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Private Medical Insurance for Small Businesses Bupa vs AXA vs Aviva

Private Medical Insurance for Small Businesses Bupa vs AXA...

WeCovr compares group PMI options to help SMEs protect staff affordably

In today's competitive UK market, attracting and retaining top talent is a major challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr understands that offering a compelling benefits package is crucial. Private medical insurance (PMI) is a cornerstone of that package, sending a powerful message that you value your team's health and wellbeing.

But with major players like Bupa, AXA, and Aviva all offering excellent products, how do you choose the right one for your business? This guide breaks down the key features, costs, and benefits of their group health insurance plans, giving you the clarity to make an informed decision.

What is Small Business Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance for small businesses, often called group health insurance, is a policy taken out by an employer to provide healthcare cover for its employees. Instead of relying solely on the NHS, staff can access private diagnosis, treatment, and specialist care quickly.

The core purpose of PMI is to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, cataract surgery, or hernia repairs.

Crucially, standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing conditions are any health issues you knew about or had symptoms of before your policy started.
  • Chronic conditions are long-term illnesses that can be managed but not cured, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. PMI may cover acute flare-ups of a chronic condition, but not the day-to-day management.

Understanding this distinction is vital. PMI is your fast track back to health for new, treatable conditions, helping your team get back on their feet sooner.

Why Every Small Business Should Consider Private Health Cover

With NHS waiting lists remaining a significant concern, the value of private health cover has never been clearer. In England, the waiting list for consultant-led elective care stood at around 7.5 million at the start of 2025. For an SME, having a key team member out of action for months can be devastating.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), a record 185.6 million working days were lost to sickness or injury in 2022. Investing in your team's health isn't just a perk; it's a strategic business decision.

Benefits for Your Business:

  • Reduced Sickness Absence: Faster diagnosis and treatment mean employees return to work quicker, minimising downtime.
  • Boosted Productivity: A healthy, motivated workforce is a productive one. It also helps tackle 'presenteeism'—where staff come to work while unwell and underperform.
  • A Powerful Recruitment Tool: A great benefits package, including PMI, can give you the edge when competing with larger companies for skilled staff.
  • Improved Employee Loyalty: Showing you care about your team's wellbeing fosters a positive company culture and increases retention.

Benefits for Your Employees:

  • Peace of Mind: Knowing they have access to fast, high-quality care reduces stress and anxiety.
  • Speedy Access: They can bypass long NHS queues for consultations, scans, and surgery.
  • Choice and Comfort: Employees often get a choice of specialist and hospital, with the comfort of a private room.
  • Access to Specialist Drugs: Some policies provide access to new or expensive drugs not yet available on the NHS.

The 'Big Three' Insurers: A Snapshot

Bupa, AXA, and Aviva are giants of the UK private medical insurance market. While they all offer excellent core products, they each have a slightly different focus.

  • Bupa: With roots stretching back to 1947, Bupa's sole focus is healthcare. They have no shareholders, reinvesting profits into their services. They are known for their extensive network of hospitals and facilities, including their own Bupa Cromwell Hospital.
  • AXA Health: Part of the global AXA Group, AXA Health is a powerhouse in insurance. They are renowned for their strong digital integration, comprehensive mental health support, and the 'Guided atelemedicine' pathways that streamline the patient journey.
  • Aviva: As the UK's largest general insurer, Aviva has a massive footprint and a reputation for excellent customer service and value. Their 'Expert Select' hospital list is a well-regarded cost-management tool, and their proposition is often seen as straightforward and reliable.

Core Policy Features: Bupa vs AXA vs Aviva Compared

Choosing a policy means looking beyond the headline price. The details of the cover are what truly matter when you need to make a claim. Here’s how the big three stack up on key features.

FeatureBupaAXA HealthAvivaWeCovr's Expert Take
Hospital AccessTiered networks. Offers access to its own high-quality hospitals (e.g., Bupa Cromwell) and a vast partner network.The 'Directory of Hospitals' offers comprehensive choice. 'Guided Options' can reduce premiums by using a curated list of specialists.Uses 'Expert Select' hospital list as standard to manage costs, with options to upgrade. Also offers a 'Key' list for further savings.All offer great networks. Aviva's 'Expert Select' is a strong starting point for value. Bupa's network is often seen as the most comprehensive, while AXA's guided options offer a modern, streamlined approach.
Cancer CoverComprehensive cover as standard. Includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and access to breakthrough drugs and trials. No financial or time limits on eligible cancer treatment on most policies.Extensive cancer cover, including diagnostics and treatment. Strong focus on ongoing support, including access to dedicated cancer nurses.Full, comprehensive cancer cover is a core part of their offering. Pledges to cover eligible costs for cancer treatment, including advanced therapies.All three providers offer exceptional, market-leading cancer cover. This is a key area where PMI excels, and you can't go wrong with any of them. The choice often comes down to the support services around the core treatment.
Mental HealthStrong mental health support, covering both inpatient and outpatient treatment. Access to the 'Family Mental HealthLine' for parental support.A market leader in mental health. Often includes cover for a wide range of conditions and offers access to the 'Stronger Minds' service without needing a GP referral.Comprehensive mental health options available. Can be tailored to include different levels of inpatient and outpatient care. Includes a 'Mental Health Pathway' for easy access to support.AXA's proactive approach with 'Stronger Minds' is a significant differentiator. However, Bupa and Aviva also provide robust and easily accessible mental health support that is a huge asset for any SME.
Digital GP'Bupa Blua Health' app provides 24/7 access to GPs via phone or video, with prescription delivery service.'Doctor at Hand' app (powered by Teladoc Health) offers 24/7 GP appointments, often within a few hours. Highly rated and easy to use.'Aviva Digital GP' app (powered by Square Health) provides around-the-clock GP access, repeat prescriptions, and open referrals.All three offer excellent, indispensable digital GP services. This feature is a game-changer for getting quick advice and referrals, significantly reducing the need to wait for an NHS GP appointment.
Wellness BenefitsBupa's 'Life Skills' portal offers webinars and resources for mental wellbeing. Discounts on Bupa health assessments and gyms.'AXA Health app' offers a range of wellbeing support. Proactive health services are a key part of their proposition.The 'Aviva Wellbeing' app offers articles and guidance. Discounts are often available on gym memberships and other wellness products.While all offer some benefits, this is an area where other providers like Vitality specialise. For the big three, the wellness perks are a nice extra rather than the core focus.

How to Customise Your Policy and Manage Costs

One of the biggest myths about private medical insurance UK is that it's unaffordably expensive for small businesses. In reality, policies are highly customisable. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you tailor a plan that fits your budget perfectly.

Here are the main levers you can pull:

  1. Choose an Excess: This is the amount an employee pays towards their claim each year. A policy with a £250 excess will have a lower premium than one with a £0 excess. Choosing an excess of £100, £250, or even £500 can lead to significant savings.

  2. Add a 6-Week Option: This is one of the most popular ways to reduce costs. If the NHS can provide the required inpatient treatment within six weeks of it being recommended, the employee will use the NHS. If the wait is longer, the private medical insurance kicks in. It’s a pragmatic compromise that saves money while still protecting against long delays.

  3. Select a Hospital List: You don't always need access to every private hospital in the country, especially the high-cost ones in Central London. By choosing a more limited hospital network that still provides excellent local coverage, you can reduce your premiums.

  4. Adjust Outpatient Cover: Outpatient cover pays for consultations and diagnostic tests that don't require a hospital bed. You can choose from:

    • Full Cover: No limit on costs.
    • Capped Cover: A set limit per policy year (e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500).
    • No Cover: For maximum savings, relying on the NHS for diagnostics. A mid-range cap of £1,000 is a popular and balanced choice for many SMEs.

  5. Underwriting Method:

    • Moratorium (Mori): The most common type for small groups. It automatically excludes treatment for pre-existing conditions from the last five years. However, if an employee goes two full years without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): Employees complete a full health questionnaire. The insurer then states upfront what will and won't be covered. It's more admin-intensive but provides total clarity from day one.

How Much Does Small Business PMI Cost? (2025 Estimates)

The cost of a group PMI policy depends on several factors: the average age of your team, your location, the industry you're in, and the level of cover you choose.

Below are some illustrative examples to give you a rough idea. Your actual quote will be tailored to your specific business.

Business ProfileBasic Cover (High Excess, Limited Hospitals, 6-Week Option)Mid-Range Cover (£250 Excess, Standard Hospitals, £1000 Outpatient)Comprehensive Cover (£0 Excess, Full Hospital List, Full Outpatient)
5-person tech firm in Manchester (Avg. age 32)£30 - £40 per person/month£55 - £70 per person/month£80 - £100 per person/month
15-person law firm in Birmingham (Avg. age 45)£50 - £65 per person/month£80 - £100 per person/month£120 - £150 per person/month
25-person creative agency in London (Avg. age 38)£60 - £75 per person/month£95 - £120 per person/month£140 - £180 per person/month

Disclaimer: These prices are estimates for informational purposes only. For an accurate quote, speak to a specialist adviser.

WeCovr: Your Expert Partner in Workplace Health

Choosing the best PMI provider can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. At WeCovr, our service is about more than just finding the cheapest price; it's about finding the right value.

  • Whole-of-Market Advice: We don't just work with Bupa, AXA, and Aviva. We compare plans from across the market, including specialists like Vitality and WPA, to find the perfect match for you.
  • No-Cost Expertise: Our advice and comparison service is completely free for you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, so you don't pay a penny extra.
  • Added Value for Your Team: When you arrange your PMI with WeCovr, your team gets complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to support their healthy habits.
  • Exclusive Discounts: As a WeCovr client, you can also benefit from discounts on other essential business and personal cover, such as life insurance or public liability insurance.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing clear, jargon-free advice that puts your business needs first.

A Practical Guide to Workplace Wellbeing

Private medical insurance is a fantastic tool, but it's most effective as part of a wider culture of wellbeing. Here are some simple, low-cost ways to support your team's health:

  1. Champion Mental Health:

    • Encourage open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma.
    • Appoint and train a Mental Health First Aider within your team.
    • Promote a healthy work-life balance and respect working hours.

  2. Get Moving:

    • Organise a weekly lunchtime walking club.
    • Promote the government's Cycle to Work scheme.
    • Encourage 'walking meetings' for small catch-ups.

  3. Fuel for Success:

    • Provide a fruit bowl instead of a biscuit tin.
    • Ensure fresh, filtered water is always available to encourage hydration.
    • Share healthy and simple lunch recipes on your internal communications.

  4. Prioritise Rest:

    • Discourage a culture of late-night emails.
    • Share resources on good 'sleep hygiene', like reducing screen time before bed.
    • Recognise that a well-rested team is a creative and resilient one.

By combining a robust private health cover policy with a proactive approach to wellbeing, you create an environment where your employees—and your business—can truly thrive.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition?

An acute condition is a disease, illness or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to the state of health you were in before. Examples include a bone fracture, appendicitis, or a hernia. A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and arthritis. UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions, not the ongoing management of chronic ones.

Is private medical insurance a taxable benefit for employees in the UK?

Yes. When an employer pays for an employee's private medical insurance, it is considered a 'benefit in kind'. This means the employee will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium, and the employer will need to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions. The cost is reported to HMRC on a P11D form. The cost of the policy itself, however, is generally considered an allowable business expense for the company, making it tax-deductible against corporation tax.

Can our small business policy cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, for small businesses, pre-existing conditions are excluded. The most common underwriting, 'Moratorium', excludes conditions from the last 5 years until you have a 2-year symptom-free period. 'Full Medical Underwriting' will also explicitly exclude them. However, for larger groups (typically 20+ employees), an underwriting option called 'Medical History Disregarded' (MHD) becomes available, which can cover eligible pre-existing conditions. An expert broker can advise if your business is eligible for MHD.

Why should I use a PMI broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Using an independent broker like WeCovr gives you several advantages. Firstly, we compare the entire market to find the policy that offers the best value for your specific needs, not just one provider's options. Secondly, our service is free to you, as we are paid by the insurer. Thirdly, we are experts in the complex details of PMI and can help you customise your policy to save money while ensuring you have the right cover. We handle the paperwork and are here to support you with claims or renewals, saving you time and hassle.

Ready to protect your team and give your business a competitive edge?

Get your free, no-obligation quote from our WeCovr PMI experts today. We’ll compare the market for you and find the perfect private health cover for your budget and needs.

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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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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.

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