Login

UK Burnout Crisis Over Half of Working Britons Affected

UK Burnout Crisis Over Half of Working Britons Affected

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various types issued, WeCovr is at the forefront of the UK’s private medical insurance landscape. This article tackles the escalating burnout crisis, explaining how the right private health cover can provide a crucial safety net for your professional and personal wellbeing.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over Half of Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Burnout & Stress, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Mental Health Crises, Physical Illness, Lost Productivity & Eroding Business Stability – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Mental Health Support, Advanced Stress Diagnostics & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Resilience & Future Prosperity

The silent epidemic has reached a tipping point. New analysis for 2025 indicates that more than 55% of the UK's workforce is grappling with significant symptoms of burnout. This isn't just end-of-week tiredness; it's a state of chronic emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. This crisis is more than a workplace buzzword; it's a national health emergency with a devastating personal and economic cost.

The figures are stark. For an individual, the lifetime cost of a severe burnout episode—factoring in private therapy, medical treatment for stress-induced illness, and lost earnings—can exceed £75,000. Multiplied across the millions affected, this creates a national burden running into billions, threatening not just individual prosperity but the very stability of British businesses.

In this high-stakes environment, relying solely on an overstretched NHS can be a gamble you can't afford to take. This is where private medical insurance (PMI) emerges not as a luxury, but as an essential tool for resilience. It offers a direct pathway to the rapid, specialist support needed to diagnose, treat, and recover from the severe health consequences of burnout, protecting both your health and your financial future.

The Anatomy of Burnout: More Than Just Stress

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical condition in itself. However, it is a direct precursor to serious medical conditions. It’s characterised by three key dimensions:

  1. Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion: A constant state of feeling drained, with no energy for work or life.
  2. Increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job: Losing enjoyment and feeling detached or resentful towards your career.
  3. Reduced professional efficacy: A nagging sense of incompetence and a lack of accomplishment in your work.

If these symptoms sound familiar, you are not alone. Our "always-on" culture, coupled with economic uncertainty and mounting workplace pressures, has created a perfect storm.

Common Triggers for Burnout in the UK Workplace

TriggerDescription
Excessive WorkloadConsistently long hours, unmanageable deadlines, and insufficient resources to complete tasks.
Lack of ControlFeeling micromanaged or having little say in decisions that affect your work and schedule.
'Always-On' CultureThe pressure to be constantly available via email, messaging apps, and calls outside of work hours.
Unclear Job ExpectationsVague roles, shifting responsibilities, and a lack of clear direction from management.
Lack of Social SupportFeeling isolated at work, whether from colleagues or supervisors. A toxic or unsupportive environment.
Perceived UnfairnessWitnessing favouritism, unfair compensation, or feeling your contributions are unrecognised.

The Devastating Domino Effect: How Burnout Impacts Your Health

Chronic stress doesn't just stay in your head; it triggers a cascade of physiological responses that can lead to severe and lasting physical health problems. When your body is in a constant state of "fight or flight," it takes a toll.

Physical and Mental Health Conditions Linked to Chronic Stress:

  • Mental Health Crises: Severe anxiety, clinical depression, and panic disorders are the most common outcomes. These are acute conditions that private medical insurance is designed to address swiftly.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Prolonged stress is a known risk factor for high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.
  • Weakened Immune System: You may find yourself catching every cold and flu going around, as stress hormones suppress immune function.
  • Digestive Issues: Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and gastritis are frequently exacerbated by stress.
  • Sleep Disorders: Insomnia and poor-quality sleep are hallmark symptoms, creating a vicious cycle of exhaustion.
  • Musculoskeletal Pain: Chronic tension can lead to persistent headaches, back pain, and shoulder problems.

Relying on the NHS to treat these conditions often means joining long waiting lists, especially for mental health support and diagnostics. As of early 2025, waiting times for NHS talking therapies can still stretch for months in many areas, a delay that can turn a manageable issue into a full-blown crisis.

Your PMI Shield: Fast-Track Access to Life-Changing Support

This is where private medical insurance changes the game. It is designed to work alongside the NHS, giving you a fast-track option for eligible, acute conditions that arise after you take out a policy.

Crucial Point: Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already have or have had symptoms of) or chronic conditions (illnesses that require long-term management rather than a cure, like diabetes or asthma). Burnout itself is an occupational issue, but the acute medical conditions it causes—like a new diagnosis of severe anxiety, depression, or a stress-related heart condition—are precisely what PMI is for.

How Private Health Cover Provides a Safety Net:

  1. Rapid GP Access: Most policies include a 24/7 digital GP service. You can speak to a doctor via video call within hours, often from the comfort of your own home. This initial consultation is vital for getting a diagnosis and an urgent referral.
  2. Swift Specialist Referrals: Instead of waiting months to see a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counsellor on the NHS, a PMI policy can get you an appointment in a matter of days. This speed can be the difference between a short-term struggle and a long-term breakdown.
  3. Choice and Control: You get to choose the specialist and the private hospital where you receive your treatment, giving you control over your healthcare journey at a time when you might feel powerless.
  4. Comprehensive Mental Health Cover: Many modern policies offer robust mental health pathways, covering a set number of therapy sessions (e.g., CBT - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and inpatient care if needed. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you find a policy with the right level of mental health support for your needs.
  5. Advanced Diagnostics: Get quick access to scans (MRI, CT) and tests to rule out or diagnose physical conditions linked to your stress, without the lengthy NHS waits.

From Treatment to Prevention: The New Generation of PMI

The best private medical insurance in the UK is no longer just about treatment. Leading providers now actively help you stay well, building resilience to prevent burnout from taking hold in the first place.

These wellness benefits are designed to integrate into your daily life, encouraging healthier habits that are proven to combat stress.

Examples of Proactive Wellness Benefits:

Benefit TypeExamplesHow It Helps Combat Burnout
Fitness & ActivityDiscounted gym memberships, rewards for hitting step counts, access to online fitness classes.Physical activity is a powerful natural antidepressant and stress-reducer.
Mindfulness & Mental HealthFree subscriptions to apps like Headspace or Calm, access to mindfulness courses.Helps you manage stress in real-time and develop coping mechanisms.
Nutrition SupportAccess to nutritionists, healthy food discounts, diet planning tools.A balanced diet stabilises mood and energy levels. Poor nutrition can exacerbate stress.
Health AssessmentsRegular check-ups that can flag early warning signs of stress, like high blood pressure or cholesterol.Early detection allows for proactive intervention before a crisis develops.

As a WeCovr client, you gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. This powerful tool makes it simple to monitor your diet, ensuring your body has the fuel it needs to withstand pressure. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr often receive discounts on other types of cover, creating a holistic and cost-effective protection plan.

Financial Resilience: The Critical Role of LCIIP

Burnout doesn't just damage your health; it can shatter your financial stability. If you're forced to take extended time off work, or even leave your career, how will you pay your mortgage and bills?

This is where Life and Critical Illness Insurance Protection (LCIIP) works in perfect harmony with your PMI.

  • Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Pays for the cost of your private treatment.
  • Critical Illness Cover (part of LCIIP): Pays you a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed on your policy (e.g., a heart attack, stroke, or cancer).

This financial cushion is transformative. It removes the enormous stress of money worries, allowing you to focus 100% on your recovery. The peace of mind it provides is, in itself, a powerful tool for resilience.

Finding the Right Policy: Why Expert Guidance Matters

The world of private health cover can seem complex. With dozens of providers, different underwriting options, and customisable benefits, choosing the right plan is daunting.

Key Decisions You'll Need to Make:

  • Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium: Simpler to set up. The insurer won't ask for your full medical history upfront but will exclude any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You declare your full medical history. The insurer then states clearly from the start what is and isn't covered.
  • Level of Cover:
    • Outpatient Limit: How much cover do you want for consultations and tests that don't require a hospital bed?
    • Hospital List: Do you need access to premium central London hospitals, or is a nationwide network sufficient?
    • Excess: How much are you willing to pay towards a claim to lower your monthly premium?

This is why working with an expert, independent broker like WeCovr is so valuable. We are not tied to any single insurer. Our job is to understand your specific needs, concerns, and budget. We then search the market to find the most suitable and cost-effective policy for you. Our advice comes at no cost to you, and our clients consistently report high satisfaction with the clarity and support we provide.

Practical Steps to Build Your Personal Burnout Defence

While insurance provides a critical safety net, you can also take proactive steps in your daily life to build resilience.

  1. Protect Your Time: Learn to say "no." Set firm boundaries between work and personal life. Turn off notifications after hours and resist the urge to check emails late at night.
  2. Prioritise Restorative Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, avoid screens an hour before bed, and make your bedroom a sanctuary for rest.
  3. Move Your Body: Find a form of exercise you enjoy and make it a non-negotiable part of your week. Even a brisk 30-minute walk can significantly lower stress hormones.
  4. Fuel Your Brain: Avoid relying on caffeine and sugar for energy. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated with plenty of water.
  5. Schedule 'Do Nothing' Time: Actively block out time in your diary for hobbies, relaxation, or simply doing nothing at all. Travel, even short weekend breaks, can be incredibly effective at breaking the stress cycle.
  6. Practice Mindfulness: Spend just 5-10 minutes a day focusing on your breath. This simple practice can help calm your nervous system and bring you back to the present moment.

Burnout is not a personal failure; it's a response to an unsustainable environment. Protecting yourself requires a two-pronged approach: building personal resilience through lifestyle changes and erecting a professional safety net with the right insurance. Your health, career, and future prosperity depend on it.

Does private medical insurance cover burnout directly?

Generally, no. Burnout itself is classified by the World Health Organization as an "occupational phenomenon" rather than a specific medical condition. However, UK private medical insurance is designed to cover the treatment for acute medical conditions that are often *caused* by chronic stress and burnout. This includes new diagnoses of conditions like severe anxiety, clinical depression, or stress-induced heart problems that arise after your policy has started.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition for PMI?

This is a critical distinction for private medical insurance. An **acute condition** is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a joint replacement, cataract surgery, or a course of therapy for anxiety). PMI is designed to cover these. A **chronic condition** is an illness that requires long-term or lifelong monitoring and management, and for which there is no known cure (e.g., diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure). Standard PMI policies do not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.

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

It depends on the underwriting process and the specific condition. If you choose 'Moratorium' underwriting, any condition (mental or physical) for which you've had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before your policy starts will be automatically excluded, usually for the first 2 years of the policy. If you opt for 'Full Medical Underwriting', you will declare the condition, and the insurer may place a permanent exclusion on it. However, cover may still be available for other, unrelated future conditions. An expert broker can help you navigate these options.

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

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr has several key advantages at no extra cost to you. We provide a whole-of-market view, comparing policies from all leading UK providers to find the one that best fits your needs and budget. We offer impartial, expert advice to help you understand complex terms and tailor your cover. This saves you time and can often save you money, ensuring you don't pay for benefits you don't need or miss out on cover that is vital for you.

Ready to build your shield against the pressures of modern work? Protect your health and secure your future.

Get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote from WeCovr today and take the first step towards total peace of mind.


Related guides


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.