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The Cost of a Private Caesarean Section in the UK

The Cost of a Private Caesarean Section in the UK 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides clear insights into the UK’s private medical insurance market. This guide explores the costs of a private caesarean section and explains how a private health cover policy may, or may not, contribute to your maternity journey.

WeCovr explains private maternity costs and how PMI may contribute

Choosing how and where to give birth is one of the most personal decisions an expectant parent can make. While the UK is fortunate to have the world-class National Health Service (NHS), a growing number of families are exploring the option of private maternity care for the enhanced comfort, choice, and continuity it can offer.

A key part of this consideration is understanding the cost, especially for a surgical procedure like a caesarean section (C-section). This comprehensive guide breaks down the typical costs of a private C-section in 2025, clarifies the role of private medical insurance (PMI), and offers practical advice to help you make an informed choice for your family.

At WeCovr, we believe that clarity is paramount. While standard UK PMI policies are not designed to cover planned childbirth, understanding the nuances can help you see the broader value of health insurance for your family's overall well-being.

What is a Caesarean Section? A Quick Overview

A caesarean section is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby. An incision is made in the mother's abdomen and uterus, and the baby is delivered through this opening. It's a major operation that is common and generally very safe.

There are two main types of C-section:

  1. Elective (Planned) Caesarean Section: This is a C-section that is scheduled in advance. It might be for medical reasons, such as the baby being in a breech position (feet or bottom first), the mother having placenta praevia (a low-lying placenta), or other health concerns. It can also be due to maternal request, where the mother chooses a C-section for non-medical reasons.
  2. Emergency Caesarean Section: This is an unplanned C-section that becomes necessary when a vaginal birth is no longer safe for the mother or the baby. This can happen if labour isn't progressing, or if there are signs of distress in the mother or child.

The NHS performs around one in four of all births via C-section, highlighting how common the procedure is. In the private sector, the rate can be higher, partly because it accommodates maternal requests more readily.

How Much Does a Private Caesarean Section Cost in the UK?

Opting for a private C-section is a significant financial commitment. Unlike the NHS, where care is free at the point of use, private maternity involves paying for all aspects of your care directly or through a specialist insurance plan. The final bill is a package that bundles together numerous services.

A Breakdown of Typical Private C-Section Costs

The "package price" you are quoted by a private hospital is designed to be inclusive, but it's vital to check exactly what it covers. Key components include:

  • Consultant Obstetrician's Fees: This covers all your antenatal appointments, their time leading the surgical team, and postnatal check-ups. This is often the largest single part of the cost.
  • Anaesthetist's Fees: The fee for the specialist who administers your anaesthetic (usually a spinal block or epidural) and monitors you during surgery.
  • Hospital Fees: This is a major component covering:
    • The use of the operating theatre.
    • A private room for your postnatal stay (typically 2-3 nights for a C-section).
    • Nursing and midwifery care around the clock.
    • Medication and standard dressings.
  • Paediatrician's Fees: A consultant paediatrician will check your baby after birth and before you are discharged from the hospital.
  • Scans and Tests: This usually includes routine blood tests and any final scans required before the procedure.

Estimated Private C-Section Costs at Leading UK Hospitals (2025)

Prices vary significantly, with London hospitals being the most expensive. The following table provides an estimate of package prices for a planned, uncomplicated caesarean section.

HospitalLocationEstimated Package Cost (Elective C-Section)Notes
The Portland HospitalLondon£25,000 – £40,000+Renowned for luxury maternity. Price depends heavily on choice of consultant.
The Lindo Wing, St Mary'sLondon£20,000 – £35,000+A famous, prestigious unit within an NHS hospital.
The Kensington WingLondon£18,000 – £30,000+A private wing at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Hospital.
The Westminster Maternity SuiteLondon£17,000 – £28,000+A private wing at St Thomas' Hospital, known for its excellent care.
Queen Charlotte's & ChelseaLondon£15,000 – £25,000+Part of Imperial College Healthcare, offering private care in a leading facility.
The Spire Group (Various)Nationwide£12,000 – £20,000Costs are generally lower outside of London. Varies by hospital location.
BMI Healthcare (Various)Nationwide£12,000 – £20,000Similar to Spire, with prices depending on the specific hospital and consultant.

Disclaimer: These are estimated figures for 2025 and for illustrative purposes only. Prices are subject to change and depend on the specific consultant, the complexity of the case, and the length of your stay. Always get a detailed, personalised quote directly from the hospital.

Factors That Can Increase the Final Cost

The package price is a baseline. Your final bill could be higher due to:

  • A longer hospital stay: If you or your baby need to stay longer than the 2-3 nights included in the package.
  • Complications: Any unforeseen medical issues for you or the baby that require intensive care, additional procedures, or specialist consultations will be billed separately.
  • Multiple births: A C-section for twins will cost more than for a single baby.
  • Consultant seniority: More experienced and high-profile consultants command higher fees.
  • Non-standard tests: Any diagnostic tests or scans beyond the routine package.
  • Sundries: Extras like guest meals, premium toiletries, or take-home medication packs can add up.

Can Private Medical Insurance Cover a Caesarean Section?

This is the most common question we receive at WeCovr, and the answer requires careful explanation.

For the vast majority of UK residents, the answer is straightforward: standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover routine or planned pregnancy and childbirth, including elective caesarean sections.

Here’s why:

  • PMI is for Acute Conditions: Private health cover is designed to treat acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.
  • Pregnancy is Not an Illness: Pregnancy is a natural life event, not an unforeseen illness. Insurance is built on the principle of covering unexpected risks, whereas a planned pregnancy is not an unexpected risk.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: If you take out a policy when you are already pregnant, the pregnancy and childbirth will be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover. Standard PMI policies do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

The Nuances: When PMI Might Play a Role

While your PMI policy won't pay for the C-section itself, there are specific, limited scenarios where it could provide support during your pregnancy journey.

  1. Medical Complications of Pregnancy: If you develop an acute medical condition during your pregnancy that is covered by your policy, PMI could pay for the treatment of that specific condition. For example, if you developed severe varicose veins requiring surgery or acute appendicitis, your PMI could cover that treatment, separate from your maternity care.
  2. Emergency C-Section Complications: This is a grey area and is highly dependent on your policy's wording. Some policies may offer limited cover if an unforeseen medical emergency during pregnancy necessitates an immediate, life-saving intervention. However, they will still likely not cover the costs of the birth itself, but rather the treatment for the underlying emergency. This is rare, and you must check your policy documents.
  3. Postnatal Complications: Some policies may offer cover for certain serious postnatal complications that are considered acute conditions, such as treatment for a severe infection or surgery to repair a perineal tear.

The Golden Rule: Always read your policy documents carefully and speak to your insurer to understand the exact limitations regarding pregnancy. As your PMI broker, WeCovr can help you decipher the small print of any policy you are considering.

Exploring "Cash Benefit" and Specialist Maternity Plans

While PMI doesn't fund the birth, some policies offer a small financial perk known as an "NHS Cash Benefit" or "Maternity Cash Benefit."

What is a Maternity Cash Benefit?

This is a fixed, tax-free sum of money paid out by your insurer for each night you spend in an NHS hospital for childbirth, or as a lump sum per baby born.

  • It's a small bonus, not comprehensive cover. The amount is typically between £50 and £150 per night/birth.
  • It's designed to help with small expenses like hospital parking, a celebratory meal, or things for the baby.
  • There is usually a qualifying period. You typically need to have held the policy for 10-12 months before you can claim this benefit.

Here is an example of what some top UK providers may offer:

ProviderTypical Maternity Cash BenefitCommon Qualifying Period
Bupa£100 per baby born under NHS care10 months
AXA Health£100-£150 per night (up to a limit)10 months
VitalityUp to £100 per baby (may depend on engagement)12 months

Specialist International Health Insurance

It's worth noting that some high-tier international health insurance plans do offer comprehensive maternity cover, including for private C-sections. These policies are significantly more expensive than standard UK PMI and are typically designed for expatriates or global citizens. They often have a 12-24 month waiting period before the maternity benefits become active, meaning you need to plan far in advance.

Self-Funding Your Private C-Section: A Practical Guide

Given that most people in the UK will self-fund a private birth, planning is essential. Private hospitals are experienced in guiding self-pay patients through the process.

Your Step-by-Step Plan:

  1. Research and Choose: Start by researching hospitals and consultants. Look at their websites, read patient reviews, and check their Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings.
  2. Book an Initial Consultation: Once you have a shortlist, book a consultation with one or two obstetricians. This is a chance to see if you feel comfortable with them and to ask detailed questions. There will be a fee for this, typically £200-£350.
  3. Request a Detailed Quote: Ask for a fully itemised, fixed-price package quote. Scrutinise what is included and, more importantly, what is not included. Ask "what if" questions: "What is the daily cost if I need to stay longer?" and "How are emergency complications billed?"
  4. Arrange Your Finances: Once you have a clear figure, you can plan your finances. Most hospitals require a deposit upon booking, with the full balance due several weeks before your planned delivery date.

Preparing for a C-Section: Health and Wellness Tips

Whether your C-section is on the NHS or private, preparing your body and mind can make a huge difference to your experience and recovery.

Before Your Surgery

  • Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in iron (to help with blood loss), protein (for tissue repair), and vitamin C (for healing and immunity).
  • Gentle Movement: Staying active with doctor-approved exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can improve stamina and circulation.
  • Pack Your Bag: Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes with high waistbands that won't irritate your incision, along with large, comfortable underwear.
  • Mental Preparation: Talk to your consultant about the procedure. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety. Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to stay calm.

After Your Surgery: The Road to Recovery

Recovery from a C-section is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself.

  • Rest, Rest, Rest: This is your number one priority. Accept all offers of help.
  • Pain Management: Stay on top of your pain relief schedule as advised by your medical team. Don't wait for the pain to become severe.
  • Wound Care: Follow the hospital's instructions for keeping your incision clean and dry to prevent infection.
  • Gentle Mobility: As soon as you are given the go-ahead, start with very short, gentle walks. This helps prevent blood clots and aids digestion.
  • Diet and Hydration: Drink plenty of water and eat high-fibre foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to avoid constipation, which can be uncomfortable after abdominal surgery.

To help manage your nutritional intake during and after pregnancy, all WeCovr clients get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It's a fantastic tool to help ensure you're getting the right nutrients for recovery and breastfeeding.

How WeCovr Can Help You Navigate Your Health Insurance Options

Even though private medical insurance won't typically cover your C-section, it remains a cornerstone of a comprehensive health strategy for your family. Life is unpredictable, and a robust PMI policy ensures that for any other eligible acute health concern, you and your loved ones can access specialist care quickly.

A policy can provide peace of mind for:

  • Diagnostic tests and scans for non-pregnancy related issues.
  • Consultant appointments for any other medical concerns.
  • In-patient and out-patient treatment for a wide range of acute conditions.

As an independent, expert PMI broker, WeCovr is here to help you find the best private medical insurance UK policy for your unique needs. We compare plans from all leading providers, explaining the benefits and limitations of each in plain English. Our advice comes at no cost to you and is built on years of experience and high customer satisfaction. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us can often access discounts on other types of cover, creating even more value.

Does private health insurance in the UK cover pregnancy?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) policies do not cover routine pregnancy, childbirth, or planned procedures like an elective C-section. PMI is designed to cover unforeseen, acute medical conditions. Pregnancy is considered a planned life event, not an acute illness. Some policies may offer a small "cash benefit" if you have your baby in an NHS hospital.

Is an elective caesarean cheaper than an emergency one in a private hospital?

Not necessarily. A planned, elective C-section is usually sold as a fixed-price package, making the cost predictable. An emergency situation, while starting with a vaginal birth package, can become much more expensive if complications arise that require an emergency C-section, a longer hospital stay, or intensive care for the mother or baby. These extra costs are billed on top of the initial package.

Can I get private medical insurance if I am already pregnant?

Yes, you can still purchase a private medical insurance policy if you are already pregnant. However, the pregnancy itself, along with the birth and any related postnatal care, will be specifically excluded from cover as a pre-existing condition. The policy would still cover you for any new, unrelated acute medical conditions that arise after your policy start date.

What is the main benefit of having PMI if it doesn't cover my C-section?

The main benefit of private medical insurance is providing peace of mind and rapid access to healthcare for a wide range of other health issues. It ensures that if you or a family member develops an eligible acute condition—whether it's for diagnostics, a consultation with a specialist, or surgery—you can bypass NHS waiting lists and receive treatment in a private hospital. It's about protecting your health for all the other unexpected moments in life.

Ready to explore your options for private health cover? The team at WeCovr is ready to help. Get a free, no-obligation quote today and let our experts find the right protection for you and your family.


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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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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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