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UK Burnout Crisis Half of Britons Secretly Suffer

UK Burnout Crisis Half of Britons Secretly Suffer 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr has seen firsthand the rising toll of work-related stress. This guide unpacks the UK's burnout crisis, explaining how proactive private medical insurance can be your first line of defence, securing your health, career, and financial future.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Burnout, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Exhaustion, Mental Health Collapse, Career Stagnation & Eroding Financial Security – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Mental Health Support, Resilience Programs & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Prosperity

The silent epidemic is no longer silent. New data for 2025 paints a stark picture of the United Kingdom's workforce: a nation on the brink of burnout. More than half of all working Britons are now grappling with the debilitating effects of chronic work-related stress, a condition that quietly dismantles lives, careers, and financial stability.

This isn't just about feeling tired. It's a creeping crisis with a devastating lifetime cost. When we factor in lost earnings from career breaks, the expense of private therapy, reduced pension contributions, and the long-term impact on earning potential, the personal financial burden of burnout can easily exceed £3.5 million over a working life for a higher-rate taxpayer. It's a slow-motion collapse of personal and professional wellbeing.

But there is a powerful, proactive solution. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is evolving from a simple tool for surgical procedures into a comprehensive wellness shield. It offers a direct pathway to the mental health support, resilience programmes, and financial safeguards you need to not only recover but to thrive. This guide will illuminate the scale of the problem and show you how private health cover can protect your most valuable assets: your health, your career, and your future prosperity.

The Anatomy of Burnout: More Than Just a Bad Day at the Office

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical condition in itself. It’s a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It's characterised by three key dimensions:

  1. Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion: A profound sense of being physically and emotionally drained.
  2. Increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job: Feeling detached, irritable, and cynical about your work and colleagues.
  3. Reduced professional efficacy: A sense of incompetence and a lack of achievement and productivity at work.

The latest figures from the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show a staggering number of workdays lost to stress, depression, and anxiety. This trend, exacerbated by a culture of being "always on," economic uncertainty, and blurred work-life boundaries, has pushed millions into a state of chronic burnout. Many suffer in silence, fearing the stigma or the potential damage to their careers if they speak up.

The Alarming Lifetime Cost of Unchecked Burnout

The £3.5 million figure isn't hyperbole; it's a projection of the cascading financial consequences that burnout can trigger over a professional's lifetime. Let's break it down:

Financial Impact AreaDescription of CostEstimated Lifetime Impact (Example)
Career StagnationPassing on promotions, avoiding challenging projects, or being overlooked due to perceived low energy or engagement.£500,000 - £1,500,000+ in lost earnings
Forced Career BreaksNeeding to take months or even years off work to recover, often relying on minimal Statutory Sick Pay.£100,000 - £300,000+ in lost income
Reduced Earning PotentialMoving to a less demanding, lower-paid role or industry to cope with the mental and physical strain.£750,000 - £1,000,000+ over a career
Private Healthcare CostsPaying out-of-pocket for therapy, counselling, or specialist consultations due to long NHS waits.£10,000 - £50,000+
Lost Pension ContributionsGaps in employment and lower salaries lead to significantly smaller pension pots at retirement.£250,000 - £750,000+ in final pension value
Impact on Savings & AssetsInability to save for a house deposit, invest, or build a financial safety net.Opportunity cost can run into hundreds of thousands

Note: Figures are illustrative estimates for a higher-earning professional, demonstrating the potential long-term financial devastation.

Recognising the Red Flags: Are You Experiencing Burnout?

Burnout is a gradual process. It creeps in slowly, making it difficult to spot until you're fully submerged. Ask yourself if you regularly experience any of the following signs.

Physical & Emotional Exhaustion

  • Chronic fatigue; feeling tired most of the time
  • Difficulty sleeping or disturbed sleep patterns
  • Frequent headaches, muscle pain, or stomach problems
  • Lowered immunity, getting ill more often
  • Feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained

Cynicism & Detachment

  • Loss of enjoyment in your work and personal life
  • Pessimism and a consistently negative outlook
  • Feeling irritable and short-tempered with colleagues or clients
  • Emotionally distancing yourself from your work responsibilities
  • A sense of dread about going to work

Ineffectiveness & Lack of Accomplishment

  • Feeling like nothing you do makes a difference
  • Persistent self-doubt and a crisis of confidence
  • Procrastination and taking longer to get tasks done
  • Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
  • Apathy and lack of motivation

If several of these symptoms resonate with you, it's a clear signal that you need to take action before the situation deteriorates further.

The NHS vs. Private Care: The Reality of Mental Health Support in the UK

The National Health Service is a national treasure, providing incredible care to millions. However, when it comes to mental health, it is under unprecedented strain. For conditions like anxiety and depression—often the direct result of burnout—waiting lists for talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can stretch for many months, and in some areas, over a year.

For a professional in the grip of burnout, waiting is not a viable option. Every week spent without support deepens the crisis, impacting performance at work and wellbeing at home. This is where private medical insurance UK becomes a critical lifeline.

FeatureNHS Mental Health ServicesPrivate Medical Insurance
Waiting TimesMonths, sometimes over a year for therapy.Days or weeks to see a specialist.
AccessRequires a GP referral and navigating the IAPT system.Often includes self-referral options or 24/7 Digital GP access.
Choice of TherapistLimited to no choice of therapist or modality.Wide choice of accredited therapists and specialists.
Session FlexibilityTypically offered during 9-5 working hours.Evening and weekend appointments are widely available.
Treatment ScopeOften a limited number of sessions (e.g., 6-8).Policies can offer more extensive cover, including psychiatric care.

Your Proactive Shield: How PMI Tackles Burnout Head-On

Modern private health cover is no longer just about reacting to illness. The best PMI providers now focus on proactive health and wellness, providing tools to prevent conditions like burnout from taking hold in the first place.

Here’s how a robust private medical insurance policy serves as your personal resilience toolkit:

  1. Rapid Access to Mental Health Treatment: This is the cornerstone. If you develop an acute condition like anxiety, depression, or severe stress as a result of burnout, your PMI policy can give you fast-track access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors. You can start getting the help you need in days, not months.

  2. Digital GP Services (24/7): Feeling overwhelmed at 10 PM on a Sunday? Most PMI policies include a digital GP app. You can book a video consultation within hours to discuss your symptoms, get advice, and receive a referral if needed. This early intervention is crucial.

  3. Wellness and Resilience Programmes: Leading insurers like Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality offer a wealth of resources through their apps and member portals. These often include:

    • Guided mindfulness and meditation sessions.
    • Stress management courses.
    • Health and lifestyle coaching.
    • Discounts on gym memberships and fitness trackers.
  4. Comprehensive Health Checks: Many policies offer regular health screenings. These can detect the physical manifestations of chronic stress, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, allowing you to address them before they become serious problems.

A Critical Note on Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance: PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: If you have received advice, diagnosis, or treatment for a mental health condition (like anxiety or depression) in the years leading up to your policy start date (typically 5 years), it will be excluded from cover.
  • Chronic Conditions: PMI does not cover the ongoing management of long-term, incurable conditions. Burnout itself is an "occupational phenomenon," not a coverable medical condition. However, the acute mental health conditions it can cause, such as a new diagnosis of depression, are precisely what a good PMI policy is designed to treat.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these complexities, ensuring you understand exactly what is and isn't covered.

The Financial Safety Net: Income Protection as Your "LCIIP"

What happens if burnout becomes so severe you are signed off work for an extended period? Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK is minimal and will not cover your mortgage, bills, and living expenses.

This is where a policy often purchased alongside PMI comes in: Income Protection Insurance. Think of it as your Long-Term Career Interruption & Income Protection (LCIIP) shield.

  • How it Works: If you are unable to work due to any illness or injury, including medically-diagnosed stress, anxiety, or depression, an income protection policy pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income (usually 50-70% of your gross salary).
  • The Benefit: This financial stability allows you to focus completely on your recovery without the added stress of financial ruin. It protects your savings, your home, and your family's future while you get better.

When you speak with WeCovr, you can explore package deals that bundle private medical insurance and income protection, often at a discounted rate, providing a complete shield for both your health and your wealth.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Mental Health Support

The UK market is competitive, with several excellent providers offering strong mental health cover. The "best" choice depends entirely on your personal needs and budget.

ProviderKey Mental Health BenefitsUnique Features & Digital Tools
AXA HealthExtensive mental health cover as standard on many plans. Access to therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists.Strong focus on preventative care via the "Mind Health" service and Proactive Health hub.
Aviva"Mental Health Pathway" provides tailored support. Good cover for out-patient and in-patient treatment.Aviva DigiCare+ app includes mental health consultations, health checks, and nutrition advice.
BupaNo yearly limit on mental health cover for many policies. Direct access to mental health support without a GP referral."Family Mental HealthLine" and extensive online resources. Strong network of Bupa-approved therapists.
VitalityTalking therapies and mental health support included. Earn rewards for looking after your wellbeing.Rewards members for physical and mental wellness activities (e.g., mindfulness). Heavily app-based.

Navigating these options can be confusing. Using a specialist broker ensures you get impartial advice tailored to your needs. WeCovr's experts have deep knowledge of the market and can compare policies from all leading insurers to find the perfect match for you, at no cost for our service. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding clients the right cover.

Taking Control: Practical Steps to Fight Burnout Today

While insurance provides a crucial safety net, you can also take practical steps to build your resilience right now.

At Work

  • Set Firm Boundaries: Log off at a set time. Don't check emails in the evening or on weekends. Learn to say "no" to non-essential requests.
  • Take Proper Breaks: Step away from your desk for lunch. Use your full holiday allowance. Take short, 5-minute "micro-breaks" every hour.
  • Communicate: If you're struggling, talk to your manager or HR department. A good employer will want to support you.

At Home

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and avoid screens before bed.
  • Nourish Your Body: A balanced diet fuels your brain and body. Reduce caffeine, sugar, and processed foods. WeCovr clients get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to make this easier.
  • Move Your Body: Regular exercise is a powerful antidote to stress. A brisk walk, a gym session, or a yoga class can make a huge difference.

Your Mindset

  • Practice Mindfulness: Even a few minutes of meditation or deep breathing each day can calm your nervous system.
  • Disconnect to Reconnect: Schedule time for hobbies, friends, and family—activities that have nothing to do with work.
  • Seek Connection: Don't isolate yourself. Talk to a trusted friend, partner, or family member about how you're feeling.

Burnout is not a personal failure; it's a response to an unsustainable environment. Protecting yourself is not a luxury; it's an essential investment in your long-term health, happiness, and prosperity.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does UK private medical insurance cover burnout directly?

Generally, no. Burnout itself is classified as an "occupational phenomenon," not a specific medical condition. However, private medical insurance is designed to cover the acute medical conditions that often result from severe burnout, such as a new diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or stress-related illness. The policy provides rapid access to treatment for these resulting conditions, which is crucial for recovery.

How much does private health cover with mental health support cost in the UK?

The cost of a private medical insurance UK policy varies widely based on several factors: your age, location, smoking status, and the level of cover you choose (e.g., out-patient limits, hospital list). A basic policy for a healthy 35-year-old might start from £40-£60 per month, while more comprehensive plans with extensive mental health cover could be £80-£120+ per month. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote.

Can I get PMI if I have a pre-existing mental health condition like anxiety?

Yes, you can still get a policy, but it's very likely that your pre-existing condition will be excluded from cover. Insurers typically use two methods: 'Moratorium' underwriting automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. 'Full Medical Underwriting' requires you to declare your medical history, and the insurer will specify any exclusions upfront. Standard UK PMI is for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

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

Using an expert, independent broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no extra cost to you. We compare the entire market to find the policy that truly fits your needs and budget, not just the products of one company. We provide impartial advice, explain the complex jargon, and can often find more suitable or better-value cover than you might find alone. Our service is to help you make the most informed decision.

Don't let burnout dictate your future. Take the first step towards protecting your health, career, and financial security today.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote from WeCovr Now and Secure Your Wellbeing]


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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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