WeCovr.

Login

Tax-Efficient Private Health Insurance for Company Directors

Tax-Efficient Private Health Insurance for Company Directors

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies arranged, WeCovr helps UK company directors navigate private medical insurance. This guide reveals how using your business to fund your PMI can be a highly tax-efficient strategy, offering premium healthcare while reducing your company's tax bill.

How directors can reduce PMI costs through their business

For company directors, a business private medical insurance (PMI) policy is one of the most effective ways to access first-class healthcare while unlocking significant tax advantages. By paying for the policy through your limited company, you can treat the premium as an allowable business expense. This reduces your company's profit and, consequently, its Corporation Tax liability.

While the director will pay some personal tax on this as a 'benefit-in-kind', the overall cost is nearly always lower than paying for an equivalent personal policy from your post-tax salary. It’s a strategic move that benefits your health, your finances, and your business's bottom line.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about setting up tax-efficient private health insurance as a UK company director.

Understanding Company-Paid Private Medical Insurance

Company-paid private health cover, often called a business PMI policy, is an insurance policy owned and paid for by a limited company for its employees—including its directors. It provides access to private healthcare services in the UK, allowing you to bypass long NHS waiting lists for eligible treatments.

The core purpose of PMI is to cover the costs of treating 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.

Why is PMI so valuable for company directors?

Running a business is demanding. Your health is your most critical asset, and any prolonged illness can have a direct impact on your company's performance.

  • Speed of Access: With NHS waiting lists in England reaching over 7.5 million cases in 2024 (according to NHS England data), waiting for a diagnosis or treatment can take months. PMI provides prompt access to specialists, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and private hospital treatment.
  • Choice and Comfort: Private healthcare offers greater choice over when and where you are treated, who your consultant is, and provides the comfort of a private room during a hospital stay.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a plan in place to handle unexpected health issues provides invaluable peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your business.
  • Business Continuity: For a small business where the director is integral to daily operations, a swift return to health is essential for business continuity.

The Tax Implications: A Win-Win for Directors and Their Companies

The primary financial advantage of a business PMI policy lies in its tax treatment. It creates benefits for both the company and the director personally. Let's explore how.

For the Company: Corporation Tax Relief

When your limited company pays for your private health insurance premium, HMRC views it as a legitimate business expense, just like salaries or office rent. This means the full cost of the premium can be deducted from your company's revenue before calculating its profit.

  • Reduced Profit: A lower declared profit means a lower Corporation Tax bill.
  • How it Works: The current Corporation Tax rate ranges from 19% to 25%, depending on your company's profits. By expensing the PMI premium, your company saves a percentage of the premium cost that it would have otherwise paid in tax.

Example: Corporation Tax Saving

ItemDetails
Annual PMI Premium£1,500
Company's Profit BracketMain Rate (25%)
Corporation Tax Saving£1,500 x 25% = £375
Effective Cost to Company£1,500 - £375 = £1,125

In this scenario, a £1,500 policy effectively costs the business only £1,125 after tax relief.

For the Director: A Taxable Benefit-in-Kind

Because the company is paying for a personal benefit, HMRC classifies the health insurance premium as a 'benefit-in-kind' (BiK). This means you, the director, must pay personal income tax on the value of the benefit.

  • P11D Form: Your company must report this benefit to HMRC each year using a P11D form.
  • Income Tax: The value of the premium (£1,500 in our example) is added to your total income for the year, and you pay income tax on it at your marginal rate (20%, 40%, or 45%).
  • National Insurance: While you don't pay employee's National Insurance on this benefit, your company must pay Class 1A Employer's National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on the value of the premium. The rate is currently 13.8%. This NIC payment is also an allowable business expense, providing further Corporation Tax relief.

So, is it still cheaper?

Absolutely. Even with the personal income tax liability, it's almost always more tax-efficient than the alternative: paying yourself a higher salary to cover a personal policy.

When you take extra salary, it's subject to:

  1. Employer's National Insurance (13.8%)
  2. Employee's National Insurance (rate varies)
  3. Income Tax (at your marginal rate)

A benefit-in-kind avoids Employee's NI, making it a more efficient way to extract value from your company.

Key Differences: Business PMI vs. Personal PMI

To truly understand the value, it's helpful to see a direct comparison. Let's look at the two ways a director could get a £1,500 annual PMI policy.

Scenario: A company director is a higher-rate (40%) taxpayer. Their company pays 25% Corporation Tax.

FeatureBusiness PMI PolicyPersonal PMI Policy (Paid from Salary)
Who Pays the Premium?The limited companyThe individual director
Initial Cost£1,500£1,500
Company Tax Treatment£1,500 is an allowable business expenseThe company must pay the director a higher salary to cover the cost
Gross Salary NeededNot applicableTo get £1,500 after 40% tax and 2% NI, a gross salary of approx. £2,586 is needed
Corporation Tax Saving£1,500 x 25% = £375No direct saving on the premium. Tax relief is on the salary paid.
Employer's NI Cost£1,500 x 13.8% = £207£2,586 x 13.8% = £357
Total Cost to Business(£1,500 + £207) - (£375 + £52*) = £1,280£2,586 + £357 = £2,943
Director's Personal Tax£1,500 x 40% = £600The tax is already deducted from the gross salary
Overall EfficiencyHighly tax-efficient. The total cash outlay from the business is significantly lower.Less tax-efficient. The business must pay out far more cash to enable the director to buy the same policy.

*Tax relief on the Employer's NI payment.

As the table clearly shows, funding the policy through the business is substantially more cost-effective. It reduces the cash drain on the company, making it the superior choice for most company directors.

Crucial Exclusions: Understanding What UK Private Health Insurance Doesn't Cover

It is vital to understand that private medical insurance in the UK is designed for a specific purpose. It is not a replacement for the NHS but rather a way to supplement it for certain conditions.

PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

There are several key exclusions you must be aware of:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical condition you have had symptoms of, received advice for, or sought treatment for in the years before your policy starts (typically the last 5 years) will not be covered. Some policies may agree to cover them again if you remain symptom-free and treatment-free for a continuous period (usually 2 years) after your policy begins.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term conditions that cannot be cured but can be managed, such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis, or high blood pressure, are not covered by standard PMI. The NHS will continue to manage your care for these. PMI may cover an acute 'flare-up' of a chronic condition, but not the day-to-day management.
  • Emergency Services: In a medical emergency (e.g., a heart attack, stroke, or major accident), you should always call 999 and go to an NHS A&E department. Private hospitals are not typically equipped for emergency admissions.
  • Other Standard Exclusions: Policies also typically exclude routine pregnancy and childbirth, cosmetic surgery, organ transplants, and treatment for addiction or substance abuse.

An expert PMI broker can help you navigate the specific terms and conditions of each insurer to ensure you have a clear understanding of what is and isn't covered.

How to Set Up a Business Health Insurance Policy: A 5-Step Guide

Setting up a business PMI policy is a straightforward process, especially with expert guidance.

1. Assess Your Needs and Budget

Think about what is most important to you. Is it fast access to diagnostics? Do you want a wide choice of hospitals, including those in Central London? What is a comfortable budget for the business to allocate annually?

2. Speak to a Specialist Broker

This is the most crucial step. A specialist private medical insurance broker, like WeCovr, does the hard work for you.

  • They understand the entire UK market and the subtle differences between insurers.
  • They can explain the tax implications in detail.
  • They help you compare policies on a like-for-like basis.
  • Their service comes at no cost to you, as they are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

3. Compare Quotes and Providers

Your broker will present you with a range of options from the best PMI providers in the UK, such as Bupa, Aviva, AXA Health, and Vitality. They will explain the pros and cons of each, helping you find the perfect balance of cover and cost.

4. Finalise Your Policy Details

Once you've chosen a provider, you'll need to finalise the details. This includes choosing your underwriting method.

  • Moratorium Underwriting: A simpler process where you don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had in the last 5 years. It's quicker but can lead to uncertainty at the point of claim.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history on an application form. The insurer assesses it and tells you from day one exactly what is and isn't covered. It takes longer but provides complete clarity.

5. Inform HMRC

Remember to complete the P11D form at the end of the tax year to declare the benefit-in-kind to HMRC. Your accountant can easily handle this for you.

Choosing the Right Level of Cover: Customising Your Policy

One of the great things about private health cover is its flexibility. You can tailor your policy to match your needs and budget by adjusting several key components.

Policy ComponentDescriptionImpact on Premium
Level of CoverComprehensive: Covers inpatient, day-patient, and outpatient treatment (consultations, diagnostics).
Standard: Covers inpatient and day-patient care, with limited or no outpatient cover.		Comprehensive cover is more expensive but offers greater peace of mind.
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards the cost of a claim each year. A typical excess is £100, £250, or £500.A higher excess significantly lowers your premium.
Hospital ListA list of eligible private hospitals. Options can range from local networks to nationwide lists, including premium Central London hospitals.A more extensive hospital list, especially with London options, increases the cost.
Outpatient LimitThe maximum amount the policy will pay for outpatient services per year. This can range from £0 to unlimited.A higher outpatient limit increases the premium. A limit of £1,000-£1,500 is often a good balance.
6-Week OptionAn option where you agree to use the NHS if the required treatment is available within 6 weeks. If the wait is longer, your private cover kicks in.This can reduce your premium by 20-30%, offering a great cost-saving compromise.
  • Mental Health Cover: Provides access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Crucial for directors dealing with high-stress environments.
  • Therapies Cover: Includes treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care, vital for musculoskeletal issues.
  • Dental & Optical Cover: Contributes towards the cost of routine check-ups, treatments, and eyewear.

Can I Cover My Family on a Company Policy?

Yes, you can absolutely add your spouse, partner, and children to your business health insurance policy. This is a fantastic way to provide comprehensive health protection for your entire family.

Tax Implications of Covering Family Members

The tax treatment is straightforward: the entire premium for you and your family becomes the benefit-in-kind.

  • The company still gets to treat the full premium as an allowable business expense and claim Corporation Tax relief.
  • You, the director, will be personally liable for income tax on the total value of the premium paid for your whole family.
  • The company will pay Class 1A Employer's NI on the total premium amount.

Even with the higher benefit-in-kind value, this is often still more efficient than funding a family policy personally.

Beyond Health Insurance: Promoting Director and Employee Wellness

Smart business leaders know that proactive health management is better than reactive treatment. A PMI policy is a safety net, but fostering a culture of wellness can prevent health issues from arising in the first place.

Health and Wellness Tips for Busy Directors

  1. Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. It's fundamental for decision-making, mood regulation, and physical health. Avoid screens for an hour before bed.
  2. Mindful Nutrition: A balanced diet fuels performance. Avoid excessive processed foods, sugar, and caffeine. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you stay on track.
  3. Incorporate Movement: You don't need to spend hours in the gym. Take walking meetings, use a standing desk, and schedule short 10-15 minute breaks to stretch and walk around.
  4. Manage Stress: Find healthy coping mechanisms. This could be mindfulness, meditation, a hobby, or simply ensuring you take regular holidays. A trip away can be a powerful way to reset and gain perspective.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and a lack of focus. Keep a water bottle on your desk at all times.

By investing in wellness, you invest in the long-term resilience of both yourself and your business.

Why Use a Specialist PMI Broker like WeCovr?

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr simplifies the entire process and ensures you get the best possible outcome.

  • Expert, Impartial Advice: We work for you, not the insurers. Our job is to understand your unique needs as a company director and find the policy that fits you perfectly.
  • Market Access: We have access to policies from all the UK's leading insurers, including deals and arrangements that may not be available to the public directly. We do the shopping around, so you don't have to.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free. We receive a standard commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra.
  • Ongoing Support: Our relationship doesn't end when you buy the policy. We're here to help with renewals, answer questions, and provide assistance if you need to make a claim. WeCovr consistently receives high customer satisfaction ratings for our dedicated service.
  • Added Value: When you purchase a health or life insurance policy through us, we offer discounts on other types of business and personal cover, providing even more value.

Working with a specialist broker is the smartest way to secure the right protection at the right price.


Do I need to declare company-paid health insurance to HMRC?

Yes, absolutely. Private medical insurance paid for by your company is considered a 'benefit-in-kind'. Your company must report this on a P11D form at the end of each tax year. You will then pay personal income tax on the value of the premium through your tax code or self-assessment tax return.

Is private health insurance worth it for a company director in the UK?

For most company directors, the answer is a resounding yes. It provides fast access to high-quality medical care, bypassing potentially long NHS waits and minimising disruption to your business. When paid through the company, it is extremely tax-efficient, making it a financially astute way to protect your most important asset: your health.

Can a sole trader get business health insurance?

A sole trader cannot get 'business' health insurance in the same tax-efficient way as a limited company director. Because a sole trader and their business are legally the same entity, the premium is not considered an allowable business expense. Sole traders must take out a personal private medical insurance policy.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition?

This is a critical distinction for UK private medical insurance. An acute condition is a disease or injury that is short-term and likely to be cured with treatment (e.g., a cataract, a hernia, or a joint replacement). PMI is designed to cover these. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that can be managed but not cured (e.g., diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure). The day-to-day management of chronic conditions is not covered by PMI and remains with the NHS.

Ready to explore how a tax-efficient private medical insurance policy can benefit you and your business?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors are ready to help you find the perfect cover.

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 800,000+ 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.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London