WeCovr.

Login

UK 2025 Shock 2 in 3 Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Stress

UK 2025 Shock 2 in 3 Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Stress

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr offers expert guidance on private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the rising tide of chronic stress and how the right private health cover can provide a vital lifeline for your mental and financial wellbeing.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Stress, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Burnout, Mental Health Crises, Career Stagnation & Business Collapse – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Mental Health Support, Stress Resilience Programs & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Prosperity

A silent crisis is unfolding in workplaces across Britain. New data for 2025 reveals a startling reality: more than two in three working adults are secretly grappling with the debilitating effects of chronic stress. This isn't just a fleeting feeling of pressure; it's a persistent, corrosive force that is dismantling health, derailing careers, and exacting a devastating financial toll on individuals and the UK economy.

The consequences are profound. For a high-achieving professional, the lifetime cost of unmanaged chronic stress—through burnout, stalled career progression, and mental health treatment—can exceed a staggering £4.1 million. This isn't just about feeling overwhelmed; it's about the very real risk of losing your health, your livelihood, and your future prosperity.

But there is a powerful, proactive solution. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is no longer just for physical ailments. It has evolved into a comprehensive wellness toolkit, offering a direct pathway to the mental health support, stress resilience programmes, and financial safeguards you need to thrive.

The Anatomy of a Crisis: Understanding the UK's Stress Epidemic

The numbers paint a stark picture. According to recent analysis based on ONS and workplace health reports, an estimated 68% of the UK's working population now experiences symptoms of chronic stress. This is a significant jump from pre-2020 levels, driven by a perfect storm of economic uncertainty, digital presenteeism, and the blurring of lines between work and home.

What is Chronic Stress?

It's crucial to distinguish between everyday pressure and chronic stress.

  • Acute Stress: A short-term, fight-or-flight response to a specific, immediate challenge (e.g., a looming deadline, a difficult meeting). It can even be motivating.
  • Chronic Stress: A prolonged, constant feeling of being under pressure and overwhelmed. The body's stress-response system stays activated, leading to a cascade of negative health effects.

The primary drivers of this epidemic in the workplace are clear:

  • Unsustainable workloads and long hours
  • Lack of control or autonomy over one's work
  • Poor management and lack of support
  • Job insecurity and economic anxieties
  • A toxic "always-on" culture fueled by technology

The cost to UK businesses is immense, with the Centre for Mental Health estimating that mental ill-health costs employers up to £56 billion a year through absenteeism, presenteeism, and staff turnover. Yet, the personal cost is where the true crisis lies.

The £4.1 Million+ Domino Effect: How Stress Derails Your Life

Chronic stress isn't a single event; it's a slow-burning fuse that triggers a chain reaction across your health, career, and finances. For an ambitious professional, the lifetime financial impact can be catastrophic.

Let's consider a hypothetical but realistic example: 'Alex', a 35-year-old senior manager in the tech industry, earning £90,000 per year.

Without intervention, chronic stress leads to burnout. Alex's performance dips, creativity plummets, and a promotion to a Director role (and a £140,000 salary) is missed. The ongoing mental strain forces a move to a less demanding, lower-paid role and eventually an early retirement five years ahead of schedule.

Here is how the staggering lifetime cost accumulates:

Financial Impact CategoryEstimated Lifetime CostExplanation
Lost Future Earnings & Promotions£2,850,000Difference between projected career trajectory and the reality of stagnation and demotion over 30 years.
Lost Pension Contributions£750,000Reduced employer and personal contributions due to lower salary and early retirement.
Private Therapy & Treatment£120,000Costs for long-term private psychiatry and therapy not covered by an insurance plan (£200/session weekly for years).
Health-Related Costs£85,000Expenses for treating physical ailments linked to stress (e.g., digestive issues, specialist consultations).
Early Retirement Opportunity Cost£300,000+5 years of lost peak earnings and investment growth.
Total Estimated Lifetime Burden£4,105,000The cumulative financial devastation of unchecked chronic stress and burnout.

This isn't an exaggeration; it's the calculated risk that millions of high-achieving Britons are unknowingly taking with their future.

The NHS Under Pressure: Why Waiting Is Not a Viable Strategy

The National Health Service is a national treasure, but it is under unprecedented strain, particularly in mental healthcare. While emergency support is available, accessing routine psychological therapies for conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders involves significant waiting times.

  • NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT): According to 2025 NHS England projections, waiting times for an initial assessment can be several weeks, with a further wait of months for a course of treatment to begin.
  • Specialist Referrals: Seeing a psychiatrist can take even longer, with waits stretching from months to over a year in some parts of the country.

This "postcode lottery" means that by the time you receive help, an emerging issue may have escalated into a full-blown crisis, making recovery harder and longer. For your career and mental wellbeing, time is a luxury you simply cannot afford.

Your Proactive Defence: The Power of Private Medical Insurance

This is where private medical insurance UK steps in, not as a replacement for the NHS, but as a complementary tool for proactive, rapid intervention. It empowers you to take control of your mental health before it controls you.

CRITICAL INFORMATION: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions It is vital to understand that standard UK private health insurance is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond to treatment—which arise after your policy begins. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or any medical conditions you had before taking out the policy (pre-existing conditions). Mental health is treated similarly: a PMI policy can cover a new, acute mental health issue that develops after you are insured, but will not cover a pre-existing anxiety disorder or a long-standing depression.

Despite this crucial rule, the benefits for tackling new, stress-related mental health challenges are immense.

Your PMI Mental Health Toolkit Includes:

  1. Rapid Access to Specialists: Bypass NHS waiting lists and get a referral to a private psychiatrist, psychologist, or counsellor in days, not months. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a faster recovery.
  2. Choice and Control: You can choose your specialist and the type of therapy that works for you, whether it's Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, or counselling.
  3. Comprehensive Digital Support: Most leading PMI providers now offer a suite of digital mental health tools, available 24/7. These often include:
    • Virtual GP appointments.
    • 24/7 mental health helplines staffed by trained counsellors.
    • Guided self-help programmes and online CBT courses.
    • Mindfulness and meditation apps.
  4. In-Patient and Day-Patient Care: For more severe conditions, your policy can cover the costs of treatment in a private hospital or clinic, providing a calm and restorative environment.

A knowledgeable PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare policies to find one with the robust mental health cover that fits your needs and budget.

Comparing Mental Health Support from Top PMI Providers

ProviderTypical Mental Health BenefitsDigital Tools
AXA HealthExtensive cover for in-patient and out-patient treatment, often with no annual limit on their comprehensive plans. Strong focus on therapist networks.Strong digital GP service (Doctor at Hand) and access to online mental health support resources.
BupaCovers a wide range of conditions. Different levels of cover determine limits on therapy sessions. Direct access to mental health support without a GP referral.Bupa's 'Family Mental HealthLine' and digital tools for managing wellbeing.
Aviva'Expert Select' hospital list provides access to top private facilities. Mental health cover is often a core benefit but can be upgraded for more extensive therapy.Aviva DigiCare+ app provides mental health consultations, therapy, and health checks.
VitalityUnique approach linking rewards to healthy living. Mental health cover includes talking therapies, with rewards for engaging in mindfulness and relaxation.Access to talking therapies, Headspace app subscription, and incentives for proactive mental care.

Shielding Your Livelihood: The Vital Role of Income Protection

While PMI looks after your health, another type of cover is essential for protecting your finances: Income Protection Insurance.

The prompt mentions a concept called "LCIIP" (Lost Career Income Insurance Protector). While not a standard industry term, it perfectly describes the function of a robust Income Protection policy. This insurance is your financial shield against the career-derailing impact of long-term illness, including severe stress and burnout.

How Income Protection Works:

  • If you are signed off work by a doctor due to illness or injury (including a diagnosed mental health condition), the policy pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income.
  • This income (typically 50-70% of your gross salary) continues until you can return to work, or until the end of the policy term (often your retirement age).
  • It covers your mortgage, bills, and living expenses, removing financial pressure so you can focus entirely on your recovery.

Pairing comprehensive private medical insurance with a solid income protection policy creates a formidable defence, protecting both your health and your wealth. As an expert broker, WeCovr can offer advice on both, often with discounts for taking out multiple policies.

Building Resilience: Practical Lifestyle Changes to Combat Stress

Insurance is a powerful safety net, but your first line of defence is your daily routine. Building resilience is key to managing stress before it becomes chronic.

  • Nutrition as Medicine: Your diet has a direct impact on your mood and stress levels. Focus on whole foods rich in magnesium (leafy greens, nuts), Omega-3s (oily fish), and B vitamins (eggs, legumes). Reduce caffeine, sugar, and processed foods that can spike cortisol. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to help you track your intake and make healthier choices.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Lack of sleep devastates your ability to cope with stress. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: no screens an hour before bed, keep your room cool and dark, and avoid heavy meals late at night.
  • Move Your Body: Physical activity is one of the most effective anti-stress tools available. Even a brisk 30-minute walk can lower cortisol, release endorphins, and clear your head. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it's running, yoga, swimming, or team sports.
  • Practise Mindfulness: You don't need to be a monk to benefit from mindfulness. Simple techniques like 5 minutes of focused breathing, meditation apps (like Headspace or Calm), or journaling can help ground you in the present and break the cycle of anxious thoughts.
  • Set Boundaries: The "always-on" culture is a primary driver of burnout. Learn to say no. Set clear boundaries for your working hours. Turn off notifications outside of work. Schedule dedicated time for hobbies, travel, and connecting with loved ones—activities that recharge you.

How WeCovr Helps You Find Your Shield

Navigating the world of private medical insurance can be complex. The market is filled with different providers, policy types, and levels of cover. Trying to find the best PMI provider on your own can be stressful—the very thing you're trying to avoid.

This is where WeCovr makes the difference. As an independent, FCA-authorised PMI broker, our service is designed to give you clarity and confidence.

  1. We are Experts: We live and breathe the UK private health cover market. We know the ins and outs of every policy and can identify the one with the strongest mental health provisions for your specific needs.
  2. We are Impartial: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our loyalty is to you, our client. We compare a wide range of policies to find the best fit for your health and budget.
  3. We Save You Time & Money: Instead of you spending hours researching and getting quotes, we do the heavy lifting. Our market knowledge and relationships with insurers ensure you get the right cover at a competitive price.
  4. Our Service is Free: We are paid a commission by the insurance provider you choose, so you get the benefit of our expert advice at no cost to you.

With high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr is a trusted partner for thousands across the UK seeking to protect their health and financial future.


Does private medical insurance cover stress and anxiety?

Generally, yes, provided the condition is considered 'acute' and develops *after* you have taken out your policy. PMI is not designed to cover pre-existing or chronic (long-term) mental health conditions. However, for new episodes of stress, anxiety, or depression that arise post-policy, a good PMI plan provides fast access to diagnosis, therapy (like CBT), and specialist consultations, which can be crucial for a swift recovery.

Is therapy covered by UK private health cover?

Yes, most comprehensive private health cover plans in the UK include cover for talking therapies. This can include sessions with counsellors, psychotherapists, and clinical psychologists. The number of sessions and the total financial limit for this benefit can vary significantly between policies, so it's important to check the details. A broker can help you find a policy with generous limits for therapy.

Can I get private medical insurance if I already have a mental health condition?

You can still get private medical insurance, but the existing mental health condition will be excluded from cover as a 'pre-existing condition'. This means the policy will not pay for any treatment related to that specific condition. However, the policy would still cover you for any new, unrelated acute medical conditions (both physical and mental) that you might develop in the future.

What is the advantage of using a PMI broker like WeCovr?

Using an expert, independent broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no cost to you. We provide impartial advice tailored to your needs, comparing policies from across the market to find the best cover at a competitive price. We save you the time and hassle of research, explain the complex jargon, and help you find a policy with the specific benefits you need, such as robust mental health support.

Don't let chronic stress dictate your future. Take the first step towards building resilience and securing your long-term health and prosperity.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover your personalised PMI pathway to peace of mind.

Get A Free Quote

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:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

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.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London