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The Pre-Authorisation Trap Why You Must Call Before You Consult

Failing to get pre-authorisation from your UK private medical insurance provider before a consultation or treatment can leave you with the entire bill. As expert brokers, WeCovr advises all clients to make this call the absolute first step after a GP referral to ensure their claim is approved.

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Mar 17, 2026

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The Pre-Authorisation Trap Why You Must Call Before You...

TL;DR

Failing to get pre-authorisation from your UK private medical insurance provider before a consultation or treatment can leave you with the entire bill. As expert brokers, WeCovr advises all clients to make this call the absolute first step after a GP referral to ensure their claim is approved.

Key takeaways

  • Pre-authorisation is a mandatory step where your insurer approves treatment *before* it happens.
  • If you don't get a pre-authorisation code, your insurer can legally refuse to pay your medical bills.
  • A GP referral is not the same as insurer approval; you must contact the insurer yourself.
  • Each stage of treatment, including initial consultations, diagnostics, and follow-ups, requires its own authorisation.
  • An expert broker like WeCovr can help you choose a policy with a clear claims process and support you along the way.

Navigating the world of private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK can feel complex, but at WeCovr, where we've helped arrange cover for over 900,000 people, we know that understanding one simple rule can save you thousands of pounds and immense stress. That rule is: always get pre-authorisation. This article explains the pre-authorisation trap and why you must call your insurer before you see a specialist.

How failing to get a claim code before an appointment leaves you footing the bill

Imagine this scenario: Your GP refers you to a private cardiologist for chest pains. Eager for a swift diagnosis, you book the appointment, see the consultant, and undergo an ECG and an echocardiogram. The hospital sends you a bill for £2,500. You submit it to your health insurer, confident you're covered.

A week later, a letter arrives. Your claim is denied. The reason? You failed to obtain pre-authorisation.

This isn't a rare administrative error; it's a fundamental rule of every private medical insurance policy in the UK. Without that crucial pre-authorisation code, your insurer has no obligation to pay. You are now personally liable for the full cost of your treatment. This is the "pre-authorisation trap," and it's entirely avoidable.

What is Pre-Authorisation and Why is it Essential?

Pre-authorisation is the process of getting your insurer's approval for a consultation, test, or treatment before it takes place. It is not just a piece of administrative "red tape"; it is the core mechanism by which insurers manage claims and costs.

When you call for pre-authorisation, your insurer is performing several vital checks:

  1. Is the condition covered? They confirm the issue is an acute condition (a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment) and not a chronic condition (one that is ongoing and has no known cure), which UK PMI does not cover.
  2. Is the treatment medically necessary? They verify that the proposed consultation or procedure is an appropriate and recognised course of action for your symptoms, based on your GP referral.
  3. Is the provider recognised? Insurers have networks of approved hospitals, clinics, and specialists. Pre-authorisation confirms your chosen provider is on their list. Using an unlisted provider can invalidate your claim.
  4. Are you within your policy limits? They check your benefits, such as outpatient limits, to ensure the cost is covered. If you have a £1,000 outpatient limit, they won't authorise £2,000 worth of diagnostics without making you aware of the shortfall.

In short, pre-authorisation is your financial safety net. It is the moment your insurer formally agrees, "Yes, this is covered, and we will pay for it."

The 5-Step Pre-Authorisation Process: A Practical Guide

The process is straightforward, but every step must be followed in the correct order. Deviating from it is what leads to rejected claims.

  1. Visit Your GP: This is always the first step. You need a referral from your GP to see a private specialist. Ask for an "open referral" if possible, which gives your insurer flexibility to recommend a specialist from their network, often speeding up the process.

  2. Contact Your Insurer: This is the crucial step. Before you do anything else, call your insurer's claims or pre-authorisation department. Do not book any appointments yet. Have your policy number and the details of your GP referral ready.

  3. Receive Your Authorisation Code: If the claim is approved, the insurer will provide you with a unique pre-authorisation or claim number. They will also explain any limitations, such as which specialists you can see or any excess you need to pay.

  4. Book Your Appointment: Now, and only now, should you contact the hospital or specialist's secretary to book your appointment.

  5. Share the Code: When booking, provide your policy number and the pre-authorisation code. The hospital will use this code to bill your insurer directly, saving you from paying upfront (except for any policy excess).

Insider Tip: Always ask the claims handler to confirm what is and isn't covered. For example, ask: "You've authorised the consultation, but will you also cover any scans or blood tests the consultant requests on the day?" Sometimes, a separate authorisation is needed for diagnostics.

What Happens if You Skip Pre-Authorisation? The Costly Consequences

Failing to get a claim code is not a minor oversight; it's a breach of your policy's terms and conditions. The consequences are stark: your insurer will almost certainly refuse to pay.

You will be left to cover the full cost of your private treatment, which can be substantial.

Treatment / ServiceAverage Private Cost in the UK (2026 Estimate)
Specialist Consultation£250 - £400
MRI Scan (one part)£600 - £1,500
CT Scan (one part)£500 - £1,000
Knee Arthroscopy (day case)£4,000 - £6,000
Cataract Surgery (one eye)£2,500 - £4,000

Note: These are illustrative costs and can vary significantly by provider and location.

Imagine receiving a bill for a £6,000 knee surgery you thought your £50-a-month policy would cover. This is the financial shock many people face by making one simple mistake.

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Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even policyholders who know about pre-authorisation can fall into common traps. Here's what to watch out for.

  • The "Follow-Up" Fallacy: You get authorisation for your initial consultation. The consultant then says you need an MRI and a follow-up appointment. Crucially, you must call your insurer again to get authorisation for these next steps. Each stage of treatment requires a new or extended authorisation.
  • The "My GP Said It's OK" Misconception: Your GP's role is purely clinical. They provide a medical referral. They have no authority to approve insurance claims. Only your insurer can give financial approval.
  • The "Unrecognised Provider" Problem: Your insurer has a list of approved hospitals and specialists. If you see a consultant who is not on their list, even with a valid referral, they won't pay. Most insurers guide you to an approved specialist during the pre-authorisation call.
  • Forgetting Your Policy Limits & Excess: Pre-authorisation confirms a treatment is covered in principle. It doesn't override your policy's financial limits. If you have a £500 excess, you will still need to pay that amount. If your outpatient cover is capped at £1,000 and the tests cost £1,200, you will be liable for the £200 shortfall.

Preparing for Your Pre-Authorisation Call: A Checklist

To ensure your call is quick and successful, have the following information to hand:

  • Your policy number
  • Your full name, date of birth, and address
  • The name and practice of your GP
  • The symptoms you are experiencing
  • Details from your GP referral letter (the recommended specialty, e.g., dermatology, orthopaedics)
  • If your GP gave a named referral, the name of the specialist

During the call, take notes. Write down your authorisation code, the name of the person you spoke to, and the date and time of the call.

The Role of a PMI Broker in Navigating Claims

This is where working with an expert private health insurance broker like WeCovr pays dividends. Our service doesn't end once you've bought a policy. We are here to provide support and guidance for the life of your cover.

  • Clarity from the Start: When you compare policies with us, we explain the claims process for each insurer, so you know exactly what to expect. We help you choose a provider whose processes match your preferences, whether it's an app-based journey or a dedicated phone line.
  • Ongoing Support: If you're ever unsure about a claims process or what your policy covers, you can call us. Our team can help you understand the steps you need to take, ensuring you don't fall into the pre-authorisation trap.
  • Advocacy: While you must make the pre-authorisation call yourself (due to data protection), a good broker can offer advice if you run into any difficulties.

Choosing a strong fit for your needs is the first step. Understanding how to use it is the second. At WeCovr, we help you with both, at no cost to you. We even provide complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, and can offer discounts on other insurance products like life or income protection when you take out a PMI policy.

Understanding Your Policy's Fine Print: A Final Reminder

Pre-authorisation is just one part of your policy's rules. Always remember the fundamental principles of UK PMI:

  • Acute vs. Chronic: PMI is designed for new, treatable (acute) conditions that arise after you take out the policy. It does not cover the routine management of long-term (chronic) conditions like diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Conditions you had symptoms or treatment for before your policy began are typically excluded, either permanently (with Full Medical Underwriting) or for a set period (usually 2 years, with Moratorium underwriting).
  • Policy Exclusions: Every policy has a list of general exclusions, which often include things like cosmetic surgery, uncomplicated pregnancy, and emergency care.

Do I need pre-authorisation for every single claim?

Yes, in almost all cases. You must get pre-authorisation for any diagnostic tests, specialist consultations, and planned treatments or surgeries. The only common exception might be certain therapies (like physiotherapy) if your policy includes a self-referral option, but even then, it's wisest to call and check first. Never assume.

What if I have an emergency? Do I need to call first?

Private medical insurance in the UK is not designed for emergencies. In a true medical emergency (such as a heart attack, stroke, or serious accident), you should always call 999 or go to your nearest NHS A&E department. Private hospitals are not typically equipped to handle blue-light emergencies. Once your condition is stable, you may be able to use your PMI to be transferred to a private facility for further treatment, but this would require pre-authorisation at that stage.

Can my GP or the specialist's secretary get pre-authorisation for me?

No. Due to data protection (GDPR) rules, you, the policyholder, must contact the insurer directly. Your insurer needs to speak with you to confirm your identity and discuss the details of your policy and the claim. The hospital will use the code you provide, but they cannot obtain it on your behalf.

How long does a pre-authorisation code last?

This varies between insurers and depends on the treatment. An authorisation for an initial consultation might be valid for a few months, while authorisation for a specific surgery will be tied to the planned procedure dates. If there are delays, you should contact your insurer to ensure the code is still valid. Always ask the insurer about the expiry date when you receive your code.

Your Health is Your Wealth — Don't Risk It

Your private medical insurance is a powerful tool for accessing fast, high-quality healthcare. But like any tool, it must be used correctly. The pre-authorisation rule is the non-negotiable safety check that protects both you and the insurer.

By always remembering to call before you consult, you ensure that your policy works for you when you need it most, providing peace of mind instead of a surprise bill.

Ready to find a private health cover policy that gives you control and clarity? The expert advisers at WeCovr are here to help. We compare the UK's leading insurers to find the right plan for your needs and budget, and we'll make sure you understand exactly how to use it.

Sources

  • NHS England
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
  • NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence)
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS)
  • Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN)

Disclaimer: This is general guidance only and does not constitute formal tax or financial advice. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances, policy terms, and HMRC interpretation, which cannot be guaranteed in advance. Whenever applicable, businesses and individuals should always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before arranging such policies.

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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?
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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!

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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 experienced 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.

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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 a strong fit for your needs 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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