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Record Demand for Cancer and Diagnostics via Private Medical Insurance

Record Demand for Cancer and Diagnostics via Private...

Record numbers of UK residents are turning to private medical insurance for rapid access to cancer care and diagnostics. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we've seen first-hand how NHS pressures are driving this unprecedented shift towards the private sector.

Elective care waiting incentives and community diagnostic investment push more patients to seek timely cancer screening and advanced diagnostics privately

The UK's healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. While the NHS remains a cherished institution, it is facing immense pressure. As of mid-2025, the elective care waiting list in England continues to hover around 7.5 million, a figure that represents millions of individuals waiting for appointments, diagnostics, and treatments.

This strain is particularly acute in cancer care and diagnostics. Delays in getting a scan or seeing a specialist can cause huge anxiety and, in some cases, impact treatment outcomes. In response, the government has launched initiatives like the Elective Recovery Plan and invested heavily in Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs). The aim of CDCs is to perform millions more scans, checks, and tests closer to people's homes, easing the burden on hospitals.

However, this very push has had an unintended consequence: it has raised public awareness of the importance of early diagnosis while simultaneously highlighting the bottlenecks that still exist within the system. Faced with potential months-long waits for a crucial MRI or an appointment with a consultant, a growing number of people are deciding they cannot afford to wait. They are proactively seeking alternatives through private medical insurance (PMI).

This trend is not just about "skipping the queue." It's about taking control of one's health, gaining peace of mind, and ensuring the fastest possible route to diagnosis and treatment when it matters most.

Why Cancer Care is the Ultimate Driver of PMI Demand

For many, the fear of cancer is the single biggest reason to consider private health cover. While the NHS provides excellent cancer care, its performance against key waiting time targets has been under strain.

According to NHS England data, the target for 93% of patients to see a specialist within two weeks of an urgent GP referral for suspected cancer is frequently missed in many areas. More critically, the 62-day target from urgent referral to the start of first treatment has not been met nationally for several years.

This is where private medical insurance UK policies make a profound difference.

Key Advantages of PMI for Cancer Care:

  • Speed of Access: This is the primary benefit. A PMI policyholder can typically see a specialist consultant within days of a GP referral, not weeks or months. Diagnostic tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans are often arranged within a week.
  • Choice and Control: Patients can choose their specialist and the hospital where they receive treatment, offering a level of personal control that is not always possible on the NHS.
  • Access to Advanced Treatments: PMI can provide access to cutting-edge drugs, therapies, and treatments that may not yet be approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for NHS use due to cost or ongoing evaluation.
  • Enhanced Comfort and Support: Treatment is often delivered in a private en-suite room. Policies also frequently include comprehensive support, such as access to specialist cancer nurses, mental health counselling, and nutritional advice.

NHS vs. Private Cancer Pathway: A Comparison

To understand the practical difference, let's compare the typical journey for a patient with a worrying symptom.

StageTypical NHS PathwayTypical PMI Pathway
1. GP VisitYou visit your GP with a symptom. They make an urgent referral to a specialist.You visit your GP (NHS or private). They provide an open referral letter.
2. Specialist WaitWait for a hospital appointment. Target is 2 weeks, but can be longer.You contact your insurer, who authorises a consultation. You book an appointment with a specialist of your choice, often within days.
3. DiagnosticsThe specialist refers you for scans (e.g., MRI/CT). Wait time can be several weeks.The specialist refers you for scans. Your insurer authorises them, and they are usually completed within a few days.
4. DiagnosisYou have a follow-up appointment to receive results and a diagnosis.You receive your results and diagnosis quickly, often in a follow-up appointment a week or so after the scans.
5. TreatmentIf cancer is confirmed, you are placed on a treatment pathway. The target is to start within 62 days of the initial GP referral.Your treatment plan is agreed upon, and it can start almost immediately at a private facility of your choice.

This accelerated timeline not only reduces anxiety but can be clinically significant for fast-growing cancers, where early intervention is paramount.

The Pivotal Role of Advanced Diagnostics

While cancer is a major focus, the demand for private diagnostics extends to a vast range of other health concerns. Diagnostics are the bedrock of modern medicine, providing the crucial information doctors need to understand what's wrong and how to fix it.

Waiting for a diagnostic test can be a frustrating and worrying experience. It can mean living with pain, being unable to work, or fearing the worst. Private medical insurance effectively removes this waiting period for a wide array of tests.

Common Diagnostic Tests Covered by PMI:

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Essential for detailed images of soft tissues, including the brain, spinal cord, joints, and internal organs.
  • CT (Computed Tomography): Used for creating cross-sectional images of the body, invaluable for identifying tumours, internal bleeding, and other abnormalities.
  • PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography): An advanced scan often used in cancer care to see how active cells are, helping to stage cancer and assess treatment effectiveness.
  • Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
  • Endoscopy/Colonoscopy: Procedures to look inside the digestive tract, crucial for investigating issues like stomach pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.
  • ECG and Echocardiograms: Key tests for assessing heart health.

The ability to access these tests within days through a PMI policy provides immense reassurance and allows for much faster treatment planning for conditions ranging from a torn ligament in the knee to complex neurological or cardiac issues.

Understanding What Your Private Medical Insurance Will (and Won't) Cover

This is the most important section for any prospective policyholder. Understanding the core principles of PMI is essential to avoid disappointment.

The Golden Rule: PMI is for Acute Conditions Only

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

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, joint pain requiring a replacement, or a new cancer diagnosis.
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease. PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions. However, it may cover acute flare-ups of a chronic condition, depending on the policy.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness, disease, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the years leading up to your policy start date (typically the last 5 years). Standard PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions.

This distinction is fundamental. PMI is not a replacement for the NHS, which provides excellent care for chronic and pre-existing conditions. Instead, PMI is a complementary service for new, treatable health issues.

Levels of PMI Cover Explained

Policies are not one-size-fits-all. They are typically structured in tiers, allowing you to balance cost with the level of protection you want.

Level of CoverWhat's Typically IncludedIdeal For
Basic / In-Patient OnlyCovers tests and treatment when you are admitted to a hospital bed (in-patient) or for a day procedure (day-patient). Consultations and diagnostics before admission are not covered.Someone on a tight budget who wants cover for major surgery and hospital stays, but is happy to use the NHS for initial diagnostics.
Mid-Range / Full Out-Patient LimitIncludes everything in the basic plan, plus cover for out-patient diagnostics and specialist consultations up to a set annual limit (e.g., £1,000).A good all-round option, providing cover for the diagnostic process as well as treatment. It's the most popular level of cover.
Comprehensive / Full Out-PatientIncludes everything in the mid-range plan but with no annual limit on out-patient consultations and diagnostics. Often includes extra benefits like mental health cover, dental, and optical.Someone who wants complete peace of mind, knowing that every step of their private healthcare journey, from first consultation to final treatment, is covered.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these options. We take the time to understand your specific needs and budget, comparing policies from the UK's best PMI providers to find the perfect fit for you, at no extra cost.

Beyond Insurance: Embracing Preventative Health and Wellness

Leading health insurance providers have evolved. They are no longer just passive payers of claims; they are active partners in your health and wellbeing. Insurers know that a healthier member is less likely to claim, so they offer a wealth of benefits designed to keep you well.

These wellness programmes add significant day-to-day value to your policy:

  • Digital GP Services: Access a GP via your smartphone 24/7, often with same-day appointments. This is perfect for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or a referral letter without waiting for an NHS GP slot.
  • Mental Health Support: Many policies now include access to mental health apps, telephone counselling lines, or even a set number of face-to-face therapy sessions.
  • Fitness and Lifestyle Discounts: Get reduced-price gym memberships, discounts on fitness trackers, and even rewards for hitting activity goals.
  • Nutrition and Health Advice: Access to expert advice on diet, sleep, and healthy living.

At WeCovr, we enhance this further. When you take out a private medical insurance or life insurance policy with us, we provide:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you stay on top of your health goals.
  • Exclusive discounts on other types of cover you might need, such as life insurance or income protection, helping you build a complete financial safety net for less.

These benefits transform your PMI from a simple insurance policy into a proactive tool for a healthier life.

Choosing the right private health cover can feel overwhelming. The terminology is complex, and the differences between policies can be subtle but significant. This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker is invaluable.

Working with a broker like WeCovr provides several key advantages:

  1. Personalised Advice: We don't sell you a product; we find a solution. We listen to your concerns, priorities, and budget to recommend cover that truly meets your needs.
  2. Whole-of-Market Comparison: We have access to policies from all the UK's leading insurers, including Aviva, Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality. We do the shopping around for you, saving you hours of research.
  3. Clarity on the Small Print: We explain the jargon and highlight the crucial details, especially what is and isn't covered. We ensure you understand the rules around pre-existing conditions and any policy limits.
  4. No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert, impartial advice without paying a penny extra.
  5. Ongoing Support: We are here to help for the life of your policy, whether you have a query about a claim or want to review your cover at renewal. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to our clients.

Does private medical insurance cover cancer if I have had it before?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have had cancer before you took out the policy, it would be considered a pre-existing condition and would be excluded from cover. PMI is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your medical history. With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you declare your full medical history on an application form. The insurer then tells you upfront what will be excluded. With Moratorium (Mori) underwriting, you don't declare your history. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. However, if you remain symptom and treatment-free for that condition for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.

How quickly can I get a diagnostic scan with private health cover?

The speed is a key benefit. After a GP or specialist referral, most insurers can authorise a diagnostic scan like an MRI or CT very quickly. It is common for patients to have their scan arranged and completed within a week, compared to a potential wait of weeks or months on the NHS.

Can I still use the NHS if I have private medical insurance?

Absolutely. Having private medical insurance does not affect your right to use the NHS. The two systems work alongside each other. You can choose to use your PMI for eligible treatments to get faster access, while still relying on the NHS for everything else, including accident and emergency services, GP visits, and the management of chronic conditions.

In a time of uncertainty, taking control of your health has never been more important. With record demand for diagnostics and cancer care, a private medical insurance policy can provide the speed, choice, and peace of mind you need.

Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our expert team find the perfect private health cover for you.


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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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