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Top PMI Providers for Quick GP Appointments in the UK

Top PMI Providers for Quick GP Appointments in the UK 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides expert analysis of the UK private medical insurance market. This guide reveals the best providers for rapid GP access, helping you bypass long NHS waits and get the care you need, when you need it.

WeCovr ranks insurers by speed of access to private GPs

Waiting weeks for a GP appointment is a frustrating reality for many in the UK. This delay not only causes anxiety but can also postpone crucial diagnoses and treatments. Private medical insurance (PMI) offers a powerful solution: on-demand access to a private GP, often within hours, directly from your smartphone.

But not all PMI providers are created equal. The quality, speed, and convenience of their digital GP services vary significantly. At WeCovr, we've meticulously researched the market to identify the insurers that truly deliver on their promise of swift medical access. This article is your definitive guide to the top PMI providers for quick GP appointments in 2025.

Why is Getting a Quick GP Appointment So Difficult?

The strain on the NHS is well-documented. With a growing and ageing population, demand for GP services has surged, while the number of full-time GPs has struggled to keep pace.

According to the latest NHS Digital data, millions of appointments each month involve a wait of more than two weeks. In some areas, getting a routine, non-urgent appointment can take even longer. This "access crisis" has led many people to seek alternatives.

Common frustrations with the current system include:

  • The "8 am Scramble": The daily struggle of trying to phone the local surgery at 8 am, only to be met with an engaged tone or to be told all appointments for the day are gone.
  • Long Waits for Routine Issues: A nagging but non-urgent health concern can lead to weeks of worry before you can even speak to a doctor.
  • Inconvenient Timings: Appointments are typically only available during standard working hours, meaning you have to take time off work or disrupt your day.

Private health cover directly addresses these pain points by offering a parallel system focused on speed and convenience.

How Private Medical Insurance Solves the GP Access Problem

Most modern private medical insurance UK policies now include a digital GP service as a standard feature. These services, sometimes called "virtual GPs" or "telemedicine," are the game-changer for rapid healthcare access.

Here’s how they work:

  1. On-Demand Access: Using a dedicated smartphone app or website, you can book a consultation at a time that suits you, including evenings and weekends.
  2. Quick Appointments: Instead of waiting weeks, you can often secure a video or phone call with a UK-based, GMC-registered GP on the same day, sometimes within a couple of hours.
  3. Convenience and Privacy: You can have your consultation from anywhere – your home, your office, or even while travelling in the UK. This saves time and provides a discreet way to discuss your health concerns.
  4. Seamless Referrals: If the private GP believes you need to see a specialist, they can write an open referral letter instantly. You can then use this to begin the claims process with your insurer, bypassing the NHS waiting list for a specialist consultation.
  5. Private Prescriptions: If medication is needed, the GP can issue a private prescription, which you can have sent to a local pharmacy for collection or, with some providers, delivered directly to your door.

This digital-first approach puts you back in control of your initial healthcare journey, making it a cornerstone of modern PMI.

Our Ranking Criteria: How We Assessed Each PMI Provider

To create a fair and insightful ranking, we didn't just look at marketing claims. We analysed the real-world performance and features of each provider's GP service based on a set of core principles.

  • Speed of Access: What is the average wait time for an appointment? Do they deliver on the promise of same-day service?
  • Availability: Is the service available 24/7, or is it restricted to certain hours? Can you book appointments for evenings and weekends?
  • Technology and User Experience: How good is the app? Is it easy to navigate, book an appointment, and manage your health information?
  • Scope of Service: Do their GPs provide open referrals for specialist treatment? How easy is the prescription service? Are the GPs UK-based and GMC-registered?
  • Integration with Core Policy: How seamlessly does the GP service connect to the main insurance policy for making a claim for further treatment?

By using these criteria, we can provide a clear picture of which insurers offer the most effective and user-friendly private GP experience.

The WeCovr 2025 Rankings: Top PMI Providers for GP Access

After a thorough review, here is our ranking of the best private health cover providers in the UK, judged specifically on the quality and speed of their virtual GP services.

1. Bupa

Bupa is a household name in UK health insurance, and its digital offering, the Digital GP (provided in partnership with Babylon), is a mature and robust service. They have heavily invested in their digital infrastructure, and it shows.

How it Works: Accessed via the Bupa Touch app, the service allows you to book video consultations with a GP, often with appointments available within two hours. The app is intuitive and integrates symptom checking and appointment booking in one place.

Our Verdict: Bupa takes the top spot due to the sheer reliability and speed of its service. The 24/7 availability is a huge plus, and the seamless integration for onward referrals makes it a powerful tool for managing your health. It’s an excellent all-rounder for individuals and families who prioritise immediate access.

FeatureBupa Digital GP
Service NameDigital GP (powered by Babylon)
Typical Access TimeWithin 2 hours
Availability24/7, 365 days a year
Consultation TypeVideo
Referrals & PrescriptionsYes, open referrals & private prescriptions
WeCovr's Rating★★★★★

2. AXA Health

AXA Health's Doctor at Hand service is another market-leading digital GP solution, provided by Teladoc Health. It is consistently praised by users for its ease of use and the quality of its clinical team.

How it Works: The standalone Doctor at Hand app is clean, simple, and focused on one thing: getting you a fast GP appointment. You can select from a list of available GPs, viewing their profiles and special interests before booking a slot that suits you.

Our Verdict: AXA Health is a very close second. Doctor at Hand is exceptionally user-friendly, and the ability to choose a GP and see their credentials provides an extra layer of confidence. While most appointments are available same-day, the 24/7 access is a key benefit that provides peace of mind around the clock.

FeatureAXA Doctor at Hand
Service NameDoctor at Hand (powered by Teladoc Health)
Typical Access TimeSame day, often within hours
Availability24/7, 365 days a year
Consultation TypeVideo or Phone
Referrals & PrescriptionsYes, open referrals & private prescriptions
WeCovr's Rating★★★★★

3. Vitality

Vitality is known for its innovative approach to insurance, which rewards healthy living. Its Vitality GP service is a core part of its proposition and is designed to integrate with its wellness programme.

How it Works: Bookings are made through the Vitality GP app. While you can get a video consultation within 48 hours, what sets Vitality apart is its wider ecosystem. The GP can refer you directly into its network for things like physiotherapy or mental health support, often with no need for a claim.

Our Verdict: Vitality is the best choice for those who are actively engaged with their health and wellness. While the standard GP access might not be as instantaneous as Bupa's, the holistic approach is a major benefit. If you want an insurer that not only provides treatment but actively helps you stay healthy, Vitality is unmatched.

FeatureVitality GP
Service NameVitality GP
Typical Access TimeWithin 48 hours for video; phone line for advice
Availability8 am-7 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am-1 pm Sat
Consultation TypeVideo or Phone
Referrals & PrescriptionsYes, with direct integration to other Vitality services
WeCovr's Rating★★★★☆

4. Aviva

Aviva's Aviva Digital GP app, powered by Square Health, is a strong and reliable offering included as standard on most of its policies. It provides a straightforward and no-fuss way to access a doctor quickly.

How it Works: Using the app, members can book a video consultation with one of a bank of 200 GPs. A key benefit is the generous allowance of appointments per year for the policyholder and their family.

Our Verdict: Aviva provides a solid, dependable service that covers all the essential bases. It's particularly good for families, as the usage limits are less restrictive than some competitors. While it may lack the bells and whistles of Vitality or the brand recognition of Bupa's partnership, it does the job exceptionally well.

FeatureAviva Digital GP
Service NameAviva Digital GP (powered by Square Health)
Typical Access TimeSame day, often within hours
Availability24/7, 365 days a year
Consultation TypeVideo
Referrals & PrescriptionsYes, open referrals & private prescriptions
WeCovr's Rating★★★★☆

Comparison Table: UK's Digital GP Services at a Glance

To help you compare the leading options side-by-side, here is a summary of the top private GP services available through PMI.

ProviderService NameAccess Speed24/7 Access?Key Benefit
BupaDigital GPWithin 2 hoursYesUnbeatable speed and reliability.
AXA HealthDoctor at HandSame DayYesExcellent app and ability to choose your GP.
VitalityVitality GPWithin 48 hoursNo (Phone line 24/7)Integrated with a comprehensive wellness programme.
AvivaAviva Digital GPSame DayYesGreat for families with generous usage limits.
WPAWPA HealthNext DayNo (Phone line 24/7)Focus on high-quality, personal service.

Note: Access times are typical and can vary based on demand. All services provide access to UK-based, GMC-registered GPs.

An Important Reminder: PMI and Your Existing Health

It is critical to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain needing a replacement, cataracts, or hernias.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that continues long-term and often has no known cure. It can be managed but not cured. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before your policy started (typically the last 5 years).

The private GP can discuss any health concern with you, but your insurance will only cover the costs of specialist referrals and treatment for new, eligible acute conditions.

The WeCovr Advantage: More Than Just a Policy

Choosing the right private medical insurance can feel complex. As an independent PMI broker, WeCovr provides impartial, expert advice to help you navigate the market at no extra cost to you. We compare policies from across the market to find the cover that best fits your needs and budget.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings are built on a foundation of trust and transparency. When you become a WeCovr client, you get more than just insurance:

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance receive free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you build healthy habits.
  • Exclusive Discounts: We value your loyalty. Our clients can receive discounts on other types of insurance cover, such as home or travel insurance.
  • Expert Guidance: Our team is here to help you understand the fine print, from explaining what "outpatient limits" mean to guiding you through the claims process.

For a clear, jargon-free comparison of your options, talk to one of our friendly advisors today. You can learn more in our guide to choosing a PMI policy.

Beyond GP Appointments: The Wider Benefits of Private Health Cover

While quick GP access is a major draw, it's just the starting point. The real value of PMI lies in what happens next.

  • Rapid Specialist Access: An open referral from a private GP allows you to see a specialist in days or weeks, not months or years.
  • Choice of Hospital and Consultant: You have control over where you are treated and, in many cases, by which specialist.
  • Access to Advanced Treatments: PMI can provide cover for drugs and treatments that may not be available on the NHS due to cost.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Treatment is often in a private hospital with your own en-suite room, offering a more comfortable and restful environment for recovery.
  • Comprehensive Mental Health Support: Many policies now offer extensive support for mental health, from counselling sessions to psychiatric care, accessible far more quickly than through the NHS.

A Quick Guide to Keeping Healthy

While having fast access to a GP is reassuring, prevention is always better than cure. Small, consistent lifestyle choices can have a huge impact on your long-term health and reduce your need to see a doctor in the first place.

1. Focus on a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet is the foundation of good health. Aim for a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reducing your intake of processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can lower your risk of chronic diseases. Tools like WeCovr's CalorieHero app can make tracking your nutrition simple and insightful.

2. Prioritise Sleep

Sleep is not a luxury; it's a biological necessity. Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep is linked to a weakened immune system, weight gain, and poor mental health. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and make your bedroom a screen-free zone.

3. Stay Active

The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be anything from a brisk walk or a cycle ride to a dance class. Regular exercise boosts your mood, strengthens your heart, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Many PMI providers, especially Vitality, actively reward you for staying active.

4. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can take a heavy toll on your physical and mental health. Find healthy coping mechanisms that work for you, such as mindfulness, yoga, spending time in nature, or talking to a friend. Don't hesitate to use the mental health support services included in your PMI policy if you're struggling.

By embracing these habits, you partner with your insurance policy to take a proactive role in your own wellbeing.

Can I keep my NHS GP if I get private medical insurance?

Absolutely. Private medical insurance is designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it. You should always remain registered with your NHS GP. A private GP service is an additional benefit for speed and convenience, and you can continue to use your local NHS surgery for routine care, prescriptions, and managing long-term conditions.

Are private GP consultations expensive?

If you pay for a one-off private GP appointment, it can cost anywhere from £80 to £200. However, with the PMI providers we've ranked, the virtual GP service is included as a standard part of your monthly premium. This means you can use the service as needed (subject to fair usage limits) without paying for each consultation, making it incredibly cost-effective.

Do I need to declare my full medical history to use a private GP?

When you first apply for private medical insurance, you will need to complete a declaration about your medical history. This is used to determine what pre-existing conditions will be excluded from your cover. When you use the private GP service, you should be open about your symptoms and history to get the best advice. However, remember that any subsequent treatment will only be covered by your insurance if it's for a new, eligible condition that started after your policy began.

Ready to take control of your healthcare? Get a fast, free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect policy for your needs and budget.


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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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