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Self-Employed and Freelancers Do You Need Private Health Insurance




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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures facing the UK's self-employed. This guide explores if private medical insurance is the right safety net for you. WeCovr explores PMI options for self-employed workers who dont get company benefits For the UK's 4.25 million self-employed workers, freedom and flexibility are paramount.

Key takeaways

  • A graphic designer develops severe back pain, making it impossible to sit at a desk. They need a specialist consultation and an MRI scan to find the cause.
  • A self-employed plumber injures their knee and requires minor surgery. Every week they wait for treatment is a week without income.
  • A freelance consultant needs a hernia operation. The delay means postponing lucrative client projects and risking damage to their professional reputation.
  • Over 3.2 million patients are waiting more than 18 weeks.
  • Almost 300,000 patients are waiting more than 52 weeks (one year) for treatment.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the unique pressures facing the UK's self-employed. This guide explores if private medical insurance is the right safety net for you.

WeCovr explores PMI options for self-employed workers who dont get company benefits

For the UK's 4.25 million self-employed workers, freedom and flexibility are paramount. You are the CEO, the finance department, and the chief coffee maker. But this autonomy comes with a trade-off: there's no safety net. No sick pay, no company-sponsored benefits, and no one to cover your workload if you fall ill.

When your income is directly tied to your ability to work, your health isn't just a personal matter—it's your most critical business asset. An unexpected illness or injury can mean more than just a health scare; it can lead to project delays, lost clients, and significant financial strain.

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) comes in. It's a policy designed to work alongside the NHS, offering you a fast-track route to diagnosis and treatment for acute medical conditions. For a freelancer or sole trader, this isn't a luxury; it's a strategic tool for business continuity.

The Stark Reality: Why Your Health is Your Greatest Business Asset

The core principle of being self-employed is simple: if you don't work, you don't get paid. Unlike an employee who benefits from Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and potentially a generous company sick pay scheme, a freelancer's income stops the moment they are unable to work.

Consider these scenarios:

  • A graphic designer develops severe back pain, making it impossible to sit at a desk. They need a specialist consultation and an MRI scan to find the cause.
  • A self-employed plumber injures their knee and requires minor surgery. Every week they wait for treatment is a week without income.
  • A freelance consultant needs a hernia operation. The delay means postponing lucrative client projects and risking damage to their professional reputation.

In each case, the primary obstacle isn't just the health condition itself, but the time it takes to get treatment. This is where the current pressures on the NHS become a direct business risk.

NHS Waiting Lists: A Growing Concern for UK Workers

The National Health Service is a national treasure, providing exceptional care to millions. However, it is currently facing unprecedented demand. According to the latest NHS England statistics, the total waiting list for routine consultant-led elective care stood at around 7.54 million in early 2025.

Of those on the list, a significant number are waiting for extended periods:

  • Over 3.2 million patients are waiting more than 18 weeks.
  • Almost 300,000 patients are waiting more than 52 weeks (one year) for treatment.

For a self-employed individual, a wait of 18 weeks, let alone a year, can be financially catastrophic. Private medical insurance is designed to bypass these queues, giving you access to prompt diagnosis and treatment in a private facility, often within weeks.

What Does Private Medical Insurance for the Self-Employed Cover?

Understanding what PMI does—and doesn't—cover is essential. It's not a replacement for the NHS but rather a complementary service for specific situations.

The Golden Rule: PMI covers acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of cataracts, joint replacements, hernias, or diagnosing unexplained symptoms.
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Core Components of a PMI Policy

Your private health cover is built from a core foundation with optional extras. This allows you to tailor the policy to your specific needs and budget.

  1. In-patient and Day-patient Treatment (Core Cover)

    • In-patient: This covers you when you are admitted to a hospital and stay overnight for treatment, such as for surgery. It includes costs like the hospital room, surgeons' fees, anaesthetist fees, and nursing care.
    • Day-patient: This is for when you are admitted to a hospital for a planned procedure but do not need to stay overnight. Many minor surgical procedures fall into this category.

  2. Out-patient Cover (Optional Add-on) This is one of the most important and flexible parts of a policy. It covers diagnostic tests and consultations that do not require a hospital bed. This includes:

    • Initial consultations with a specialist.
    • Diagnostic scans like MRI, CT, and PET scans.
    • Pathology tests (blood tests).
    • Follow-up consultations.

    You can choose a full-cover option or set a financial limit (e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500 per year) to make your premium more affordable.

What is Typically Excluded from a Standard PMI Policy?

It’s crucial to be aware of the standard exclusions found in most UK PMI policies:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical condition for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment before the policy start date. (More on this below).
  • Chronic Conditions: As mentioned, long-term management is not covered.
  • Emergency Services: A&E visits, ambulance services, and immediate trauma care remain the domain of the NHS.
  • Normal Pregnancy & Childbirth: While complications might be covered, routine maternity care is not.
  • Cosmetic Surgery: Unless it's reconstructive surgery required after an accident or illness covered by the policy.
  • Self-inflicted Injuries: Including those related to substance abuse.
  • Dental and Optical: These are usually offered as a separate add-on or a health cash plan.

Understanding Underwriting: The Key to Pre-Existing Conditions

When you apply for PMI, the insurer needs to know about your medical history to decide what they can cover. This process is called underwriting. For the self-employed, choosing the right type of underwriting is a key decision.

There are two main types:

Underwriting TypeHow It WorksProsCons
Moratorium (Most Common)You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining.Quick and easy to set up. No medical forms.Less certainty at the start. Claims can be slower as the insurer needs to check your medical history then.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews it and tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one.Provides complete clarity from the start. Faster claims process as exclusions are pre-agreed.Application process is longer. Exclusions are permanent unless you request a review.

The Moratorium "Two-Year Rule": With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition can become eligible for cover later on. If you go for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts without having any symptoms, treatment, medication, or advice for that specific condition, it may no longer be considered pre-existing and could be covered in the future.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you decide which underwriting method is best for your personal circumstances.

How to Make Private Health Insurance Affordable on a Freelancer's Budget

The idea of another monthly outgoing can be daunting when you have a variable income. However, PMI is highly customisable, and there are several levers you can pull to design a policy that protects your health without breaking the bank.

  1. Choose Your Excess Level An excess is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim you make. It's paid once per policy year, per person. The higher your excess, the lower your monthly premium.

    • Example: You have a £250 excess. Your private surgery costs £4,000. You pay the first £250, and your insurer pays the remaining £3,750.
    • Cost-saving tip: Increasing your excess from £100 to £500 can reduce your premium by as much as 20-30%.

  2. Select a Guided Hospital List Insurers have different lists of private hospitals where you can receive treatment. These are often tiered:

    • Premium List: Includes top-tier private hospitals, often in Central London. This is the most expensive option.
    • National List: A comprehensive list of quality private hospitals across the UK.
    • Guided or Local List: A more restricted list of hospitals, which can significantly lower your premium. You still get excellent care, just with less choice of location.

  3. Use the "6-Week Wait" Option This is one of the most popular and effective ways to reduce your costs.

    • How it works: If you need in-patient or day-patient treatment, you first check the NHS waiting list for that procedure. If the NHS can treat you within six weeks, you use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in immediately.
    • The Benefit: Since you are still using the NHS for shorter waits, the risk to the insurer is lower, and they pass this saving on to you through a much lower premium. It's a pragmatic balance between cost and speed of access.

  4. Limit Your Out-patient Cover As out-patient diagnostics are a major driver of claims costs, limiting this cover is a powerful cost-control tool. Instead of "full cover," you could opt for a limit of £1,000 per year. This is often enough to cover a consultation and a key scan (like an MRI), which is the main bottleneck in the diagnostic process.

By combining these options, a healthy 40-year-old freelancer could build a robust policy for a manageable monthly fee.

Cost-Saving TacticPotential Premium ReductionBest For Freelancers Who...
Increase Excess to £50020-30%Are happy to contribute a manageable amount towards a claim.
Choose a Guided Hospital List15-25%Prioritise cost over having the widest choice of hospitals.
Add a 6-Week Wait Option25-40%Want a safety net for long waits but are happy to use the NHS if it's quick.
Limit Out-patient Cover10-20%Mainly want PMI to cover the big costs of surgery and diagnostics.

Is Self-Employed Health Insurance Tax Deductible in the UK?

This is a critical question for any business owner. The answer depends entirely on your business structure.

For Sole Traders and Partnerships

Unfortunately, for sole traders, private medical insurance is not typically an allowable business expense. HMRC considers it a personal benefit, as your personal health is not deemed "wholly and exclusively" for the purposes of your trade. The cost must be paid from your post-tax income.

For Limited Company Directors

If you run your own limited company, the situation is different.

  • The company can pay for your PMI policy. This is treated as a legitimate business expense, just like staff training or software subscriptions.
  • The cost is tax-deductible for the company. This means the premium cost can be offset against the company's profits, reducing its Corporation Tax bill.

The Catch: Benefit in Kind (P11D) While the company gets tax relief, the health insurance is considered a "benefit in kind" for the director receiving it. This means:

  1. The director will have to pay personal income tax on the value of the benefit (the cost of the premium). This will be declared on their self-assessment tax return.
  2. The company will have to pay Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the value of the premium. The rate for 2024/25 is 13.8%.

Even with the personal tax liability, it can still be more tax-efficient for the company to pay than for the director to pay personally from their post-tax salary or dividends.

Here is a simplified summary:

Business StructureCan the Business Pay?Is it a Tax-Deductible Expense for the Business?Is it a Taxable Benefit for the Individual?
Sole TraderNo (must be paid personally)NoN/A
Limited CompanyYesYes (reduces Corporation Tax)Yes (Director pays Income Tax, Company pays Class 1A NICs)

Comparing the UK's Best Private Health Insurance Providers

The UK PMI market is competitive, with several excellent providers offering a range of policies. While the "best" provider is subjective and depends on your individual needs, here are the main players you'll encounter.

ProviderKey Strengths & FocusIndicative Trustpilot Score (2025)
AvivaOne of the UK's largest insurers. Offers a strong core product with clear, comprehensive options. Well-regarded for its straightforward claims process.4.4 / 5.0
AXA HealthA global insurance giant with a focus on a proactive approach to health. Strong mental health support and access to a wide hospital network.4.3 / 5.0
BupaThe most recognised brand in UK health insurance. Offers direct access to its own Bupa Cromwell Hospital and an extensive network of partner facilities.4.1 / 5.0
VitalityUnique in its focus on rewarding healthy living. You earn points and discounts for being active, which can reduce your premium and give you perks like free cinema tickets.4.2 / 5.0
The ExeterA Friendly Society owned by its members, not shareholders. Known for excellent customer service and considering members with more complex health histories.4.7 / 5.0

Navigating the subtle differences in policy wording, hospital lists, and optional benefits between these providers can be complex. This is where using an independent PMI broker is invaluable. WeCovr provides impartial, whole-of-market advice to find the policy that truly fits your needs as a self-employed professional, at no extra cost to you.

A Holistic Approach: Protecting More Than Just Your Health

For a freelancer, a comprehensive safety net goes beyond just paying for treatment. It's about protecting your income and promoting your overall wellbeing to prevent illness in the first place.

Income Protection Insurance: The Other Side of the Coin

While PMI pays for your medical bills, Income Protection Insurance pays you. If you're unable to work due to any illness or injury (not just acute ones), this policy provides a regular, tax-free monthly income until you can return to work.

For a self-employed person, a combination of PMI (to get you treated faster) and Income Protection (to pay your bills while you recover) is the ultimate financial defence.

WeCovr's Added Value: Proactive Wellbeing

We believe in proactive health management. That's why clients who purchase Private Medical or Life Insurance through WeCovr receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a simple, effective tool to help you manage your diet and energy levels—crucial for maintaining the stamina needed for self-employment.

Furthermore, our clients often benefit from discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a complete portfolio of protection in the most cost-effective way.

Simple Wellness Tips for the Busy Freelancer

  • Move Every Hour: Set a timer to get up, stretch, and walk around. Combating a sedentary work life is vital.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Lack of sleep kills productivity and weakens your immune system. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
  • Block Out "Life Admin": Schedule time for exercise, meal prep, and relaxation just as you would a client meeting.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause headaches and fatigue. Keep a water bottle on your desk at all times.
  • Acknowledge Mental Strain: Self-employment can be isolating. Stay connected with other freelancers, friends, and family. Don't hesitate to consider a PMI policy with a mental health add-on for professional support if you need it.

Is Private Health Insurance the Right Choice for You?

For the self-employed and freelancers in the UK, private medical insurance is far more than a perk. It's a strategic investment in your continued ability to earn. It provides peace of mind, control over your healthcare, and a swift route back to work.

By understanding how to tailor a policy to your budget—using tools like a higher excess, a 6-week wait option, and a guided hospital list—you can secure robust protection for a manageable cost.

The key is to get expert advice. An independent broker can demystify the jargon, compare the market on your behalf, and build a policy that aligns perfectly with your personal health needs and professional imperatives.


Can I get private health insurance if I already have a medical condition?

Yes, you can, but it's important to understand how it works. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It will not cover pre-existing conditions you've had recently. If you choose 'moratorium' underwriting, any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the 5 years prior to joining will be excluded, but may become eligible for cover if you then go 2 years symptom-free after your policy starts. With 'full medical underwriting', you declare your conditions upfront, and the insurer will explicitly state what is excluded from day one.

Is private health insurance worth it for a young, healthy freelancer?

Many young, healthy freelancers find it highly valuable for two main reasons. Firstly, accidents and unexpected acute illnesses can happen to anyone at any age. A sports injury requiring knee surgery or the need to diagnose sudden, severe stomach pain could still lead to a long wait on the NHS, meaning significant time off work. Secondly, the premiums are at their lowest when you are young and healthy, making it an affordable time to lock in comprehensive cover. It provides peace of mind, ensuring a health issue doesn't derail your career just as it's getting started.

How much does private health insurance for a self-employed person typically cost?

The cost of a private medical insurance UK policy varies widely based on several factors: your age, your location, the level of cover you choose, your excess, and the hospital list you select. However, as a rough guide, a healthy 35-year-old sole trader looking for a mid-range policy could expect to pay between £40 and £70 per month. A more basic policy with a high excess and a 6-week wait option could be as low as £30 per month, while a fully comprehensive plan for a 50-year-old with a Central London hospital list could be over £120 per month. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote.

Does private medical insurance cover dental and optical care?

Standard private medical insurance policies do not typically cover routine dental check-ups, fillings, eye tests, or glasses. These are usually offered as an optional add-on to your main policy for an extra premium. Alternatively, many people choose a separate health 'cash plan', which is a different type of policy that gives you money back for routine healthcare costs, including dental, optical, and therapies like physiotherapy, up to an annual limit.

Ready to protect your health and your livelihood? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect private health cover for your needs and budget, giving you the peace of mind to focus on what you do best: running your business.

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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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