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Six Week Wait Option How Does It Affect Premiums and Care

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 20, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in demystifying private medical insurance for UK consumers. The six-week wait option is a popular feature that significantly impacts premiums, but it's crucial to understand the trade-offs before choosing it for your policy.

Key takeaways

  • Explain Your Options in Plain English: We'll demystify terms like the six-week wait, hospital lists, and excess levels, ensuring you understand exactly what you're buying.
  • Compare the Market for You: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from a wide range of the best PMI providers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
  • Tailor a Policy to You: We take the time to understand your priorities—whether it's cost, speed, choice, or a balance of all three—and recommend a policy to match.
  • Offer Ongoing Support: Our service doesn't end once you buy a policy. We're here to help if you have questions or need to make a claim.
  • However, comprehensive cover can feel expensive.

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr specialises in demystifying private medical insurance for UK consumers. The six-week wait option is a popular feature that significantly impacts premiums, but it's crucial to understand the trade-offs before choosing it for your policy.

Private medical insurance (PMI) offers a reassuring alternative to potentially long NHS waiting lists, giving you fast access to high-quality care. However, comprehensive cover can feel expensive. This is where the "six-week wait" option comes in—a clever feature designed to make private health cover more affordable.

But what exactly is it? In short, it’s a clause in your policy that means you’ll use the NHS for in-patient treatment if the waiting list is less than six weeks. If the wait is longer, your private insurance kicks in. This article will break down everything you need to know: how it works, the significant cost savings, the potential downsides, and whether it’s the right choice for your health and your wallet.

What Exactly is the Six-Week Wait Option?

Think of the six-week wait option as a smart compromise. It builds a bridge between the excellent, free-at-the-point-of-use care of the NHS and the speed and choice offered by the private sector.

Here’s the simple definition:

If you need eligible in-patient or day-patient treatment, and the NHS waiting list for that specific procedure is six weeks or longer, your private medical insurance policy will cover you. If the NHS can treat you in under six weeks, you will use the NHS for your care.

This option effectively acts as a safety net. You rely on the NHS when it's operating efficiently for your required treatment, but you have the peace of mind that your private cover will activate if you're facing a lengthy delay.

A Simple Example:

Imagine your GP refers you to a specialist for a hernia repair.

  • Without the 6-week wait: You contact your insurer, get authorisation, and book your treatment at a private hospital, likely within a couple of weeks.
  • With the 6-week wait: You must first find out the official NHS waiting time for that procedure at your local hospital.
    • If the waiting list is four weeks, you will have your surgery on the NHS.
    • If the waiting list is ten weeks, you can provide this evidence to your insurer, who will then authorise your treatment in a private facility.

It’s crucial to remember a fundamental rule of private medical insurance in the UK: it is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already had or had symptoms of) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management rather than a cure).

How Does the Six-Week Wait Option Reduce Your Premiums?

The logic behind the cost saving is simple: risk reduction for the insurer.

By agreeing to use the NHS for shorter waits, you are reducing the likelihood that your insurance provider will have to pay for your treatment. The insurer’s potential financial outlay is lower, and they pass a portion of these savings on to you in the form of a lower monthly or annual premium.

The discount can be substantial, often reducing your premium by 20% to 30%. For many individuals and families, this reduction is the key that unlocks access to an otherwise unaffordable level of private health cover.

Let's look at how this might play out in practice. The figures below are illustrative, as your actual premium depends on age, location, lifestyle, and level of cover.

Policy FeatureStandard Comprehensive PMIPMI with 6-Week Wait
Typical Monthly Premium (40-year-old)£85£60
Potential Annual Saving-£300
Who Pays for Treatment (NHS wait < 6 weeks)Insurer (Your Choice)NHS
Who Pays for Treatment (NHS wait > 6 weeks)InsurerInsurer

As you can see, the annual saving can easily run into hundreds of pounds, making it a very attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

The Pros: Key Advantages of Choosing a Six-Week Wait

Opting for a six-week wait clause on your private health cover comes with several compelling benefits.

  1. Significant Premium Reduction: This is the number one reason people choose it. A saving of 20-30% can make the difference between having basic cover and comprehensive cover, or even having any cover at all. It puts high-quality private medical insurance within reach for more people.

  2. The 'Best of Both Worlds' Approach: You get to leverage the strengths of both the UK's healthcare systems. When the NHS is quick and efficient for your needs, you use it at no cost. When it’s facing delays, your private policy acts as a fast-track pass, ensuring you get the treatment you need without a long, anxious wait.

  3. A Powerful Safety Net: The primary fear for many people considering their healthcare is being stuck on a waiting list for months, potentially in pain or unable to work. The six-week wait option completely removes the risk of a very long wait for eligible treatments. This peace of mind is invaluable.

  4. Avoids 'Over-Insuring': Why pay a premium for the ability to go private for a procedure the NHS could perform in a similar timeframe? This option ensures you’re only paying for the benefit when you truly need it—to bypass significant delays.

  5. Often Unused but Always There: For many common procedures, NHS waits can be shorter than six weeks in some areas. This means you might never actually use the private element of your policy for treatment. However, you've paid a lower premium all along for the security of knowing it was there if the wait had been longer.

The Cons: Potential Downsides and What to Consider

While the cost savings are tempting, the six-week wait is not without its drawbacks. It's a trade-off, and you need to be comfortable with what you're giving up.

  1. Loss of Immediate Choice: With a standard policy, the decision to go private is yours. With a six-week wait option, that choice is removed. If the NHS wait is five weeks and six days, you must use the NHS. You lose the autonomy to say, "I'd rather pay my excess and go privately next week."

  2. The "Wait to Find Out the Wait": There's an element of administrative and emotional friction. Before your insurer can act, you first need to get a confirmed waiting time from the NHS. This can involve phone calls and letters, adding a layer of uncertainty at a time when you may already be feeling unwell and anxious.

  3. The "Postcode Lottery" is Real: NHS waiting times are not uniform across the country. They vary dramatically based on the hospital, the specific department, the procedure required, and the region you live in. A four-week wait in Manchester could be a 14-week wait in Cornwall for the exact same operation. This makes the outcome of your six-week clause highly unpredictable.

  4. It Doesn't Apply to Everything: This is a critical point. The six-week wait condition typically only applies to in-patient or day-patient treatment (i.e., the surgery or procedure itself). It does not usually apply to:

    • Initial diagnostic consultations
    • Scans (MRI, CT, PET)
    • Out-patient therapies
    • Cancer treatment (many policies offer full cancer cover that bypasses the six-week rule)

    Always check the policy details, as this is a common point of confusion. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can clarify exactly what is and isn't included.

A Real-Life Example: Sarah's Knee Surgery Journey

To understand how the six-week wait works in the real world, let's follow the story of Sarah, a 45-year-old teacher from Birmingham with a PMI policy that includes the six-week wait option.

  1. The Injury: Sarah tears the meniscus in her knee while playing tennis—a classic acute injury.
  2. The Referral: Her GP examines her and, after an initial private MRI scan (which her policy covered without a wait condition), confirms she needs arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery. Her GP refers her into the NHS system.
  3. Checking the Wait: Sarah contacts her local NHS Trust and is informed that the waiting list for this specific orthopaedic procedure is currently 14 weeks.
  4. Contacting the Insurer: Sarah calls her private health insurance provider. She provides the letter from the NHS Trust confirming the 14-week wait.
  5. Authorisation: Because 14 weeks is longer than six weeks, her insurer authorises the treatment. They provide her with a list of approved orthopaedic surgeons and private hospitals.
  6. Treatment: Sarah sees a private consultant within a week and has her surgery 10 days later. She is back on her feet and planning her return to work while her name would have still been on the NHS waiting list.

What if the wait had been shorter?

If the NHS waiting list in her area had been only five weeks, Sarah would have remained on that list and had her operation through the NHS. Her private insurance would not have been used for the surgery itself.

Is the Six-Week Wait Option Right for You? Key Questions to Ask

Deciding whether to add this clause to your policy is a personal choice. Here are the key questions to ask yourself:

  • How important is managing cost? If your primary goal is to get the most affordable private medical insurance UK policy possible, the six-week wait is one of the most effective ways to lower your premium.
  • How important is absolute choice and control? If you want the power to choose private treatment no matter what the NHS waiting list is, then this option is not for you. You should opt for a full, unrestricted policy.
  • What are NHS waiting times like in your area? It's worth doing some research. The NHS England website provides data on waiting times by trust and specialty. While this changes, it can give you a general idea of local pressures.
  • What is your tolerance for uncertainty? Are you comfortable with the process of having to confirm the NHS wait before knowing which route your treatment will take? Or would you prefer the certainty of knowing you can go private immediately?

A conversation with an independent expert can be invaluable here. The team at WeCovr can walk you through these scenarios, helping you weigh the pros and cons based on your personal circumstances and budget, all at no cost to you.

Understanding NHS Waiting Times in 2025

To make an informed decision, it helps to have a realistic picture of NHS waiting lists. As of mid-2024, the situation across the UK remains challenging.

According to NHS England statistics, the total waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at around 7.5 million treatment pathways. The official NHS constitution target is for 92% of patients to wait no more than 18 weeks from referral to treatment (RTT). However, for several years this target has been consistently missed on a national level.

This creates a complex picture for the six-week wait option:

  • For many common surgeries (like hip/knee replacements), the wait is almost certain to be well over six weeks, meaning your PMI would likely be triggered.
  • For less complex or more specialised procedures, the waiting times can vary wildly.

This variability is why a table illustrating the "postcode lottery" can be so helpful. The times below are for illustrative purposes but reflect the kind of variation you might see.

Treatment TypeNHS Trust A (Major City)NHS Trust B (Smaller Town)Is 6-Week Wait Triggered?
Hip Replacement24 weeks18 weeksYes (in both cases)
Cataract Surgery9 weeks5 weeksYes (Trust A), No (Trust B)
Gallbladder Removal12 weeks7 weeksYes (in both cases)
Hernia Repair8 weeks4 weeksYes (Trust A), No (Trust B)

This demonstrates that the value you get from your six-week wait clause can depend entirely on where you live and the specific treatment you need.

How WeCovr Can Help You Navigate Your Options

Choosing the right private health cover can feel like navigating a maze of jargon, clauses, and options. The six-week wait is just one of many choices you'll face. This is where an independent PMI broker provides immense value.

At WeCovr, our job is to make the complex simple. Our team of friendly experts can:

  • Explain Your Options in Plain English: We'll demystify terms like the six-week wait, hospital lists, and excess levels, ensuring you understand exactly what you're buying.
  • Compare the Market for You: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from a wide range of the best PMI providers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
  • Tailor a Policy to You: We take the time to understand your priorities—whether it's cost, speed, choice, or a balance of all three—and recommend a policy to match.
  • Offer Ongoing Support: Our service doesn't end once you buy a policy. We're here to help if you have questions or need to make a claim.

We are proud of our high customer satisfaction ratings, which reflect our commitment to providing clear, impartial, and helpful advice. On top of this, when you purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr, we offer complimentary access to our AI-powered diet and calorie tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your wellness goals, as well as discounts on other insurance products you may need.

Beyond the Six-Week Wait: Other Ways to Manage PMI Premiums

The six-week wait is a powerful tool for cost control, but it's not the only one. If you want to reduce your premiums further, or if the six-week wait isn't right for you, consider these other options:

  • Increase Your Excess: The excess is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. For example, if you have a £250 excess and your treatment costs £4,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the rest. Choosing a higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your premium.
  • Choose a Guided Hospital List: Most insurers offer different tiers of hospital access. A nationwide list including prime London hospitals is the most expensive. Opting for a more limited or "guided" list of high-quality hospitals can result in major savings.
  • Add a Co-payment Clause: This involves you paying a percentage of the treatment cost (e.g., 25%) up to a certain cap. This is another way of sharing the risk with the insurer to reduce your premium.
  • Build Your No-Claims Discount: Just like with car insurance, most PMI providers reward you with a discount for every year you don't make a claim, which can substantially reduce your renewal premium over time.

A Note on Wellness and Proactive Health

While private medical insurance is there for when things go wrong, the best strategy is always to stay as healthy as possible. Proactive steps can reduce your risk of needing medical treatment in the first place. The NHS recommends:

  • A Balanced Diet: Focus on fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Tools like CalorieHero, which WeCovr provides to its clients, can make tracking your nutrition simple and effective.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) a week.
  • Quality Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of good quality sleep per night for physical and mental recovery.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can impact your physical health. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, or even just regular walks in nature can make a big difference.

Taking care of your wellbeing is the ultimate investment, and a good PMI policy is the backup plan that provides security and peace of mind.


Does the six-week wait apply to initial consultations and diagnosis?

Generally, no. The six-week wait option almost always applies to the in-patient or day-patient treatment itself (the actual operation or procedure). Most policies will still allow you to use your private cover for the initial specialist consultation and any diagnostic tests or scans (like MRI or CT) without being subject to the six-week rule. This allows you to get a swift diagnosis, even if you ultimately use the NHS for the treatment. However, you must always check the specific terms of your policy.

Does private medical insurance UK cover pre-existing or chronic conditions?

No. This is the most important exclusion to understand about standard UK private medical insurance. PMI is designed to cover new, **acute conditions** that arise after your policy starts. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (any disease, illness, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice before your policy began). It also does not cover the routine management of **chronic conditions** like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These will continue to be managed by the NHS.

What happens if the NHS cancels my treatment or the waiting list gets longer?

This is a key benefit of the six-week wait option. If you are on an NHS list that was initially under six weeks, but your appointment gets cancelled and rescheduled for a date that is now more than six weeks away, you can go back to your insurer. You would provide the new evidence of the longer wait, and they would then authorise your treatment in the private sector. It acts as a guarantee against unexpected NHS delays.

Find the Right Balance with WeCovr

The six-week wait option is a fantastic way to make private health cover more affordable, but it's vital to understand the trade-off between cost and choice. For some, it's the perfect compromise; for others, the certainty of a fully comprehensive policy is worth the extra cost.

Let our experienced insurance specialists at WeCovr help you make the right decision. We'll compare leading UK providers and tailor a policy that fits your life and your budget.

Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote today and find your perfect policy.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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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 experienced 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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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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