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Telemedicine in 2026 The New Standard for GP Access

Telemedicine in 2026 The New Standard for GP Access 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explains how telemedicine is revolutionising access to healthcare. This guide explores how virtual appointments are fast becoming the new standard for GP access within the UK private medical insurance market, offering unparalleled convenience and speed.

WeCovr explains how virtual appointments are reshaping healthcare

The way we see a doctor has fundamentally changed. Gone are the days when a trip to the GP surgery was the only option. By 2026, telemedicine—the practice of consulting a doctor remotely using technology—has cemented its place as a primary method for initial healthcare consultations. This digital shift, accelerated in the early 2020s, now offers a level of convenience and efficiency that has reshaped patient expectations and the very structure of UK healthcare.

For anyone considering private medical insurance in the UK, understanding the power of virtual GP services is essential. These services are no longer just a 'nice-to-have' feature; they are a cornerstone of modern health cover, providing a vital first step for accessing specialist care quickly and efficiently.

The Rise of Telemedicine: A Look Back from 2026

To understand where we are now, it's helpful to look back. Before 2020, telemedicine was a niche service. NHS Digital data from late 2019 showed that over 80% of GP appointments in England were face-to-face. The global pandemic acted as a powerful catalyst, forcing a rapid and widespread adoption of remote consultations out of necessity.

By mid-2020, the numbers had flipped, with telephone and video calls accounting for the majority of appointments. While face-to-face consultations have since returned for necessary physical examinations, the digital habit has stuck. NHS data from 2024 and 2025 consistently shows that a significant portion, often around 30-40% of the 300 million+ annual GP appointments, remain remote.

This sustained use demonstrates a clear preference from both patients and clinicians for the efficiency that telemedicine brings to the healthcare ecosystem.

What Exactly is Telemedicine? Beyond a Simple Video Call

While many people think of telemedicine as just a video call with a doctor, the term covers a broader range of remote healthcare services. It's helpful to understand the different forms it can take.

Type of ServiceDescriptionCommon Uses
Video ConsultationsA real-time, face-to-face appointment with a GP or specialist via a secure app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.Diagnosing common illnesses, visual assessments (rashes, swelling), mental health consultations, follow-up appointments.
Telephone ConsultationsA traditional phone call with a clinician. Often used when a visual assessment isn't necessary or if the patient has poor internet access.Discussing symptoms, renewing prescriptions, reviewing test results, general medical advice.
Asynchronous MessagingCommunicating with a healthcare provider via secure text-based messaging or email. You send your query, and the clinician responds when available.Non-urgent questions, requesting prescription renewals, follow-up queries after a consultation.
Remote MonitoringUsing digital devices to collect health data (e.g., blood pressure, glucose levels, heart rate) and share it with a medical team remotely.Managing long-term conditions (though this is not typically covered by standard PMI).

Most private health cover policies in the UK focus on providing on-demand video and telephone consultations with a private GP, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Why Virtual GP Access is Now the Norm in the UK

Several powerful factors have combined to make telemedicine the new standard for initial GP access.

1. Unmatched Convenience and Speed

The primary driver is the sheer convenience. Patients no longer need to take time off work, arrange childcare, or travel to a surgery. Recent NHS statistics show that millions of patients still wait more than two weeks for a routine GP appointment. In contrast, virtual GP services included with private medical insurance typically offer appointments on the same day, often within a couple of hours.

This speed is transformative. A worrying symptom can be addressed almost immediately, providing either rapid reassurance or the first step towards a specialist referral, bypassing lengthy NHS waiting lists.

2. Technological Advancement

The technology powering telemedicine is now seamless and secure. User-friendly apps, high-definition video, and robust data protection have built patient trust. Furthermore, the integration with wearable technology is becoming more common. Data from your smartwatch or fitness tracker can, with your permission, provide your GP with valuable insights into your lifestyle and symptoms.

3. A Shift in Patient Expectations

Modern consumers are accustomed to on-demand services in every other area of life, from banking to shopping. Healthcare is no exception. The expectation is for services to be fast, accessible, and digitally enabled. Insurers and healthcare providers have responded to this demand, making virtual care a standard offering.

4. The PMI Pathway: A Gateway to Specialist Care

Within the private sector, a virtual GP consultation is the most efficient starting point. Here’s how it typically works:

  1. You feel unwell: You develop a new, acute symptom like persistent joint pain or a concerning skin lesion.
  2. Book a virtual GP: You use your insurer's app to book a video appointment for later that day.
  3. Consultation and Referral: The GP assesses your symptoms. If they feel you need to see a specialist (like a dermatologist or an orthopaedic surgeon), they will write you an 'open referral'.
  4. Authorisation: You provide this referral to your insurance provider to get your specialist treatment authorised.
  5. Book a specialist: You can then book an appointment with a specialist in the insurer's network, often within days or weeks, not months.

This seamless process is a key reason why many people invest in private medical insurance UK.

The Role of Private Medical Insurance in Digital Health

Virtually all major UK health insurance providers now include a 24/7 virtual GP service as a standard benefit on their policies. This feature has become a major selling point, as it directly addresses one of the biggest frustrations with public healthcare: access to a GP.

PMI ProviderTypical Virtual GP Service OfferingKey Benefit
AXA HealthDoctor at Hand (via Teladoc Health) offering 24/7 video or phone appointments.Strong integration with their specialist network for fast referrals.
BupaDigital GP service offering 24/7 access to doctors by phone or video.Includes prescription delivery service and seamless referrals.
VitalityVitality GP app offering video consultations within 48 hours, plus advice lines.Integrated with the broader Vitality wellness programme, rewarding healthy living.
AvivaAviva Digital GP app (powered by Square Health) provides 24/7 access.Allows you to choose the same GP for follow-ups, ensuring continuity of care.

As an independent PMI broker, WeCovr can help you compare these policies to find the one whose digital offering and overall benefits best match your needs, at no extra cost to you.

A Critical Note on PMI Coverage

It is vital to understand what private medical insurance is for. Standard UK PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before the policy started) or chronic conditions (illnesses that are long-term and cannot be cured, like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure). The virtual GP can give advice on any condition, but your insurance will only pay for onward treatment of eligible acute conditions.

Benefits of a Virtual GP Service: For You and Your Family

The advantages of using a telemedicine service included with your private health cover are extensive:

  • Immediate Access: Get a medical opinion when you need it, day or night, 365 days a year. This is invaluable for parents with young children or anyone with a busy, unpredictable schedule.
  • Ultimate Flexibility: Have your appointment from anywhere with an internet connection – your home office, a quiet meeting room at work, or even a hotel room while travelling in the UK.
  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: A quick consultation can provide immediate peace of mind, confirming an issue is minor or setting you on the fast track to diagnosis if it's more serious.
  • Private Prescriptions: If the GP feels you need medication, they can issue a private prescription. You can have this sent to a local pharmacy for collection or, in many cases, delivered directly to your door.
  • Specialist Referrals: As mentioned, this is the key that unlocks the rest of your PMI benefits, allowing you to bypass NHS queues for specialist consultations and diagnostic tests.
  • Global Access (Sometimes): Many providers allow you to use their virtual GP service even when you are travelling abroad, offering reassurance and medical advice in English wherever you are.

A Real-Life Example: Sarah's Story

Sarah, a 38-year-old graphic designer and mother of two, wakes up on a Saturday with a painful, swollen eye. Her local GP surgery is closed for the weekend, and she dreads the thought of spending hours in an urgent care centre.

She remembers her private medical insurance policy from WeCovr includes a 24/7 virtual GP. She opens the app on her phone and books a video appointment for 45 minutes later.

A friendly GP appears on her screen. Sarah shows her the eye, describes the symptoms, and answers a few questions. The GP diagnoses it as a mild infection and electronically sends a private prescription for antibiotic eye drops to Sarah's local 24-hour pharmacy. The whole process, from booking to having the prescription ready, takes just over an hour.

Sarah feels immense relief. She has avoided a stressful trip to A&E, received a diagnosis and treatment plan quickly, and can get on with her weekend with her family.

Are There Any Downsides to Virtual Consultations?

While the benefits are clear, it's important to be aware of the limitations of telemedicine.

  1. The Lack of Physical Examination: A virtual GP cannot listen to your chest with a stethoscope, feel for tenderness in your abdomen, check your blood pressure, or look inside your ears. Experienced GPs are trained to recognise when a physical examination is essential and will advise you to see a doctor in person (either on the NHS or privately) if necessary.
  2. Technological Barriers: For some, particularly older individuals or those in rural areas with poor broadband, accessing a video consultation can be a challenge. However, most services also offer telephone appointments as a reliable alternative.
  3. Suitability: Telemedicine is not suitable for emergencies. For symptoms like chest pain, severe bleeding, or suspected stroke, you must call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

Enhancing Your Health and Wellness with WeCovr

At WeCovr, we believe that modern health support goes beyond just treating illness; it's about promoting wellness. That's why, in addition to helping you find the perfect private health cover, we provide our clients with valuable tools to support a healthy lifestyle.

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All our clients get free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It's a simple, effective tool to help you manage your diet, understand your nutritional intake, and work towards your health goals.
  • Discounts on Other Insurance: When you purchase a private medical or life insurance policy through us, we offer you exclusive discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, helping you protect all aspects of your life for less.

Our commitment to client wellbeing and value is reflected in our consistently high customer satisfaction ratings.

The Future of Telemedicine: What to Expect Beyond 2026

The digital health revolution is far from over. Looking ahead, we can expect even more exciting developments:

  • AI-Powered Triage: Artificial intelligence will play a greater role in safely and accurately assessing symptoms before you even speak to a doctor, directing you to the right level of care more efficiently.
  • Home Diagnostics: The use of home testing kits (for everything from blood tests to urine analysis) that sync with virtual GP apps will become more common, giving doctors a wealth of diagnostic data without you leaving the house.
  • Deeper Wearable Integration: Your GP will be able to access real-time data from your health trackers during a consultation, providing a more holistic view of your health status.
  • Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR): While still in its infancy, VR/AR could one day be used for more immersive consultations, such as guided physiotherapy sessions or more detailed visual examinations.

Telemedicine is no longer a futuristic concept; it's a present-day reality and the established standard for convenient GP access. By 2026, its integration into the UK healthcare system, particularly through private medical insurance, has made it an indispensable tool for anyone who values their time and their health.


Can a virtual GP refer me to a specialist on my private medical insurance?

Yes, absolutely. This is one of the most valuable functions of a virtual GP service included with a private medical insurance (PMI) policy. If the GP determines you need to see a specialist (such as a cardiologist, dermatologist, or physiotherapist), they will provide you with an open referral letter. You then use this letter to get your treatment authorised by your insurer, allowing you to book a private appointment and bypass long NHS waiting lists.

Does private health insurance cover conditions I already have?

No, standard UK private medical insurance policies are designed to cover new, eligible medical conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. They do not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses or injuries you had symptoms or treatment for before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term conditions that cannot be cured, like diabetes or asthma). It is crucial to declare your medical history accurately when applying for cover.

Is a virtual GP service a replacement for my NHS GP?

No, a virtual GP service is a complementary service, not a replacement. You should always remain registered with your local NHS GP. Your NHS GP holds your complete medical history and manages ongoing care, vaccinations, and public health screenings. The virtual GP service provided by your insurer is an additional benefit designed for fast, convenient access for new, acute problems and for securing quick referrals into the private healthcare system.

Ready to embrace the convenience and speed of modern healthcare? Let WeCovr help you find the best private medical insurance policy with a leading virtual GP service. Our expert advisors will compare the market for you, explain the benefits, and provide a no-obligation quote—all at no cost to you.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of 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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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.


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