WeCovr.

Login

UK Business Burnout 7 in 10 Face £4.2M Crisis

UK Business Burnout 7 in 10 Face £4.2M Crisis 2025

As a leading, FCA-authorised UK broker, WeCovr helps entrepreneurs find the right private medical insurance to protect their health and business. The escalating burnout crisis means this protection is no longer a luxury but a vital necessity for survival, safeguarding you against the personal and professional collapse that can follow.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 UK Business Owners & Self-Employed Will Face Debilitating Burnout, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Business Failure, Chronic Illness & Eroding Wealth – Is Your PMI & LCIIP Shield Your Essential Protection Against Professional & Personal Collapse

The backbone of the UK economy is facing a silent epidemic. For the millions of driven, resilient business owners and self-employed professionals, the relentless pressure to succeed is pushing them towards a precipice. New analysis, based on escalating trends from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and leading mental health charities, projects a startling future for 2025: over 70% of UK entrepreneurs will experience debilitating burnout.

This isn't just about feeling tired. It's a crisis with a catastrophic price tag. The cumulative lifetime cost of burnout—factoring in business failure, lost earnings, private healthcare needs for resulting chronic conditions, and the erosion of personal wealth—is projected to exceed a staggering £4.2 million for a typical SME owner over their career.

In this high-stakes environment, your most valuable asset isn't your business plan or your intellectual property; it's your health. Without it, everything you've built can crumble. This article unpacks the true cost of this crisis and explains how a robust shield of Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection (LCIIP) is the most critical investment you can make.

The £4.2 Million Meltdown: Unpacking the True Cost of Burnout

The term 'burnout' is often used casually, but the World Health Organization classifies it as an occupational phenomenon resulting from chronic, unmanaged workplace stress. For an entrepreneur, the 'workplace' is everywhere, and the stress is constant.

The key characteristics of burnout include:

  • Feelings of energy depletion and exhaustion.
  • Increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to it.
  • A sense of ineffectiveness and lack of accomplishment.

While these symptoms are serious, their financial consequences are what create the multi-million-pound burden.

How We Calculated the £4.2 Million Lifetime Burden

This figure represents the potential financial devastation a serious, untreated burnout episode can trigger over a business owner's lifetime. It's a combination of direct losses and long-term opportunity costs.

Component of Financial BurdenEstimated Lifetime CostExplanation
Business Failure & Lost Revenue£2,500,000+A period of burnout leads to poor decision-making, lost contracts, and ultimately, business collapse. This figure represents the lost future value of a moderately successful SME.
Lost Personal Earnings£1,200,000Based on an average director's salary of £60,000 being lost for 20 years following business failure and subsequent health issues impacting re-employment.
Chronic Illness Costs£350,000+The long-term cost of managing stress-induced chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or severe mental health disorders, often requiring private care.
Eroded Personal Wealth£150,000+The depletion of savings, investments, and pension funds to cover living expenses and business debts during and after the burnout period.
Total Lifetime Burden£4,200,000+A catastrophic financial outcome stemming from a single, preventable health crisis.

Disclaimer: These figures are illustrative projections based on economic and health data modelling to demonstrate the potential scale of the financial impact.

The Domino Effect: How Burnout Obliterates Your Health and Wealth

Burnout is a catalyst. It starts with mental and emotional exhaustion but quickly triggers a cascade of devastating consequences that affect every corner of your life.

From Chronic Stress to Chronic Illness

The human body is not designed for the sustained 'fight or flight' state that defines entrepreneurial life. Constant high levels of the stress hormone cortisol can lead to severe physical health problems, including:

  • Cardiovascular Disease: The British Heart Foundation consistently links chronic stress to high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes.
  • Weakened Immune System: You become more susceptible to frequent infections, slowing you down and impacting your ability to work.
  • Digestive Issues: Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and acid reflux are common among stressed individuals.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Stress can affect blood sugar levels and contribute to the development of metabolic disorders.

These aren't temporary ailments. They are often chronic conditions that require lifelong management, creating a permanent drain on your health and finances.

The Mental Health Catastrophe

The psychological toll is even more immediate. According to NHS Digital data, waiting lists for psychological therapies remain stubbornly long, with many people waiting months for an initial assessment. For a business owner on the brink, a month can be an eternity. Burnout is a direct pathway to:

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Clinical Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Substance Misuse

Without swift, expert intervention, these conditions can make it impossible to lead your team, make strategic decisions, or even manage daily tasks.

Why the NHS, Our National Treasure, Can't Be Your Only Defence

The NHS provides exceptional care for emergencies and is a world leader in many areas. However, for the specific challenges a business owner faces, its structure and current pressures create dangerous gaps.

The core issue is time.

Latest NHS England statistics show that the median waiting time for non-urgent, consultant-led treatment can be several months. While you wait for a diagnosis for that persistent back pain or a referral for crippling anxiety, your business is suffering.

This leads to "presenteeism"—the act of working while ill. You show up, but you're not productive. Your judgment is clouded, your energy is low, and you risk making costly mistakes. For an entrepreneur, this slow decline is often more damaging than taking a defined period of sick leave to recover fully.

Your Essential Shield: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Works

This is where private medical insurance UK becomes your most powerful tool. It's not about replacing the NHS; it's about complementing it to give you speed, choice, and control when you need it most.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

In simple terms, PMI is a policy you pay for that covers the cost of private healthcare for acute conditions. It’s designed to get you diagnosed and treated quickly, bypassing the long waiting lists.

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about PMI.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint pain requiring a replacement, cataracts, or hernias. PMI is designed for this.
  • Chronic Condition: An illness that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, multiple sclerosis, and established hypertension. Standard private medical insurance does not cover the management of chronic conditions.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had before your policy started will typically be excluded from cover, at least for an initial period.

Understanding this distinction is vital. PMI is your shield against new, treatable health problems that could otherwise derail your life and business while you wait for treatment.

How PMI Protects a Business Owner: A Comparison

Health Journey StageStandard NHS RoutePrivate Medical Insurance RouteImpact on Your Business
Initial ConsultationWait for a GP appointment (can be days or weeks).Many PMI policies offer a 24/7 digital GP service for immediate consultation.PMI: Get answers and a referral pathway in hours, not weeks.
Specialist ReferralJoin a waiting list for a specialist, which can take months.See a specialist of your choice within days or a couple of weeks.PMI: Crucial diagnostic stage is fast-tracked, reducing uncertainty.
Diagnostic Scans (MRI/CT)Further waiting for a hospital slot for scans.Scans are typically arranged within a few days of the specialist referral.PMI: Get a clear diagnosis swiftly to create a treatment plan.
Treatment (e.g., Surgery)Placed on a surgical waiting list, often the longest wait of all.Treatment is scheduled at your convenience in a private hospital with an ensuite room.PMI: Get treated, recover, and get back to your business with minimal downtime.
Mental Health SupportReferral to IAPT services with potentially long waits for therapy.Direct access to a network of therapists and psychiatrists, often with cover for a set number of sessions.PMI: Critical mental health support is available almost immediately, preventing a crisis.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate the options to find a policy that provides the right level of cover for your specific needs, from basic diagnostics to comprehensive mental health support.

Building Your Fortress: Beyond PMI with LCIIP

While PMI handles the immediate health crisis, a truly resilient entrepreneur needs a complete financial fortress. This is where Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection (LCIIP) come in.

  • Income Protection (IP): This is arguably the most important cover for any self-employed person. If you're too ill or injured to work, IP pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income until you can return. It's your personal salary, paid for.
  • Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This pays out a single, tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific serious illnesses, such as some types of cancer, heart attack, or stroke. You can use this money for anything – to pay off your mortgage, adapt your home, or simply cover costs while you recover without stress.
  • Life Insurance: This provides a lump sum to your loved ones or your business if you pass away, ensuring financial stability for them in your absence.

At WeCovr, we understand that your needs are interconnected. That’s why we often provide discounts on other types of cover when you purchase PMI or Life Insurance, helping you build a comprehensive and affordable protection portfolio.

Proactive Prevention: Wellness Strategies to Combat Burnout

Insurance is your shield, but your first line of defence is proactive wellness. Integrating these habits can build your resilience against the pressures of entrepreneurship.

1. Master Your Mindset with "Micro-Resets"

You don't need an hour of meditation. Practice "micro-resets" throughout the day.

  • The 5-Minute Rule: Between meetings, step away from your screen. No phones. Just sit, look out of a window, and breathe deeply for five minutes.
  • Digital Sunset: Set a firm time each evening when all work-related devices are switched off. Non-negotiable.

2. Fuel Your Brain for Peak Performance

Your diet directly impacts your cognitive function and mood.

  • Avoid Sugar Spikes: Ditch sugary snacks and drinks that lead to energy crashes. Opt for slow-release carbs like oats, nuts, and lean proteins.
  • Hydrate for Clarity: Dehydration is a leading cause of fatigue and "brain fog". Aim for 2-3 litres of water a day.
  • Track Your Fuel: To make this easier, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you understand and optimise your diet for sustained energy.

3. Prioritise Sleep Like a Major Project

Sleep is not a luxury; it's a critical biological function.

  • Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
  • Create a Restful Environment: Your bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet. Use blackout blinds and remove electronic devices.

4. Move Your Body to Clear Your Head

Physical activity is one of the most effective anti-anxiety treatments available.

  • "Walking Meetings": If you have a phone call that doesn't require a screen, take it while walking outside.
  • High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): A 20-minute HIIT session can be more effective at boosting mood and energy than a longer, slower workout. Find what works for you and schedule it like a client meeting.

How to Find the Best PMI Provider with WeCovr

Navigating the private health cover market can be complex. Policies vary hugely in what they cover, their hospital lists, and their costs. Using an independent, expert broker is the smartest way to get it right.

Why Use a Broker?

  • Impartial Advice: We work for you, not the insurance companies. Our goal is to find the best policy for your needs and budget.
  • Market Access: We have access to a wide range of policies from the UK's leading insurers, including deals you might not find by going direct.
  • Expertise on Hand: We understand the complex jargon and can explain the differences between underwriting types (e.g., moratorium vs. full medical underwriting) in plain English.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.

With high customer satisfaction ratings and a commitment to clear, honest advice, WeCovr is dedicated to helping UK business owners install the protection they urgently need.


Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. Pre-existing conditions, which are any health issues you had before taking out the cover, are typically excluded. Some policies may offer to review these exclusions after a set period (usually two years) if you remain symptom-free, a process known as moratorium underwriting.

How much does private health cover cost for a self-employed person in the UK?

The cost of a private medical insurance UK policy varies significantly based on several factors: your age, your location, your smoking status, the level of cover you choose (e.g., inpatient only vs. full outpatient), and the excess you agree to pay. A basic policy for a young, healthy individual might start from £30-£40 per month, while a comprehensive policy for an older individual could be over £100 per month. An expert PMI broker can help find a plan that balances cost and benefits for you.

Is private medical insurance worth it if I can't afford to be ill?

For a business owner or self-employed person, the answer is almost always yes. The true cost of illness isn't just the potential medical bills; it's the lost income and business opportunities while you wait for NHS treatment. PMI is an investment in continuity. By providing rapid access to diagnosis and treatment, it minimises your downtime, allowing you to get back to running your business and earning an income as quickly as possible, protecting you from a far greater financial loss.

The threat of burnout is real, and the £4.2 million lifetime cost is a stark warning. Don't wait for a crisis to force your hand. Take control of your health and secure the future of your business today.

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr and build your essential shield against personal and professional collapse.

Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

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

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

About WeCovr

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

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London