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Scoliosis Explained

Scoliosis Explained 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

WeCovr explains scoliosis, treatments, and PMI support

Understanding scoliosis can feel overwhelming, whether you’re a parent concerned about your child or an adult navigating a recent diagnosis. As FCA-authorised private medical insurance brokers in the UK who have helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we at WeCovr know that clear, expert guidance is crucial. This article explains what scoliosis is, the treatments available, and how private health cover might play a role in your healthcare journey.

What is Scoliosis? A Clear UK Perspective

In simple terms, scoliosis is a condition where the spine twists and curves sideways. Instead of being straight, a spine with scoliosis might look more like the letter 'C' or 'S'. It's not caused by bad posture, carrying heavy bags, or sleeping on your side. For most people, the cause is unknown.

According to the NHS, scoliosis affects people of all ages but most often starts in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15. It's estimated that around 3 to 4 in every 1,000 children in the UK will require treatment for the condition.

There are several types of scoliosis, each with a different cause:

  • Idiopathic Scoliosis: This is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. 'Idiopathic' simply means the cause is unknown. It often runs in families, suggesting a genetic link.
  • Congenital Scoliosis: This type is rare and occurs when the spine doesn't form properly before birth.
  • Neuromuscular Scoliosis: This is caused by an underlying nerve or muscle condition, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
  • Degenerative Scoliosis: This type affects adults and is caused by the wear and tear of the spinal discs and joints that comes with age.

Recognising the Signs: Scoliosis Symptoms in Children and Adults

One of the challenges with scoliosis is that it often develops gradually and is painless in its early stages. This is why school screening programmes used to be common, and why parents are often the first to notice subtle changes in their child's posture.

Key signs to look out for include:

  • A visibly curved spine.
  • Leaning to one side.
  • Uneven shoulders, with one sitting higher than the other.
  • One shoulder blade sticking out more prominently than the other.
  • An uneven waist or one hip appearing higher.
  • Clothes that don't seem to hang properly.

In adults, the symptoms might be more pronounced and can include:

  • Persistent back pain.
  • Stiffness in the back.
  • Numbness, weakness, or pain in the legs due to pressure on the nerves.
  • Loss of height.
  • In rare, severe cases, the rib cage can press against the heart and lungs, causing breathing difficulties.

The Diagnosis Pathway: From Your GP to Specialist

If you suspect you or your child may have scoliosis, the first step is to visit your GP. The diagnostic process in the UK typically follows a clear path, whether through the NHS or using private medical insurance.

  1. Initial GP Consultation: Your GP will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any family history of spinal conditions.
  2. Physical Examination: The GP will likely perform a physical check, including the Adam's Forward Bend Test. This involves you bending forward from the waist with your feet together and arms hanging down. From this position, any asymmetry in the spine or rib cage becomes more obvious.
  3. Specialist Referral: If the GP suspects scoliosis, they will refer you to an orthopaedic specialist or a spinal surgeon for a full assessment. With private health cover, this referral can often be arranged very quickly.
  4. Imaging Scans: The specialist will use imaging to confirm the diagnosis and measure the severity of the curve.
    • X-ray: This is the standard method used to get a clear picture of the spine. The specialist will measure the curve on the X-ray using the Cobb angle.
    • MRI or CT Scans: These may be used if the doctor suspects an underlying cause, such as a spinal cord issue, or to get a more detailed view before surgery.

Understanding the Cobb Angle

The Cobb angle is the standard measurement used to determine the severity of a spinal curve. It helps doctors decide on the best course of treatment.

Cobb Angle MeasurementSeverityCommon Treatment Approach
10° to 24°Mild ScoliosisObservation, monitoring, and sometimes physiotherapy.
25° to 49°Moderate ScoliosisBracing (in growing children) and specific exercises.
50° or moreSevere ScoliosisSurgery is often recommended.

Scoliosis Treatment in the UK: A Comparison of NHS and Private Options

The goal of scoliosis treatment is to stop the curve from getting worse, correct or stabilise the spine, and reduce any pain or discomfort. The approach depends on the patient's age, the severity of the curve, and how much growing they still have left to do.

Standard Treatment Pathways

Whether you choose NHS or private care, the core clinical treatments are based on the same evidence-based principles.

  • Observation: For mild curves (under 25°), especially in children who have finished growing, the most common approach is a 'watch and wait' strategy. This involves regular check-ups and X-rays (perhaps every 6-12 months) to monitor for any changes.
  • Bracing: For moderate curves in children who are still growing, a custom-made back brace may be recommended. The brace is worn for a set number of hours each day to hold the spine in a straighter position and prevent the curve from progressing. It doesn't correct the existing curve but can be very effective at stopping it from getting worse.
  • Specialised Physiotherapy: Specific exercise programmes, such as the Schroth Method, are designed to de-rotate, elongate, and stabilise the spine in a three-dimensional plane. These exercises can help improve posture, reduce pain, and increase core stability.
  • Surgery (Spinal Fusion): For severe curves (typically over 50°) or curves that are progressing rapidly, surgery is often the recommended option. Spinal fusion involves straightening the spine with metal rods, hooks, and screws, and then fusing vertebrae together with bone grafts to create a single, solid bone. This permanently corrects the curve and prevents it from getting worse.

NHS vs. Private Care: What's the Difference?

While the medical treatments are similar, using private medical insurance can offer a significantly different experience. The main advantages lie in speed, choice, and comfort.

FeatureNHS CarePrivate Care (with PMI)
Referral TimeWaiting lists for specialist appointments can be several months long.Referrals are typically much faster, often within days or weeks.
Choice of SpecialistYou will be seen by the consultant on duty at your local NHS trust.You can choose your preferred specialist and hospital from a list provided by your insurer.
DiagnosticsStandard NHS waiting times apply for X-rays and MRI scans.Fast-track access to diagnostic scans, getting you a diagnosis and treatment plan sooner.
Treatment AccessNHS waiting lists for surgery can be extensive, sometimes exceeding a year.Surgery can be scheduled promptly at a time that suits you.
Facilities & ComfortRecovery is usually on a shared ward.You can recover in a private room, often with an ensuite bathroom, better food, and more flexible visiting hours.
TherapiesAccess to NHS physiotherapy may be limited.Generous cover for physiotherapy, osteopathy, and other therapies is often included.
CostFree at the point of use.Covered by your insurance policy, subject to your monthly premium and any chosen excess.

Can Private Medical Insurance Cover Scoliosis? The Important Rules

This is the most critical question for many families, and the answer requires a clear understanding of how insurance works in the UK. The fundamental principle of private medical insurance UK is that it is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.

An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. In contrast, a chronic condition is one that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and needs ongoing management.

Crucially, scoliosis is classified as a chronic condition.

The Rule of Pre-existing Conditions

Furthermore, all standard PMI policies exclude pre-existing conditions. This means any medical condition for which you have had symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment before the start date of your policy will not be covered.

Here’s how this applies to scoliosis:

  • If you or your child has already been diagnosed with scoliosis (or even just had symptoms of it) before taking out a policy, it will be excluded from cover.

This is true regardless of the type of underwriting you choose:

  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You declare your entire medical history upfront. The insurer would see the scoliosis diagnosis and place a permanent exclusion on it and any related conditions.
  • Moratorium Underwriting: You don't declare your history, but the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last five years. For a chronic condition like scoliosis, which requires ongoing monitoring or management, it is highly unlikely that it would ever become eligible for cover, even after the initial two-year symptom-free period required by the moratorium.

When Can PMI Help with Scoliosis?

There is one key scenario where a private health cover policy can be invaluable.

If you take out a private medical insurance policy before any signs, symptoms, or diagnosis of scoliosis, and the condition then develops after the policy has begun, it would be considered a new condition.

In this case, your PMI policy would typically cover:

  • The initial specialist consultations.
  • All diagnostic tests like X-rays and MRIs.
  • Treatment, whether that's bracing, specialist physiotherapy, or surgery.

This is why many parents choose to take out family private medical insurance early on. It provides peace of mind that should a condition like scoliosis develop unexpectedly, they can access the best care quickly without worrying about waiting lists or costs. The expert team at WeCovr can help you compare policies from the best PMI providers to find comprehensive cover for your family's future health needs.

Living Well with Scoliosis: Practical Tips for Daily Life

A scoliosis diagnosis doesn't mean you have to stop living a full and active life. With the right management and lifestyle adjustments, you can effectively manage your symptoms and maintain your wellbeing.

Exercise and Staying Active

Exercise is vital for managing scoliosis. It helps strengthen the core muscles that support the spine, improves flexibility, and can reduce pain.

  • Recommended Activities: Swimming, Pilates, and yoga are excellent low-impact options. They focus on core strength, balance, and posture.
  • Core Strengthening: Exercises like planks, bird-dog, and glute bridges help stabilise the muscles around your spine.
  • Professional Guidance: Always consult with your doctor or a physiotherapist before starting a new exercise regime. They can recommend specific movements that are safe and beneficial for your particular curve.

Diet, Nutrition, and Wellness

A healthy diet supports bone health and can help manage inflammation.

  • Bone Health: Ensure you get enough Calcium and Vitamin D, which are crucial for strong bones. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy greens (like kale), and fortified foods. Vitamin D is primarily synthesised from sunlight, but can also be found in oily fish and eggs.
  • Anti-inflammatory Foods: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats (like those in olive oil and avocados) can help reduce inflammation and potentially ease back pain.
  • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on your back and joints. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie tracking app, to help you manage your nutritional goals.

Ergonomics and Daily Posture

Small changes to your daily environment can make a big difference.

  • Workstation Setup: If you work at a desk, ensure your chair is supportive, your screen is at eye level, and your feet are flat on the floor. Take regular breaks to stand and stretch.
  • Sleeping Position: Many experts recommend sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees, or on your side with a pillow between your knees, to keep your spine aligned. A firm, supportive mattress is also important.
  • Lifting: When lifting objects, always bend at your knees, not your waist, and keep the object close to your body.

How to Choose the Best Private Medical Insurance UK

If you're considering PMI to protect your family's future health, it's important to choose a policy that offers the right level of cover. As an independent PMI broker, WeCovr helps thousands of clients navigate this choice at no cost to them. We compare the whole market to find a plan that suits your budget and needs.

Here are key features to consider:

  • Outpatient Cover: This is essential. It pays for initial consultations and diagnostic tests. Without it, you would have to pay for these yourself or wait for an NHS appointment before your private treatment could begin.
  • Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A comprehensive list gives you more choice over where you receive treatment.
  • Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium, but you need to be comfortable paying it if you make a claim.
  • Therapies Cover: Check that the policy includes cover for therapies like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, as these are vital for managing spinal conditions.

Furthermore, when you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, you may also be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, providing even greater value.

Is scoliosis always excluded from private health insurance?

Generally, yes, if it is a pre-existing condition. UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Because scoliosis is a chronic condition, if you have had any symptoms, advice, or treatment for it before taking out cover, it will be permanently excluded. The only scenario where it might be covered is if it is diagnosed for the first time after your policy is already active.

If my child develops scoliosis after I buy a family PMI policy, will it be covered?

Yes, in this situation, it would almost certainly be covered. As long as there were no signs, symptoms, or consultations relating to scoliosis before the policy's start date, it would be treated as a new condition. The policy would then cover the costs of specialist consultations, diagnostic scans, and any necessary treatment, such as bracing or surgery, in line with your policy's terms.

Can PMI cover physiotherapy for scoliosis?

This depends entirely on when the scoliosis was diagnosed. If it's a pre-existing condition, it (and any related physiotherapy) will be excluded. However, if the scoliosis develops after your policy starts, then a good private medical insurance policy with therapies cover will typically pay for a course of specialised physiotherapy recommended by your specialist.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting for a condition like scoliosis?

With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you declare your full medical history. The insurer would identify the pre-existing scoliosis and apply a permanent exclusion. With Moratorium underwriting, you don't declare your history, but any condition present in the last 5 years is automatically excluded. For a chronic condition like scoliosis that requires ongoing management, it is very unlikely to ever meet the criteria to become covered under a moratorium policy. For this reason, FMU can provide more certainty about what is and isn't covered from day one.

Ready to explore your options for private medical insurance? The expert team at WeCovr is here to provide clear, impartial advice. Get your free, no-obligation quote today and find the right protection for you and your family.

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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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