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Small Business PMI Offering Health Insurance to Staff

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 2, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance for UK small businesses. This article explores how you can offer this valuable benefit to your staff, helping you navigate group policies, manage costs, and stay compliant in 2025. Group policies, cost management, and compliance for SMEs in 2025 For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, attracting and retaining top talent is more competitive than ever.

Key takeaways

  • Reduced Sickness Absence: According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), an estimated 185.6 million working days were lost because of sickness or injury in 2022, the highest it's been in a decade. PMI gives employees faster access to diagnosis and treatment, significantly reducing the time they're away from work.
  • Enhanced Recruitment and Retention: In a tight labour market, a strong benefits package sets you apart. PMI is consistently ranked as one of the most desired employee benefits, making your business more attractive to high-calibre candidates.
  • Improved Productivity and Morale: Knowing they have access to private healthcare can reduce employee anxiety about their health. A healthy, happy workforce is a productive one. It sends a powerful message that you value your team's wellbeing.
  • A Duty of Care: It demonstrates a proactive approach to employee welfare, strengthening the employer-employee relationship and fostering a positive company culture.
  • Faster Access to Treatment: This is the core benefit. Employees can bypass long NHS queues for eligible acute conditions, getting seen by a specialist and receiving treatment much sooner.

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance for UK small businesses. This article explores how you can offer this valuable benefit to your staff, helping you navigate group policies, manage costs, and stay compliant in 2025.

Group policies, cost management, and compliance for SMEs in 2025

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, attracting and retaining top talent is more competitive than ever. While salary is a key factor, a comprehensive benefits package can be the deciding factor. At the forefront of desirable benefits is private medical insurance (PMI).

Offering private health cover is no longer the sole preserve of large corporations. It's an increasingly accessible and vital tool for SMEs to protect their most valuable asset: their people. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your business.

Why Should Small Businesses Offer Private Medical Insurance?

In 2025, the pressure on the NHS remains significant. While it provides outstanding care, waiting times for elective treatments can be lengthy. Data from NHS England regularly shows millions of people on waiting lists. For a small business, a key employee facing a long wait for treatment can cause major disruption.

Offering PMI is a strategic business decision with compelling benefits for both the employer and the employee.

Benefits for Your Business (The Employer)

  1. Reduced Sickness Absence: According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), an estimated 185.6 million working days were lost because of sickness or injury in 2022, the highest it's been in a decade. PMI gives employees faster access to diagnosis and treatment, significantly reducing the time they're away from work.
  2. Enhanced Recruitment and Retention: In a tight labour market, a strong benefits package sets you apart. PMI is consistently ranked as one of the most desired employee benefits, making your business more attractive to high-calibre candidates.
  3. Improved Productivity and Morale: Knowing they have access to private healthcare can reduce employee anxiety about their health. A healthy, happy workforce is a productive one. It sends a powerful message that you value your team's wellbeing.
  4. A Duty of Care: It demonstrates a proactive approach to employee welfare, strengthening the employer-employee relationship and fostering a positive company culture.

Benefits for Your Staff (The Employee)

  1. Faster Access to Treatment: This is the core benefit. Employees can bypass long NHS queues for eligible acute conditions, getting seen by a specialist and receiving treatment much sooner.
  2. Choice and Comfort: PMI often provides a choice of specialist and hospital. Treatment is typically in a private room with amenities like an en-suite bathroom and flexible visiting hours, making a stressful time more comfortable.
  3. Access to Specialist Drugs and Treatments: Some treatments and drugs may not be available on the NHS due to cost or other restrictions. PMI can provide access to these, subject to policy limits.
  4. Peace of Mind: Health worries can be a major source of stress. Having a private health cover plan in place provides reassurance that they and their families can get help quickly when needed.

Understanding Group Private Health Insurance: The Nuts and Bolts

A group PMI scheme is a single policy that covers a group of people, usually the employees of a company. It's generally more cost-effective and easier to set up than multiple individual policies.

What's Covered? (And What Isn't)

PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Examples of what's typically covered:

  • Consultations with specialists
  • Diagnostic tests (like MRI and CT scans)
  • Hospital stays and nursing care
  • Surgical procedures
  • Cancer treatment (this is often a core component, but cover levels vary)
  • Mental health support (cover varies significantly between policies)

The Critical Exclusion: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions Explained

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

Crucially, standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out a policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or long-term, chronic illnesses.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before your policy started.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting, has no known cure, and needs ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

While PMI won't cover the management of chronic conditions, it may cover acute flare-ups if your policy terms allow. The NHS will continue to provide care for any pre-existing and chronic conditions you have.

Key Terminology Demystified

The world of insurance can be full of jargon. Here are the key terms you'll encounter when setting up a small business PMI scheme.

TermPlain English Explanation
UnderwritingThe process the insurer uses to assess risk and decide what they will and won't cover.
Moratorium UnderwritingThe most common type for small groups. The insurer doesn't ask for your medical history upfront. Instead, for the first two years, they won't cover conditions you've had symptoms or treatment for in the five years before joining. If you go two full years on the policy without needing treatment, advice, or medication for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)You and your employees complete a full health questionnaire. The insurer then reviews your medical history and explicitly lists any conditions that will be excluded from cover from day one. It's more admin upfront but provides absolute clarity on what's covered.
Medical History Disregarded (MHD)Usually only available for larger groups (e.g., 20+ employees). The insurer agrees to cover eligible pre-existing conditions. It's the most comprehensive but also the most expensive option.
ExcessA fixed amount the employee pays towards their claim each policy year. A higher excess typically means a lower premium. For example, if you have a £250 excess and a claim costs £2,000, you pay the first £250 and the insurer pays the remaining £1,750.
6-Week OptionA popular cost-saving feature. If the NHS can provide the required treatment within six weeks of it being recommended, the employee will use the NHS. If the wait is longer than six weeks, the PMI policy kicks in.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the premium is calculated based on a range of risk factors. However, as a small business owner, you can expect the cost to be a key consideration.

Factors Influencing Your Premium

The final price of your group policy will be a blend of these elements:

FactorHow It Affects the Price
Average Age of EmployeesYounger employees are generally lower risk, leading to lower premiums.
LocationHealthcare costs vary across the UK. Policies covering central London hospitals are typically the most expensive.
Industry/OccupationManual or higher-risk jobs may attract higher premiums than office-based roles.
Level of CoverA basic policy covering diagnostics and in-patient care will be cheaper than a comprehensive one that includes out-patient cover, mental health, and dental.
Underwriting TypeMoratorium is standard. Medical History Disregarded is the most expensive.
Policy ExcessA higher excess (£250, £500) will lower the premium. A £0 excess will increase it.
Hospital ListInsurers have tiered hospital lists. A policy with access to a limited local list is cheaper than one with nationwide access, including premium London hospitals.
Optional ExtrasAdding dental, optical, or travel cover will increase the cost.

Example Cost Scenarios for a Small Business

To give you a clearer idea, here are some illustrative examples for a 10-employee tech company based in Manchester in 2025. These are purely estimates and your actual quote will vary.

Level of CoverAverage Employee AgeKey FeaturesEstimated Monthly Premium (per employee)
Entry-Level35In-patient & day-patient cover, basic cancer care, 6-week option, £250 excess.£35 - £50
Mid-Range35As above, plus limited out-patient cover (e.g., £1,000), full cancer care, £100 excess.£60 - £85
Comprehensive35As above, plus full out-patient cover, mental health support, dental & optical, £0 excess, full hospital list.£90 - £130+

Cost Management Strategies for SMEs

  1. Introduce an Excess: Even a small excess of £100 or £250 can make a noticeable difference to the premium.
  2. Opt for the '6-Week Wait' Option: This is one of the most effective ways to reduce costs, as it means you only use the private cover when the NHS cannot provide prompt treatment.
  3. Tailor Your Hospital List: Do your employees really need access to expensive central London hospitals? Choosing a more restricted or regional list can lead to significant savings.
  4. Consider a Health Cash Plan: If a full PMI policy is out of reach, a Health Cash Plan is a cheaper alternative. It doesn't cover major surgery but provides cashback on routine healthcare costs like dental check-ups, eye tests, and physiotherapy.
  5. Work with a Broker: An expert broker like WeCovr can compare the whole market for you, finding the policy that offers the best value for your specific needs and budget. Our service is free for you to use.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Business

The UK market is dominated by a few major players, each with its own strengths and focus areas.

Top UK Insurers for SMEs

  • Bupa: One of the most recognised names in UK health insurance, known for its extensive network and comprehensive cancer care.
  • AXA Health: A global insurance giant offering a wide range of flexible plans for businesses, with strong digital tools and a focus on preventative health.
  • Aviva: A major UK insurer offering solid, reliable PMI policies with various options to help manage costs. Often praised for their clear policy documents.
  • Vitality: Unique in its focus on wellness and prevention. Vitality rewards employees with discounts and perks (like cinema tickets and coffee) for staying active and healthy, which can also help keep future premiums down.

Provider Comparison for Small Business PMI

FeatureBupaAXA HealthAvivaVitality
Main Selling PointStrong brand, extensive direct-settlement network.Flexible, modular plans with good digital support.Straightforward, trusted policies from a major UK name.Focus on wellness rewards to encourage healthy living.
Underwriting OptionsMoratorium, FMU, MHD.Moratorium, FMU, MHD.Moratorium, FMU, MHD.Moratorium, FMU, MHD.
SME FocusStrong B2B offerings with dedicated support.Excellent SME portal and tools.'Solutions' and 'Healthier Solutions' policies for businesses.'Vitality at Work' programme is very popular with SMEs.
Digital Health'Bupa Blua Health' app for digital GP access.'Doctor at Hand' app.'Aviva Digital GP'.'Vitality GP' app, plus the full rewards platform.
Wellness ProgrammeHealth assessments, EAP options.Proactive Health Gateway, EAP.EAP, stress counselling helpline.The core of their offering, tracking activity for rewards.

The Role of an Expert PMI Broker like WeCovr

Choosing between these providers and their countless policy variations can be overwhelming. This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker is invaluable.

Instead of approaching each insurer individually, you can work with a specialist like WeCovr. We will:

  • Understand Your Needs: We take the time to learn about your business, your team, and your budget.
  • Compare the Market: We have access to policies and rates from all the leading UK insurers, ensuring you see the full picture.
  • Explain the Jargon: We translate the complex policy details into plain English so you can make a confident choice.
  • Save You Money: We negotiate on your behalf to find the most competitive terms.
  • Provide Ongoing Support: We're here to help with renewals, claims queries, and policy administration.
  • Cost You Nothing: Brokers are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so our expert advice and support are free of charge to your business.

Setting Up Your Group Health Insurance Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a simple roadmap to getting your small business PMI scheme up and running.

  1. Define Your Budget and Goals: Decide how much you can afford per employee per month. Are you trying to solve an absence problem, or is this primarily for recruitment? Your goals will shape the policy.
  2. Choose Who to Cover: Will the policy cover all employees? Only senior management? Can employees add their families at their own cost?
  3. Decide on a Core Level of Cover: Start with the essentials: in-patient and day-patient treatment. Then consider adding out-patient cover, which is vital for diagnostics.
  4. Select Your Underwriting Method: For most small businesses (2-19 employees), the choice will be between Moratorium and Full Medical Underwriting. Moratorium is simpler to set up.
  5. Gather Employee Data: You'll need a list of employees to be covered, along with their dates of birth. No individual medical details are needed for a Moratorium policy.
  6. Contact an Expert Broker: This is the most efficient step. A broker will take all your requirements from the steps above and come back to you with tailored, easy-to-understand quotes from the market.

Compliance and Tax Implications for SMEs

Offering health insurance is a formal benefit and comes with some administrative and tax responsibilities.

Is PMI a Benefit in Kind?

Yes. When a company pays for an employee's private medical insurance, HMRC considers it a 'benefit in kind' (BIK). This means it's treated as part of the employee's income for tax purposes.

  • Your Responsibility (The Employer): You must report the value of the benefit to HMRC for each employee on a P11D form at the end of the tax year. The value is the cost of the premium for that employee.
  • The Employee's Responsibility: The employee will pay income tax on the value of the premium. This is usually handled by an adjustment to their tax code, so they'll see a small reduction in their monthly take-home pay.

Corporation Tax Implications

The good news for your business is that the cost of the premiums for your group PMI scheme is generally considered an allowable business expense. This means you can deduct the full cost from your profits before calculating your Corporation Tax bill, helping to offset the expense.

Beyond Insurance: Integrating Wellness into Your Workplace

Modern health benefits go beyond just insurance. A holistic approach to employee wellbeing can have a profound impact on your business culture and performance.

The Rise of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)

Many PMI policies now include an EAP as standard or as a low-cost add-on. An EAP is a confidential support service that can help employees with a wide range of personal and work-related problems, including:

  • Stress, anxiety, and depression
  • Financial worries and debt advice
  • Legal queries
  • Relationship and family issues
  • Bereavement counselling

They provide a vital, preventative layer of support, often helping to resolve issues before they escalate into serious health problems or long-term absence.

Leveraging Digital Health Tools

Insurers are investing heavily in digital health. Most now offer a virtual GP service via an app, allowing employees to have a video consultation with a doctor, often within hours. This is incredibly convenient and reduces the need to take time off work for a GP appointment.

At WeCovr, we enhance this by providing our clients with complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. This helps your team take proactive control of their diet and health, aligning perfectly with a modern wellness strategy.

Simple Wellness Tips for Your Team

Promoting a healthy culture doesn't have to be expensive. Encourage:

  • Active Breaks: Suggest walking meetings or simply getting up from the desk every hour.
  • Healthy Hydration: Ensure easy access to fresh water.
  • Mindful Eating: Discourage eating at desks. Creating a pleasant break area can foster better eating habits and social connection.
  • Prioritising Sleep: Share resources on good sleep hygiene. A well-rested team is more focused, creative, and resilient.

When you purchase PMI or life insurance through us, we can also offer discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a comprehensive and affordable protection package for your business and your people. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for every client.

Do I have to offer health insurance to all my employees?

No, you don't have to. As a business, you can decide who to include in a group scheme. You could offer it to senior management only, to employees who have passed their probation, or to everyone. However, covering all employees is the most inclusive approach and avoids any potential feelings of unfairness.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. Most policies for small businesses operate on a 'moratorium' basis, which excludes treatment for conditions you've had in the five years prior to joining. Chronic conditions are also not covered. For larger groups, 'medical history disregarded' underwriting may be available, which can cover pre-existing conditions but at a much higher cost.

What is the difference between an in-patient and an out-patient?

An in-patient is someone who is admitted to a hospital bed for treatment, even if it's just for a day (a 'day-patient'). Out-patient cover is for treatment where you don't require a hospital bed, such as specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans. Most basic PMI policies cover in-patient treatment as standard, but out-patient cover is often the most used part of a policy and is essential for getting a quick diagnosis.

Ready to explore how private medical insurance can benefit your small business?

The WeCovr team is here to help. We'll provide you with free, no-obligation quotes from the UK's leading insurers, tailored to your budget and your team.

[Get Your Free Small Business PMI Quote Today]

Sources

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
  • HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
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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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