Login

Sustainability in Private Healthcare Going Green with PMI

Sustainability in Private Healthcare Going Green with PMI

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explores the growing trend of sustainability in the UK's private medical insurance market. This guide unpacks how eco-friendly healthcare practices are shaping the future of private health cover and what it means for you.

The conversation around sustainability has moved far beyond reusable coffee cups and electric cars. It's now a defining force in one of our most vital sectors: healthcare. Both the NHS and the private healthcare market are undergoing a green revolution, driven by environmental responsibility, patient demand, and financial common sense.

This shift has profound implications for your private medical insurance (PMI). Insurers are no longer just financing treatments; they are becoming active partners in building a healthier, more sustainable future. From promoting virtual GP appointments to partnering with eco-conscious hospitals, the private health cover landscape is changing. Understanding this intersection is key to choosing a policy that not only protects your health but also aligns with your values.

The NHS: Leading the Charge to Net Zero Healthcare

To understand the private sector's green movement, we must first look to the National Health Service. The NHS is a global pioneer, having committed to becoming the world's first net-zero national health service.

According to its "Delivering a ‘Net Zero’ National Health Service" report, the NHS has set two clear targets:

  1. Net Zero by 2040: For the emissions it controls directly (the NHS Carbon Footprint).
  2. Net Zero by 2045: For the emissions it can influence, such as its vast supply chain (the NHS Carbon Footprint Plus).

The health and care system in England is responsible for an estimated 4-5% of the country's total carbon emissions. Tackling this is not just an environmental issue but a public health imperative. The climate crisis contributes to illnesses like asthma, heat-related conditions, and mental health challenges—conditions the NHS and private providers ultimately have to treat.

What Does a "Green NHS" Look Like in Practice?

  • Greener Transport: Transitioning to zero-emission vehicles in the world's largest fleet.
  • Energy Efficiency: Upgrading hospitals with LED lighting, improved insulation, and on-site renewable energy sources.
  • Low-Carbon Anaesthetics: Phasing out anaesthetic gases like Desflurane, which has a global warming potential 2,500 times greater than carbon dioxide.
  • Waste Reduction: Implementing better recycling programmes and reducing reliance on single-use plastics in non-critical settings.
  • Sustainable Food: Offering more plant-based meal options for patients and staff, reducing the carbon footprint of hospital catering.

This national effort sets the standard. Private hospitals and clinics, often working alongside the NHS and competing for the same discerning patients, are following suit.

What is "Sustainable Healthcare"? A Plain English Guide

"Sustainable healthcare" might sound complex, but it boils down to a simple idea: meeting the health needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. It's about providing high-quality care that is environmentally sound, socially equitable, and economically viable.

Think of it as having three core pillars:

PillarWhat It MeansReal-World Examples in a Hospital Setting
EnvironmentalReducing the negative impact of healthcare activities on the planet.Using renewable energy, reducing single-use plastics, prescribing lower-carbon inhalers, offering virtual consultations to cut patient travel.
SocialEnsuring fair and ethical practices that benefit patients, staff, and the wider community.Promoting health equality, ensuring ethical supply chains, investing in staff well-being, creating accessible facilities for all.
EconomicUsing resources wisely to ensure the healthcare system is financially stable for the long term.Focusing on preventative care to reduce costly future treatments, using digital technology for efficiency, minimising waste of medicines and supplies.

Ultimately, a sustainable healthcare system is a more resilient one. It's better prepared for future health crises, less vulnerable to resource shortages, and delivers better value for every pound spent—whether by the taxpayer or a private insurance provider.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Providers are Embracing Sustainability

The UK's leading private health insurance providers have recognised that sustainability is not just good for the planet; it's good for business and for their members. They are integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into the very fabric of their operations and the policies they offer.

Here’s how the private medical insurance UK market is going green:

1. Championing Digital-First Healthcare

The pandemic accelerated the shift to digital health, and insurers are leaning into this trend for its clear environmental benefits.

  • Virtual GP Services: Almost every major PMI policy now includes 24/7 access to a virtual GP. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with travel for both patients and doctors. A 2022 study highlighted that a shift to remote outpatient appointments in the NHS could save over 700,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.
  • Digital Claims and Documents: Insurers are moving away from paper-based systems. Submitting claims online, accessing policy documents via an app, and receiving communications by email significantly cuts down on paper waste and the emissions from postal services.

2. Promoting Prevention and Wellness

The most sustainable form of healthcare is preventing illness in the first place. This avoids the use of carbon-intensive resources required for diagnostics, treatments, and hospital stays.

Insurers are at the forefront of this movement:

  • Wellness Programmes: Providers like Vitality have built their entire model around rewarding healthy behaviour. Members get points and discounts for hitting activity goals, eating well, and getting regular health checks.
  • Mental Health Support: Proactive mental health support, often available via apps and phone lines, can prevent conditions from escalating, reducing the need for more intensive, resource-heavy care.
  • Health and Lifestyle Content: Many insurers offer a wealth of resources—from articles and webinars to apps—on nutrition, fitness, and stress management.

At WeCovr, we provide all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support them on their wellness journey.

3. Partnering with Eco-Conscious Hospitals

Your choice of hospital matters. Insurers are beginning to recognise and, in some cases, favour hospital networks that demonstrate strong environmental credentials. When you use your PMI, you might be directed to a facility that has:

  • ISO 14001 Certification: The international standard for an effective environmental management system.
  • BREEAM Certification: A leading sustainability assessment method for buildings, which rates a facility's environmental performance.
  • Published Sustainability Reports: Clear, transparent reporting on energy use, waste management, and carbon reduction targets.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you understand the hospital lists offered by different insurers and identify providers who prioritise these green partnerships.

4. Making Ethical Investments and Corporate Commitments

The premiums you pay are invested by insurance companies to ensure they can cover future claims. Increasingly, customers want to know that their money isn't funding industries that harm the environment.

In response, many of the best PMI providers are:

  • Divesting from Fossil Fuels: Shifting their vast investment portfolios away from coal, oil, and gas.
  • Investing in Green Technology: Actively funding renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other climate solutions.
  • Setting Corporate Net Zero Targets: Mirroring the NHS, major insurers like Aviva, Bupa, and AXA have set their own ambitious targets to decarbonise their global operations.

The Patient Perspective: How Your PMI Can Support a Greener Future

As a consumer, you hold significant power. Your choices can encourage the healthcare and insurance industries to accelerate their green transition. Here’s how you can make a difference.

Choose Your Insurer and Policy Wisely

When comparing private health cover, look beyond just the price and the core benefits.

  • Ask about ESG: Ask your broker about the insurer's ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) policies. Do they have a public sustainability report?
  • Check for Wellness Benefits: Does the policy actively reward you for staying healthy? Look for gym discounts, activity trackers, and nutrition support.
  • Prioritise Digital Access: Ensure the policy offers robust digital tools, like a 24/7 virtual GP service and an easy-to-use app for managing your cover.

Embrace a "Digital-First" Mindset

Before booking a face-to-face appointment, consider if a virtual consultation would suffice.

  • Convenience: Speak to a GP from the comfort of your home, often on the same day.
  • Efficiency: Get prescriptions, referrals, and medical advice quickly without the time and cost of travel.
  • Environmental Impact: Every car journey avoided is a small win for air quality and carbon reduction.

Engage Actively with Wellness Programmes

If your PMI policy includes a wellness programme, use it!

  • Track Your Activity: Sync your smartwatch or phone and earn rewards for hitting your step or exercise goals.
  • Eat Healthier: Take advantage of discounts on healthy food at supermarkets. A balanced, plant-rich diet is not only good for your body but also has a significantly lower environmental impact than a meat-heavy one.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Good sleep is foundational to health. Use insurer-provided apps and resources to improve your sleep hygiene.

A Greener Lifestyle: Small Changes, Big Impact

A sustainable approach to health extends beyond your insurance policy. Integrating small, eco-conscious habits into your daily life contributes to personal and planetary well-being.

AreaSimple, Sustainable Health TipWhy It Matters
DietTry "Meat-Free Mondays" or aim for a more plant-based diet.Livestock farming is a major source of greenhouse gases. Reducing meat consumption is one of the most effective ways an individual can lower their carbon footprint.
ActivityWalk or cycle for short journeys instead of driving.Boosts your cardiovascular health, reduces air pollution, and saves you money on fuel. It's free, accessible exercise.
MindfulnessSpend time in nature, whether it's a local park or a national trail."Green exercise" has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and lower blood pressure more effectively than indoor workouts.
TravelChoose "staycations" or travel by train instead of flying for short-haul trips.Aviation is a significant source of CO2 emissions. Exploring the beauty of the UK reduces your travel footprint and supports local economies.

The Crucial Rule of PMI: Understanding What Is and Isn't Covered

This is the single most important section for anyone considering private medical insurance in the UK. While PMI offers fast access to high-quality care, it is designed for a specific purpose.

Standard UK private medical insurance does NOT cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

It is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

Let's break this down in Plain English:

Condition TypeDefinitionPMI CoverageExamples
AcuteA disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. It's a short-term issue.YES, this is what PMI is for.A broken bone, appendicitis, cataracts, joint replacement, hernia repair, diagnosing new symptoms.
ChronicA condition that is long-term and cannot be cured, only managed. It requires ongoing monitoring and treatment.NO, this is not covered.Diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, Crohn's disease, arthritis, multiple sclerosis.
Pre-existingAny illness, disease, or injury for which you have had symptoms, medication, advice, or treatment before your policy began.NO, this is not covered.Having been treated for back pain in the year before buying a policy means that back pain won't be covered initially.

How Do Insurers Know About Pre-existing Conditions?

They use a process called underwriting. The two main types are:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the last 5 years. If you then go 2 full years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting: You complete a detailed health questionnaire at the start. The insurer reviews it and lists specific, permanent exclusions on your policy from day one. It's more admin upfront but provides total clarity on what is and isn't covered.

Understanding this principle is vital to avoid disappointment later. PMI is a fantastic tool for acute care, working alongside the excellent chronic care provided by the NHS.

How WeCovr Helps You Navigate the New World of PMI

Choosing the right private health cover in this evolving market can feel overwhelming. That’s where an expert, independent broker like WeCovr makes all the difference. We work for you, not the insurer.

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our specialists understand the nuances of the market, from sustainability credentials to the fine print on exclusions. We can help you compare policies from the UK's leading providers.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer if you choose to buy a policy, but this does not affect the price you pay.
  • Value-Added Benefits: As well as finding you the right policy, we offer complimentary access to the CalorieHero nutrition app. Plus, if you buy PMI or Life Insurance through us, you can get discounts on other types of cover you might need.
  • Customer-Focused: We pride ourselves on high customer satisfaction ratings, built on trust, transparency, and a commitment to finding the best possible outcome for our clients.

The future of healthcare is green, and your private medical insurance is an integral part of that journey. By making informed choices, you can secure fast access to excellent medical care while supporting a healthier planet for generations to come.

Does choosing a "green" or sustainable PMI policy cost more?

Not necessarily. In fact, many sustainable practices can lead to long-term cost savings for insurers, which can help keep premiums stable. For example, promoting preventative health and virtual GP appointments reduces the number of expensive hospital claims. Insurers with strong wellness programmes often attract healthier members, which also helps manage the overall cost of claims. The focus is on value and long-term resilience, not just a higher price tag.

How can I find out about a private hospital's environmental record?

Many private hospital groups now publish annual sustainability or ESG reports on their websites. You can look for these to see their stated goals and achievements regarding energy use, waste reduction, and community initiatives. Additionally, look for certifications like ISO 14001 (for environmental management) or a BREEAM rating (for building sustainability), which are strong indicators of a facility's commitment to green practices. A good PMI broker can also provide insights into the networks of different insurers.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions like asthma or diabetes?

No, it is a fundamental principle of standard UK private medical insurance that it does not cover pre-existing conditions. It also does not cover long-term, chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure that require ongoing management rather than a cure. PMI is specifically designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of new, acute medical conditions that arise after your policy has started. The NHS provides excellent care for chronic and pre-existing conditions.

What are the main benefits of using virtual GP services through my PMI?

The benefits are threefold: convenience, speed, and sustainability. You get fast access to a GP, often 24/7, from anywhere without needing to travel. This allows you to get quick medical advice, prescriptions, or referrals for specialist care. From a sustainability perspective, it significantly reduces your carbon footprint by eliminating car or public transport journeys, contributing to lower air pollution and emissions.

Ready to find a private health insurance policy that aligns with your values and protects your health? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice from our FCA-authorised specialists.


Related guides


Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.