparing their hospital lists against your postcode and preferences.
  • Provide Clear, Unbiased Advice: We'll present you with the best options, explaining the pros and cons of each hospital list and how they affect your premium. We do the hard work so you can make a confident choice.

Furthermore, WeCovr customers gain complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on top of your health goals. You may also be eligible for discounts on other insurance products, like life or income protection insurance, when you take out a PMI policy with us. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to providing outstanding service.

Beyond the Hospital: Wellness Tips for a Healthier Life

While private medical insurance is there for you when you're unwell, the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. Here are some simple, evidence-based tips aligned with NHS and UK government guidance.

  • A Balanced Diet: The NHS Eatwell Guide is a fantastic resource. Aim for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, incorporate wholegrains, choose lean proteins, and stay hydrated with plenty of water. A healthy diet is your first line of defence against many health issues.
  • Quality Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Consistent, quality sleep is essential for physical healing, immune function, and mental resilience. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and minimise screen time before bed.
  • Regular Activity: The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) per week. Find an activity you enjoy to make it a sustainable habit.
  • Mind Your Mental Health: Your mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical health. Practices like mindfulness, spending time in nature, and maintaining strong social connections are proven to reduce stress. Many PMI policies now offer excellent mental health support, including access to therapy, as part of their core cover.

Can I choose any private hospital I want with my insurance?

No, you can only use hospitals that are on your policy's specific 'hospital list'. UK insurers offer different tiers of lists, from basic networks to comprehensive ones that include premium London hospitals. Choosing a policy with a more extensive hospital list will typically result in a higher premium. Always check the hospital directory and confirm with your insurer before booking treatment.

What happens if my local private hospital isn't on my insurer's list?

If a hospital is not on your insurer's approved list, you will not be covered for treatment there. You would either have to pay for the treatment yourself or choose a different hospital that is included in your network. This is why it is critical to check which hospitals are included *before* you purchase a private medical insurance policy, especially if you have a preferred local facility.

Does private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses requiring ongoing management). Some policies may offer to review pre-existing conditions for cover after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment.

How do I add a specific hospital, like a London clinic, to my policy?

You cannot usually add a single hospital to a policy. Instead, you need to select the appropriate hospital list tier that includes your desired hospital. To include a premium central London clinic, you would typically need to purchase a policy with a 'Premium' or 'London' hospital list. This will increase your premium but grant you access to that wider, more expensive network of facilities.

Finding the right private medical insurance is about securing peace of mind. Knowing that your policy covers the hospitals you trust, in a location that works for you, is a vital part of that. The landscape of private hospitals and insurer networks can be complex, but it doesn't have to be a challenge.

Ready to find a private medical insurance policy that truly fits your needs and includes the hospitals near you?

Speak to a WeCovr expert today for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll compare the market for you, demystify the options, and help you secure the right protection for you and your family.

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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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