Top IPMI Providers for Extended Cruise Travel AXA Global, Bupa Global, IMG & More

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 14, 2026
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TL;DR

Embarking on an extended cruise is the adventure of a lifetime. But when you're sailing across oceans and visiting multiple continents, a standard travel insurance policy simply won't suffice. At WeCovr, with our experience in helping over 900,000 clients secure various types of policies, we know that robust International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) is non-negotiable for serious travellers.

Key takeaways

  • Trip Duration Limits: Most policies cap continuous travel at 30, 60, or a maximum of 90 days. A world cruise far exceeds this.
  • Inadequate Medical Caps: A £5 million limit might sound high, but a complex medical event involving an air ambulance and a lengthy stay in a US hospital can easily surpass this.
  • Strict Pre-existing Condition Exclusions: Travel insurance almost universally excludes any claim related to a condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past.
  • No Routine or Elective Care: Feeling unwell and wanting a check-up, managing a flare-up of a known condition, or seeking a specialist opinion is not covered.
  • Limited Choice: The insurer, not you, decides which hospital you go to, which is often the nearest "adequate" public facility, not necessarily the best one.

Embarking on an extended cruise is the adventure of a lifetime. But when you're sailing across oceans and visiting multiple continents, a standard travel insurance policy simply won't suffice. At WeCovr, with our experience in helping over 900,000 clients secure various types of policies, we know that robust International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) is non-negotiable for serious travellers. This guide offers an expert comparison of the top IPMI providers for the UK market, ensuring your health is protected no matter which port you call home.

A provider comparison for cruise travellers — benefits, service quality, price factors and how each insurer handles worldwide port access and emergency care

For long-duration voyages, such as a world cruise, your health cover needs to function like a domestic health plan, but on a global scale. It must cover everything from a routine check-up in Sydney to a major medical emergency in the Caribbean. This requires a specialist class of insurance: IPMI.

We'll compare the titans of the industry—AXA Global, Bupa Global, and IMG—along with other key players, focusing on the features that matter most to cruise travellers: global hospital access, emergency evacuation, service quality, and how they manage pre-existing conditions.

Why Standard Travel Insurance Is a Sinking Ship for World Cruises

Many travellers mistakenly believe their annual multi-trip travel policy is adequate. For a two-week holiday, it might be. For a six-month world cruise, it’s dangerously insufficient.

Standard travel insurance policies are designed for short-term, unforeseen emergencies only. They are not designed for long-term health management abroad.

Here are their critical limitations:

  • Trip Duration Limits: Most policies cap continuous travel at 30, 60, or a maximum of 90 days. A world cruise far exceeds this.
  • Inadequate Medical Caps: A £5 million limit might sound high, but a complex medical event involving an air ambulance and a lengthy stay in a US hospital can easily surpass this.
  • Strict Pre-existing Condition Exclusions: Travel insurance almost universally excludes any claim related to a condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the past.
  • No Routine or Elective Care: Feeling unwell and wanting a check-up, managing a flare-up of a known condition, or seeking a specialist opinion is not covered.
  • Limited Choice: The insurer, not you, decides which hospital you go to, which is often the nearest "adequate" public facility, not necessarily the best one.

Travel Insurance vs. IPMI: The Critical Differences

FeatureStandard Travel InsuranceInternational PMI (IPMI)
PurposeShort-term emergency coverLong-term comprehensive health cover
DurationUp to 90 days per tripAnnual, renewable policy (no trip limits)
Medical LimitCapped (e.g., £5m - £10m)Very high or unlimited
Pre-existing ConditionsAlmost always excludedCan be covered subject to underwriting
Routine CareNot coveredOften covered (outpatient benefit)
Choice of HospitalLimited or noneFull choice within network/region
Medical EvacuationTo nearest suitable facilityTo nearest centre of excellence or home country
Best ForShort holidaysExtended travel, living abroad, world cruises

For the peace of mind required on a long cruise, IPMI is the only viable solution. It acts as your primary health insurance while you are away from the UK and its NHS services.

The "Big Three" IPMI Providers for Global Cruisers

When it comes to providing truly global, reliable health cover, three names consistently stand out for their robust networks, comprehensive benefits, and experience in handling complex international medical cases. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you navigate their plans to find the optimal fit for your specific itinerary and health needs.

ProviderBest ForKey StrengthPrice Point
AXA GlobalOverall balanced performanceHuge global network & digital health toolsMid-to-High
Bupa GlobalComprehensive cover & premium serviceBest-in-class for chronic/complex conditionsPremium
IMGFlexibility and US market strengthTiered plans & deep US network knowledgeCompetitive / Flexible

Let's dive deeper into what each provider offers the discerning cruise traveller.

Deep Dive: AXA Global Healthcare

AXA is a global insurance powerhouse, and its IPMI division, AXA Global Healthcare, is renowned for its vast scale and dependable service. It’s an excellent all-round choice for cruisers who want comprehensive cover from a household name.

Key Benefits for Cruise Travellers

  • Vast Global Network: AXA boasts one of the world's largest networks of hospitals and clinics. This is crucial for cruisers, as it increases the likelihood of finding a network hospital for direct billing in almost any major port.
  • Strong Evacuation & Repatriation: AXA has extensive experience coordinating complex medical evacuations, whether from a ship mid-ocean or a remote port. Their 24/7 emergency team is a critical lifeline.
  • Virtual Doctor Service: The 'Virtual Doctor from AXA' service allows you to have a video consultation with a real doctor from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be invaluable for getting initial advice on the ship before deciding if a port diversion is necessary.
  • Clear Worldwide Coverage: Policies clearly define the area of cover, typically offering "Worldwide" or "Worldwide excluding USA" options, giving you certainty about your protection.

Service Quality & Price

AXA is known for its efficient claims processing and professional, multilingual support. Their digital tools and app make it easy to find providers and manage your policy on the move. In terms of price, AXA sits in the mid-to-high end of the market, offering a premium product that justifies its cost through reliability and network size.

Insider Adviser Tip: AXA’s plans are well-structured and offer a good balance of benefits. When choosing an area of cover, always double-check your full itinerary, including potential stopovers in US territories like Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands, which would require a "Worldwide" plan.

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Deep Dive: Bupa Global

Bupa Global is the Rolls-Royce of the IPMI world. They target discerning individuals and families who demand the highest level of service and the most comprehensive cover available. If your budget allows, and you want zero compromises on your health, Bupa Global is often the top choice.

Key Benefits for Cruise Travellers

  • Unrivalled Chronic Condition Cover: Subject to underwriting, Bupa Global has a market-leading reputation for its willingness to cover pre-existing and chronic conditions. For travellers with managed health issues, this is a significant advantage.
  • Direct Access to Specialists: Many of their plans do not require a GP referral to see a specialist, allowing you to seek expert opinions quickly when in port.
  • Global Virtual Care & Second Medical Opinion: Like AXA, they offer virtual consultations. Crucially, they also provide a "Second Medical Opinion" service, allowing you to have your diagnosis and treatment plan reviewed by another world-leading expert.
  • Direct Billing as Standard: Bupa Global has excellent relationships with premier hospitals worldwide, meaning they can arrange to settle bills directly, so you are not left with huge out-of-pocket expenses.

Service Quality & Price

Service is where Bupa Global excels. Policyholders often receive a dedicated account manager and can expect a highly personalised, concierge-level experience. This premium service comes at a price; Bupa Global is typically the most expensive provider.

Real-Life Scenario: Imagine you experience unusual cardiac symptoms while sailing the South Pacific. With Bupa Global, your journey could look like this:

  1. Use the ship's Wi-Fi for a virtual consultation via their app.
  2. The doctor recommends seeing a cardiologist at the next port in Auckland, New Zealand.
  3. Your Bupa Global team pre-authorises the consultation and tests with a top private clinic.
  4. The bill is settled directly. You receive world-class care without paying a penny upfront.

Deep Dive: IMG (International Medical Group)

Based in the United States, IMG brings a different perspective to the market. Their deep understanding of the complex and expensive US healthcare system makes them an incredibly strong contender, especially for cruises that include North America, the Caribbean, or transit the Panama Canal.

Key Benefits for Cruise Travellers

  • Plan Flexibility: Unlike the more monolithic plans from AXA or Bupa, IMG offers a range of tiered plans (e.g., Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum). This allows you to tailor your cover level and premium more precisely to your needs and budget.
  • Exceptional US Network: If your cruise spends significant time in or near the USA, IMG's network and expertise are a massive asset. They know how to navigate the US system to ensure quality care and manage costs effectively.
  • Comprehensive Travel Benefits: Many IMG plans bundle in benefits you might otherwise find in a travel policy, such as cover for lost luggage, trip interruption, and even political evacuation, providing a more integrated protection package.

Service Quality & Price

IMG runs a highly efficient, large-scale operation. While the service may feel less "white glove" than Bupa Global, their processes are robust and their 24/7 support is reliable. Their key advantage is price competitiveness. By offering different plan levels and a strong "Worldwide excl. USA" option, they can provide a very attractive premium for many cruisers.

Common Client Mistake: A client planning a South American cruise chooses an "excl. USA" plan to save money. They forget their cruise concludes in Miami. A medical issue in the final week would be uncovered. Working with a broker like WeCovr ensures your area of cover perfectly matches your travel plans, avoiding catastrophic gaps in protection.

Key Policy Features to Scrutinise for Cruise Travel

When comparing policies, don't just look at the price. The devil is in the detail. Here are the critical features you must get right.

1. Area of Cover: The Most Important Choice

This defines the geographical region where you are covered.

  • Worldwide: The most comprehensive option. Essential if your cruise visits or has any potential to be diverted to the USA, Canada, or certain Caribbean islands.
  • Worldwide Excluding USA: A popular, more affordable option. Suitable only if you are 100% certain your itinerary has no stops in the US or its territories.

2. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

These are non-negotiable for any cruiser.

  • Medical Evacuation: This covers the cost of transporting you from your point of illness (e.g., the cruise ship) to the nearest centre of medical excellence capable of treating you. This could involve a helicopter airlift from the ship to a shore-side hospital.
  • Medical Repatriation: This covers the cost of getting you back to your home country (the UK) to continue treatment or recover, once you are stable enough to travel.

3. Underwriting: Getting Pre-Existing Conditions Covered

This is how an insurer assesses your health history before the policy starts.

  • Moratorium Underwriting: The insurer applies a waiting period (usually 24 months) during which any condition you had before the policy started is not covered. This is not recommended for cruisers as it creates uncertainty.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): This is the gold standard for IPMI. You complete a detailed health questionnaire, declaring all past and present conditions. The insurer then makes a clear decision: they will either cover the condition, cover it with a premium increase (a 'loading'), or exclude it. FMU gives you complete certainty about your cover from day one.

4. Direct Billing Network

This is a network of hospitals that have a direct payment agreement with your insurer. When you receive treatment at a network hospital, the provider bills the insurer directly. This prevents you from having to pay a bill of tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds yourself and then claim it back.

How WeCovr Simplifies Your IPMI Choice

Choosing the right IPMI plan for a world cruise is a complex decision. The brochures all look appealing, but the policy wording can be dense and confusing. This is where a specialist, independent broker adds immense value.

At WeCovr, we provide a human touch to insurance comparison.

  • We're Independent Experts: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best policy for you from across the market, including AXA, Bupa, IMG, Cigna, Allianz, and more.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free for you to use. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, so you pay the same price as going direct, but with the benefit of our expert guidance.
  • We Handle the Hard Work: We help you complete the complex application forms and navigate the Full Medical Underwriting process to ensure you get the clearest possible outcome for any pre-existing conditions.
  • Exclusive Client Benefits: When you arrange your private medical insurance through us, you also get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, and can receive discounts on other policies like life or home insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I still need travel insurance if I have IPMI?

Yes, absolutely. International Private Medical Insurance covers your health, but it does not cover non-medical travel issues. You still need a separate travel insurance policy to cover things like trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, flight delays, and personal liability. The two policies work together to provide comprehensive protection.

How is IPMI priced for a couple on a world cruise?

IPMI premiums are highly personalised. The final price is determined by several key factors:
  • Age: Premiums increase significantly with age.
  • Area of Cover: A 'Worldwide' policy including the USA will be considerably more expensive than one 'Excluding the USA'.
  • Deductible/Excess: Choosing a higher deductible (the amount you pay towards a claim) will lower your premium.
  • Health Status: If you have pre-existing conditions that the insurer agrees to cover, they may apply a premium 'loading'.
An expert broker can model different scenarios to find a balance of cover and cost that suits your budget.

Can I get IPMI if I have pre-existing conditions like diabetes or a heart condition?

Yes, it is often possible. This is a key advantage of IPMI over travel insurance. You must declare all conditions through a process called Full Medical Underwriting (FMU). The insurer will then assess your specific case. They may offer to cover your conditions as standard, apply an extra charge (a premium loading), or specifically exclude claims relating to that condition. Providers like Bupa Global are known for their expertise in underwriting complex health histories. Honesty and thoroughness during the application are essential.

What happens if I have a medical emergency on the cruise ship itself?

The medical centre on board the cruise ship will provide initial assessment and stabilisation. These facilities are equipped to handle common ailments and minor emergencies but are not full-service hospitals. You or the ship's doctor would immediately contact your IPMI provider's 24/7 emergency assistance line. Your insurer would then:
  1. Guarantee payment for the onboard medical costs.
  2. Liaise with the ship's doctor to determine the necessary next steps.
  3. If required, they will arrange and pay for a medical evacuation at the next port or, in a critical emergency, a helicopter airlift to the nearest appropriate hospital.

Set Sail with Complete Peace of Mind

An extended cruise should be a time of discovery and relaxation, not a source of anxiety about your health. While providers like AXA Global, Bupa Global, and IMG offer world-class protection, the "best" policy is the one that is perfectly tailored to your health, your itinerary, and your budget.

Don't leave your most valuable asset—your health—to chance.

Ready to find the right protection for your voyage of a lifetime? Contact the friendly, FCA-authorised experts at WeCovr today. We'll provide a free, no-obligation comparison of the UK's leading IPMI providers to ensure you sail with complete confidence.


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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.


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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 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.

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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