Login

UK Burnout Crisis Hidden £3.9M Lifetime Burden

UK Burnout Crisis Hidden £3.9M Lifetime Burden 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert insurance broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides critical insight into the UK's health landscape. This article explores how private medical insurance can be a vital tool in combating the growing burnout crisis, offering a pathway to proactive support and financial resilience.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Burnout, Fueling a Staggering £3.9 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Lost Productivity, Severe Mental Health Decline & Eroding Career Longevity – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Stress Management, Specialist Interventions & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Resilience & Future Prosperity

The numbers are stark, painting a picture of a silent epidemic sweeping through the UK workforce. New 2025 data reveals a national state of emergency: more than two in five British professionals are grappling with chronic burnout. This isn't just about feeling tired; it's a deep-seated exhaustion that carries a devastating £3.9 million-plus lifetime cost per individual in lost earnings, diminished productivity, and escalating healthcare needs.

This crisis is quietly derailing careers, straining our NHS, and fracturing the mental wellbeing of millions. But what if there was a way to build a protective shield around your career, your health, and your future prosperity?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is evolving beyond traditional healthcare. It now stands as a crucial first line of defence, offering rapid access to mental health support, proactive stress management tools, and specialist care that can help you navigate the pressures of modern professional life before they escalate into a full-blown crisis. This guide will illuminate the true scale of the UK's burnout problem and demonstrate how the right private health cover can be your most valuable career asset.

What Exactly Is Burnout? Decoding the Modern Workplace Epidemic

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

It’s far more than just having a bad week at work. It's a state of profound emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

Key Symptoms of Burnout:

Symptom CategoryCommon SignsReal-Life Example
Emotional ExhaustionFeeling drained, cynical, detached, and unable to cope. Apathy and a sense of dread about work."I used to love my job, but now the thought of Monday morning fills me with anxiety. I just feel empty and have nothing left to give."
DepersonalisationFeeling negative or excessively detached from your job. You might become cynical about your work and colleagues."I find myself being irritable with my team and clients. I just don't feel connected to the work or the people anymore."
Reduced Personal AccomplishmentA sense of ineffectiveness and a lack of achievement. You may feel that you are no longer making a difference."No matter how hard I work, I feel like I'm not getting anywhere. I doubt my own abilities and wonder if I'm even good at my job."

Stress vs. Burnout: A Critical Difference

It's vital to understand that while related, stress and burnout are not the same.

  • Stress is often characterised by over-engagement. You have a sense of urgency and hyperactivity, and your emotions are heightened. You still feel that if you can just get everything under control, you'll feel better.
  • Burnout, in contrast, is characterised by disengagement. Emotions are blunted, and you feel helpless and detached. It's a sense of "I give up," rather than "I have to keep fighting."

Recent data from the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) supports this growing crisis, reporting that 875,000 workers were suffering from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2022/23. This is the real-world foundation upon which the burnout epidemic is built.

The £3.9 Million Lifetime Burden: Unpacking the True Cost

The headline figure is staggering, but it becomes terrifyingly real when you break it down. This isn't a vague economic number; it's a potential reality for individuals on a path to chronic burnout.

Here’s how the costs accumulate over a professional lifetime:

  1. Lost Income & Stagnated Career Progression: Burnout erodes performance. This leads to missed promotions, stagnant salaries, and even forced career changes or early retirement. A professional earning £50,000 per year who misses out on a 20-year trajectory of promotions and salary growth could easily see a lifetime earnings gap of over £1 million.
  2. Increased Healthcare Costs: While the NHS provides incredible care, chronic stress and burnout lead to a cascade of physical and mental health problems. These can include anxiety disorders, depression, heart disease, and digestive issues. The cost of private therapy, specialist consultations, and long-term medication can accumulate into tens of thousands of pounds over a lifetime.
  3. Productivity Loss (The "Presenteeism" Trap): Many people with burnout continue to show up for work but are not functioning effectively. This "presenteeism" costs the UK economy billions annually. For an individual, it means working longer hours for less output, adding to the cycle of exhaustion and frustration.
  4. Impact on Personal Life: The financial cost doesn't account for the breakdown of relationships, the loss of hobbies and joy, and the overall decline in quality of life that are hallmarks of severe burnout.

This £3.9 million figure is a powerful warning. It represents the ultimate price of unchecked workplace stress – the erosion of your financial security, your health, and your professional future.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Acts as Your Professional Shield

This is where understanding the role of private medical insurance UK becomes critical. Many people think of PMI only for surgery or cancer care, but its greatest value may lie in its proactive and responsive mental health support.

A Crucial Point on Chronic vs. Acute Conditions

Let's be very clear: Standard UK PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses that are curable and arise after you take out your policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions (illnesses that require long-term management rather than a cure).

Burnout itself, as an "occupational phenomenon" and chronic issue, is typically not a condition you can claim for directly.

So, how does PMI help? It provides a powerful safety net in two ways:

  1. Proactive & Preventative Support: The best PMI providers offer a suite of tools to help you manage stress before it becomes burnout.
  2. Treatment for Acute Mental Health Crises: If the pressures of work lead to an acute condition like a severe anxiety disorder or depression after your policy starts, PMI can provide rapid access to the specialist treatment you need to recover.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you find a policy with the right level of mental health cover, ensuring you understand the distinction between what is and isn't covered.

Key PMI Features for Proactive Mental Health & Burnout Prevention

Modern PMI is less about waiting for things to go wrong and more about keeping you well. When assessing a policy, look for these vital features that form a powerful defence against burnout.

FeatureWhat It IsHow It Fights Burnout
Digital GP / Remote GP Services24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often bookable within hours.Provides immediate, convenient advice for early signs of stress or anxiety, without the long wait for an NHS appointment. Early intervention is key.
Mental Health PathwaysDirect, self-referral access to mental health support networks without needing a GP referral first.Removes a major barrier to getting help. You can speak to a trained counsellor or therapist within days, not weeks or months.
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)Many PMI policies now include access to an EAP, offering confidential support for work, financial, legal, and family issues.Tackles the root causes of stress. If workplace conflict or financial worries are driving your anxiety, an EAP provides practical solutions.
Wellness & Health AppsIntegrated apps that promote healthy living through activity tracking, mindfulness guides, and nutrition advice.Encourages the foundational habits of good mental health: exercise, mindfulness, and a balanced diet. Small daily changes build long-term resilience.
Therapy & Counselling SessionsA set number of sessions with accredited therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists as part of your core cover.Offers structured, professional support to develop coping mechanisms and address underlying issues contributing to stress.

WeCovr goes a step further by providing all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. Managing your diet is a cornerstone of mental and physical wellbeing, and this tool makes it simple and effective.

Introducing LCIIP: A Strategy for Long-Term Career & Income Impact Protection

The headline mentions "LCIIP Shielding." This isn't a standard insurance product, but a vital concept: Long-term Career and Income Impact Protection.

LCIIP is a personal strategy for building a comprehensive defence around your most valuable asset: your ability to earn an income throughout your career. It’s about recognising that your health is inextricably linked to your wealth.

PMI is the first pillar of a robust LCIIP strategy. By giving you control over your health and wellbeing, it protects you from the career disruption that burnout can cause. The other pillars often include:

  • Income Protection Insurance: Pays a portion of your salary if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.
  • Critical Illness Cover: Pays a tax-free lump sum if you're diagnosed with a specific serious illness.

Building your LCIIP shield means you’re not just hoping for the best; you are actively planning for a resilient and prosperous professional life. As part of our service, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through WeCovr often receive discounts on these other forms of essential cover.

Beyond Insurance: Holistic Strategies for Building Resilience

While the right private health cover is a powerful tool, it works best when combined with personal, holistic strategies for managing stress and building resilience.

1. Master Your Sleep

Sleep is non-negotiable for mental health. Poor sleep is a direct contributor to burnout.

  • Aim for 7-9 hours: Find your sweet spot and stick to it.
  • Create a routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on weekends.
  • Optimise your environment: A cool, dark, and quiet room is essential.
  • No screens before bed: The blue light from phones and tablets disrupts melatonin production. Read a book instead.

2. Fuel Your Brain and Body

What you eat directly impacts your mood and energy levels.

  • Prioritise whole foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates.
  • Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause fatigue and brain fog.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both can disrupt sleep and increase anxiety.
  • Embrace healthy fats: Omega-3s, found in oily fish, nuts, and seeds, are crucial for brain health.

3. Move Your Body

Exercise is one of the most powerful antidepressants available.

  • Find something you enjoy: Whether it's walking, running, dancing, or team sports, you're more likely to stick with it if you love it.
  • Start small: Just a 15-minute brisk walk can elevate your mood.
  • Get outdoors: Spending time in nature has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels.

4. Practice Mindfulness & Set Boundaries

Your mind needs rest just as much as your body.

  • Mindfulness or meditation: Apps like Calm or Headspace can teach you simple techniques to quiet your mind. Just 5-10 minutes a day can make a difference.
  • Learn to say "no": A key driver of burnout is taking on too much. Politely declining additional responsibilities is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  • Schedule "do nothing" time: Block out time in your calendar for rest, with no agenda.

5. Take Proper Breaks & Travel

Disconnecting completely is essential for a full recharge.

  • Use your annual leave: Don't let your holiday allowance go to waste.
  • Disconnect fully: When you are on holiday, turn off work notifications and avoid checking emails.
  • Explore new places: Travel, even a short weekend break in the UK, can provide a fresh perspective and break the cycle of monotony.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Mental Health Support

Not all PMI policies are created equal, especially when it comes to mental health. When comparing options, you need to look beyond the headline price.

Here's a sample comparison of what to look for.

Feature ConsiderationBasic Policy ExampleComprehensive Policy ExampleWhy It Matters for Burnout Prevention
Mental Health PathwayGP referral requiredSelf-referral permittedSelf-referral removes delays and empowers you to seek help the moment you feel you need it.
Outpatient Cover Limit£500 limitFull cover or high limit (£1,500+)A low limit may only cover a few therapy sessions. A higher limit ensures you can complete a full course of treatment if needed.
Therapy AccessLimited to counsellorsAccess to counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatristsProvides a broader range of expertise for more complex mental health needs.
Digital GP AccessStandard hours24/7 accessStress and anxiety don't keep office hours. 24/7 access means help is always available.
Wellness BenefitsNone includedDiscounts on gym memberships, health screenings, wellness appsActively encourages a healthy lifestyle, which is the foundation of mental resilience.

Navigating these differences is complex. A PMI broker is your expert guide. At WeCovr, we compare policies from across the market at no cost to you. We take the time to understand your specific needs and find a policy that provides robust mental health support, ensuring there are no surprises when you need to make a claim. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our client-focused approach.


Will my private medical insurance cover me for burnout?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not directly cover "burnout," as it is classified as an occupational phenomenon and a chronic issue, not an acute medical condition. However, PMI is invaluable for providing rapid access to services that prevent burnout, such as mental health support, digital GPs, and wellness apps. It will also typically cover treatment for acute mental health conditions like depression or anxiety that may result from chronic stress, provided the condition arises *after* your policy has started and is not pre-existing.

Do I need to declare stress or previous mental health issues when applying for PMI?

Yes, you must be completely honest during your application. Insurers will ask about your medical history, including any consultations or treatments for mental health conditions like stress, anxiety, or depression. Failing to disclose this information can invalidate your policy. Depending on the insurer and the type of underwriting (e.g., moratorium or full medical underwriting), recent mental health issues may be excluded as pre-existing conditions. An expert broker can help you find the most suitable policy for your circumstances.

How quickly can I see a therapist with private health cover?

This is a key benefit of private health cover. While NHS waiting lists for therapy can be months long, PMI can give you access much faster. With policies that offer a self-referral mental health pathway, you can often have an initial assessment within a few days and be speaking to a qualified therapist in under a week. This speed is crucial for tackling mental health issues before they escalate.

The UK's burnout crisis is a clear and present danger to our professional and personal wellbeing. Taking a passive approach is a gamble with your health and your financial future.

By investing in the right private medical insurance UK, you are not just buying a healthcare policy; you are building a strategic defence system for your career. It's time to be proactive.

Protect your most valuable asset—you. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how the right PMI policy can shield your professional resilience and secure your future prosperity.


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.