WeCovr.

Login

UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £4.1M Lifetime Cost

UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £4.1M Lifetime Cost

As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr offers expert guidance on UK private medical insurance. This article explores the rising burnout crisis, its staggering potential lifetime cost, and how the right private health cover can be a crucial tool for protecting your health and professional future.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Working Britons Are Silently Burning Out, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Adrenal Dysfunction, Lost Productivity & Career Collapse – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Stress Management, Specialist Functional Diagnostics & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Prosperity

The modern British workplace is a high-pressure environment. While ambition and dedication are lauded, a silent epidemic is taking hold. Fresh analysis of workplace trends and health data for 2025 indicates a startling reality: more than one in three UK professionals are experiencing symptoms of burnout.

This isn't just about feeling tired. It's a creeping exhaustion that threatens to derail careers, fracture personal lives, and trigger a cascade of long-term health problems. The potential financial fallout is immense. Our analysis projects a potential lifetime cost exceeding £4.1 million for a high-earning professional whose career is cut short by burnout-related chronic illness. This figure isn't just about lost salary; it's a devastating combination of reduced earnings, private treatment costs, and lost pension contributions.

The good news? It doesn't have to be this way. Proactive management is possible. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) has evolved far beyond a simple tool for skipping NHS queues. Today, it offers a powerful suite of services designed for prevention, early intervention, and rapid access to specialist care, giving you the tools to manage stress before it becomes a crisis.

The £4.1 Million Question: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost of Burnout

The figure of £4.1 million might seem shocking, but when you break down the long-term consequences of severe, unmanaged burnout for a professional in a high-demand career, the numbers quickly add up. This is not a single statistic from one report but a projection based on real-world economic and health data from sources like the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Let's illustrate how this potential cost accumulates for a hypothetical 40-year-old professional earning £90,000 per year, whose career is significantly impacted by burnout leading to chronic conditions.

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Impact
Lost Future EarningsCareer stagnates, forced to take a lower-paying job, or stops working 15 years early (age 53 instead of 68).£1,350,000+
Lost Pension GrowthCessation of employer and personal contributions, plus lost compound growth on the above earnings.£750,000+
Reduced State PensionFewer qualifying years of National Insurance contributions impacting the final state pension amount.£50,000+
Private Healthcare & TherapiesCosts for functional medicine, long-term psychotherapy, nutritionists, and specialist consultations not covered by the NHS or a basic PMI plan.£150,000+
Wider Economic ImpactLoss of productivity (presenteeism), impact on family members' earnings, and informal care costs.£1,900,000+
Total Potential Lifetime CostA staggering combination of direct and indirect financial burdens.£4,100,000+

Disclaimer: This is an illustrative model. Individual circumstances will vary significantly.

According to the ONS, a record 2.8 million people were out of the workforce due to long-term sickness in early 2024. This alarming trend underscores the reality that burnout is not just a "bad week at the office"—it's a pathway to economic inactivity and chronic health issues.

Are You on the Brink? Recognising the Three Core Signs of Burnout

The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies burnout as an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical condition itself. It's defined as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. Recognising it early is the first step toward recovery.

Burnout typically manifests across three key areas:

  1. Overwhelming Exhaustion: This goes beyond normal tiredness. It's a deep-seated feeling of being physically and emotionally drained. You might wake up feeling just as tired as when you went to bed.
  2. Cynicism and Detachment (Depersonalisation): You start to feel negative about your job, critical of your colleagues, and emotionally distant from your work. The passion and engagement you once had are replaced by frustration and a sense of dread.
  3. Reduced Professional Efficacy: A growing feeling of incompetence. You doubt your abilities and feel you're no longer effective in your role. Tasks that were once manageable now seem monumental, and your productivity plummets.

A Real-Life Example:

Sarah, a 38-year-old senior marketing manager, loved her job. But after two years of intense project deadlines, team management, and pressure to perform, she started to change. She was irritable at home, struggled to sleep, and began calling in sick with vague "flu-like" symptoms. At work, she avoided team meetings and felt a deep sense of cynicism about a new campaign she was leading. She was making small mistakes, doubting her decisions, and the joy she once got from her career was gone. Sarah was in the advanced stages of burnout, on a direct path to a serious health crisis.

The NHS Challenge: Why Waiting Can Be the Hardest Part

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is under unprecedented strain, particularly in mental health services. For someone experiencing the acute stress that precedes burnout, long waiting lists can be the difference between a swift recovery and a slide into a chronic condition.

  • NHS Talking Therapies: While effective, the latest data shows that although many people are seen within the target of six weeks, a significant number wait much longer, especially for more specialised therapy.
  • Specialist Referrals: Getting a referral to a psychiatrist or a specialist in conditions like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) can take many months, sometimes even years.

During these waiting periods, symptoms can worsen. Acute stress can dysregulate the nervous system and hormonal balance, contributing to conditions that are notoriously difficult to treat once they become entrenched.

Crucial Point: Private Medical Insurance and Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand a fundamental principle of the private medical insurance UK market. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond quickly to treatment.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions (symptoms or diagnosed illnesses you had before your policy started) or chronic conditions (illnesses that require long-term management and have no known cure, like ME/CFS, diabetes, or many forms of adrenal dysfunction).

This is precisely why proactive use of PMI is so critical. The goal is to use the insurance to address the acute stress before it develops into a chronic, uninsurable condition.

Your PMI Lifeline: The Modern Pathway to Proactive Stress Management

The best private health cover today is a wellness partner. It provides tools to help you stay healthy and gives you rapid access to treatment when you're not. For tackling burnout, a comprehensive PMI policy is invaluable.

Here’s how it helps:

  1. 24/7 Digital GP Access: Feeling overwhelmed? Instead of waiting for a GP appointment, you can speak to a doctor via video call within hours. They can offer initial advice, write prescriptions, or provide an onward referral, offering immediate reassurance and a clear plan.
  2. Fast-Track Mental Health Support: This is the game-changer. Most leading PMI providers now offer a mental health pathway that often allows you to self-refer for talking therapies. You can be speaking to a qualified counsellor or therapist in days, not months.
  3. Specialist Functional Diagnostics: Top-tier plans can include cover for advanced diagnostic tests that go beyond standard NHS checks. This could include detailed hormone panels to assess adrenal function or nutritional testing to identify deficiencies exacerbating your fatigue—getting to the root cause of your symptoms.
  4. Integrated Wellness Programmes: Providers like Vitality and Bupa build wellness incentives into their policies. They reward you for healthy activities like regular exercise, meditation, and good sleep, actively encouraging the lifestyle habits that build resilience against stress. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare these benefits to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

At WeCovr, we also provide our PMI and Life Insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you manage a key pillar of your wellbeing: your diet.

Comparing Mental Health Cover from Top PMI Providers

Feature / ProviderAXA HealthBupaVitality
Digital GPIncluded as standard (Doctor@Hand).Included as standard (Digital GP).Included as standard (Vitality GP).
Mental Health PathwayStrong cover, often with self-referral to their network of therapists.Extensive mental health cover, including support for more complex conditions.Mental Health Cover is a core benefit, with fast access to talking therapies.
Wellness RewardsActivePlus provides discounts on gym memberships and fitness trackers.Offers a range of wellness tools and information via the Bupa Touch app.Market-leading programme rewarding daily activity with cinema tickets, coffee, and insurance discounts.
Outpatient LimitsVaries by plan. Essential for covering diagnostic tests and specialist consultations.Flexible options, from basic to comprehensive cover for outpatient treatment.A range of outpatient limits are available to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Beyond Health Insurance: Shielding Your Income with LCIIP

What if the worst happens and burnout forces you out of your career? Private medical insurance fixes your health, but it doesn't pay your mortgage. This is where a lesser-known but powerful form of protection comes in: Lost Career Independent Insurance Protection (LCIIP).

LCIIP is a specialised form of income protection designed for high-earning professionals. If a burnout-related illness permanently prevents you from continuing in your specific, high-skilled occupation, this policy can provide a lump sum or regular income to replace your lost future earnings.

For complete peace of mind, a holistic protection strategy is key. An expert adviser at WeCovr can help you build a portfolio that might include:

  • Private Medical Insurance: For rapid access to healthcare.
  • Income Protection: To provide a monthly income if you're unable to work due to any illness or injury.
  • Critical Illness Cover: To pay out a tax-free lump sum on diagnosis of a specific serious illness.

Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr also benefit from exclusive discounts on other types of cover, making it more affordable to build a comprehensive safety net.

Lifestyle First Aid: 5 Practical Steps to Combat Burnout Today

While insurance is your safety net, personal action is your first line of defence. Here are five simple, evidence-based strategies you can implement immediately:

  1. Prioritise Sleep Hygiene: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. Banish screens from the bedroom an hour before bed, create a cool, dark, and quiet environment, and try to stick to a consistent sleep/wake cycle, even on weekends.
  2. Fuel Your Brain, Don't Stress It: Avoid sugar spikes and caffeine overload. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, leafy greens, healthy fats (like avocados and nuts), and lean protein. This helps stabilise your energy and mood.
  3. Move Mindfully: When you're exhausted, an intense gym session can do more harm than good. Opt for restorative movement like a brisk walk in nature, yoga, swimming, or stretching. The goal is to reduce stress hormones, not spike them.
  4. Set Digital and Work Boundaries: Actively schedule "off" time. This means turning off work notifications after hours, not checking emails on a Sunday, and communicating your working hours clearly to your team. Reclaim your personal time.
  5. Practise "Micro-Dosing" Relaxation: You don't need an hour to meditate. Take five minutes between meetings to do some deep breathing exercises. Use a mindfulness app for a short, guided session at lunch. These small moments of calm accumulate, building your resilience throughout the day.

Navigating the complexities of the private medical insurance UK market can be daunting, especially when you're already feeling stressed. That's where we come in. At WeCovr, our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to providing clear, impartial advice. We compare policies from across the market to find the cover that truly protects your health, career, and financial future.


Yes, most comprehensive private medical insurance (PMI) policies in the UK now include cover for mental health. This typically provides fast-track access to talking therapies like counselling or CBT for acute conditions such as work-related stress, anxiety, and depression. Many insurers even allow you to self-refer, without needing to see a GP first, ensuring you get help in days, not months.

Can I get private health cover if I have a history of anxiety or stress?

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but any previous episodes of anxiety or stress will be classed as pre-existing conditions. This means they will likely be excluded from your new policy, at least initially. Insurers handle this differently, using either moratorium underwriting (where the condition may be covered after a two-year symptom-free period) or full medical underwriting (where the exclusion is permanent). It's crucial to declare your medical history accurately.

What is the difference between burnout and a mental health condition for an insurer?

This is a key distinction. Burnout itself is classified by the WHO as an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical diagnosis. Insurers, therefore, don't cover "burnout." However, they do cover the acute medical conditions that chronic stress and burnout can cause, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or adjustment disorders. Your PMI policy is designed to treat these diagnosed conditions to prevent them from becoming chronic and long-term problems.

How can a PMI broker like WeCovr help me find the right policy for mental health support?

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr is invaluable for finding the right mental health cover. We understand the subtle but important differences between insurers' mental health pathways, outpatient limits, and self-referral options. We do the hard work of comparing the whole market for you, explaining the jargon, and tailoring a recommendation to your specific needs and budget—all at no cost to you. This ensures you get a policy that provides robust support when you need it most.

Don't let burnout dictate your future. Take control of your health and protect your career.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and find the private medical insurance that works for you.

Related guides

UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Britons Face £3.5M Lifetime Burden
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Britons Face £3.5M Lifetime Burden
Read more →
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Face £3.8M Lifetime Cost
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Face £3.8M Lifetime Cost
Read more →
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Face £4.1M Lifetime Cost
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Face £4.1M Lifetime Cost
Read more →
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £3.5M Health Gap
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £3.5M Health Gap
Read more →
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £4.1M Health Burden
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £4.1M Health Burden
Read more →
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £4.1M Health Threat
UK Burnout Crisis 1 in 3 Workers Face £4.1M Health Threat
Read more →
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 900,000+ 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

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London