WeCovr.

Login

Remote Work Health The Hidden Costs

Remote Work Health The Hidden Costs 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr is at the forefront of the private medical insurance market in the UK. We see first-hand the emerging health challenges our clients face. This article explores the hidden health costs of remote work and how to protect yourself.

UK 2025 Shock Over 1 in 3 Remote & Hybrid Workers Secretly Battle Emerging Health Crises From Unseen Home Office Risks, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Pain, Mental Exhaustion & Eroding Career Potential – Your PMI Pathway to Ergonomic Support, Integrated Wellness & LCIIP Shielding Your Physical Vitality & Professional Future

The revolution in how we work has been swift and profound. The flexibility of remote and hybrid models has been celebrated, but a silent health crisis is brewing behind the nation's makeshift home office desks. The convenience of working from the kitchen table or sofa is exacting a heavy toll on our physical and mental wellbeing—a toll that is only now becoming clear.

Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that in 2024, around 40% of the UK's working population reported working from home at least some of the time. While this offers unprecedented freedom, it has also triggered a wave of new health problems. Ground-breaking research and surveys from organisations like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and health bodies now suggest that more than one in three of these workers are experiencing new or worsening musculoskeletal and mental health issues directly linked to their work environment.

This isn't just about temporary aches and pains. This is about the insidious onset of chronic conditions that can derail careers, drain finances, and diminish quality of life for decades.

The £4.0 Million Question: Unpacking the Lifetime Cost of Remote Work Ill Health

The figure of a £4.0 million+ lifetime burden might seem shocking, but it represents a realistic, if devastating, projection for a high-achieving professional whose career is cut short or severely hampered by chronic illness. This isn't a bill you receive; it's a slow erosion of your future potential.

Let's break down this potential cost over a 40-year career:

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Impact
Lost Earnings & PensionChronic back pain or severe burnout could force a reduction in hours, a move to a less demanding (and lower-paid) role, or early retirement. This has a compounding effect on lifetime earnings and pension contributions.£1,500,000 - £2,500,000+
Private Treatment & CareOngoing physiotherapy, specialist consultations, psychological therapy, and potential needs for paid care or home adaptations not fully covered by the NHS.£250,000 - £500,000+
Productivity Loss ('Presenteeism')The cost of working while unwell. Reduced focus, creativity, and output can lead to missed promotions and bonuses, stagnating your career trajectory.£750,000 - £1,000,000+
Reduced Quality of LifeThe intangible but immense cost of being unable to enjoy hobbies, travel, or time with family due to chronic pain or mental exhaustion.Invaluable

This staggering potential loss underscores a critical point: your health is your most valuable professional asset. Protecting it isn't a luxury; it's an essential investment in your future.

The Silent Saboteurs: Top 5 Health Risks of Your Home Office

The dangers of the home office are often subtle. They don't announce themselves with a sudden injury but creep in over months and years of suboptimal habits.

1. The Ergonomic Nightmare: "Tech Neck" and Back Pain

Your dining chair and kitchen table were not designed for an eight-hour workday. Poor posture from hunching over a laptop leads directly to musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders.

  • The Problem: "Tech neck," chronic lower back pain, repetitive strain injury (RSI) in wrists, and sciatica are becoming epidemic among remote workers.
  • The Evidence: A recent survey by Versus Arthritis found a sharp increase in people seeking help for back and neck pain since the widespread adoption of home working.

Simple Ergonomic Fixes:

Bad HabitGood HabitWhy It Matters
Laptop on lap/tableLaptop on a stand, separate keyboard & mouseBrings the screen to eye level, preventing hunching.
Dining chairAdjustable office chair with lumbar supportSupports the natural curve of your spine.
Feet danglingFeet flat on the floor or on a footrestReduces strain on your lower back.
Slouching forwardShoulders back, spine straightEngages core muscles and aligns your spine correctly.

2. The Mental Health Toll: Burnout, Anxiety, and Isolation

The lack of a clear boundary between work and home is a primary driver of mental exhaustion. The "always-on" culture, where emails are answered at 9 pm, combined with the social isolation of not being with colleagues, is a potent recipe for stress.

  • The Problem: Increased rates of anxiety, depression, and severe burnout.
  • The Evidence: The ONS continues to report elevated levels of anxiety in the population, with work-related stress being a major contributing factor. Remote workers often report feeling they have to be more visible online, leading to longer hours and digital presenteeism.

3. The Sedentary Trap: A Shortcut to Chronic Disease

Without the daily commute, the walk to a meeting room, or even the stroll to the sandwich shop, our daily activity levels have plummeted.

  • The Problem: Prolonged sitting is linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
  • The Evidence: NHS guidance explicitly warns that average UK adults are sedentary for around 9 hours per day. For remote workers, this figure is often significantly higher.

4. Digital Eye Strain and Persistent Headaches

Staring at a screen for hours on end without breaks leads to Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

  • The Problem: Symptoms include sore, tired, or burning eyes, blurred vision, and tension headaches that can become chronic.
  • The Fix: Implement the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

5. Blurred Boundaries and Poor Sleep

When your office is also your living room, it's difficult for your brain to switch off. This work-life "bleed" can severely disrupt sleep patterns.

  • The Problem: Difficulty falling asleep, poor quality sleep, and insomnia.
  • The Consequence: Poor sleep impacts everything from cognitive function and mood to immune response and physical recovery.

The NHS Is Essential, But Waiting Lists Are a Reality

The National Health Service is a national treasure, providing exceptional care to millions. However, it is currently facing unprecedented pressure. For acute conditions—those that are curable and not long-term—the waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment can be extensive.

According to the latest NHS England data, the referral-to-treatment waiting list contains millions of cases. For a remote worker developing debilitating back pain, this could mean months of waiting for an MRI scan, followed by another long wait for physiotherapy or a specialist consultation. During this time, an acute problem can become chronic, and your ability to work and live normally can be severely compromised.

This is where private medical insurance UK provides a powerful alternative.

A Critical Note on Health Insurance: It is vital to understand that standard UK private health cover is designed for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you already have) or chronic conditions (illnesses that cannot be cured, only managed, like diabetes or asthma).

Your Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Works

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is not a replacement for the NHS. It's a complementary service that gives you choice, speed, and control over your healthcare when you face a new, acute health concern. For a remote worker, its benefits are uniquely suited to the risks you face.

1. Swift Diagnostics and Specialist Access

Imagine your GP suspects your back pain needs a closer look. With PMI, you could have an appointment with a private consultant and an MRI scan within days or weeks, not months. This speed is crucial for two reasons:

  • It provides a fast, definitive diagnosis, ending the anxiety of uncertainty.
  • It allows treatment to begin immediately, preventing the condition from worsening.

2. Comprehensive Musculoskeletal (MSK) Support

Most quality PMI policies offer excellent cover for "therapies." This is the frontline defence against the physical toll of home working.

  • Physiotherapy: To treat strains, correct posture, and build strength.
  • Osteopathy & Chiropractic Care: For spinal alignment and joint issues.
  • Podiatry: To address issues stemming from posture and foot problems.

With PMI, you can often self-refer or get a quick GP referral to access a course of treatment immediately, helping you get back to work pain-free.

3. Integrated Mental Health Pathways

Recognising the mental health crisis, the best PMI providers now include robust mental health support as standard or as a key option. This goes far beyond a simple helpline.

  • Fast access to therapy: Get prompt appointments with accredited counsellors, psychotherapists, or psychiatrists.
  • Digital CBT programmes: Access evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy from the comfort of your home.
  • Inpatient care: Cover for residential treatment for more severe conditions if needed.

4. Added-Value Wellness Programmes

Modern PMI is as much about prevention as it is about cure. Insurers incentivise healthy living with a range of benefits perfect for the remote worker.

  • Digital GP Services: Speak to a GP via video call 24/7, getting prescriptions or referrals without leaving your home.
  • Gym Discounts: Reduced membership fees at major UK gym chains.
  • Health Screenings: Proactive check-ups to catch potential issues early.
  • Nutrition and Wellness Apps: Tools to help you manage your diet and wellbeing. As a WeCovr client, for instance, you gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, making healthy eating simpler.

Decoding Your PMI Policy: Key Features for Remote Workers

Choosing the right private health cover can feel complex. A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate the options at no cost to you, but understanding the key terms is essential.

PMI FeatureWhy It's Crucial for a Remote Worker
Full Outpatient CoverThis is perhaps the most important feature. It covers the costs of diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, X-rays) and specialist consultations that don't require a hospital stay. Without it, you might only be covered once you're admitted to a hospital bed.
Therapies CoverEssential for tackling MSK issues. Ensure your policy includes a good number of sessions for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.
Comprehensive Mental Health CoverDon't just settle for a helpline. Look for policies that cover talking therapies and outpatient psychiatric consultations as a minimum.
Cancer CoverA cornerstone of all good PMI policies. It provides access to specialist cancer centres, cutting-edge drugs and treatments not always available on the NHS, and extensive support services.
Hospital ListPolicies offer different tiers of hospitals. Ensure the list includes convenient, high-quality facilities near you for any potential treatment.

Protecting Your Future: Beyond PMI to Income Protection

While PMI fixes your body, what protects your bank balance if you're unable to work? This is where a holistic approach to your health and financial wellbeing is vital.

  • Income Protection (IP): This is a different type of insurance that pays you a regular, tax-free replacement income (usually 50-70% of your salary) if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It's the ultimate shield against the "eroding career potential" and "lost earnings" part of the £4.0 million burden. It pays out until you can return to work, retire, or the policy term ends.
  • Critical Illness Cover: This pays out a one-off, tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed on the policy (e.g., some types of cancer, heart attack, stroke).

At WeCovr, we believe in a comprehensive safety net. We often find that clients who take out private medical insurance can also benefit from these other forms of protection, and we can provide discounts when they are purchased together.

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Right Cover

Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can be daunting. The market is filled with different providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality, all with varying levels of cover, benefits, and costs.

This is where using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr makes all the difference.

  1. We are Experts: We live and breathe health insurance. We understand the nuances of each policy and can match them to your specific needs as a remote worker.
  2. It Costs You Nothing: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert, unbiased advice without paying a penny extra.
  3. Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare policies from across the market to find the best cover for you at the most competitive price.
  4. Tailored to You: We take the time to understand your concerns—whether it's back pain, burnout, or fast access to diagnostics—and recommend a policy that truly protects you.
  5. Highly-Rated Service: Our clients consistently give us high satisfaction ratings on independent review websites for our professional, clear, and supportive approach.

Your health is too important to leave to chance. The risks of the new world of work are real, but with proactive steps and the right protection, you can build a resilient, healthy, and successful career.


Does private medical insurance cover health issues from a poor home office setup?

Yes, absolutely. If you develop a new, acute condition like back pain, repetitive strain injury (RSI), or sciatica after your policy has started, private medical insurance is designed to help. It can provide fast access to diagnostics like MRI scans and treatments such as physiotherapy to resolve the issue quickly, preventing it from becoming a long-term chronic problem.

Can I get private health cover if I already have back pain?

This is a crucial point. Standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions. If you already have back pain, that specific condition would typically be excluded from your cover. However, the policy would still cover you for any new, unrelated acute conditions you develop in the future. Some insurers offer moratorium underwriting, where a pre-existing condition might be covered after a set period (usually two years) if you have remained symptom and treatment-free.

How much does private medical insurance UK cost for a remote worker?

The cost of a PMI policy varies widely based on factors like your age, location, the level of cover you choose (e.g., outpatient limits, hospital list), and your medical history. A basic policy for a young, healthy individual might start from around £40-£50 per month, while a comprehensive policy for an older person could be significantly more. The best way to get an accurate figure is to speak to an independent broker like WeCovr, who can compare quotes tailored to your exact needs and budget.

What is the main difference between PMI and a company health cash plan?

They serve very different purposes. A health cash plan helps with everyday healthcare costs by giving you money back for things like dental check-ups, eye tests, and a limited number of physiotherapy sessions, up to an annual limit. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is for more significant, acute medical conditions. It covers the full cost of private consultations, diagnostics, surgery, and hospital stays for eligible conditions, providing a comprehensive solution for serious health concerns.

Take the first step towards protecting your physical vitality and professional future. Contact a WeCovr expert today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable your peace of mind can be.

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 800,000+ 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

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London