Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors

Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors 2024

Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors: Your Guide from WeCovr

Introduction

At WeCovr, we understand the unique challenges faced by company directors and business owners. Your success heavily relies on your ability to remain in good health and work efficiently. That's why we're dedicated to providing comprehensive private medical insurance (PMI) solutions tailored to your specific needs.
As an insurance broking firm, our goal is to assist you in navigating the complexities of PMI and finding the best policy that suits your personal and professional circumstances. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of PMI for company directors, how it works, the different types of coverage available, and the factors that influence the cost of your policy.

The Benefits of Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors

Avoiding NHS Waiting Times

One of the primary advantages of PMI is the ability to bypass long NHS waiting lists for non-emergency treatments. As a company director, time is of the essence, and any prolonged absence due to illness or injury can negatively impact your business operations. With PMI, you can access private healthcare facilities and receive treatment promptly, minimising the disruption to your professional commitments.

Flexibility and Choice

PMI provides you with greater flexibility and choice when it comes to your medical care. You'll have the option to select the hospital, specialist, and treatment dates that best suit your schedule. Additionally, many policies offer private en-suite rooms during your hospital stay, providing a more comfortable and relaxing environment for your recovery.

24/7 Access to Virtual GPs

Most PMI policies include access to a 24/7 virtual GP service, allowing you to seek medical advice and consultations at your convenience. This feature is particularly beneficial for busy company directors who may find it challenging to schedule appointments during regular business hours. With virtual GPs, you can address minor health concerns promptly and receive referrals for further treatment if necessary.

Preventative Care and Well-being Support

Many PMI providers recognise the importance of preventative care and offer well-being services as part of their policies. These services may include health screenings, fitness programmes, and mental health support. By prioritising your overall well-being, you can potentially reduce the risk of developing more serious health conditions and maintain optimal productivity.

How Does Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors Work?

PMI for company directors functions similarly to individual PMI policies, with a few key differences. Here's how it typically works:
  • Choosing a Policy: As a company director, you have the option to purchase PMI either personally (individual policy) or through your business (group policy). Our brokers at WeCovr can guide you through the process of selecting the most suitable option based on your specific circumstances.
  • Tailoring Your Coverage: PMI policies offer a range of coverage options, allowing you to tailor your plan to meet your needs and budget. You can choose from various levels of in-patient, out-patient, and additional benefits such as dental, optical, and mental health coverage.
  • Claiming and Accessing Treatment: Once you have your PMI policy in place, you can easily claim for eligible treatments and medical expenses. Most insurers provide online portals, mobile apps, or dedicated claims hotlines to streamline the process.
  • Receiving Treatment: After your claim is approved, you'll have access to a network of private healthcare facilities, where you can receive prompt treatment from experienced medical professionals. Many policies allow you to choose your preferred hospital and specialist, providing you with greater control over your care.

Types of Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors

As a company director, you have several options when it comes to PMI coverage. At WeCovr, we'll guide you through the following choices:

1. Individual Private Medical Insurance

If you're a sole director or want to provide coverage solely for yourself and your family, an individual PMI policy may be the most suitable option. These policies are tailored to your specific needs and allow for greater flexibility in terms of coverage levels and additional benefits.

2. Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Health Insurance

For businesses with 3 to 249 employees, an SME health insurance policy is typically recommended. These group policies provide coverage for all eligible employees, including company directors. You'll have the ability to determine the level of coverage offered to different employee groups based on seniority or job roles.

3. Corporate Group Schemes

If your business has more than 250 employees, a corporate group scheme may be the most appropriate choice. These comprehensive policies are often arranged by the human resources team to provide coverage for all employees, including directors.

4. Health Insurance Allowance

Some businesses opt for a different approach by providing employees, including company directors, with a personal health insurance allowance. This allowance is added to their pay, enabling individuals to choose the type of policy and benefits that best suit their needs while avoiding the administration of a large group scheme.

What Does Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors Cover?

PMI policies for company directors typically offer a range of coverage options, including core coverage and optional extras. Let's explore the key elements:

Core Coverage

In-patient and Day-patient Treatment

Most PMI policies cover the costs associated with in-patient and day-patient treatments at private hospitals or clinics. This includes hospital fees, specialist fees, medication, and eligible follow-up rehabilitation.

Cancer Care

Given the prevalence of cancer, most policies include comprehensive cancer care as part of their core coverage. This may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and access to cutting-edge treatments or breakthrough cancer drugs not yet available through the NHS.

Mental Health Support

Running a business can be stressful, and mental health issues can significantly impact your ability to work effectively. Many PMI policies provide counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) sessions as part of their core coverage, without the need for a GP referral, allowing you to access support promptly.

Limited Out-patient Coverage

While comprehensive out-patient treatment is typically an optional extra, many insurers offer limited out-patient coverage as part of their core policies. This may include procedures such as cataract surgery or a fixed sum for an initial consultant appointment and diagnostic tests.

Virtual GP Access

As mentioned earlier, most PMI policies provide 24/7 access to virtual GP services, allowing you to book video or telephone consultations at your convenience. Virtual GPs can provide medical advice, issue private prescriptions, and refer you for further treatment if necessary.

Health Advice Services and Resources

PMI providers often include access to health advice helplines staffed by nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, or mental health specialists. Additionally, many insurers offer self-help resources and educational materials to support your well-being.

Optional Extras

While core coverage provides a solid foundation, you may want to enhance your policy with optional extras to suit your specific needs and budget. Here are some common options:

Full Out-patient Coverage

Adding full out-patient coverage to your policy grants you access to a broader range of treatments, including consultant appointments, diagnostic tests, and various out-patient procedures.

Therapies Cover

Many PMI policies offer separate therapies cover, allowing you to tailor your coverage to include treatments such as physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic care, and alternative therapies like acupuncture or homeopathy.

Enhanced Mental Health Treatment

While basic mental health coverage provides access to a limited number of counselling or CBT sessions, you may opt for enhanced mental health treatment to ensure access to a wider range of out-patient and in-patient therapies.

Optical and Dental Cover

If you already pay for private dental care and eye tests, adding optical and dental coverage to your PMI policy can be a cost-effective way to access treatments and reduce expenses. These benefits typically cover regular check-ups, glasses, contact lenses, and dental treatments.

Extended Hospital List

Standard PMI policies often come with a hospital list that excludes facilities in locations with higher treatment costs, such as central London. Adding an extended hospital list can give you access to a broader range of private hospitals, including those in major cities, ensuring you can receive treatment closer to your home or office.

Additional Services for Group Policies

If you opt for a group policy, your insurer may provide additional services to help you manage your policy and your employees' health needs. These services can include educational materials, health and well-being programmes, and support for managing absences and return-to-work strategies.

What Doesn't Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors Cover?

While PMI policies offer comprehensive coverage, it's important to understand the limitations and exclusions. Here are some common exclusions:
  • Chronic Conditions: PMI policies typically do not cover the treatment of chronic conditions that require long-term monitoring and management, such as asthma, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: If you have sought medical advice or treatment for a condition within a specific period (usually five years) before purchasing the policy, it may be considered a pre-existing condition and excluded from coverage for the first two years. After remaining symptom-free for a specified period, your insurer may add the condition to your coverage.
  • Cosmetic and Weight Loss Treatments: Cosmetic procedures and treatments primarily aimed at weight loss are generally excluded from PMI policies.
  • Addiction Treatment: Most PMI policies do not cover treatments related to addiction or substance abuse.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Injuries resulting from intentional self-harm or attempted suicide are typically excluded from coverage.
  • Accident and Emergency Treatment: While PMI policies cover planned treatments, they generally do not cover emergency or accident-related treatments, which should be handled through the NHS.
  • Pregnancy and Childbirth: Routine pregnancy and childbirth are often excluded from standard PMI policies, although some insurers may offer additional maternity cover as an optional extra.
  • Intensive Care: Some policies may exclude or limit coverage for intensive care treatments or impose specific criteria for eligibility.
  • Learning Difficulties, Behavioural, or Developmental Conditions: Treatments related to conditions such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia are usually not covered under standard PMI policies.
It's essential to carefully review the policy documentation and discuss any specific exclusions or limitations with your WeCovr broker to ensure you understand the scope of your coverage fully.

How Much Does Private Medical Insurance for Company Directors Cost?

The cost of PMI for company directors varies depending on several factors, and it's crucial to obtain multiple quotes to find the most suitable option. Here are some key determinants that insurers consider when calculating premiums:

Individual Policy Factors

  • Age: Premiums typically increase with age due to the higher risk of developing health conditions.
  • Location: Areas with higher healthcare costs, such as major cities, may result in higher premiums.
  • Smoking and Lifestyle Factors: Smokers and individuals engaged in high-risk activities or occupations may face higher premiums.
  • Level of Coverage: The extent of coverage you choose, including optional extras, will influence the overall cost.
  • Underwriting Method: Full medical underwriting, where you provide detailed medical history, can sometimes result in slightly lower premiums compared to moratorium underwriting.

Group Policy Factors

  • Number of Employees: While covering more employees may increase the overall cost, it often reduces the cost per individual due to risk-pooling.
  • Age and Health Profile of the Workforce: The average age and overall health status of your employees can impact the premiums.
  • Industry and Occupation Risks: Businesses with higher-risk occupations or activities may face elevated premiums due to the increased likelihood of claims.
  • Underwriting Method: For larger groups (typically over 15-20 employees), insurers may offer medical history disregarded underwriting, which covers pre-existing conditions but is generally more expensive.

Tax Implications and Professional Advice

It's essential to consider the tax implications when your limited company pays for your PMI policy. While the premiums are an allowable business expense and can be claimed against corporation tax, HMRC treats health coverage as a benefit in kind, meaning you'll need to report it and pay income tax on the value of the benefit. Additionally, you may be liable for class 1a national insurance contributions if you provide employee coverage.
To ensure you make an informed decision and understand the net cost to your business, we strongly recommend seeking professional advice from an accountant or financial advisor. They can guide you on the most tax-efficient way to pay for your PMI, considering factors such as your tax bracket, dividend income, salary structure, and whether you plan to add family members to the policy.

Getting Professional Advice from WeCovr

At WeCovr, we understand that choosing the right PMI policy for your business and personal needs can be a complex process. Our team of experienced brokers is dedicated to providing tailored guidance and helping you navigate the intricacies of PMI coverage.
We'll work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances, assess your requirements, and compare policies from leading insurers to find the best solution that meets your needs and budget. Our brokers don't charge any fees for their services, and you'll receive the same pricing as going directly to an insurer.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing comprehensive private medical insurance for you and your business. Our expert advice will ensure you make an informed decision and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having access to prompt, high-quality private healthcare.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is general in nature and should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice. What is best for you will depend on your personal and business circumstances. We strongly recommend speaking with a financial advisor or conducting your own research before making a decision regarding private medical insurance.

Why get private health insurance?

Health insurance allows you get back on your feet quicker:


✅ Avoid long NHS waiting lists of many weeks and get treated faster with private medical insurance, which can be really important for a successful recovery
✅ Get early diagnosis so you can get the treatment you need right away done privately
✅ Business owners can save on their tax bill with private medical insurance
✅ You are free to choose your surgeon or hospital to suit your needs by place and time
✅ You often get a private room with better facilities for your treatment or surgery
✅ With private medical health insurance you gain access to advanced treatments not available on the NHS

Benefits offered by private health insurance

Private medical health insurance is an insurance policy that covers the costs of private healthcare, from diagnosis to treatment. You just pay an affordable monthly premium that covers all or some of the cost of treatment for acute conditions that develop after your health insurance policy has begun.

Our mission is to put you in touch with not only the best, but the most suitable private medical health insurance companies. With even more risk on the rise for personal health today, it makes more sense than ever to have private medical health insurance cover.

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

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 increasing numbers of individuals and families opt for PMI insurance

👉 We insure our cars, houses, bicycles and even bags! Yet our health is one the most precious things we have.

People buy life, critical illness and private medical health insurance for a variety of reasons – easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime. PMI insurance is still seen as a luxury in the UK. Indeed, only around 11% of the population has private medical insurance. However, an increasing number of people are taking out private medical insurance due to a number of reasons:
  • Avoid NHS waiting lists and be treated more quickly
  • Faster diagnosis (comprehensive cover)
  • More access to latest cancer drugs and treatments, some of which may be unavailable on the NHS
  • Greater choice over where and when your treatment takes place
  • Have a private room should you need treatment in hospital
Our experienced FCA-authorised insurance partner experts are ready to provide you with a FREE Consultation.

👍 Simply get your affordable private medical health insurance plan in place for the necessary peace of mind! Just tap or click the button below to book a FREE call now! 👇

Compare private medical health insurance plans suitable for your circumstances from these insurers and more

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Any questions?

Do I need Private Medical Insurance if I have Life Insurance?

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.

Are Pre-existing Medical Conditions Covered?

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.

Why Do I Need Private Medical Insurance?

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.

How Much Does It Really Cost?

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.

Isn't NHS Treatment and Coverage Enough?

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.

Why Do I Need to Speak to Someone?

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.

Are Your Insurance Partners Trustworthy?

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!

How Do You Make Money If the Quotes Are Free to Get?

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.

How Much Is Private Health Insurance?

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.

How Does Private Health Insurance Work?

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.

What Does Health Insurance Cover?

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.

Can I Pay Extra to Have a Pre-existing Condition Covered?

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.

When Will My Health Insurance Policy Start?

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.

Will I Need an Excess on My Private Health Insurance Policy?

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.

How Can I Reduce the Cost of Health Insurance?

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.

Is There an Age Limit for Private Medical Insurance?

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.

How Can I Compare Health Insurance Plans?

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.

Can I Add Other People Onto My Health Insurance Policy?

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.

Can I Use Health Insurance Abroad?

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.

What is Comprehensive Cover?

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.

Does Health Insurance Cover Dental Treatment?

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.

Does Health Insurance Cover Cancer?

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.

Can I Change My Cover Once I Have Signed Up?

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.

How Quickly Can I Get an Appointment with a Private GP?

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

Can Each Person on My Policy Have Different Options of Cover?

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

Are There Different Levels of Cover?

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

Where Can I Find Out More About Hospitals or Treatment Providers?

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.

What Does Fee Assured Mean?

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

Does Health Insurance Cover Mental Health?

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

Can I Cover My Children as Well?

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

Will the Cost Go Up Every Year?

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

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?

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.

What's the Difference Between Health Insurance and NHS?

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

Does Health Insurance Cover Physiotherapy?

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

Can I Use My Cover Straight Away?

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

How Can I Get a Quote?

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.

What Does Health Insurance Cover and What Can't It Cover?

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

How Does Health Insurance Work?

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

What is Outpatient Cover?

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

Can I Use My Health Insurance Cover Immediately?

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.

Does Health Insurance Cover A&E (Accident and Emergency)?

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.

Are There Any Rewards for Being a PMI Plan Holder?

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.

I'm Leaving My Job and Have Health Insurance with Them, What Do I Do?

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.

How Do I Get a Quote After I've Left My Job?

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.

If I Continue My Health Insurance After I've Left My Job, Will My New Cover Be the Same as Before?

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.

If I Continue My Health Insurance After I Left My Job, Will the Price for My New Cover Be the Same?

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.

How Long Do I Have After Leaving My Job to Decide to Stay with My Insurer?

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.

What Do I Need Before Asking About Continuing My Cover After I've Left My Job?

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

I've Ongoing Treatment But I'm Leaving My Work Health Insurance Policy, Can I Still Have Treatment?

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.

When And How Do I Pay My Excess?

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

Do I Pay an Excess for Using Services Like Digital GP?

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

Can I Change My Excess Partway Through the Year?

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

What is a No Claims Discount?

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

Can I Pay Extra to Have a Pre-existing Condition Covered?

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

What is Full Medical Underwriting?

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

What is Moratorium Underwriting?

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

Will My Claim Take Longer If I Have Moratorium Underwriting?

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

What is a Pre-existing Condition?

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.

Is An Annual Review Of My Health Insurance Necessary?

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.

Are There Age Restrictions For Health Insurance?

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.

Is It More Cost-Effective To Pay For Health Insurance Monthly Or Annually?

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.

Do I Need Private Health Insurance If My Employer Provides Coverage?

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.

Is A Medical Exam Required To Get Coverage?

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.

Do I Need A GP Referral To Go Private?

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.

How Much Quicker Can I Get A GP Appointment With Private Medical Insurance?

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.

What's The Difference Between Inpatient And Outpatient Care?

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.

What's The Difference Between Health Insurance And Critical Illness Cover?

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.

Will My Policy Cover Me Outside Of The UK?

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.

How Are Health Insurance Premiums Taxed? Are They Tax Deductible?

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.

How Does The Excess Work?

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.

What Is The Difference Between Full Medical And Moratorium Underwriting?

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.

Can I Get A No-Claims Discount On My Private Health Insurance?

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.

How Can I Find The Best UK Private Health Insurance For Me?

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.

Do I Need a GP Referral for Private Medical Treatment?

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.

Can I Get Finance for a Loan for Surgery?

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.

How Much Does Private Medical Insurance Cost in the UK?

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

Can I Go Private and Then Return to the NHS?

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.

Is Private Healthcare Better than the NHS?

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.

Can I Self-Refer to a Private Consultant?

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.

Will the NHS Accept a Private Diagnosis?

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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The guidance contained within the website is subject to the UK regulatory regime and is therefore targeted at customers in the UK. A FCA regulated expert will contact you after you submit your details to discuss further. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Number 735613.


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