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The UK's Ageing Population and Its Impact on PMI

The UK's Ageing Population and Its Impact on PMI 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr has a unique insight into the UK's health landscape. This article explores how our nation's ageing population is set to impact private medical insurance, reshaping what we pay and why. Let's delve into this crucial topic.

Why an ageing society could reshape private health insurance costs

The United Kingdom is getting older. This isn't just a headline; it's a fundamental demographic shift with profound implications for our health, our NHS, and the private medical insurance (PMI) market. As the average age of the population increases, so does the demand for healthcare services. This surge in demand, coupled with the natural rise in health issues that come with age, is putting unprecedented pressure on the entire system.

For private health insurance providers, this demographic tide presents a major challenge. The core principle of insurance is balancing risk. An older population means a higher statistical likelihood of claims, which inevitably forces insurers to reassess their pricing models. The result? The cost of private health cover is inextricably linked to our collective age. Understanding this connection is the first step to navigating the future of your health and finances.

The UK's Demographic Shift: A Nation of Silver Surfers

To grasp the scale of this change, we only need to look at the official figures. The UK's population is not just growing; it's ageing at a remarkable rate.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the trend is clear and accelerating:

  • Growing Older Population: By 2045, it's projected that nearly one in four people (24%) in the UK will be aged 65 or over. This is a significant jump from around one in five (19%) in 2020.
  • The Rise of the "Very Old": The number of people aged 85 and over is set to almost double from 1.6 million in 2020 to 3.1 million by 2045.
  • Median Age Increase: The median age of the UK population, which was 40.7 years in mid-2022, is projected to rise to 43.1 years by mid-2036.

This isn't a distant future; it's a reality unfolding now. Every year, the demographic balance tips further. This "greying" of the UK means more people are living longer, which is fantastic news. However, it also means more people will be living with long-term health conditions and requiring medical attention for a greater portion of their lives.

It's a simple fact of life that as we age, our bodies require more maintenance. The risk of developing certain health conditions increases, leading to a greater need for diagnostics, treatments, and ongoing care.

Common age-related health concerns include:

  • Musculoskeletal issues: Conditions like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and joint problems become more prevalent.
  • Cardiovascular diseases: The risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure rises with age.
  • Cancers: The incidence of many types of cancer increases significantly in older age groups.
  • Sensory decline: Issues with vision (cataracts, macular degeneration) and hearing are common.
  • Neurological conditions: The risk of dementia and other cognitive impairments grows.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is arguably the most important concept to understand in UK private medical insurance. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions.

  • An Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of conditions like a cataract removal, a joint replacement, or treatment for a specific, curable cancer.
  • A Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it is likely to come back, or it continues indefinitely. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

Standard private medical insurance in the UK does not cover the routine management of chronic or pre-existing conditions. If you have high blood pressure before taking out a policy, the PMI will not pay for your check-ups or medication. However, if that same policyholder later develops an unrelated, acute condition (like a hernia), the PMI would cover the treatment for that.

This distinction is vital because as the population ages, the prevalence of chronic conditions rises sharply, placing a heavier burden on the NHS, which is designed to manage them.

How Insurers Calculate Your PMI Premium: The Age Factor

Insurers are in the business of calculating risk. When you apply for a policy, they assess how likely you are to make a claim. Age is, by a significant margin, the single biggest factor in this calculation.

Other factors influencing your premium include:

  • Your location: Healthcare costs vary across the UK, with Central London being the most expensive.
  • Your chosen level of cover: Comprehensive plans cost more than basic ones.
  • The underwriting method: Moratorium or Full Medical Underwriting.
  • Your claims history: A history of claims can lead to higher renewal prices.
  • Your excess: A higher voluntary excess lowers your premium.

However, age underpins all of these. A 65-year-old will always pay substantially more than a 35-year-old for the same level of cover, simply because the statistical risk of them needing medical treatment is much higher.

Illustrative PMI Premiums by Age

The table below gives a simplified, illustrative example of how monthly premiums can change across different age brackets for a mid-tier policy. These are not real quotes but demonstrate the pricing principle.

Age BracketIllustrative Monthly Premium (Mid-Level Cover)Common Health Concerns for this Age
25-34£40 - £60Sports injuries, minor procedures
35-44£60 - £90Diagnostic tests, initial screenings
45-54£90 - £140Musculoskeletal issues, hernia repair
55-64£140 - £220Joint replacements, cardiac concerns
65+£220 - £400+Cataracts, major surgeries, cancer care

Disclaimer: These are purely illustrative figures. Your actual premium will depend on your specific circumstances and the insurer you choose. A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can provide accurate, personalised quotes.

This phenomenon is known as "medical inflation." It's a combination of general inflation, the rising cost of new medical technology and drugs, and the increasing age and claims frequency of the insured population.

The Knock-On Effect on the NHS and PMI's Growing Role

An ageing population places an enormous and sustained strain on the National Health Service. As more people require treatment, waiting lists for routine procedures, diagnostics, and specialist appointments inevitably grow.

According to the latest NHS England data, the referral to treatment (RTT) waiting list remains a significant challenge, with millions of people waiting for consultant-led elective care. For many, the wait can be stressful and debilitating.

This is where private medical insurance finds its primary purpose. The core benefits of a good PMI policy are:

  1. Speed of Access: Bypassing NHS queues to see a specialist and receive treatment quickly.
  2. Choice and Control: Choosing your surgeon, hospital, and appointment times.
  3. Comfort and Privacy: Access to a private room in a comfortable private hospital.
  4. Access to Specialist Drugs: Some policies offer access to new cancer drugs and treatments not yet available on the NHS due to cost or NICE approval delays.

PMI acts as a complementary partner to the NHS. It takes pressure off the public system by allowing those who can afford it to fund their own acute care, freeing up NHS resources for those who need them most, including for A&E, GP services, and chronic condition management.

How PMI Providers are Adapting to an Older Clientele

Insurers are not standing still. They recognise the demographic shift and are innovating to stay relevant, manage risk, and provide value to an older customer base.

1. A Focus on Prevention and Wellness

The best way to reduce claims is to keep policyholders healthy. Insurers are increasingly acting as wellness partners, offering incentives and tools to encourage a healthier lifestyle. This can include:

  • Discounted gym memberships.
  • Wearable tech integration (e.g., points for steps taken).
  • Online health assessments and coaching.
  • Subsidised health screenings for conditions like cancer and heart disease.

2. Enhanced Digital Health Services

The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual healthcare. Most leading PMI providers now offer:

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Video or phone consultations with a GP, often available within hours. This is hugely convenient and helps catch issues early.
  • Mental Health Support: Apps and phone lines offering access to therapists and counsellors, recognising the link between mental and physical wellbeing.
  • Specialist Apps: Some insurers offer dedicated apps for physiotherapy or other specific health needs. At WeCovr, for example, we provide our PMI and life insurance clients with complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support their health goals.

3. Flexible and Modular Policies

To manage costs, insurers are offering more flexible policies. You can tailor your cover by adding or removing options like:

  • Outpatient cover limits.
  • Mental health cover.
  • Therapies cover (physio, osteopathy, etc.).
  • Dental and optical cover.

This allows you to build a policy that fits your budget and priorities.

4. Discounts and Value-Added Benefits

Competition in the private health cover market is fierce. To attract and retain customers, providers offer more than just insurance. When you arrange a policy through a broker like WeCovr, you not only get expert advice but may also benefit from discounts on other types of cover, such as life insurance or income protection, creating a comprehensive financial safety net.

Strategies for Managing PMI Costs as You Age

While premiums will naturally rise with age, you are not powerless. There are several smart strategies you can use to keep your private medical insurance affordable without sacrificing essential cover.

  1. Review Your Policy Annually: Don't just let your policy auto-renew. The price you are offered at renewal is often not the most competitive. The market changes, and a new provider might offer better value.
  2. Increase Your Excess: The excess is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. Increasing it from £100 to £500, for example, can reduce your monthly premium by a significant amount.
  3. Choose a "Guided" or "Network" Hospital List: Insurers have networks of hospitals with whom they have negotiated preferential rates. Opting for a policy that uses a guided list (where the insurer gives you a choice of 2-3 specialists) or a specific hospital network can be much cheaper than a policy that allows you to go to any hospital in the UK.
  4. Opt for the "6-Week Wait" Option: This is a very popular cost-saving feature. With this option, if the NHS can provide the inpatient treatment you need within six weeks of the recommended date, you agree to use the NHS. If the NHS wait is longer than six weeks, your private cover kicks in. As the value of PMI is often in skipping long waits, this can be a very effective compromise.
  5. Work With an Expert PMI Broker: This is the most effective strategy of all. A specialist, independent broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurer. We analyse your needs and compare policies from across the market to find the best combination of cover and price. Our service comes at no extra cost to you, and our expertise can save you hundreds of pounds a year while ensuring you have the right protection.

Beyond PMI: Holistic Health and Wellness for a Longer Life

Insurance is a safety net, but the best strategy is to invest in your health. A holistic approach to wellbeing can significantly improve your quality of life as you age and may even help moderate the long-term cost of healthcare.

Key Pillars of Healthy Ageing

PillarPractical Tips
NutritionFavour a balanced, Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Stay hydrated. Minimise processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats.
Physical ActivityAim for 150 minutes of moderate activity (like brisk walking) per week. Include strength exercises twice a week to maintain muscle mass and bone density. Flexibility and balance exercises are also key.
SleepPrioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Mental & Social HealthStay socially connected with friends and family. Engage in hobbies, volunteer, or take up a new skill to keep your mind active. Address stress and seek support for mental health when needed.
Preventative CareAttend routine health screenings offered by the NHS (e.g., for bowel, breast, and cervical cancer). Get your eyes and hearing checked regularly.

These simple, consistent habits are powerful tools for promoting a long, healthy, and active life.

The Future of Private Health Cover in an Ageing UK

The landscape of UK private health insurance is in constant evolution, driven by the powerful current of our ageing population. We can expect to see several key trends solidify in the coming years:

  • Hyper-Personalisation: Insurers will use data and AI to create even more tailored policies, pricing risk more accurately and offering products that reflect individual lifestyles.
  • Integrated Health Journeys: The line between insurer, healthcare provider, and wellness partner will continue to blur. Expect more seamless digital journeys, from a virtual GP appointment to booking surgery, all managed through a single app.
  • Focus on 'Pre-habilitation': Instead of just treating sickness, insurers will invest more in "pre-hab" – helping people get fitter and stronger before planned surgery to improve outcomes and speed up recovery.
  • The Enduring NHS Partnership: PMI will solidify its role as a partner to, not a replacement for, the NHS. The 6-week wait option and other hybrid models will likely become even more popular as consumers seek a pragmatic balance of cost and access.

Navigating this changing world requires clarity and expertise. As the link between age, health, and cost becomes ever stronger, getting impartial, professional advice is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity.

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover acute conditions (those that are curable) which arise after your policy begins. Conditions like arthritis and dementia are considered chronic, as they require long-term management and have no known cure. As such, the ongoing management of these conditions would not be covered. However, if you were to develop a separate, acute condition, your PMI could still cover that.

Is there an upper age limit for getting private medical insurance?

Many insurers have removed strict upper age limits for new applicants, meaning you can often get cover even in your 70s or 80s. However, the premiums will be significantly higher, and underwriting may be stricter. Some insurers may have a cut-off age for new policies (e.g., 75 or 80), but will allow existing members to remain on the policy for life. It is always best to check with a broker who can survey the whole market.

Why is my PMI premium increasing every year, even if I don't make a claim?

Your premium increases for two main reasons. Firstly, you are a year older, which automatically places you in a higher risk bracket for the insurer. Secondly, "medical inflation" plays a role; this is the rising cost of medical treatments, new technologies, and drugs, which pushes up the overall cost of claims for the insurer. Even if you haven't claimed, your premium reflects the increased risk associated with your age and the rising cost of healthcare in general.

Can a broker like WeCovr really get me a better deal on my private health cover?

Yes, absolutely. An independent PMI broker like WeCovr has access to policies and prices from a wide range of UK insurers, including some deals not available to the public. We compare the entire market on your behalf to find the cover that best suits your needs and budget. Because we are experts in the field, we can also advise on cost-saving measures like excesses and hospital lists that you might not be aware of. Our service is provided at no cost to you.

Ready to explore your options?

The world of private medical insurance can seem complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Get a fast, free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts find the right cover for you.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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