Login

The 6-Week Wait Option Saving Money on PMI

The 6-Week Wait Option Saving Money on PMI 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr knows the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. We understand that while the benefits of private health cover are clear, the cost can be a concern. This is where smart policy options make all the difference.

WeCovr explains how this policy option significantly reduces premiums

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a reassuring alternative to potentially long NHS waiting lists, giving you fast access to high-quality private healthcare. However, many people believe it's an unaffordable luxury. What if you could get the peace of mind of PMI for a fraction of the standard cost?

Enter the 6-Week Wait option. It's one of the most effective ways to lower your private health cover premiums, often by a significant margin. This clever feature creates a partnership between your policy and the NHS, ensuring you get treatment promptly, whether privately or through the public system.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about the 6-week wait, helping you decide if it's the right choice for your health and your wallet.

What Exactly is the 6-Week Wait Option?

In simple terms, the 6-week wait option is an agreement with your insurer that works like this:

If you need eligible in-patient or day-patient treatment, and the NHS can provide that treatment within six weeks of when it is deemed necessary, you will use the NHS. If the NHS waiting list for that specific procedure is longer than six weeks, your private medical insurance policy will activate, and you will be treated privately.

Think of it as a safety net. You benefit from the excellent care the NHS provides for timely procedures, but if you face a lengthy delay, your private cover steps in to get you treated faster. This reduces the number of claims the insurer expects to pay, and they pass those savings directly on to you in the form of a lower premium.

It’s crucial to understand that this option typically applies to in-patient and day-patient care:

  • In-patient: Treatment that requires you to be admitted to a hospital and stay overnight.
  • Day-patient: Treatment that requires a hospital bed for the day, but you don't stay overnight (e.g., a cataract operation).

It does not usually apply to initial diagnostics or outpatient consultations, meaning you can often still benefit from swift private diagnosis regardless of the 6-week wait for treatment.

How Does the 6-Week Wait Work in Practice? A Step-by-Step Example

Let's walk through a common scenario to see how this plays out.

Meet David, a 45-year-old teacher with a PMI policy that includes the 6-week wait option.

  1. The Problem: David develops persistent, painful knee problems that affect his ability to work and enjoy his hobbies. He visits his GP.
  2. The Referral: His GP suspects a torn meniscus and refers him to an orthopaedic specialist. David's policy has outpatient cover, so he uses it to see a private specialist within a week for a consultation and an MRI scan.
  3. The Diagnosis: The specialist confirms a torn meniscus requiring arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery. This is considered an acute condition and is covered by his policy.
  4. Starting the Claim: David calls his insurance provider to pre-authorise the surgery. Because he has the 6-week wait option, the insurer's claims team takes an extra step.
  5. Checking the Waitlist: The insurer checks the current NHS waiting list for that specific procedure at David's local NHS Trust.
  6. The Outcome:
    • Scenario A (Shorter Wait): The NHS waiting list for his surgery is four weeks. The insurer informs David that he will have his treatment on the NHS. His PMI does not pay for the surgery, but he has already benefited from a quick private diagnosis.
    • Scenario B (Longer Wait): The NHS waiting list is currently 14 weeks. As this is longer than six weeks, the insurer immediately authorises the surgery at a private hospital. David can book his procedure with the specialist of his choice (from his insurer's approved list) and have the operation in a couple of weeks.

In both scenarios, David is treated promptly. In Scenario B, his PMI provides a direct shortcut, and in both, the 6-week wait option has saved him a considerable amount on his monthly premiums all year.

Why Are the Premium Savings So Significant?

The logic behind the savings is based on risk. Insurance is all about pricing the risk of a claim being made. By adding the 6-week wait, you are telling the insurer they will only have to pay for in-patient treatment if the NHS cannot deliver it quickly.

This substantially lowers their potential financial exposure. The NHS, despite its challenges, successfully treats millions of people within a six-week timeframe every year.

FeatureStandard PMI PolicyPMI Policy with 6-Week Wait
How it worksYou can choose to go private for eligible treatment, regardless of the NHS wait.You go private for eligible treatment only if the NHS wait is over 6 weeks.
Insurer's RiskHigh (could pay for any eligible in-patient claim).Lower (will only pay if the NHS has a long waitlist).
Your PremiumHigherSignificantly lower (often 20-30% less).

The NHS Waiting List Context (2025)

Understanding the state of NHS waiting lists helps to see the value of the 6-week wait. While the NHS is a world-class service, the system is under immense pressure.

According to the latest data from NHS England, the overall referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list remains a significant challenge. As of late 2024, the list contained over 7.5 million treatment pathways. While many patients are treated quickly, a substantial number face long waits. For instance, hundreds of thousands of patients have been waiting over 52 weeks for treatment.

The 6-week wait option leverages this reality. It provides a guarantee that you won't be one of those facing an extreme delay for an eligible acute condition.

Who Should Consider the 6-Week Wait Option?

This cost-saving feature is an excellent choice for many, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution.

The 6-Week Wait is often a great fit for:

  • The Budget-Conscious: If you want the security of private health cover without the high price tag, this is arguably the single best way to reduce your premium.
  • Those Happy with the NHS (with a caveat): If you have confidence in the quality of NHS care but are concerned only about long waiting lists, this option is tailor-made for you.
  • Younger & Healthier Individuals: If you are generally healthy and view PMI as a "just in case" plan for serious issues, the 6-week wait provides robust protection at a lower cost.
  • People Prioritising Fast Diagnosis: Many policies allow you to keep full, unrestricted outpatient cover for consultations and scans. This means you can get a diagnosis privately in days, even if the subsequent treatment is on the NHS.

The 6-Week Wait may be less suitable for:

  • Those Wanting Maximum Control: If you want the ability to choose to go private immediately for any eligible condition, regardless of NHS waiting times, you should opt for a standard policy without this restriction.
  • Individuals Needing Absolute Certainty on Timing: If your job or lifestyle means you need to schedule treatment for a precise time, relying on the NHS waitlist check might not offer the flexibility you need.
  • People Living in Areas with Short NHS Waits: If your local NHS Trust is known for being particularly efficient for most procedures, the 6-week option might not be triggered as often, though it still provides a backstop and a lower premium.

An expert PMI broker, like our team at WeCovr, can help you analyse your local situation and personal priorities to see if this option aligns with your needs.

The Most Important Rule: PMI is for Acute Conditions

This is a critical point that everyone considering private medical insurance in the UK must understand.

Standard PMI policies, including those with a 6-week wait, 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 return you to your previous state of health. Examples include joint replacements, hernia repairs, cataract surgery, and treating infections.
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and most types of arthritis. PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing conditions are any health issues you had before your policy began. These are also typically excluded from cover, at least for an initial period.

The 6-week wait option does not change these fundamental rules. It only affects where you receive treatment for a new, eligible acute condition.

Other Ways to Save Money on Your Private Health Cover

The 6-week wait is powerful, but it's just one tool in the toolbox for making PMI affordable. You can combine it with other options to further reduce your premium.

Cost-Saving OptionHow it Reduces Your PremiumKey Consideration
ExcessYou agree to pay a fixed amount (e.g., £250) towards your first claim each year. A higher excess means a lower premium.Make sure you can comfortably afford the excess amount if you need to make a claim.
Limited Hospital ListYou choose a policy that uses a specific network of hospitals (e.g., excluding expensive central London hospitals) rather than nationwide access.Check that the hospital list includes high-quality, convenient facilities near your home and work.
Guided OptionsThe insurer provides a shortlist of approved specialists or hospitals for your treatment, rather than giving you complete freedom of choice.This can be a great way to save money and ensure you see a quality-vetted consultant, but it reduces your overall choice.
Reduced Outpatient CoverYou can cap the financial limit for diagnostic tests and consultations (e.g., to £1,000 per year) or remove it entirely.A lower outpatient limit can save a lot, but you may have to pay for some diagnostic costs yourself.

By working with an independent broker like WeCovr, you can mix and match these options to design a policy that perfectly balances cost and coverage for your unique circumstances. Our advice is always free and impartial.

A Healthier Lifestyle: The Ultimate Premium Reducer

While policy options are key, the best way to manage health costs is to invest in your own wellbeing. A healthier lifestyle reduces your risk of developing many acute conditions that require treatment in the first place.

Here are some tips to support your long-term health:

  • Balanced Diet: Following principles like the NHS Eatwell Guide helps ensure you get a good mix of fruit, vegetables, protein, dairy, and carbohydrates. As a WeCovr customer, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, to make healthy eating easier.
  • Regular Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running or tennis) per week, as recommended by the NHS.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Good quality sleep (7-9 hours for most adults) is vital for your immune system, mental health, and physical recovery.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to a range of health problems. Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can have a powerful positive impact.

Purchasing PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr can also unlock discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your finances as well as your health.

WeCovr: Your Partner in Private Health Insurance

Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can feel complex. With so many providers, policy options, and technical terms, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's where we come in.

WeCovr is a leading, FCA-authorised insurance broker with years of experience and high customer satisfaction ratings. Our mission is to make insurance simple, transparent, and accessible.

When it comes to the 6-week wait, we can:

  • Explain the pros and cons based on your personal situation.
  • Compare quotes from the UK's best PMI providers that offer this option.
  • Help you combine it with other features to build the perfect, cost-effective policy.
  • Support you for the life of your policy, at no cost to you.

We do the hard work so you can make a confident decision.


What happens if the NHS waiting list is exactly six weeks?

Generally, if the waiting list is six weeks or less, the policy terms state that you will be treated on the NHS. The wait must be *longer* than six weeks for the private medical insurance to be triggered. However, the exact definition can vary slightly between insurers, so it is always best to check the policy wording or ask an expert broker like WeCovr to clarify this for you.

Does the 6-week wait option apply to cancer treatment?

No, typically it does not. Most UK private health insurance policies with a 6-week wait option explicitly exclude cancer treatment from this condition. Due to the urgent nature of cancer care, insurers usually provide full cover for eligible cancer treatment from diagnosis onwards, regardless of NHS waiting times. This is a key benefit and provides significant peace of mind.

Can I remove the 6-week wait option from my policy later?

Yes, you can usually make changes to your policy at your annual renewal. If your circumstances change and you decide you would prefer to have the option to go private immediately, you can request to have the 6-week wait removed. Be aware that doing so will lead to an increase in your monthly or annual premium.

How does the insurer check the NHS waiting list?

Insurers have dedicated teams and systems for this. When you make a claim, they will contact the relevant NHS Trust or use publicly available data to determine the current waiting time for the specific procedure you require. They look at the "referral to treatment" (RTT) pathway for your condition in your specific geographic area to make an accurate and fair assessment.

Ready to find out how much you could save with the 6-week wait option?

[Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and compare the best private health cover in the UK.]


Related guides


Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 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.