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UK Bone Health Crisis Fragility Fractures & Lifetime Burden

UK Bone Health Crisis Fragility Fractures & Lifetime Burden

At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we believe in empowering you with knowledge. This guide explores the UK’s silent bone health crisis and how private medical insurance can be your strongest ally in protecting your future mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.

A silent epidemic is weakening the very framework of our nation's health. New data for 2025 paints a stark picture: our bones are in crisis. Osteoporosis, the 'silent disease', is set to cause a fragility fracture in more than half of all women and one in five men over the age of 50.

This isn't just about a broken bone. It's about a chain reaction that can lead to a devastating "Lifetime Burden". This term represents the total impact of a fracture, encompassing not just the initial NHS treatment cost, but the profound, long-term consequences:

  • Lost Mobility: Difficulty with simple tasks like walking, shopping, or climbing stairs.
  • Chronic Pain: A persistent, daily reminder of the injury.
  • Loss of Independence: The need for carers, home adaptations, and reliance on family.
  • Eroding Quality of Life: The inability to enjoy hobbies, travel, or play with grandchildren.

When you add up the costs of private care, lost earnings, and the immense impact on mental and physical wellbeing, the true lifetime burden can be overwhelming. But there is a proactive pathway you can take. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful solution, providing rapid access to diagnostics, expert-led preventative plans, and innovative cover options to shield your foundational strength for the years to come.

The Silent Epidemic: Understanding Osteoporosis and Fragility Fractures

Think of your bones like the foundations of a house. In your youth, they are dense and strong. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes these foundations to become porous and weak, losing their strength and density over time.

Because it often has no symptoms until the first fracture occurs, it's known as the 'silent disease'.

What is a Fragility Fracture? A fragility fracture is a broken bone that happens from a minor bump or fall that would not normally cause a fracture in a healthy adult. It's the first, and often most shocking, sign of underlying osteoporosis.

Common sites for fragility fractures include:

  • The Wrist: Often the first to break after a simple fall onto an outstretched hand.
  • The Hip: The most serious type of fracture, frequently leading to hospitalisation, surgery, and a significant loss of independence. According to NHS data, around 10-20% of people die within the first month after a hip fracture, and 30% die within a year.
  • The Spine (Vertebrae): These can collapse without a fall, causing severe back pain, a stooped posture (kyphosis), and loss of height.

The scale of the problem in the UK is staggering. Leading health bodies report that over 3.5 million people are living with osteoporosis, and half a million fragility fractures occur each year – that's one every single minute.

The True Cost: Deconstructing the Lifetime Burden of a Fracture

The initial cost of treating a fracture on the NHS is just the tip of the iceberg. The real, long-term impact – the Lifetime Burden – is far greater and deeply personal.

Component of the Lifetime BurdenDescription & Impact
Direct Healthcare CostsIncludes A&E visits, hospital stays, surgery, medication, and follow-up appointments. Post-fracture physiotherapy and rehabilitation can be extensive.
Social Care CostsMany individuals require paid carers for daily tasks like washing, dressing, and cooking. Home adaptations, such as stairlifts and walk-in showers, can be costly.
Lost Earnings & ProductivityA major fracture can force you or a family member to take significant time off work, or even lead to early retirement, drastically reducing household income.
Impact on Quality of LifeThis is the most profound cost. It includes chronic pain, fear of falling, social isolation, depression, and the inability to participate in activities you love.
Family & Carer StrainThe burden often falls on family members, who may have to reduce their own working hours, impacting their finances and emotional wellbeing.

While it's difficult to put a precise figure on an individual's "Lifetime Burden", the combination of these factors creates a multi-faceted crisis that erodes not just finances, but the very essence of a fulfilling later life.

Are You at Risk? Key Factors for Poor Bone Health

While age is a primary factor, many other elements contribute to your risk of developing osteoporosis. Understanding them is the first step towards prevention.

Unavoidable Risk Factors:

  • Age: Bone density naturally decreases as we get older.
  • Gender: Women are more at risk, especially after menopause, due to the sharp drop in oestrogen, a hormone that protects bones.
  • Genetics: A family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures increases your risk.
  • Medical History: Certain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, and coeliac disease can affect bone health.
  • Medications: Long-term use of high-dose steroid tablets and some cancer treatments can weaken bones.

Lifestyle Risk Factors You Can Change:

  • Low Calcium & Vitamin D Intake: These are the essential building blocks for strong bones.
  • Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle, particularly a lack of weight-bearing exercise, fails to stimulate bone growth.
  • Smoking: Smoking is directly toxic to bone-building cells.
  • Excessive Alcohol: Drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week can interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium.
  • Low Body Weight: Being underweight (a BMI below 19) is a significant risk factor.

The NHS vs. The PMI Pathway: A Tale of Two Timelines

When it comes to bone health, time is critical. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent the first fracture from ever happening. Here’s how the journey typically differs between the NHS and private medical insurance.

The NHS Pathway The NHS has dedicated Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) in many hospitals, which are excellent at identifying and treating patients after their first fragility fracture. However, getting a preventative diagnosis can be slower.

  1. Concern: You might raise concerns with your GP due to risk factors.
  2. Assessment: Your GP may use a risk assessment tool like FRAX or Q-Fracture.
  3. Referral: If you are deemed at high risk, you will be referred for a DEXA scan (a type of X-ray that measures bone density).
  4. Waiting: Waiting lists for non-urgent DEXA scans can vary significantly by region, potentially taking several months.
  5. Diagnosis & Treatment: Following the scan, you will have a follow-up to discuss results and potential treatment, which may involve another wait for a specialist.

The Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Advantage A good PMI policy puts you in control, dramatically speeding up the entire process.

  1. Concern: You speak to your GP (many policies now include a Digital GP service for 24/7 access).
  2. Referral: You receive an open referral to a specialist, such as a rheumatologist.
  3. Appointment: You can typically see a specialist of your choice at a private hospital within days or weeks, not months.
  4. Diagnostics: The specialist will refer you for a DEXA scan, which can often be done at the same hospital within a few days.
  5. Results & Plan: You receive your results quickly and work with the specialist to create a personalised management or prevention plan immediately.

This speed and control mean you can get ahead of the problem, potentially preventing years of pain and disability. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you find a policy with excellent diagnostic cover to ensure this pathway is open to you.

Decoding Your PMI Policy for Bone Health

Not all private health cover is the same. When considering a policy for bone health, here are the key features to look for.

  • Outpatient Cover: This is crucial. It covers your initial consultations with a specialist and any diagnostic tests and scans, like a DEXA scan, that don't require a hospital bed.
  • Fast-Track Diagnostics: Many policies guarantee that scans like MRI, CT, and DEXA will be carried out swiftly once referred by a specialist.
  • Therapies Cover: Ensure your policy includes comprehensive cover for physiotherapy, which is essential for rehabilitation after a fracture.
  • Wellness & Prevention Benefits: Modern insurers are increasingly focused on prevention. Look for benefits like:
    • Discounts on gym memberships.
    • Access to nutritionists.
    • Health and wellbeing apps. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you manage your diet for optimal bone health.
  • Choice of Specialist & Hospital: The freedom to choose a leading rheumatologist or orthopaedic surgeon and a high-quality local private hospital is a core benefit of PMI.

Critical Note: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or the routine management of chronic conditions. If you have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, a standard PMI policy will not cover its management. However, it would still cover you for other new, unrelated acute conditions. The real power of PMI lies in getting diagnosed and treated for conditions that appear after you are insured.

The LCIIP Shield: Enhanced Cover for Your Future

For those seeking the highest level of reassurance, some premium policies offer an add-on often known as Limited Cancer and Inherited Illness Protection (LCIIP) or a chronic condition benefit.

While standard PMI excludes chronic conditions, a policy with this feature may offer a level of ongoing support if a chronic illness, such as osteoporosis, is diagnosed for the very first time after you've taken out the cover.

The specifics vary by insurer, but it could potentially include:

  • An initial pot of money for ongoing check-ups.
  • Cover for monitoring the condition over several years.
  • Access to specialist advice on managing the illness long-term.

This innovative feature bridges the gap between acute and chronic care, providing a shield for your long-term health and financial wellbeing should you develop a lasting condition in the future.

Building Your Bone Bank: A Practical Guide to Lifelong Strength

You can take proactive steps today to invest in your "bone bank" for a healthier, stronger future.

1. Fuel Your Foundations with Diet

Your diet provides the raw materials for strong bones. Focus on these key nutrients.

NutrientWhy It's ImportantTop Food Sources
CalciumThe main building block of bone tissue.Dairy (milk, cheese, yoghurt), leafy greens (kale, broccoli), fortified plant milks, tofu, sardines (with bones).
Vitamin DEssential for your body to absorb calcium.Sunlight on your skin (main source), oily fish (salmon, mackerel), red meat, egg yolks, fortified foods (cereals, spreads).
ProteinMakes up about 50% of your bone volume.Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, nuts.

2. Strengthen Your Structure with Exercise

Your bones get stronger when you put them to work. Aim for a mix of activities:

  • Weight-Bearing Exercise: Any activity where you are on your feet and your bones are supporting your weight. Examples include:
    • Brisking walking or jogging
    • Dancing
    • Tennis
    • Stair climbing
  • Resistance Exercise: Activities that make your muscles work against a force, which pulls on your bones and strengthens them. Examples include:
    • Lifting weights
    • Using resistance bands
    • Bodyweight exercises like press-ups and squats

3. Protect Your Future with Lifestyle Choices

  • Stop Smoking: Quitting smoking can improve bone density, no matter your age.
  • Moderate Alcohol: Stick to the UK guideline of no more than 14 units per week, spread over several days, with alcohol-free days in between.
  • Prevent Falls: Make your home safer by removing trip hazards like loose rugs, ensuring good lighting on stairs, and using non-slip mats in the bath or shower.

Finding the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. As an independent PMI broker, WeCovr works with a panel of leading UK insurers to find the policy that best suits your needs and budget. We can also help secure discounts on other policies, such as life or home insurance, when you purchase a plan through us.

Here’s a simplified look at how some major providers approach musculoskeletal and diagnostic cover:

ProviderKey Features for Bone Health
BupaStrong hospital network, comprehensive therapies cover, and a focus on fast-tracked diagnostics for conditions like joint and back pain.
AXA HealthExcellent outpatient options and a 'Fast Track Appointments' service. Their 'Health at Hand' service provides 24/7 access to nurses and pharmacists.
AvivaThe 'Expert Select' hospital option can reduce premiums. Good diagnostic and therapies cover are typically included in their core 'Healthier Solutions' policy.
VitalityUnique approach that rewards healthy living. You can earn points and get rewards for being active, which directly supports preventative bone health.

An expert broker can compare the intricate details of each policy – from outpatient limits to specific therapy inclusions – to ensure you get the right protection.

Will private medical insurance cover osteoporosis if I have already been diagnosed?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Osteoporosis is a chronic condition, and if you are diagnosed before taking out a policy, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and excluded from cover. However, a policy would still cover you for other new, unrelated medical conditions.

How quickly can I get a bone density (DEXA) scan with PMI?

One of the key benefits of private health cover is speed. Once you have a referral from a specialist (whom you can also see quickly), you can often get a DEXA scan within a few days to a week. This is significantly faster than the potential waiting times of many weeks or months in some areas on the NHS.

Does private health cover include physiotherapy for fractures?

Yes, provided the fracture occurred after your policy began. Most comprehensive PMI policies include cover for therapies such as physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment. This is vital for a full and speedy recovery after a fracture, helping you regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

Take Control of Your Future Health Today

The UK's bone health crisis is a serious threat to our future quality of life, but it doesn't have to define yours. By understanding the risks, taking proactive lifestyle steps, and securing the right protection, you can build and shield your foundational strength for decades to come.

A private medical insurance policy is more than just a safety net; it's a tool for empowerment. It gives you rapid access to the best specialists and diagnostics, putting you in control of your health journey.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will help you compare the UK's leading insurers and tailor a policy that protects your mobility, your independence, and your future.

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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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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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