WeCovr.

Login

Private Medical Insurance for Foster Families and Guardian's

Private Medical Insurance for Foster Families and Guardian's

As an FCA-authorised expert PMI broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique needs of modern families. This guide explains private medical insurance for foster families and legal guardians in the UK, helping you navigate coverage options for the children in your care.

Coverage for fostered and non-biological children in PMI

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) can be complex, and for foster families and legal guardians, an extra layer of questions often arises. The primary challenge lies in how UK health insurance providers define a 'dependant child'. While biological and legally adopted children are almost always straightforward to include on a family policy, the situation for fostered children, those under a special guardianship order, or other non-biological children can vary significantly between insurers.

The key question insurers will ask is about legal and financial dependency. A foster placement is technically temporary, even if it's long-term, which can make some insurers hesitant. However, many leading providers have adapted their policies to reflect the reality of modern family structures. The crucial first step is always transparency. You must be clear about the child's legal status when applying for cover. An experienced broker can be invaluable in finding an insurer with a flexible and inclusive definition of 'family'.

Why Consider Private Medical Insurance for Your Foster Family?

While the NHS provides excellent care, the reality of long waiting lists can add significant stress, particularly for a child who may have already experienced instability or trauma. Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, offering you and your family more choice, control, and faster access to specialist care when you need it most.

According to the latest NHS England statistics, the referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list stood at approximately 7.54 million in early 2025. For children, prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital for their development and wellbeing.

Key benefits of PMI for foster families include:

  • Faster Diagnosis and Treatment: Skip long NHS waiting lists for specialist consultations, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and eligible surgical procedures. This can mean getting answers and starting treatment in weeks, not months or years.
  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: For a child settling into a new home, the uncertainty of a long wait for medical care can be unsettling. The speed and efficiency of private care can provide reassurance and stability for the whole family.
  • Choice and Control: PMI typically allows you to choose your specialist and the hospital where you receive treatment from a pre-approved list. This gives you more control over your family's healthcare journey.
  • Access to Specialist Mental Health Support: This is a critical consideration. Research from the Department for Education shows that looked-after children have a higher rate of social, emotional and mental health needs than other children. PMI can provide faster access to therapies and psychiatric support, bypassing long waits for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
  • Comfort and Privacy: Private hospitals often offer private rooms with en-suite facilities, creating a more comfortable and less stressful environment for a child's recovery.

PMI gives you the peace of mind that you can access high-quality care quickly, allowing you to focus on what matters most: providing a stable and nurturing home for the child in your care.

Understanding Insurer Definitions: Who Qualifies as a 'Dependant Child'?

This is the most critical area for foster carers and guardians. The term 'dependant child' is not standardised across the UK private medical insurance market. Each insurer sets its own rules, which is why you can be accepted by one and declined by another for the same child.

Typically, an insurer will want to establish:

  1. Legal Responsibility: Do you have legal parental responsibility for the child? This is automatically the case for biological and adopted children. For others, it depends on legal orders.
  2. Financial Dependency: Does the child live with you and are they financially dependent on you? This is usually the case for all children living within a family unit.
  3. Residency: Does the child reside with you permanently in the UK?

Let's break down the common scenarios:

  • Legally Adopted Children: These children are treated exactly the same as biological children by all PMI providers. There are no barriers to adding them to a policy.
  • Children Under a Special Guardianship Order (SGO): A Special Guardian has overriding parental responsibility. Most insurers will readily accept children under an SGO onto a family policy, as this is a permanent legal arrangement.
  • Children Under a Child Arrangements Order (CAO): This order specifies where a child lives. If the order states the child lives with you, most insurers will consider them an eligible dependant.
  • Foster Children: This is the most variable category. Some insurers will not cover foster children due to the potentially temporary nature of the placement. However, a growing number of forward-thinking insurers will, especially for long-term placements. They may require a letter from your fostering agency or local authority to confirm the arrangement.

The table below gives a general overview of how different legal statuses might be viewed.

Child's Legal StatusLikelihood of PMI CoverageKey Considerations for Insurers
Biological ChildGuaranteedLives with you and is financially dependent.
Legally Adopted ChildGuaranteedTreated identically to a biological child.
Child under a SGOVery HighPermanent legal order granting parental responsibility.
Step-ChildVery HighGenerally accepted as a dependant if living with you.
Foster ChildVariableDepends entirely on the insurer. Long-term placements are more likely to be accepted. Requires full disclosure.

Crucial Advice: Never assume. Always declare the child's exact legal status. Hiding this information could invalidate your entire policy at the point of a claim. Working with an expert PMI broker like WeCovr is the safest way to ensure you apply to the right insurer from the start.

Key PMI Exclusions You MUST Know About

Understanding what private medical insurance doesn't cover is just as important as knowing what it does. This is vital for all families, but especially for foster families, as children entering care may have a complex or unknown medical history.

The single most important rule to remember is:

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for new, unexpected, acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.

It is not designed to cover:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness, injury, or symptom you (or your child) have experienced, had medication for, or sought advice on in the five years before taking out the policy. These will be excluded, either permanently or for a set period.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term conditions that require ongoing management and have no known cure. These are managed by the NHS.

Here are some common exclusions found on most UK PMI policies:

CategoryExamplesWhy is it Excluded?
Chronic ConditionsDiabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, arthritis, Crohn's disease.PMI is for curative treatment, not long-term management. These fall under the care of the NHS.
Pre-existing ConditionsA knee injury from two years ago, previous consultations for anxiety, past treatment for eczema.The policy is designed to cover future, unforeseen risks, not known past issues.
Emergency ServicesA&E visits, ambulance services, treatment for a heart attack or stroke.These are handled by the NHS emergency services, which provide immediate, critical care.
Normal Pregnancy & BirthRoutine maternity care.PMI is for unexpected illness, not planned life events. Some high-end policies cover complications.
Cosmetic SurgeryProcedures for aesthetic reasons.Not medically necessary. Reconstructive surgery after an accident or illness may be covered.
Self-inflicted InjuriesInjuries resulting from substance abuse or dangerous hobbies (unless declared and accepted).These are not considered unforeseen medical events in the same way as an illness.

For foster families, the "pre-existing conditions" clause is paramount. If a child has a known medical history, it's essential to understand how this will be treated by the insurer before you buy.

Applying for PMI for your family, including a non-biological child, requires a careful and methodical approach. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process and a policy that truly meets your needs.

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Before you start getting quotes, have the following details ready:

  • Personal Details: Full names and dates of birth for everyone to be insured.
  • Legal Status: Be prepared to explain the exact legal status of the child in your care (e.g., foster placement, special guardianship). You may need a copy of the relevant court order or a letter from the local authority.
  • Medical History: Note down any significant medical conditions, consultations, or treatments each family member has had in the last five years. Be as thorough as you can, even if the information for a foster child is incomplete.

Step 2: Speak to an Expert PMI Broker

This is not a sales pitch; it's a practical necessity. Given the complexities around insuring foster children, going direct to an insurer can be a minefield. You might spend hours completing an application only to be rejected based on their internal definition of a 'dependant'.

An FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr:

  • Knows the Market: We know which insurers have flexible policies for foster families and guardians.
  • Saves You Time: We do the legwork, comparing policies from across the market to find the ones that fit your unique situation.
  • Provides Expert Advice: We can explain the jargon and help you choose the right level of cover and underwriting.
  • Costs You Nothing: Our service is free to you, as we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

Step 3: Choose Your Underwriting Method

Underwriting is how insurers assess risk and decide what they will and won't cover. For a family policy, you have two main choices. This decision is particularly important when medical history might be unclear.

Underwriting TypeHow it WorksPros for Foster FamiliesCons for Foster Families
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire for each family member. The insurer reviews this and states any specific exclusions on your policy documents from day one.Clarity. You know exactly what is and isn't covered from the start.Difficult. Can be challenging if the child's full medical history is unknown. May lead to more initial exclusions.
Moratorium Underwriting (Mori)No initial health questionnaire. The policy automatically excludes any condition that existed in the 5 years prior to joining. This exclusion is reviewed after a 2-year continuous period on the policy.Simple & Fast. Easy to set up without needing a complete medical history.Uncertainty. You may not know if a condition is covered until you make a claim. The "2-year rule" can be complex.

For a foster child with a patchy medical history, Moratorium underwriting is often the more practical option, as it bypasses the need for a detailed initial questionnaire. However, you must be comfortable with the ambiguity it creates. Your broker can help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation.

Step 4: Full and Honest Disclosure

When you apply, you have a duty to disclose all 'material facts'. A material fact is anything that could influence an insurer's decision to offer you cover. The legal status of a child is always a material fact.

Never be tempted to list a foster child as a 'son' or 'daughter' without clarifying their legal status. If this is discovered later, the insurer has the right to cancel the policy, refuse a claim, and you could find it difficult to get insurance in the future. Honesty is always the best policy.

The Role of Local Authorities and Fostering Allowances

A common question from foster carers is whether they can use their fostering allowance to pay for private medical insurance. The fostering allowance is provided to cover the costs of caring for a child, including their health and wellbeing.

The short answer is: it depends on your local authority.

  • There is no national rule that states you can or cannot use the allowance for PMI.
  • Most local authorities would consider PMI a private expense, similar to a family choosing to pay for it for their biological children.
  • However, if a child has specific health needs and is facing a very long wait on the NHS for a diagnosis or treatment that is impacting their wellbeing, a case could be made.

Our advice: Have an open conversation with your supervising social worker. Explain why you are considering PMI and ask for their guidance. They may be supportive, but you should not assume that the cost will be covered or subsidised by the allowance. Plan for PMI to be a cost you will cover yourself.

Mental Health Support: A Critical Component for Looked-After Children

For many foster families, the most compelling reason to consider PMI is the mental health support it can unlock. Looked-after children are more likely to have experienced trauma, neglect, or instability, which can have a significant impact on their emotional wellbeing.

While NHS CAMHS provides essential support, it is under immense pressure, with long waiting lists for assessment and therapy in many parts of the UK. Private medical insurance can offer a vital alternative route to care.

What can PMI mental health cover include?

  • Initial Psychiatric Assessment: A consultation with a private specialist to get a diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Therapy Sessions: A set number of sessions (e.g., 8-10) with a qualified therapist, psychologist, or counsellor. This can include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), play therapy, or other approaches suitable for children.
  • In-patient/Day-patient Care: Cover for more intensive treatment programmes if needed (this is often a higher-level benefit).

Many modern PMI policies also come with valuable added benefits that can be used without needing a GP referral:

  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, perfect for quick advice and reassurance.
  • Mental Health Helplines: Confidential support lines staffed by trained counsellors.
  • Wellbeing Apps: Access to apps for mindfulness, stress management, and building resilience.

When comparing policies, pay close attention to the mental health cover. Check the limits, the types of therapy covered, and whether you can access services directly.

WeCovr's Added Value for Your Family

Choosing the right private health cover is a major decision. At WeCovr, we go beyond simply finding you a policy. We provide ongoing support and additional benefits to help your family thrive.

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: As an FCA-authorised broker, our primary duty is to you, not the insurance company. We'll help you find a policy from a major UK provider that genuinely accommodates your family's structure, whether that includes foster children, step-children, or children under guardianship.
  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: When you take out a policy with us, your family gets free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It’s a fun and easy way to encourage healthy eating habits and learn about nutrition together.
  • Discounts on Other Protection: We believe in holistic protection. Our clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance are eligible for discounts on other policies, such as income protection or critical illness cover, helping you build a comprehensive safety net for your family's future.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly on independent review websites, praising our knowledgeable advisors and commitment to finding the right solution.

We are here to act as your advocate, ensuring the process is as simple and transparent as possible.

Wellness and Health Tips for Foster Families

Providing a healthy and stable environment is the cornerstone of great foster care. While PMI is a tool for when things go wrong, focusing on daily wellness can make a huge difference to a child's physical and emotional health.

1. Establish Nurturing Routines

Children thrive on predictability. A consistent routine around meals, homework, and bedtime can create a sense of safety and security.

  • Family Meals: Try to eat together at a table without screens. It’s a great time to connect and chat about the day.
  • Bedtime Ritual: A calming bedtime routine—such as a warm bath, reading a story, or listening to quiet music—can significantly improve sleep quality.

2. Focus on Simple, Nutritious Food

Good nutrition is fundamental to physical health and mood.

  • Involve Them: Let children help with meal planning and simple cooking tasks. They're more likely to eat something they've helped make.
  • Healthy Snacks: Keep a good supply of healthy snacks on hand: fruit, vegetable sticks with hummus, yoghurt, or whole-grain crackers.
  • Stay Hydrated: Encourage drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Prioritise Physical Activity

Exercise is a powerful tool for managing stress and improving mood.

  • Make it Fun: It doesn't have to be structured sport. A walk in the park, a bike ride, dancing in the living room, or building a den in the garden all count.
  • Explore Local Resources: Check out local leisure centres, parks, and community groups for free or low-cost activities.

4. Support Emotional Wellbeing

Creating an environment where a child feels heard and valued is crucial.

  • Listen Actively: Put down your phone and give them your full attention when they want to talk. Validate their feelings, even if you don't understand them.
  • Build Your Support Network: Connect with other foster carers through local support groups or online forums. Sharing experiences can be incredibly helpful.
  • Use available resources: Don't hesitate to reach out to your supervising social worker or the fostering agency for support if you have concerns about a child's emotional health.

Can I definitely get private medical insurance for a child I am fostering?

It is possible, but not guaranteed with every insurer. Some UK private medical insurance providers have flexible policies that will cover foster children, particularly those in long-term placements. Other insurers may decline cover due to the legal complexities. The key is to apply to the right insurer and to be completely transparent about the child's status as a foster child. Using a specialist broker is the best way to identify providers who are open to covering foster children.

Do I have to tell the insurer that my child is fostered or under a guardianship order?

Yes, absolutely. A child's legal status is a 'material fact' that you must disclose during the application process. Failing to mention that a child is fostered or under a Special Guardianship Order could be considered non-disclosure. If this is discovered later, especially at the point of a claim, the insurer could void the policy and refuse to pay for treatment. Always be honest and upfront.

Will PMI cover my foster child's pre-existing medical or mental health conditions?

No. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. Any condition, illness, or symptom for which a child has received treatment, medication, or advice in the five years before the policy starts will be excluded. Likewise, chronic conditions (long-term illnesses with no known cure) are also not covered. PMI is for new, acute conditions that arise after you take out the cover.

Is it better to add a foster child to my existing family policy or take out a new one?

This depends on your current insurer's rules. You should first contact your provider (or ask your broker to) and ask if they will add a foster child to your policy. If they refuse, your best option is to shop around for a new policy for the whole family from an insurer with more inclusive criteria. A broker can compare the cost and benefits of moving the whole family versus keeping your policy and insuring the child separately, although a single family policy is often more cost-effective.

Take the Next Step

Providing the best possible care for a child is your priority. Navigating the private medical insurance market to support that goal is ours. Let WeCovr help you find a policy that gives you peace of mind and your family fast access to the best care.

Get a free, no-obligation quote today and let our experts find the right private medical insurance for your unique family.

Related guides

Best Private Medical Insurance for Families in 2026 – WeCovr's Top Picks
Best Private Medical Insurance for Families in 2026 – WeCovr's Top Picks
Read more →
Best Private Medical Insurance for Families in the UK – Why WeCovr Leads the Way
Best Private Medical Insurance for Families in the UK – Why WeCovr Leads the Way
Read more →
General & Medical vs Exeter Best PMI for Families
General & Medical vs Exeter Best PMI for Families
Read more →
Private Medical Insurance for Families in Birmingham
Private Medical Insurance for Families in Birmingham
Read more →
Protecting Your Children Private Medical Insurance for Young Families
Protecting Your Children Private Medical Insurance for Young Families
Read more →
When Healthcare Delays Become a Hardship Issue: Why More UK Families Are Turning to Private Medical Insurance
When Healthcare Delays Become a Hardship Issue: Why More UK Families Are Turning to Private Medical Insurance
Read more →
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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

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

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

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

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

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

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

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

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

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

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

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

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

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

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

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

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

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

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

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

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

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

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

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

About WeCovr

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

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London