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Retirement & PMI Health Insurance Options for Over 65s

Retirement & PMI Health Insurance Options for Over 65s 2026

Navigating your health options in retirement can feel complex. At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we believe in making private medical insurance in the UK clear and accessible. This guide is designed for retirees, exploring the costs, benefits, and crucial details of PMI.

A guide for retirees weighing up the cost vs benefit of PMI

Retirement should be a golden age, a time to enjoy the fruits of your labour, travel, and spend quality time with loved ones. However, as we get older, concerns about health naturally come to the forefront. The NHS is a national treasure, but it's facing unprecedented pressure, leading to longer waiting times for many treatments.

This is where Private Medical Insurance (PMI) enters the conversation. For many over 65, it represents a way to secure peace of mind, knowing that if they fall ill with a new condition, they can access specialist care quickly.

But is it worth the cost? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your health and your finances.

Understanding Private Medical Insurance in the UK

Before we delve into the specifics for retirees, let's clarify what PMI is and, crucially, what it isn't.

What is PMI?

Private Medical Insurance, also known as private health cover, is an insurance policy that pays for the cost of private healthcare for specific conditions. You pay a monthly or annual premium, and in return, the insurer covers the costs of eligible treatments at a private hospital or facility.

Think of it as a health partnership that runs alongside the NHS. It doesn't replace the NHS – you'll still rely on it for emergency care (A&E), GP appointments, and managing long-term chronic illnesses.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about private medical insurance UK policies.

  • Acute Conditions: PMI is designed to cover acute conditions. These are illnesses or injuries that are short-term, respond quickly to treatment, and are expected to result in a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, hernia repairs, or treatment for a specific infection.

  • Chronic Conditions: PMI does not cover chronic conditions. These are long-term, often incurable illnesses that require ongoing management rather than a one-off cure. Examples include diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, and most types of heart disease. Management for these conditions will always remain with your NHS GP and specialists.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Standard policies will also not cover any medical conditions you had before you took out the policy. This is a fundamental principle of insurance.

Why Consider PMI in Retirement? The Key Benefits

For many over 65s, the primary driver for considering PMI is the desire for speed, choice, and comfort should they need medical treatment.

  1. Beat the Waiting Lists: This is arguably the biggest benefit. NHS waiting lists can be extensive. PMI allows you to bypass these queues for eligible conditions, getting you diagnosed and treated in weeks, not months or even years.

  2. Choice and Control: PMI gives you more control over your healthcare journey. You can often choose your specialist or consultant and select the hospital where you'll be treated from a list provided by your insurer.

  3. Comfort and Privacy: Recovering from surgery or illness is easier in a comfortable environment. Private hospitals typically offer private en-suite rooms, more flexible visiting hours, and other home comforts that can make a significant difference to your experience.

  4. Access to Specialist Treatments: In some cases, PMI can provide access to drugs, treatments, or surgical techniques that may not be routinely available on the NHS due to funding or other restrictions.

  5. Peace of Mind: For many retirees, the simple knowledge that a plan is in place provides invaluable peace of mind. It removes the "what if" worry, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement.

The Reality of NHS Waiting Times for Over 65s

To understand the value of PMI, it's helpful to look at the current landscape of the NHS. While the care provided is excellent, the system is under immense strain.

According to the latest NHS England data (as of early 2025), the situation is challenging:

  • The total waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at several million patients.
  • A significant number of these patients have been waiting for over a year for treatment.
  • The median waiting time for treatment can be several months.

Let's consider procedures common in the over-65 age group:

ProcedureTypical NHS Wait (Illustrative)Typical PMI Wait (Illustrative)
Hip Replacement9-18 months4-6 weeks
Knee Replacement9-18 months4-6 weeks
Cataract Surgery6-12 months3-5 weeks
Hernia Repair6-12 months3-5 weeks

Note: These are illustrative timeframes. NHS waits vary significantly by region and trust. PMI waits depend on diagnosis and consultant availability.

For someone in their late 60s or 70s suffering from the daily pain of a worn-out hip, the difference between waiting over a year and being treated within two months is life-changing. It's the difference between a year of immobility and pain versus a year of activity and freedom.

The Big Question: How Much Does PMI Cost for Over 65s?

This is the crucial question for anyone on a retirement budget. Premiums for health insurance increase with age, as the statistical likelihood of needing to claim rises.

Several factors will determine your final premium:

  • Age: This is the biggest factor. Premiums rise sharply after 65.
  • Location: Costs are higher in areas with more expensive private hospitals, such as Central London.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with full outpatient cover will cost more than a basic plan covering only inpatient treatment.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your premium.
  • Hospital List: Choosing a plan with a limited list of approved hospitals is cheaper than one offering nationwide choice.
  • Underwriting: The method the insurer uses to assess your health history.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums for Retirees

The table below gives a rough idea of what you might expect to pay. These are for illustrative purposes only and can vary widely between insurers and based on your personal circumstances.

AgeBasic Cover (High Excess)Mid-Range CoverComprehensive Cover
65£90 - £140£160 - £220£250 - £350+
70£120 - £180£200 - £280£300 - £420+
75£160 - £250£250 - £350£380 - £550+

An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can search the market to find a policy that balances your budget with the level of cover you need, ensuring you get the best possible value.

How to Manage and Reduce the Cost of Your PMI Policy

While premiums for over 65s are higher, there are several smart ways to make your private health cover more affordable.

  1. Increase Your Excess: This is the most effective way to cut costs. Opting for an excess of £500 or £1,000 could reduce your premium by 20-40%. You only pay this if you make a claim.

  2. The '6-Week Wait' Option: This is a popular and cost-effective choice. With this option, if the NHS can treat you for an eligible condition within six weeks, you'll use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your PMI policy kicks in. This provides a safety net against long delays while keeping premiums down.

  3. Select a Limited Hospital List: If you don't need access to expensive central London hospitals, choosing a plan with a more restricted regional or national list of quality hospitals can lead to significant savings.

  4. Review Your Cover Level: Do you really need full outpatient cover? A plan that just covers inpatient treatment (tests and surgery once you're admitted to hospital) is much cheaper. You could choose to pay for initial consultations yourself and use the insurance for the major expense of the surgery.

  5. Use an Independent Broker: A specialist broker doesn't just sell you a policy; they provide expert advice. At WeCovr, we compare plans from a wide range of leading UK insurers to find the one that best fits your needs and budget, all at no extra cost to you.

What Isn't Covered? Key Exclusions to Be Aware Of

Managing your expectations is vital. It's just as important to know what PMI doesn't cover as what it does.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness, disease, or injury you have had symptoms of, received medication for, or sought advice on before your policy start date.
  • Chronic Conditions: As mentioned, long-term conditions like diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, and asthma are not covered.
  • Emergency Services: A&E visits are handled by the NHS.
  • Routine Care: Standard GP visits, dental check-ups, and eye tests.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures that are not medically necessary.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: Though complications may be covered by some plans.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Including those related to substance misuse.

Always read your policy documents carefully to understand the full list of exclusions.

Major UK PMI Providers for Retirees: A Comparison

The UK market has several excellent insurers, each with slightly different strengths. Here's a brief overview of some of the best PMI providers.

ProviderSpecialist Features for Over 65sWellness BenefitsTypical Excess Options
AvivaStrong cancer cover, good range of hospital lists, often competitive on price for older applicants.Stress counselling helpline, get-fit discounts.£100 to £5,000
AXA HealthExcellent mental health support, 'Guided Option' can reduce premiums, strong clinical support team.Access to online GP service, muscle & joint support.£0 to £5,000
BupaWell-known brand with its own network of hospitals & clinics, extensive cancer support, direct access options.Health information line, discounts on gyms and health screenings.£0 to £1,000
VitalityFocuses on rewarding healthy living. Can be very cost-effective if you are active.Points-based system for rewards like cinema tickets and coffee, discounts on fitness trackers.£0 to £1,000

A broker like WeCovr can give you a detailed comparison based on the latest products and your personal requirements.

Beyond Insurance: Embracing a Healthy Retirement

While insurance provides a safety net, the best strategy is always to proactively manage your health. A healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of developing many conditions and improve your overall quality of life.

  • Stay Active: Gentle, regular exercise is key. Walking, swimming, bowls, or yoga can improve mobility, strength, and mood. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also crucial. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you track your diet effortlessly.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Good quality sleep is vital for physical and mental repair. Aim for 7-8 hours per night and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
  • Stay Socially Connected: Loneliness can have a significant impact on health. Make time for friends, family, and community groups.
  • Keep Your Mind Active: Reading, puzzles, learning a new skill, or volunteering can help keep your brain sharp.
  • Consider Other Protections: If you plan to travel, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers your age and any pre-existing conditions. Customers who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr often receive discounts on other types of cover.

Is PMI Worth It for You? A Personal Decision Framework

Ultimately, this is a personal choice based on your priorities and financial situation. Ask yourself these questions:

  1. Finances: Can I comfortably afford the monthly premiums without compromising my quality of life?
  2. Priorities: How important is it for me to receive treatment quickly if I become ill? Am I willing to wait on the NHS?
  3. Peace of Mind: Would having a policy in place reduce my anxiety about potential health issues?
  4. Health History: Am I in relatively good health now, with few pre-existing conditions that would be excluded anyway?
  5. Location: What are the NHS waiting times like in my local area?

If fast access, choice, and comfort are high on your list of priorities and the premiums fit within your retirement budget, then PMI can be an extremely valuable investment in your future wellbeing.

How WeCovr Can Help You Navigate Your Options

Choosing the right private medical insurance can feel overwhelming. That's where we come in.

WeCovr is an independent, FCA-authorised insurance broker with deep expertise in the UK health insurance market. Our service is designed to make your life easier:

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We work for you, not the insurers. We'll listen to your needs and help you understand your options in plain English.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We compare policies and prices from a wide panel of the UK's leading insurers to find the best fit for you.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: We pride ourselves on our service, which is reflected in our high customer satisfaction ratings.

Let us do the hard work of sifting through the options, so you can make a confident choice and get back to enjoying your retirement.


Do I need to declare my pre-existing conditions when applying for PMI?

Yes, absolutely. You must be completely honest about your medical history. Failing to declare a pre-existing condition can invalidate your policy, meaning the insurer could refuse to pay for a claim. Standard PMI policies do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions; they are for new, acute conditions that arise after you join.

Is it too late to get private health cover if I'm already over 70 or 75?

No, it's not too late. While some insurers have upper age limits for new applicants (often around 80 or 85), many have no limit at all. Premiums will be higher, but cover is certainly still available. Using a broker like WeCovr is the best way to find insurers who specialise in cover for older applicants.

Can I switch my private medical insurance provider in retirement?

Yes, you can switch providers, and it's a good idea to review your cover annually to ensure you're getting the best value. When switching, you can often do so on a 'Continued Medical Exclusions' (CME) basis. This means the new insurer will carry over the same exclusions you had on your old policy, ensuring you don't lose cover for conditions that have developed while you were insured.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Take the first step towards securing your peace of mind. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and a friendly chat with one of our PMI specialists. We'll help you compare the UK's leading providers and find the right cover for your needs and budget.


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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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