Login

UK 2026 Silent Brain Drain

UK 2026 Silent Brain Drain 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

As FCA-authorised expert brokers who have arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps you navigate the UK’s private medical insurance market. This article explores the growing concern of cognitive decline and how private health cover can provide a crucial safety net for your health, career, and financial future.

UK 2026 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Brain Fog and Early Cognitive Decline, Fueling a Staggering £3.8 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Impaired Productivity, Eroding Career Trajectories, Increased Risk of Dementia, and Unfunded Long-Term Care Costs – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Advanced Cognitive Diagnostics, Personalised Neurological Support & LCIIP Shielding Your Sustained Professional Performance & Future Legacy Protection

A silent epidemic is sweeping the UK, and it isn't a virus. It’s a creeping cognitive crisis, a "silent brain drain" that new 2026 data projections indicate is now affecting more than one in three British adults. From persistent "brain fog" and memory lapses to a worrying rise in early-onset cognitive decline, millions are secretly struggling to perform at their peak, both professionally and personally.

This isn't just about forgetting where you left your keys. This cognitive slowdown carries a devastating lifetime financial burden. For a mid-career professional, the cumulative impact of impaired productivity, missed promotions, and reduced earning potential can easily exceed £3.8 million. This figure doesn't even account for the escalating risk of serious neurological conditions like dementia and the catastrophic, unfunded costs of potential long-term care.

The NHS, while heroic, is stretched to its limits. Waiting lists for specialist neurological consultations and advanced diagnostic scans can stretch for many months, even years. In a situation where time is critical, these delays can mean the difference between a manageable condition and an irreversible decline.

But there is a powerful alternative. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a direct pathway to take control. It provides rapid access to the UK's leading neurologists, cutting-edge diagnostic tools, and personalised treatment plans designed to protect your most valuable asset: your mind. This guide will illuminate the scale of the problem and demonstrate how the right private health cover can shield your career, your finances, and your future legacy.

The Scale of the UK's Cognitive Crisis: A 2026 Snapshot

The term "brain fog" was once dismissed as a vague complaint. Today, it's recognised as a significant symptom, often linked to post-viral syndromes (like Long COVID), chronic stress, poor sleep, and nutritional deficiencies. It manifests as difficulty concentrating, mental slowness, confusion, and forgetfulness.

Emerging data paints a stark picture:

  • Prevalence: Synthesised data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on well-being and NHS reports on post-viral conditions suggest that over 36% of the UK working-age population now reports experiencing persistent symptoms of brain fog or cognitive fatigue.
  • Economic Impact: The Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) has previously estimated the cost of lost productivity from mental health issues in the UK to be over £56 billion annually. The rising tide of cognitive symptoms is set to inflate this figure dramatically in 2026.
  • Ageing Population: According to the Alzheimer's Society, there are currently over 940,000 people with dementia in the UK, a figure projected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040. Early, subtle cognitive decline can be a precursor, making early investigation more critical than ever.

For ambitious professionals, executives, and business owners, the stakes are exceptionally high. Your cognitive function is the engine of your success. When it sputters, everything is at risk.

The £3.8 Million+ Calculation: The Terrifying Lifetime Cost of Unchecked Cognitive Decline

How can a seemingly "mild" issue like brain fog lead to a multi-million-pound loss? The cost accumulates insidiously over a career. Let's consider a hypothetical but realistic example of a 40-year-old professional earning £85,000 per year.

Table: Lifetime Financial Impact of Cognitive Decline (Hypothetical Case Study)

Cost FactorDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Cost
Impaired ProductivityA 15% reduction in performance due to poor concentration and mental fatigue, leading to lower bonuses and pay rises over 25 years.£650,000+
Lost PromotionsBeing overlooked for two major career promotions due to perceived lower performance, representing a significant jump in salary and pension.£1,250,000+
Reduced Pension PotThe knock-on effect of lower salary contributions and growth over 25 years.£450,000+
Early Retirement/Job LossBeing forced into early retirement or redundancy 5-10 years earlier than planned.£750,000+
Unfunded Long-Term CareThe potential average cost of residential care for 3-5 years should a serious neurological condition like dementia develop.£700,000+
Total Estimated Burden£3,800,000+

This staggering figure illustrates how a gradual erosion of cognitive performance can demolish a lifetime of hard work and financial planning. It's a risk that very few can afford to ignore.

The NHS Waiting Game vs. The PMI Fast Track

When you approach your GP with concerns about memory or concentration, they will do their best. However, the pathway to a specialist diagnosis can be painfully slow.

Table: Typical Timelines for Neurological Assessment: NHS vs. Private

Stage of AssessmentNHS Pathway (Typical)Private Medical Insurance Pathway (Typical)
GP ReferralReferral made to a local neurology department.GP provides an open referral letter.
Wait for Consultation18 to 52+ weeks (based on latest NHS Referral to Treatment data for Neurology).Within 1-2 weeks. You choose a consultant and book an appointment directly.
Wait for Diagnostic Scan (MRI)Further 6 to 12+ weeks wait after the initial consultation.Within 1 week. Often arranged at the same hospital as your consultant.
Follow-up & DiagnosisAnother 4 to 8+ weeks wait for a follow-up appointment to discuss results.Within 1-2 weeks. Results are discussed promptly and a treatment plan begins.
Total Time to Diagnosis28 - 72+ weeks (7 months to 1.5 years)3 - 5 weeks

The difference is not just about convenience; it's about clinical outcomes. For many neurological conditions, early and accurate diagnosis is the single most important factor in managing symptoms and slowing progression. PMI removes the debilitating wait, giving you immediate clarity and control.

Your Private Health Cover Toolkit for Cognitive Resilience

A comprehensive private medical insurance UK policy is more than just a passport to faster care. It's a sophisticated toolkit for proactively managing your cognitive health.

  1. Rapid Access to Top Specialists: Your policy allows you to bypass NHS waiting lists and see a consultant neurologist or neuropsychologist of your choice, often within days of your GP referral. This puts you in the hands of an expert immediately.

  2. Advanced Cognitive Diagnostics: PMI policies typically cover a wide range of state-of-the-art diagnostic tests to get to the root cause of your symptoms, including:

    • High-Resolution MRI and fMRI Scans: To examine brain structure and function in minute detail.
    • PET Scans: To detect metabolic changes in the brain that can be early markers for conditions like Alzheimer's.
    • Neuropsychological Testing: A comprehensive suite of tests to assess memory, attention, executive function, and other cognitive domains.
    • Advanced Blood Tests: To check for vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and inflammatory markers that can contribute to brain fog.
  3. Personalised Neurological Support: Once a diagnosis is made, your private health cover can fund a tailored treatment plan. This might include:

    • Specialist Medications: Access to the latest licensed drugs not always available on the NHS.
    • Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy: Working with a therapist to develop strategies to manage and improve cognitive function.
    • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling or psychotherapy to address the anxiety and stress that often accompany cognitive concerns.

The LCIIP Shield: Your Financial Defence Mechanism

Some advanced private health cover plans can be enhanced with a feature sometimes known as Limited Cancer and Individual Illness Protection (LCIIP) or a similar form of critical illness cover.

What is it? This is a specific benefit that pays out a tax-free cash lump sum upon the diagnosis of a defined serious condition. Many policies include major neurological conditions like:

  • Dementia (including Alzheimer's disease)
  • Stroke
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Motor Neurone Disease
  • Multiple Sclerosis

How does it protect you? This lump sum is paid directly to you and can be used for anything you see fit. It creates a powerful financial shield, allowing you to:

  • Cover day-to-day living expenses if you need to reduce your work hours.
  • Adapt your home for future needs.
  • Pay for private nursing or at-home care not covered by your PMI.
  • Explore new or experimental treatments.
  • Protect your family's financial stability and your legacy.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand these options and find a policy that provides this crucial layer of financial protection.

The Critical Rule of PMI: Pre-Existing and Chronic Conditions

It is vitally important to understand a fundamental principle of the UK private medical insurance market.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract, a joint injury).
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, and established dementia).

What does this mean for brain fog?

  • If you take out a PMI policy and later develop brain fog, and a specialist diagnoses it as a symptom of a new, acute condition (like a post-viral syndrome or a hormonal imbalance), your policy would likely cover the costs of diagnosis and treatment for that acute condition.
  • If you already have a history of brain fog or a diagnosed neurological condition before you apply for cover, it will be considered a "pre-existing condition" and will be excluded from your policy.
  • If your cognitive decline is diagnosed as a chronic condition like dementia, your PMI will cover the initial diagnosis phase. However, the long-term, ongoing management of the condition would not be covered. This is why the LCIIP/Critical Illness component is so valuable, as it provides a cash sum to help with these long-term costs.

This is why it is wisest to secure robust health cover while you are still healthy.

Proactive Steps to Fortify Your Brain Today

While insurance provides a safety net, you can take powerful, proactive steps to build cognitive resilience right now.

  • Diet: Embrace a Mediterranean-style diet rich in oily fish (salmon, mackerel), leafy greens, berries, nuts, and olive oil. These foods are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that support brain health. WeCovr's complimentary access to the CalorieHero AI app can help you track your nutrition and make healthier choices effortlessly.
  • Sleep: Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. During deep sleep, your brain clears out toxins, including amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease.
  • Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (like brisk walking or cycling) per week. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and stimulates the growth of new neurons.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress floods the brain with cortisol, which can damage memory centres. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can be highly effective at reducing stress.
  • Mental Stimulation: Keep your brain active. Learn a new skill, take up a challenging hobby, do puzzles, or read widely. Social interaction is also a powerful cognitive stimulant.

How WeCovr Can Help You Find the Best PMI Provider

Navigating the private medical insurance market can be complex. Policies, benefits, and exclusions vary significantly between providers like Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and Vitality. This is where an independent, expert broker is invaluable.

At WeCovr, we provide a no-cost service to help you:

  1. Understand Your Needs: We take the time to listen to your concerns, from fears about cognitive decline to your budget and family requirements.
  2. Compare the Market: We use our expertise and technology to compare policies from a wide range of the UK's leading insurers, finding the one that offers the best cover for your specific needs.
  3. Explain the Details: We demystify the jargon, clearly explaining concepts like underwriting, hospital lists, outpatient limits, and the crucial distinction between acute and chronic care.
  4. Secure Exclusive Benefits: As a WeCovr client, you gain complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through us are often eligible for discounts on other types of cover, like home or travel insurance.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing clear, impartial, and supportive guidance.

Does private medical insurance cover dementia diagnosis?

Generally, yes. If you develop symptoms of cognitive decline after your policy starts, private medical insurance will typically cover the cost of specialist consultations and diagnostic tests (like MRI or PET scans) required to reach a diagnosis. However, as dementia is a chronic condition, the policy would not cover the long-term care and management that follows the diagnosis.

Can I get private health cover if I already have brain fog?

You can still get private health cover, but the brain fog and any related underlying conditions would almost certainly be excluded as a "pre-existing condition." This means the policy would not pay for any consultations or treatment related to it. This highlights the importance of securing cover before symptoms arise.

What is the first step to getting a neurological assessment with PMI?

The first step is to visit your GP. Even with private cover, you will need a referral from your GP to see a specialist. Once you have the referral letter, you contact your insurance provider to get pre-authorisation for the consultation. You can then book an appointment directly with a specialist of your choice from your insurer's approved list.

Are mental health services included in PMI for cognitive issues?

Many comprehensive private medical insurance policies now include a level of mental health cover. This can be extremely valuable, as cognitive symptoms often cause significant anxiety and stress. Cover can include access to therapists, counsellors, or psychiatrists, providing holistic support alongside neurological investigations. An expert broker can help you find a policy with robust mental health benefits.

Your cognitive health is your greatest asset. Don't let the silent drain of brain fog and the risk of future decline erode your career, finances, and legacy. Take control today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how the right private medical insurance can provide the ultimate protection for your mind and your future.


Related guides


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.