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Telemedicine in the UK How Virtual GP Appointments Are Changing Healthcare

Telemedicine in the UK How Virtual GP Appointments Are...

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr explains how private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK is leveraging this digital shift. This guide explores the rise of telemedicine, its benefits, and how it integrates with your private health cover for unparalleled convenience.

WeCovr explains how telemedicine is reshaping patient access to care in the UK

The way we see a doctor in the UK is undergoing its most significant transformation in a generation. Gone are the days when the only option was to phone the surgery at 8 a.m. sharp and hope for a same-day appointment. Today, thanks to telemedicine, expert medical advice is often just a few taps away on your smartphone.

This digital revolution, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has moved from a niche offering to a mainstream feature of both the NHS and private healthcare. Virtual GP appointments are no longer a futuristic concept; they are a present-day reality for millions, offering speed, convenience, and a new level of control over our health.

What Exactly Is Telemedicine? A Simple Definition

At its core, telemedicine is the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely. It's a broad term that covers various services, but the most common and impactful for most people is the virtual GP appointment.

Think of it this way:

  • Traditional Healthcare: You feel unwell, travel to a physical clinic, wait in a reception area, and see a doctor face-to-face.
  • Telemedicine: You feel unwell, open an app on your phone or laptop from the comfort of your home, and speak to a qualified GP via video or phone call.

This can also include sending photos of a rash, using remote monitoring devices for chronic conditions, or receiving prescriptions electronically at a pharmacy of your choice. It's about bringing the doctor to you, not the other way around.

The Soaring Popularity of Virtual GP Services in the UK

The shift towards digital healthcare isn't just a trend; it's a fundamental change in patient behaviour and healthcare delivery. Recent data paints a clear picture of this evolution.

According to NHS Digital figures for 2025, an estimated 35% of all GP appointments in England are now conducted remotely, either by phone or video. This is a dramatic increase from pre-2020 levels, which were in the single digits.

Why the surge? Several factors are at play:

  • Unprecedented Convenience: Patients can avoid travel time, taking time off work, and arranging childcare. An appointment can be fitted into a lunch break or conducted from home.
  • Speed of Access: Waiting times for routine NHS GP appointments can stretch for weeks in some areas. Many private telemedicine services offer appointments within hours, sometimes even minutes.
  • Technological Confidence: A 2024 survey from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that over 85% of UK adults now own a smartphone, and public confidence in using digital services for important tasks has never been higher.
  • A Shift in Mindset: The pandemic forced a rapid adoption of remote services, proving their effectiveness and breaking down old habits. Patients and doctors alike have discovered that many common consultations don't require a physical examination.

How a Virtual GP Appointment Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've never used a virtual GP service, the process is remarkably simple and designed to be user-friendly. While specific platforms vary slightly, the journey is generally the same.

  1. Booking the Appointment: You'll open the provider's app or website. You then select a time that suits you from a list of available slots. Often, you can see appointments available on the same day, sometimes within the next hour. You may be asked to briefly describe the reason for your consultation.
  2. The Consultation: At the scheduled time, you'll receive a notification. You simply log in to the secure platform and join the video or phone call. The GP will greet you, confirm your identity, and conduct the consultation just as they would in person. They'll ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
  3. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: Based on the conversation (and any photos you may have shared), the GP will provide a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan. This could be advice, a prescription, or a recommendation for further tests.
  4. Prescriptions and Referrals: If you need medication, the GP can issue a digital prescription. You can often choose to have it sent to a local pharmacy for collection or, with some services, delivered directly to your door.
  5. Referrals: If the GP believes you need to see a specialist, they can write an open referral letter. If you have private medical insurance, this is the key that unlocks rapid access to specialist care, bypassing long NHS waiting lists.
  6. Follow-Up: The consultation notes are saved securely in your app for future reference. The GP may also schedule a follow-up virtual appointment if necessary.

Key Benefits of Telemedicine for UK Patients

The advantages of virtual GP appointments extend far beyond simply avoiding a trip to the clinic. They represent a more patient-centric approach to primary care.

BenefitHow It Helps YouReal-Life Example
Speed & AccessGet medical advice within hours, 24/7, from anywhere in the UK.A parent with a sick child can get a consultation at 10 p.m. without waiting until the morning or visiting A&E for a non-emergency.
ConvenienceNo travel, no waiting rooms, and no need to take a full day off work.An office worker can have a 15-minute consultation about a recurring headache during their lunch break.
Reduced AnxietySpeaking from a familiar environment can make discussing sensitive health issues easier.Someone seeking mental health support may feel more comfortable opening up from the privacy of their own home.
Continuity of CareAccess your consultation notes, prescriptions, and medical history all in one place.Easily review the advice your GP gave you last month about managing your hay fever.
Cost & Time SavingsSave money on travel, parking, and lost earnings from taking time off work.A self-employed individual avoids losing half a day's income for a routine check-up.

Telemedicine and Private Medical Insurance (PMI): A Perfect Match

For those with private medical insurance UK policies, telemedicine isn't just a convenient extra; it's an integral part of the service that enhances the value of your cover. Almost all leading UK health insurers now include a 24/7 virtual GP service as a standard feature.

Here’s how they work together to create a seamless healthcare journey:

  1. The First Port of Call: You feel unwell. Instead of waiting for an NHS appointment, you use your PMI provider's virtual GP app. You get an appointment the same day.
  2. Swift Diagnosis & Open Referral: The virtual GP assesses your condition. If they suspect you need specialist care (for example, for persistent joint pain or a worrying skin mole), they issue an open referral letter instantly.
  3. Fast-Track to a Specialist: With this referral, you contact your insurance provider's claims team. They use the referral to authorise a consultation with a private specialist, often within days or weeks, compared to many months on the NHS.
  4. Integrated Treatment: The specialist diagnoses your condition and recommends treatment, such as physiotherapy, surgery, or further tests, all of which are covered by your PMI policy (subject to its terms).

This powerful combination puts you in control. It bridges the gap between primary care and specialist treatment, dramatically cutting down the waiting times that can cause so much anxiety and discomfort. When looking for the best PMI provider, the quality and accessibility of their virtual GP service is a crucial factor to consider.

Understanding the nuances between different insurers' telemedicine offerings can be tricky. Some offer unlimited appointments, while others have a cap. Some use their own in-house GPs, while others partner with third-party providers like Livi or Babylon Health.

This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr provides invaluable assistance. We compare the entire market for you, explaining the differences in digital health services to ensure the policy you choose perfectly aligns with your expectations for modern, convenient healthcare.

Comparing NHS vs. Private Virtual GP Services

Both the NHS and private providers offer virtual consultations, but there are key differences in the service you can expect.

FeatureNHS Virtual Service (e.g., via NHS App or local surgery)Private Virtual Service (via PMI or paid subscription)
AvailabilityTypically limited to your GP surgery's opening hours.Often 24/7, 365 days a year.
Waiting TimeCan still involve a wait of days or weeks for a routine appointment.Appointments are usually available within a few hours, often sooner.
Appointment LengthOften limited to a standard 10-minute slot.Can be longer, typically 15-20 minutes, allowing for more in-depth discussion.
Choice of GPYou will be seen by a GP from your registered practice, but may not be able to choose who.You can often see the same GP for continuity or choose based on profiles and special interests.
Prescription DeliverySent to a local pharmacy for collection.Often includes a home delivery option.
CostFree at the point of use.Included with your private health cover or paid for via subscription/per appointment.

What Can a Virtual GP Help With? (And What Are the Limits?)

Telemedicine is incredibly effective for a wide range of common health concerns. However, it's important to understand its limitations.

Conditions well-suited for a virtual consultation:

  • Minor Illnesses: Colds, flu, coughs, sore throats, fevers.
  • Skin Conditions: Rashes, eczema, acne, insect bites (photos are very helpful here).
  • Musculoskeletal Issues: Advice on minor sprains, strains, and back pain.
  • Stomach Problems: Diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, indigestion.
  • Mental Health: Consultations for anxiety, stress, depression, and lifestyle advice.
  • Women's & Men's Health: Contraception advice, urinary tract infections (UTIs), erectile dysfunction.
  • Medication Reviews & Repeat Prescriptions: Discussing existing medications and issuing repeats.
  • Allergies: Hay fever, mild allergic reactions.
  • Lifestyle Advice: Guidance on diet, sleep, smoking cessation, and exercise.

When an in-person appointment is necessary:

  • Emergencies: Chest pain, difficulty breathing, suspected stroke, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness. Always call 999 in an emergency.
  • Physical Examinations: When a doctor needs to physically touch an area (e.g., feel a lump, listen to your chest/heart, check reflexes).
  • Procedures: Vaccinations, blood tests, cervical smears, or minor surgery.
  • Serious Injuries: Broken bones, deep cuts needing stitches.
  • Children's Health: While many childhood illnesses can be assessed remotely, babies and very young children often require a physical check-up.

A good virtual GP will always be cautious and recommend an in-person follow-up if they have any doubt about your condition.

A Crucial Note on Private Medical Insurance Coverage

It is vital to understand what private medical insurance is designed for. Standard UK PMI policies are for treating acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, or a joint injury.
  • A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and most types of arthritis.
  • Pre-existing conditions are any health issues you knew about or had symptoms of before your policy started.

Standard private health cover in the UK does not cover the management of chronic conditions or treatment for pre-existing conditions. While a virtual GP can offer advice on these conditions, your PMI policy will not pay for the ongoing private treatment related to them.

The Technology Fuelling the Digital Health Revolution

Modern telemedicine is far more sophisticated than a simple Skype call. The platforms used by leading private health cover providers are built with security, integration, and user experience in mind.

  • Secure Platforms: All consultations are encrypted and comply with strict data protection regulations (GDPR) to ensure your medical information remains confidential.
  • Integrated Health Records: Your consultation notes, prescriptions, and referral letters are all stored in one secure digital location within the app, creating a personal health record you can access anytime.
  • AI-Powered Triage: Some services use artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots to ask initial questions. This helps gather information efficiently before you speak to the GP, making the consultation more focused.
  • Wearable Tech Integration: The future of telemedicine involves integrating data from your smartwatch or fitness tracker. This could allow a GP to see your heart rate trends or sleep patterns, providing a more holistic view of your health.

Addressing Concerns: Is Telemedicine Safe and Secure?

It's natural to have questions about a new way of receiving healthcare. The two biggest concerns for patients are usually clinical safety and data security.

Clinical Safety: All GPs working for UK telemedicine services must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and are often experienced NHS GPs working flexibly. They follow the same clinical guidelines and standards of care as in a physical practice. The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England, inspects and rates digital health providers to ensure they are safe, effective, and well-led.

Data Security: As mentioned, these platforms use bank-grade security and end-to-end encryption. Your personal and medical data is protected to the same high standard as it is within the NHS or any other healthcare setting.

Choosing the Right Private Health Cover with WeCovr

The rise of telemedicine has made private medical insurance in the UK a more compelling proposition than ever before. It offers a complete, modern healthcare pathway from initial symptom to specialist treatment.

At WeCovr, we believe in providing more than just an insurance policy. As an FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, we help you find the right cover and enhance your wellbeing.

  • Expert, Free Advice: We compare policies from all major UK insurers to find the one that fits your needs and budget, explaining the digital health benefits of each.
  • Complimentary Wellness Tools: When you arrange your PMI or Life Insurance with us, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to support your health goals.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Our clients can also benefit from discounts on other types of insurance, providing even greater value.

The world of healthcare is changing for the better, becoming more accessible and patient-focused. A quality private health cover plan, with a robust virtual GP service at its heart, is your ticket to the forefront of this revolution.

Can a virtual GP issue a sick note for work?

Yes, absolutely. If the virtual GP determines that you are medically unfit for work, they can issue a legitimate sick note (now called a 'fit note'). This digital note is legally valid and can be sent to you as a PDF to be forwarded to your employer.

Is my private medical insurance policy more expensive if it includes a virtual GP?

Generally, no. 24/7 virtual GP access is now considered a standard, core feature of most private medical insurance UK policies. Insurers include it because it offers excellent value to customers and can lead to earlier intervention, which can be more efficient. It is typically built into the price of the core policy rather than being an expensive add-on.

What happens if I need a physical examination after my virtual appointment?

If the virtual GP decides you need a hands-on examination, they will advise you on the best next steps. This usually involves recommending that you book an appointment with your regular NHS GP. If they suspect a condition that requires a specialist, they will provide a referral letter so you can use your private medical insurance to see a private specialist directly, who will then conduct the necessary physical examination.

Do I need to tell my NHS GP that I am using a private virtual GP service?

It is good practice to keep your NHS GP informed for continuity of care. Most private virtual GP services make this easy. With your consent, they can send the notes from your consultation directly to your NHS surgery to be added to your medical record. This ensures your primary GP has a complete picture of your health history.

Ready to embrace the future of healthcare? Get a fast, free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how private medical insurance can give you and your family peace of mind and rapid access to care.

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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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