Switching Providers or Policies Keeping Cover Without Gaps
Thinking about switching your private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK? You're not alone. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows that finding the right cover at the right price is crucial. This guide will walk you through exactly how to switch providers without creating dangerous gaps in your health cover.
What to check before switching—including CPME, waiting periods, and how to maintain benefits if you leave your employer
Switching your private health cover can feel like a daunting task. You want a better deal or more suitable benefits, but you're worried about losing cover for conditions you've developed. The good news is that with the right approach, you can switch seamlessly and confidently.
This article will cover everything you need to know, from specialist underwriting methods like Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME) to navigating waiting periods and what to do when you leave a company scheme.
Why Do People Switch Private Health Insurance?
Every year, thousands of people in the UK review their private medical insurance. The reasons are often very practical and personal. Understanding these motivations can help you clarify your own reasons for considering a change.
Common triggers for switching include:
- Renewal Price Hikes: This is the most common reason. It's an industry-wide trend for premiums to increase each year due to your age, medical inflation (the rising cost of treatment), and any claims you've made. Some insurers increase prices more steeply than others.
- Better Cover Elsewhere: Another provider might offer benefits that better suit your current lifestyle, such as enhanced mental health support, a higher outpatient limit, or more comprehensive cancer care.
- Poor Customer Service: A difficult claims process or unhelpful customer support can sour your relationship with an insurer, prompting a move to a provider with a better reputation.
- Changing Personal Circumstances: Life events like leaving a job, starting a family, or moving to a different part of the country can change your healthcare needs and budget.
- Enticing New Customer Deals: Insurers often use competitive pricing to attract new clients, which can look very appealing compared to your renewal quote.
With NHS waiting lists in England involving around 7.5 million treatments as of late 2024, having the right private health cover has never been more important. It’s not just about skipping queues; it's about peace of mind.
The Golden Rule of Switching: Never Cancel Before You're Covered
If you take only one piece of advice from this article, let it be this: Do not cancel your current policy until your new policy is fully active and you have received the official documentation.
Creating a "gap in cover," even for a single day, is incredibly risky. If you or a family member were to suffer an accident or fall ill during this uninsured period, you would have no private cover to rely on.
Worse still, any new condition that arises during that gap would be classed as a "pre-existing condition" by your next insurer and would likely be excluded from your new policy forever. The goal is a seamless transition, not a risky leap of faith.
Key Switching Methods: Understanding Your Underwriting Options
When you apply for a new policy, the insurer needs to assess the risk you pose. This process is called "underwriting." For those switching policies, there are special methods designed to make the process smoother and preserve your existing cover.
It is critical to remember a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance: PMI is designed to cover acute conditions (illnesses that are short-term and curable) that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before you took out your very first policy) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management).
Here are the three main underwriting options you'll encounter when switching.
1. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)
This is the most traditional method. You will be asked to complete a detailed health questionnaire, providing information about your medical history and that of your family.
- Pros: The biggest advantage is certainty. The insurer will tell you upfront exactly what is and isn't covered. Any specific exclusions will be clearly listed on your policy certificate. If you are in excellent health, FMU can sometimes result in a lower premium.
- Cons: It's time-consuming and intrusive. Any condition you've had in your past, no matter how long ago, may be permanently excluded.
Example: You had knee pain five years ago and saw a physiotherapist. On an FMU application, you must declare this. The insurer will likely place an exclusion on your new policy for any future knee-related problems.
2. Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting
This is a quicker, less invasive option. You don't have to fill out a long medical form. Instead, the insurer applies a general rule.
Typically, a moratorium policy will not cover any medical condition for which you have had symptoms, treatment, or advice in the five years before the policy started. However, if you then go for two continuous years on the new policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. This is often called the "2-5-2" rule.
- Pros: The application process is fast and simple.
- Cons: There is a lack of certainty. You won't know for sure if a condition is covered until you make a claim. This can lead to unpleasant surprises down the line.
Example: You had occasional headaches three years before starting a moratorium policy but didn't see a doctor. Two years into your new policy, they return. When you claim, the insurer will investigate and may decline the claim, stating it was a pre-existing condition from the last five years.
3. Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME)
This is the most important option for anyone switching who has developed conditions while already insured.
CPME underwriting allows you to transfer your existing cover to a new provider without losing protection for conditions that have arisen since you first took out a PMI policy. The new insurer essentially agrees to honour the terms of your original underwriting.
- How it works: Your new insurer will carry over the same personal medical exclusions that were on your old policy. Any conditions that developed while you were covered by your old policy will continue to be covered by the new one, provided they were eligible for cover under the old policy's terms.
- Who it's for: It is ideal for individuals or families who have been insured for a while and have had treatment for new conditions.
- Requirements: To be eligible, you usually need to be switching to a policy with an equivalent or lower level of cover. You cannot use CPME to add cover for something that was previously excluded. Not all insurers offer this, which is why an expert broker is vital.
Example: You took out your first PMI policy in 2020 with a clean bill of health. In 2023, you developed a heart condition and received private treatment, which was covered. In 2025, you want to switch insurers for a better price. By using CPME, your new insurer will continue to cover your heart condition, subject to the policy terms. The original underwriting basis is maintained.
Comparing Underwriting Methods
| Feature | Full Medical Underwriting (FMU) | Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting | Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Long health questionnaire | No initial health questions | Simple application, requires details of old policy |
| Initial Certainty | High: Exclusions are clearly stated upfront. | Low: You only find out what's covered when you claim. | High: Cover continues on the same basis as your old policy. |
| Cover for Past Issues | Unlikely. Any declared condition is often excluded. | Possibly, after a 2-year symptom-free period on the policy. | No. Exclusions from your original policy are carried over. |
| Cover for New Issues | Yes, covered. | Yes, covered. | Yes. Conditions covered by your old policy remain covered. |
| Best For | Healthy individuals starting their first policy. | People wanting a quick start with no forms. | People switching who have claimed or developed conditions. |
Working with an experienced PMI broker like WeCovr is invaluable here. We can quickly identify which insurers offer CPME and determine if it's the right fit for your circumstances, ensuring you don't accidentally lose precious cover.
Leaving an Employer Group Scheme? How to Keep Your Cover
One of the most common times people need to switch is when leaving a job that provided private health insurance. Many mistakenly believe they will lose their cover and have to start from scratch, facing new medical underwriting. This is not the case.
Most group scheme providers offer a "group leaver" or "continuation" option. This allows you to transfer your membership from the company scheme to an individual policy without any new underwriting.
The Process for Group Leavers
- Act Before You Leave: Contact your company's HR department or the insurance provider directly before your last day of employment. There is a limited window (usually 30-90 days) to apply for a continuation policy.
- Request a "Group Leaver" Quote: Ask the insurer for a quote to continue your cover on an individual basis.
- Review the Terms: The new individual policy may have different terms or benefits compared to the corporate one. Check the outpatient limits, excess, and any hospital lists carefully.
- Compare the Market: Do not automatically accept the first offer. While continuing with the same insurer guarantees maintained cover, their quote may not be competitive. This is the perfect time to speak to a broker. A broker can compare the insurer's direct offer with other policies on the market that also offer CPME or equivalent "switch" terms. You might find a better price or better benefits elsewhere while still protecting your continuity of cover.
The key benefit is that any conditions that developed and were covered under the company scheme will continue to be covered on your new individual policy. You won't be treated as a new customer with a history of medical issues.
A Step-by-Step Checklist for Switching Your PMI Policy
Follow these steps for a smooth and successful switch.
-
Review Your Current Policy (At Least 6 Weeks Before Renewal)
- Dig out your policy documents.
- Note your renewal date and the new premium.
- Remind yourself of your current cover level: outpatient limits, excess, cancer care, mental health, etc.
- Check your personal exclusions. What is explicitly not covered?
-
Define Your Future Needs
- Has your budget changed?
- Do you need to add or remove family members?
- Are there new benefits you'd like, such as better physiotherapy cover or access to a 24/7 digital GP?
-
Compare the Market with an Independent Broker
- This is the most efficient and effective step. An independent broker's service is free to you (they are paid a commission by the insurer you choose).
- A good broker will:
- Understand your unique situation and needs.
- Know which insurers offer CPME underwriting.
- Compare dozens of policies on your behalf.
- Explain the pros and cons of each option in plain English.
- Help you with the application paperwork.
-
Choose Your Underwriting and Apply
- With your broker's guidance, decide if CPME, Moratorium, or FMU is the best path.
- Complete the application for your chosen new policy. Be 100% honest and accurate. Failing to disclose information (known as non-disclosure) can invalidate your entire policy.
-
Wait for Official Confirmation
- Do not cancel your old policy yet. Wait until you have received the policy documents for your new plan and the 14-day "cooling-off" period has begun. This is your legal right to cancel the new policy without penalty if you change your mind.
-
Cancel Your Old Policy
- Once your new policy is live, contact your old provider to cancel.
- The ideal time to do this is at your renewal date, so you don't incur any mid-term cancellation fees.
- If you pay by Direct Debit, be sure to cancel it with your bank after confirming the policy is terminated to prevent accidental payments.
Beyond the Policy: Wellness Benefits and Added Value
Modern private medical insurance UK providers offer far more than just hospital treatment. They are increasingly focused on preventative care and wellness. When comparing policies, look beyond the core cover and consider these valuable extras:
- Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often with the ability to get prescriptions delivered.
- Mental Health Support: Many policies now include access to telephone counselling, therapy sessions (face-to-face or virtual), and mental wellness apps.
- Wellness Programmes: Discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
- Expert Second Opinions: The ability to have your diagnosis and treatment plan reviewed by a world-leading specialist.
At WeCovr, we believe in adding extra value for our clients. That's why anyone who arranges their health or life insurance through us receives:
- Complimentary access to the CalorieHero AI app: A cutting-edge tool to help you track nutrition and manage your health goals effortlessly.
- Discounts on other insurance: You can also get reduced rates on other policies you might need, such as home or travel insurance.
These perks are designed to support your overall wellbeing, making your health cover a proactive part of your life, not just a reactive safety net.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Switching
A successful switch is all about avoiding common mistakes. Be wary of these pitfalls:
- Focusing Only on Price: The cheapest policy is rarely the best. You might be sacrificing crucial benefits like cancer cover or outpatient limits just to save a few pounds a month.
- Misunderstanding the New Terms: Don't assume the new policy is identical to the old one. Read the "Insurance Product Information Document" (IPID) carefully. Pay attention to the excess, hospital list, and benefit limits.
- Creating a Gap in Cover: As mentioned, this is the cardinal sin of switching. Always wait for the new policy to be active before cancelling the old one.
- Forgetting to Disclose Information: Even on a CPME switch, you may be asked some general questions. Always answer truthfully to protect your cover.
- Not Using a Broker: Trying to navigate the complexities of CPME and market comparison on your own is difficult and time-consuming. You risk missing the best options and making costly errors.
An expert broker's guidance is your best defence against these pitfalls, ensuring your switch is handled professionally from start to finish.
Final Thoughts: Switch Smart, Stay Covered
Switching your private medical insurance doesn't have to be stressful. By understanding your options—especially the power of Continued Personal Medical Exclusions (CPME)—you can move to a new provider, secure a better deal, and, most importantly, maintain continuous cover for your health.
Remember the key steps: review your needs, compare the market with an expert, choose the right underwriting method, and never cancel your old policy until the new one is firmly in place. This disciplined approach guarantees peace of mind and ensures your health remains protected without interruption.
Ready to see how much you could save and what better benefits you could get?
Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation comparison of the UK's leading private medical insurance providers. Our expert advisors will handle the details, so you can focus on what matters most—your health.
Do I need to declare conditions I'm already covered for when switching with CPME?
What happens to my no-claims discount when I switch PMI providers?
Can I switch providers if I am currently having treatment?
Is it cheaper to stay with my current provider to show loyalty?
Related guides
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!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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