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UK Autoimmune Crisis Hidden Costs

UK Autoimmune Crisis Hidden Costs 2025

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 800,000 policies, WeCovr is at the forefront of the private medical insurance market in the UK. This article explores the hidden autoimmune crisis and how PMI can provide a crucial financial and emotional shield against its devastating lifetime costs.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 4 Million Britons Secretly Battle Autoimmune Disease, Fuelling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Pain, Debilitating Fatigue, Career Collapse & Eroding Family Futures – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Advanced Diagnostics, Specialist Treatment & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Health & Future Resilience

The United Kingdom is facing a silent health emergency. While headlines focus on cancer and heart disease, a shadow pandemic of autoimmune disease is quietly dismantling the lives of millions. Conservative estimates for 2025 indicate that over 4 million Britons are affected, though landmark research from The Lancet suggests the true figure may be closer to 1 in 10 people – almost 7 million individuals.

These are not just statistics; they are parents, professionals, and partners whose lives are being systematically derailed by conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, Crohn's Disease, and Lupus. The true cost goes far beyond NHS prescriptions. It’s a lifetime burden of pain, exhaustion, and financial ruin that can exceed a staggering £4.2 million per person in severe cases.

This is the story of the hidden costs and the crucial role that private medical insurance (PMI) can play in navigating the storm – not by curing the incurable, but by providing the speed, access, and advanced support that can change the entire trajectory of your life and future.

What is an Autoimmune Disease? A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing

In simple terms, an autoimmune disease is a case of mistaken identity. Your immune system, designed to be your body's loyal bodyguard against invaders like bacteria and viruses, gets confused. It wrongly identifies your own healthy cells, tissues, and organs as foreign threats and launches a relentless attack.

This internal friendly fire can affect almost any part of the body, leading to over 80 different types of autoimmune conditions, including:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Attacks the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and eventual deformity.
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Targets the brain and spinal cord, disrupting communication between the brain and the body.
  • Type 1 Diabetes: Destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
  • Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: Causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
  • Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis: Affects the skin and, in many cases, the joints.
  • Lupus (SLE): A systemic condition that can attack the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs.
  • Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: An attack on the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.

The insidious nature of these diseases lies in their symptoms: chronic fatigue, brain fog, widespread pain, and recurring infections. They are often invisible, dismissed by others as "just being tired," leading to long, frustrating delays in diagnosis.

The Diagnostic Odyssey: Why the NHS Pathway Can Be a Painful Waiting Game

For anyone experiencing the first bewildering symptoms of an autoimmune condition, the journey to a diagnosis through the NHS can be a gruelling marathon.

  1. GP Appointment: Securing an initial appointment can take weeks.
  2. Initial Tests: Your GP will likely run basic blood tests. These may come back inconclusive.
  3. The Referral Wait: If symptoms persist, you'll be referred to a specialist (like a Rheumatologist or Neurologist). According to 2025 NHS England data, the median wait time for a first consultant-led appointment can stretch for many months.
  4. Specialist Backlog: Once you finally see a specialist, you join another queue for crucial diagnostic imaging like MRI or CT scans.
  5. The Diagnosis: The average time from symptom onset to a definitive diagnosis for many autoimmune conditions can be several years.

During this "diagnostic odyssey," the disease is not sitting idle. It can be causing irreversible damage to your joints, organs, and nervous system. This delay is where the real costs begin to mount.

NHS vs. Private Medical Insurance: The Race for a Diagnosis

FeatureTypical NHS PathwayTypical PMI Pathway
GP AccessWeeks for an appointmentOften includes 24/7 Digital GP access for same-day appointments.
Specialist ReferralMonths-long wait for a referral to be processed and an appointment scheduled.Referral within days, appointment often within a week or two.
Diagnostic ScansFurther long waits for MRI, CT, or specialised tests.Scans and tests arranged within days of specialist consultation.
Choice of SpecialistLittle to no choice; you see the specialist you are assigned to.Full choice of leading specialists and consultants in their field.
Choice of HospitalLimited choice, often determined by your postcode.Extensive choice of private hospitals across the UK.
Total Time to DiagnosisCan take months or even years.Can be achieved in a matter of weeks.

This speed is not a luxury; it's a necessity. Early intervention can prevent permanent disability, preserve organ function, and maintain your quality of life.

The Crushing £4.2 Million Lifetime Burden: Deconstructing the Hidden Costs

The financial impact of a severe autoimmune diagnosis is a tidal wave that can wash away a lifetime of financial planning. The £4.2 million figure is not an exaggeration for someone diagnosed early with a debilitating condition; it’s a terrifyingly plausible calculation of direct and indirect costs over a lifetime.

Let's take the example of 'Alex', a 30-year-old marketing manager diagnosed with aggressive Multiple Sclerosis.

A Hypothetical Breakdown of Lifetime Costs

Cost CategoryDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Cost
Direct Loss of EarningsAlex's career, with a potential salary of £80k, is cut short. Over 35 years, this is a huge loss.£2,800,000
Partner's Lost IncomeAlex's partner reduces their work hours to become a part-time carer.£600,000
Private Care & AssistanceAs the condition progresses, Alex requires daily help with personal care and household tasks.£500,000
Specialist TherapiesPhysiotherapy, occupational therapy, and access to novel treatments not yet on the NHS.£250,000
Home & Vehicle AdaptationsWheelchair ramps, a wet room, stairlift, and an adapted vehicle.£150,000
Out-of-Pocket ExpensesSpecialised diets, mobility aids, travel to appointments, complementary therapies.£75,000
Total Estimated Burden£4,375,000

This staggering figure doesn't even account for the emotional cost: the loss of independence, the strain on relationships, and the impact on mental health. It reveals that an autoimmune disease is not just a health crisis; it's a comprehensive life crisis.

How Private Health Cover Shields Your Future: Understanding the Rules

This is where we must be crystal clear. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • An Acute Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of a cataract operation or a joint replacement.
  • A Chronic Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires palliative care. All autoimmune diseases fall into this category.

Crucially, PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or the long-term, routine management of chronic conditions.

So, how does it help?

Its immense value lies in the acute phase of diagnosis and initial treatment.

Let's imagine you take out a PMI policy today. In six months, you develop debilitating joint pain and fatigue.

  1. Immediate Access: You use your policy's digital GP service for a same-day consultation.
  2. Swift Referral: The GP provides an open referral to a rheumatologist.
  3. Rapid Diagnostics: Within two weeks, you've seen a top specialist, had an MRI, and received a full panel of blood tests. You are diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
  4. Acute Stabilisation: Your policy covers the initial consultations and treatments needed to get the acute, initial flare-up under control and find an effective medication regimen.

You have bypassed months, or even years, of NHS waiting lists. You have a definitive diagnosis and a treatment plan in weeks, not years, preventing irreversible joint erosion. The long-term, ongoing management of your now-diagnosed chronic condition will then typically revert to the NHS.

You have used PMI for its core purpose: rapid intervention for an acute medical event (the initial flare-up and diagnosis).

LCIIP: The Premium Benefit That Extends Your Cover

Recognising the gap in care, some of the best PMI providers now offer enhanced benefits, which we'll call Limited Chronic Illness Insurance Programmes (LCIIP). These are often included in more comprehensive policies or available as an add-on.

An LCIIP benefit might provide:

  • A set cash benefit upon the diagnosis of a specific chronic condition.
  • A yearly allowance for monitoring and consultations related to the condition.
  • Cover for a set number of specialist consultations per year to manage the condition.

This doesn't provide unlimited cover for the chronic illness, but it offers a vital, ongoing safety net for managing your health privately, giving you continued access to your chosen specialist for check-ups and treatment adjustments. When comparing policies with a PMI broker like WeCovr, it's essential to ask about these advanced chronic condition benefits.

Beyond the Hospital: Holistic Health and Wellness Support

Modern private health cover is about more than just reacting to illness; it's about proactively supporting your well-being. The leading policies offer a suite of benefits designed to help you build resilience:

  • Mental Health Support: Access to therapy and counselling is often included as standard, providing a vital outlet for coping with the psychological impact of a diagnosis.
  • Nutritional Advice: Expert guidance on anti-inflammatory diets that can help manage symptoms.
  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Encouraging gentle, regular exercise which is proven to help with many autoimmune conditions.
  • Digital Health Tools: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, helping you track your diet and identify potential trigger foods.

Furthermore, when you secure your health's future with a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, we offer discounts on other types of insurance, helping you build a comprehensive shield for your family and finances.

Lifestyle Tips for Building Resilience Against Autoimmune Flares

While there is no cure, you can empower yourself by adopting lifestyle habits that support your immune system and help manage symptoms.

  1. Prioritise an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focus on whole foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and walnuts), antioxidants (berries, leafy greens), and fibre. Limit processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates which can fuel inflammation.
  2. Master Your Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is when your body repairs itself and regulates immune function. A consistent sleep schedule is key.
  3. Move Mindfully: Gentle exercise like yoga, swimming, or walking can reduce stiffness, improve mood, and boost energy. The key is "pacing" – listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself into a flare-up.
  4. Manage Stress Proactively: Chronic stress is a major trigger for autoimmune flares. Incorporate mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or meditation into your daily routine.
  5. Be Smart When Travelling: Plan ahead. Carry a letter from your doctor detailing your condition and medications. Ensure you have enough medication for your trip plus extra in case of delays, and always carry it in your hand luggage. Check your travel insurance policy covers your specific condition.

Why Use an Expert Broker Like WeCovr?

The UK private medical insurance market is complex. Policies vary hugely in their benefits, exclusions, and underwriting terms. Trying to navigate this alone can be overwhelming.

An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies.

  • Impartial Expertise: We analyse policies from across the market to find the one that truly fits your needs and budget.
  • No Hidden Fees: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.
  • Clarity on the Small Print: We explain the crucial differences between moratorium and full medical underwriting and help you understand exactly what is and isn't covered.
  • Trusted by Thousands: WeCovr has a proven track record and enjoys high customer satisfaction ratings for our clear, professional advice. We cut through the jargon to give you confidence in your choice.

The growing autoimmune crisis is a stark reminder that our health is our most valuable asset. While we cannot always prevent disease, we can plan for it. Taking control with the right private medical insurance UK policy is a powerful step towards shielding your health, your career, and your family's future from the devastating hidden costs of chronic illness.

Can I get private medical insurance if I already have an autoimmune disease?

Generally, you can still get private medical insurance, but the existing autoimmune disease and any related symptoms will be excluded from cover as a "pre-existing condition". The policy would provide cover for new, unrelated acute medical conditions that arise after the policy start date. It's vital to declare your full medical history to ensure your policy is valid.

What happens if I'm diagnosed with a chronic condition like Lupus *after* I buy a PMI policy?

This is where PMI provides its greatest value. If you develop symptoms after your policy begins, your insurance will typically cover the 'acute' phase. This includes fast-track access to specialist consultations, diagnostic tests like MRIs and blood work to get a swift diagnosis, and the initial treatments to stabilise your condition. Once the condition is diagnosed as chronic, its routine, long-term management would then typically transfer to the NHS, unless your policy includes a specific benefit for limited chronic care.

What's the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess pre-existing conditions. With 'Full Medical Underwriting', you provide your full medical history upfront, and the insurer tells you exactly what is excluded from the start. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, you don't declare your history, but the insurer will automatically exclude any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the last 5 years. These exclusions can be lifted if you remain completely free of that condition for a set period (usually 2 years) after your policy starts. A broker can explain which is best for your circumstances.

Why use a PMI broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Going direct only gives you one option. An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr provides an impartial, expert view of the entire market. We compare dozens of policies from leading UK providers to find the best cover for your specific needs and budget. We explain the complex terms in plain English and our service is completely free to you, making it the smartest way to secure the right protection.

Take control of your health resilience today. Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how a private medical insurance policy can be your shield in uncertain times.

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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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