WeCovr.

Login

UK Burnout Crisis £4.1M Lifetime Cost

UK Burnout Crisis £4.1M Lifetime Cost 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr helps UK consumers navigate the complexities of private medical insurance. This article explores the shocking scale of the UK's burnout crisis and reveals how the right private health cover can be your most powerful tool for protection and recovery.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Burnout, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Crippling Mental Health, Lost Productivity, Business Collapse & Eroding Futures – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Stress Management, Specialist Mental Health Support & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Well-being & Professional Longevity

A silent crisis is reaching a fever pitch in workplaces across the United Kingdom. New 2025 analysis reveals a shocking reality: over two in five British professionals are secretly grappling with chronic burnout. This isn't just end-of-week tiredness; it's a pervasive state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that is dismantling careers, health, and futures at an alarming rate.

The true cost is staggering. Modelling of the long-term consequences for a high-achieving professional shows a potential lifetime financial burden exceeding £4.1 million. This catastrophic figure encompasses devastating lost earnings, crippling private healthcare costs, and the potential collapse of businesses.

But there is a powerful defence available. Private Medical Insurance (PMI), alongside Life & Critical Illness Cover, offers a vital pathway to proactive support, rapid specialist care, and the financial shielding necessary to protect your well-being and professional longevity.

The £4.1 Million Ghost: Unpacking the Devastating Lifetime Cost of Burnout

It sounds unbelievable, but the £4.1 million figure becomes terrifyingly real when you break it down. This isn't just about a few missed days at work; it's a domino effect that can unravel a lifetime of hard work.

Consider the case of a 40-year-old manager earning £80,000 per year. Chronic, unaddressed burnout forces them out of their career. The financial fallout is immense.

Here’s a conservative breakdown of the potential lifetime cost:

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Cost
Lost Gross EarningsForced early retirement or career change to a lower-stress, lower-paid role. Losing 25 years of an £80k salary.£2,000,000
Lost Pension & BonusesThe evaporation of employer pension contributions, performance bonuses, and share options over a career.£750,000+
Private Healthcare CostsYears of therapy, psychiatric consultations, and potential in-patient stays not readily available on the NHS.£300,000+
Lost Business ValueFor an entrepreneur, burnout can lead to the complete collapse of a business they've built from scratch.£1,000,000+
Total Potential BurdenA staggering lifetime financial and personal cost.£4,100,000+

This modelling doesn't even include the intangible costs: the damage to personal relationships, the loss of professional identity, and the long-term impact on physical health. The latest data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) underscores the scale of the problem, revealing that 875,000 workers suffered from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2022/23, leading to 17.1 million lost working days.

Burnout is not a personal failing; it is a systemic issue with catastrophic personal consequences.

What Exactly Is Burnout? It's More Than Just Stress

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officially recognises burnout in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as an "occupational phenomenon." It's crucial to understand that it is not classified as a medical condition itself, but as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.

Burnout is defined by three distinct dimensions:

  1. Exhaustion: Overwhelming feelings of being emotionally drained and physically depleted. It's the feeling of having nothing left to give.
  2. Cynicism & Detachment: An increasing mental distance from your job. You may feel negative, cynical, or irritable about your work, colleagues, and clients.
  3. Reduced Professional Efficacy: A creeping sense of incompetence and a lack of achievement. You feel you're no longer effective in your role, no matter how hard you try.

Real-Life Example:

  • Before: Alex, a dedicated architect, loved the creative challenge of his job, working late to perfect designs and mentor junior staff.
  • During Burnout: Alex now dreads Monday mornings. The smallest client request feels like a monumental task. He feels detached during meetings, his creativity has vanished, and he secretly believes he's a fraud who is letting his team down. He suffers from insomnia and persistent headaches.

Alex isn't just "stressed." He is experiencing the classic symptoms of burnout, a syndrome that can pave the way for diagnosable mental and physical health conditions like severe anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular issues.

The NHS Waiting Game: Why Time is a Luxury You Don't Have

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is under unprecedented strain, particularly in mental health services. For someone on the brink of burnout, waiting weeks or even months for support can be the difference between recovery and a full-blown crisis.

NHS Talking Therapies programmes are the primary route for common mental health problems. However, the reality on the ground can be stark:

  • Long Waits: While targets aim to see patients quickly, a significant number of people wait longer than the recommended six weeks for their first appointment.
  • Limited Sessions: The number of therapy sessions offered is often capped, which may not be sufficient for deep-rooted issues stemming from chronic stress.
  • A "Postcode Lottery": The availability and quality of services can vary dramatically depending on where you live in the UK.

This is where private medical insurance UK becomes a game-changer. It provides a parallel system that bypasses these queues, offering immediate access to the help you need, when you need it most.

The Critical PMI Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

It is essential to understand a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance: Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a bout of severe depression, acute anxiety).
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that continues indefinitely, has no known cure, and is managed with medication or therapy (e.g., long-term, treatment-resistant depression).

While burnout itself isn't a diagnosable medical condition, the severe depression or anxiety it can trigger are often considered acute conditions and are therefore potentially coverable under a PMI policy. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand the nuances of different policies and their definitions.

Your Proactive Defence: Building a Fortress with Private Health Cover

Private Medical Insurance isn't just a reactive tool for when things go wrong; it's a proactive system for keeping you healthy, resilient, and in control. It offers a multi-layered defence against burnout.

Pathway 1: Proactive & Preventative Support

The best PMI providers offer a wealth of resources designed to help you manage stress before it becomes a crisis.

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Speak to a GP via phone or video call, often within hours. Get swift advice, reassurance, or a prescription without leaving your desk.
  • Mental Health Helplines: Confidential, direct access to trained counsellors and therapists who can provide immediate support and guidance.
  • Wellness Apps & Programmes: Access to apps for mindfulness, meditation, and CBT. Many policies now include discounts on gym memberships and health screenings.
  • Exclusive Member Perks: As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you manage the crucial link between diet and mental well-being.

Pathway 2: Rapid Access to Specialist Care

When preventative measures aren't enough, PMI provides an express route to the UK's top specialists.

FeatureStandard NHS PathwayTypical PMI Pathway
GP AppointmentWait days or weeks for a routine appointment.Same-day or next-day digital GP appointment.
Specialist ReferralJoin a waiting list that can be weeks or months long.Referral to a specialist psychiatrist or psychologist often within days.
Therapy Start DateWait weeks more for therapy (e.g., CBT) to begin.Begin a course of private therapy promptly after assessment.
Choice of SpecialistLimited choice of specialist/hospital.Wide choice of leading consultants and private hospitals nationwide.
Treatment EnvironmentNHS facilities.Private, comfortable hospital rooms.

This speed and choice are not luxuries; they are essential components of effective recovery, minimising the time you spend unwell and away from your personal and professional life.

Decoding Your Policy: Key Mental Health Features to Look For

Not all private health cover is created equal, especially when it comes to mental health. When comparing policies, it's vital to look at the specifics.

  1. Out-patient Limits: This is the most common feature. It defines the level of cover for therapies and consultations where you aren't admitted to a hospital. This can be a set number of sessions (e.g., 8 sessions of CBT) or a financial limit (e.g., £1,500 per year for therapy).
  2. In-patient and Day-patient Cover: For more severe conditions requiring hospitalisation, this is essential. It covers the cost of your hospital stay, treatment, and specialist fees.
  3. Comprehensive Cover: The best PMI provider policies offer extensive or even unlimited mental health cover, matching it to your core physical health cover.
  4. Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium: You don't declare your medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes conditions you've had symptoms of, or treatment for, in the last 5 years. This exclusion can be lifted if you go 2 continuous years without issue after your policy starts.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You declare your full medical history. The insurer gives you a clear list of what is and isn't covered from day one.

Navigating these options can be complex. An independent broker like WeCovr performs a market-wide comparison for you, explaining the pros and cons of each option to find a policy that fits your needs and budget, all at no cost to you.

Beyond PMI: Shielding Your Finances with Life & Critical Illness Cover

Burnout doesn't just impact your mind; it's a major risk factor for serious physical conditions like heart attacks and strokes. This is where Life and Critical Illness Cover (LCIIP) provides a crucial financial shield.

  • Critical Illness Cover: Pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed in the policy. A severe heart attack, stroke, or cancer diagnosis could trigger a payout. This money is yours to use as you wish – to pay off your mortgage, cover daily living costs, or fund private treatment, giving you the financial breathing room to focus solely on your recovery.
  • Income Protection: Provides a regular monthly income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. This is arguably the most important cover for any working professional, directly replacing a portion of your lost salary.

By bundling your insurance, you can often secure better rates. At WeCovr, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance can access valuable discounts on other types of cover, creating a comprehensive and cost-effective safety net.

7 Practical Steps to Fight Burnout Today

While insurance is your safety net, you can take practical steps right now to build resilience and push back against burnout.

  1. Set Firm Boundaries: Learn to say "no." Log off at a reasonable time. Don't check emails on weekends or holidays. Your time off is essential for recovery.
  2. Take Your Breaks: Don't eat lunch at your desk. Take short, 5-minute breaks every hour to stretch and rest your eyes. Use your full annual leave allowance – it's there for a reason.
  3. Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: no screens for an hour before bed, a dark and cool room, and a consistent sleep schedule.
  4. Move Your Body: Regular exercise is a powerful antidepressant. A brisk 30-minute walk, a run, a gym session, or a yoga class can flood your body with stress-reducing endorphins.
  5. Fuel Your Brain: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can have a profound impact on your mood and energy levels. Use the CalorieHero app to track your nutrition and see the difference.
  6. Disconnect and Rediscover Hobbies: Make time for activities that have nothing to do with work. Whether it's gardening, painting, playing music, or hiking, hobbies are vital for mental decompression.
  7. Communicate: If you are struggling, talk to someone – your partner, a friend, or a trusted manager. Voicing your struggles is the first step towards getting help.

Private medical insurance gives you the confidence to live your life, knowing that if these preventative steps aren't enough, you have an immediate pathway to expert medical support waiting for you.

How WeCovr Can Secure Your Well-being

The UK's burnout crisis is real, and the stakes are higher than ever. Protecting your mental health is not a luxury; it is a fundamental necessity for your professional and personal future.

At WeCovr, we make securing that protection simple and transparent.

  • We are Independent Experts: As an FCA-authorised broker, we work for you, not the insurers. We have a deep understanding of the private medical insurance UK market.
  • We Compare The Market: We provide quotes from a wide range of leading insurers, ensuring you see the best options available.
  • We Offer Free, No-Obligation Advice: Our service is completely free for you to use. We are paid by the insurer only if you decide to proceed.
  • We Are Highly-Rated: Our commitment to clear, honest advice has earned us high customer satisfaction ratings.

Don't wait for burnout to take control. Take the first proactive step today to build your fortress of well-being.


Does private medical insurance cover burnout?

Generally, no. Burnout itself is defined by the World Health Organisation as an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical condition. However, UK private medical insurance is designed to cover the treatment of acute medical conditions that can be *caused* by burnout, such as a new diagnosis of anxiety, stress-related illness, or depression. The key is that the condition must be acute (treatable) and arise after your policy has started.

Can I get private health cover if I have a pre-existing mental health condition?

It can be challenging, but not always impossible. Standard policies will typically exclude that specific pre-existing condition and any related ones. For example, if you had treatment for anxiety in the last five years, a new policy would likely not cover you for anxiety. However, an expert PMI broker can explore specialist policies or advise on the best underwriting option (e.g., moratorium underwriting), which may allow cover after a set period (usually two years) without symptoms or treatment.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your medical history. With **Full Medical Underwriting (FMU)**, you complete a detailed health questionnaire upfront, and the insurer tells you exactly what is excluded from day one. With **Moratorium (Mori) underwriting**, you don't declare your history. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of or advice for in the 5 years before the policy started. This exclusion can be lifted if you then complete 2 continuous years on the policy without needing treatment, advice, or medication for that condition.

Will my PMI premium increase if I make a claim for mental health?

Yes, it is likely to. Most private medical insurance policies operate with a No Claims Discount (NCD), similar to car insurance. When you don't make a claim, your NCD increases, helping to keep your renewal premium down. If you make a claim, your NCD level will typically be reduced, which will lead to a higher premium at your next renewal. Your age and medical inflation also affect renewal prices.

Take control of your health and professional future. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable your peace of mind can be.

Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

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

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

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

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

About WeCovr

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

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London