WeCovr.

Login

UK Business Burnout Crisis

UK Business Burnout Crisis 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

The silent epidemic of business owner burnout is reaching a critical point in the UK. As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has facilitated over 800,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr understands the immense pressure you face. This comprehensive guide unpacks the new data on this crisis and shows how tailored private medical insurance is no longer a luxury, but an essential tool for protecting your health, wealth, and professional future.

The figures are stark and sobering. New analysis for 2025, building on trends identified by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), indicates a deepening crisis among the nation's entrepreneurs. Over half of UK business owners are now grappling with symptoms of chronic burnout and severe stress. This isn't just about feeling tired; it's a debilitating condition fuelling a catastrophic lifetime financial burden estimated to exceed £4.5 million per individual through lost income, diminished business value, and potential company failure.

But there is a powerful, proactive solution. Modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) has evolved far beyond basic hospital cover. It now offers a sophisticated suite of tools—from immediate access to talking therapies and resilience coaching to financial shields like Included Cash & Protection benefits—designed specifically to help you manage pressure, build resilience, and secure not just your health, but your entire professional legacy.

The Anatomy of Burnout: More Than Just a Bad Day

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officially recognises burnout as an "occupational phenomenon." It's crucial to understand that it is not simply stress, but rather the consequence of chronic, unmanaged workplace stress. It is characterised by three distinct dimensions:

  1. Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion: A profound, persistent tiredness that isn't relieved by a weekend off. It’s a bone-deep weariness that affects your physical and emotional state.
  2. Increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism: You may feel detached, lose enjoyment in your work, and view your business, clients, and employees through a negative lens. The passion that drove you to start is replaced by resentment.
  3. Reduced professional efficacy: A creeping sense of incompetence and a lack of achievement. Despite working harder than ever, you feel you're accomplishing less and losing confidence in your abilities.

Imagine Sarah, a graphic design agency owner in Manchester. For five years, she was the heart of her business. But by year six, 14-hour days had become the norm. She started snapping at her team, felt a constant sense of dread on Sunday evenings, and couldn't shake a recurring cold. Her creativity, once her greatest asset, felt gone. Sarah wasn't lazy or failing; she was experiencing classic burnout.

The Alarming Scale of the Crisis: A Look at the 2025 Figures

The personal cost of burnout is immense, but the national economic impact is staggering. While final 2025 figures are being compiled, projections based on the latest available data paint a grim picture.

  • Work-Related Stress: The HSE’s 2023 figures showed that stress, depression, or anxiety accounted for a staggering 17.1 million working days lost. This trend is accelerating, particularly among sole traders and SME owners who lack corporate support structures.
  • Cost to a Business: A 2022 Deloitte report estimated that poor mental health costs UK employers up to £56 billion a year. For a small business, the departure or incapacitation of a key founder can be a fatal blow.
  • The £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden: This figure represents the total potential value erosion for a successful business owner derailed by burnout mid-career. It’s a combination of lost personal earnings, stunted business growth, the cost of private treatment sought too late, and in the worst-case scenario, the complete loss of the business as an asset.

Let's break down how this devastating figure is calculated over a 20-year period for a hypothetical business owner.

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Impact
Lost Personal IncomeReduced salary and dividends due to illness, inability to work, or taking a "step-back" role.£1,000,000 - £1,500,000
Diminished Business ValueStagnated growth, loss of key clients, and reduced innovation leading to a lower business valuation.£2,000,000 - £2,500,000
Healthcare & Recovery CostsCost of private therapy, residential treatment, or other interventions paid out-of-pocket when a crisis hits.£50,000 - £100,000
Business Failure & Asset LossIn a worst-case scenario, the business folds, turning a valuable asset into a liability.£500,000+
Total Estimated BurdenA conservative estimate of the total financial devastation.£4,550,000+

This table illustrates how burnout is not just a health issue; it is one of the single greatest financial risks a business owner faces.

The Silent Struggle: Why Entrepreneurs Are Uniquely Vulnerable

While any employee can experience burnout, the pressures on business owners are unique and amplified. You operate without the safety net that a larger corporate structure provides.

  • The 'Always-On' Mantle: You are the business. The lines between work and life don't just blur; they often cease to exist.
  • Financial Weight: The business's finances are inextricably linked to your personal finances. Many owners have personal guarantees on loans, meaning their family home is on the line.
  • Ultimate Responsibility: You are responsible not only for your own livelihood but for that of your employees. This weight of responsibility is a constant, heavy burden.
  • Profound Isolation: It’s lonely at the top. You often lack a true peer group to confide in about your deepest business fears and personal struggles.
  • The Passion Paradox: The very passion that drives entrepreneurs can also be their undoing, making it difficult to switch off and leading them to sacrifice personal well-being for the sake of the business.
Stress FactorTypical EmployeeBusiness Owner
Financial RiskLimited to personal salaryPersonal assets (home) often at risk
Work HoursContracted hours with overtime'Always-on' culture, 24/7 responsibility
Final DecisionsContributes to decisionsMakes the final, often difficult, decisions
Support NetworkManager, HR department, colleaguesOften isolated, few true peers to confide in
Failure ImpactCan find another jobPotential loss of life savings and identity

Your Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Is Your First Line of Support

Thinking of private health cover as just for surgery is an outdated view. Today's private medical insurance in the UK is a powerful preventative health tool, especially for mental well-being. It provides the speed and choice the NHS, for all its strengths, often cannot.

When burnout looms, early intervention is everything. PMI gives you a direct pathway to it.

Key PMI Mental Health Benefits:

  • Rapid Access to Talking Therapies: Instead of waiting weeks or months for an NHS appointment, you can typically be speaking with a qualified counsellor, psychotherapist, or CBT practitioner within days. This is crucial for tackling issues before they spiral.
  • 24/7 Digital GP Services: Feeling overwhelmed at 10 PM on a Sunday? Most modern PMI policies include an app-based GP service. You can speak to a doctor via video call, get advice, and receive a referral if needed, all without leaving your home.
  • Integrated Wellness Programmes: Top-tier insurers now offer comprehensive wellness platforms. These include guided meditations, stress-management courses, fitness challenges, and nutritional advice, helping you build healthy habits.
  • Direct Specialist Access: A GP referral can get you a fast-tracked appointment with a psychiatrist or psychologist for diagnosis and a treatment plan, bypassing long waiting lists.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can navigate the market to find policies that excel in these specific areas, ensuring your cover is perfectly aligned with the unique pressures you face as a business leader.

Beyond the Basics: Resilience Coaching & Financial Shielding

The best PMI providers are innovating further, offering features that go beyond reactive treatment and help you build a fortress of resilience.

Resilience Coaching

This is a game-changer for high-performing individuals. It's not therapy; it's proactive coaching designed to equip you with the psychological tools to handle immense pressure. A resilience coach works with you to:

  • Identify personal stress triggers.
  • Develop robust coping mechanisms.
  • Improve decision-making under pressure.
  • Master work-life integration techniques.
  • Build the mental fortitude required for long-term success.

Think of it as hiring a personal trainer for your mind—an investment in your peak performance and longevity.

Limited Cash & Included Protection (LCIIP)

We use this term to describe a range of financial benefits that can be included in or added to a PMI policy. This can include a "cash benefit" or "NHS cash benefit," which pays you a fixed amount for every night you spend in an NHS hospital. While seemingly small, this cash can reduce financial anxiety, covering incidentals or providing a small buffer if you need to take time away from the business. It’s another layer of protection that reduces stress when you are at your most vulnerable.

A Practical Guide: Your Personal Resilience Toolkit

Insurance is your safety net, but daily habits are your foundation. Building resilience is an active process.

1. Fuel Your Brain and Body

Your diet has a direct impact on your mood and energy. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods.

  • Omega-3s: Found in salmon and walnuts, great for brain function.
  • Complex Carbs: Oats and brown rice provide sustained energy.
  • Lean Protein: Chicken, lentils, and eggs help regulate blood sugar.
  • Limit: Reduce caffeine, sugar, and processed foods that cause energy spikes and crashes.
  • WeCovr Bonus: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It makes managing your diet simple and effective, helping you stay on track even on the busiest days.

2. Prioritise Sleep Hygiene

Sleep is a non-negotiable performance tool.

  • Consistent Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on weekends.
  • Digital Sunset: No screens for at least an hour before bed. The blue light disrupts melatonin production.
  • Create a Sanctuary: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Avoid Late Meals: Stop eating 2-3 hours before you sleep.

3. Move Every Day

Exercise is one of the most powerful antidepressants and anti-anxiety tools available.

  • Schedule It In: Block out 30 minutes in your diary as a non-negotiable meeting.
  • Find What You Enjoy: A brisk walk, a run, a gym class, or cycling. If you enjoy it, you'll stick with it.
  • "Exercise Snacking": Can't find a 30-minute block? Do 10 minutes of stretching in the morning, a 10-minute walk at lunch, and 10 minutes of bodyweight exercises in the evening.

4. Master Your Downtime

You cannot pour from an empty cup. True downtime is essential.

  • Schedule "Nothing": Block out time in your calendar with no agenda.
  • Mindfulness: Try a 5-minute guided meditation using an app like Calm or Headspace.
  • Engage a Hobby: Do something completely unrelated to your work that engages a different part of your brain.

Choosing the Right Private Health Cover: A WeCovr Guide

The UK private health insurance market is complex. Using an independent broker like WeCovr is the most efficient way to find the right cover. We compare policies from across the market, providing impartial advice at no cost to you. Our goal is to find you the best possible cover for your needs and budget.

Here is an illustrative comparison of the types of plans available:

Policy TierIndicative Monthly CostKey Mental Health FeatureBest For...
Essential£40 - £70Digital GP and access to a limited number of therapy sessions (e.g., 6-8).The budget-conscious owner needing a basic safety net.
Comprehensive£70 - £120Full out-patient cover for therapies, specialist consultations, and wellness platform access.The owner who wants robust, all-around protection.
Executive£120+Comprehensive cover plus proactive benefits like resilience coaching and extensive wellness services.The owner who sees health cover as a strategic investment in performance and longevity.

When selecting your private health cover, we help you consider:

  • Mental Health Limits: Does the policy offer full cover or is it capped?
  • Underwriting Type: Moratorium or Full Medical Underwriting (more on this below).
  • Hospital List: Which hospitals and clinics are included?
  • Excess Level: How much are you willing to pay towards a claim?

Furthermore, when you purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr, we can often provide discounts on other essential business and personal cover, delivering even greater value. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to finding the right solutions for our clients.

The Critical Caveat: Understanding Pre-existing & Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about private medical insurance in the UK.

Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not typically cover pre-existing conditions or the ongoing management of chronic illnesses.

  • An Acute Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. A sudden bout of anxiety requiring a short course of CBT would likely be considered acute.
  • A Chronic Condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it is likely to recur, or it requires palliative care. Long-term depression that has been managed for years would be considered chronic.
  • A Pre-existing Condition is any illness or symptom for which you have sought advice or treatment in the years before taking out your policy (typically the last 5 years).

When you apply, you will choose an underwriting method:

  1. Moratorium (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go two full years without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history upfront. The insurer gives you a definitive list of what is and isn't covered from day one. This provides more certainty but can be more complex.

It is vital to be transparent. Failing to disclose relevant information can invalidate your policy precisely when you need it most.

Is stress and burnout covered by private medical insurance in the UK?

Burnout itself is an occupational phenomenon, not a specific medical diagnosis. However, private medical insurance (PMI) provides extensive cover for the medical conditions that arise from burnout, such as anxiety, depression, and stress-related illnesses. The key benefit of PMI is providing fast-track access to treatments like counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and specialist psychiatrist consultations, which are considered acute treatments. Chronic, long-term mental health management is not typically covered.

Do I need to declare my mental health history when applying for PMI?

Yes, it is crucial to be honest about your medical history. With 'Full Medical Underwriting', you will declare everything upfront. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, you don't declare it, but any condition for which you've had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before the policy starts will be automatically excluded for an initial period (usually 2 years). Attempting to hide a pre-existing condition can lead to your claim being denied and your policy being voided.

How quickly can I see a specialist for mental health with private medical insurance?

This is a primary advantage of PMI. While NHS waiting times can be many months long, with private medical insurance you can often get a GP referral (sometimes instantly via a digital GP service) and be speaking to a counsellor or therapist within days. Access to a consultant psychiatrist is also significantly faster, often taking just a week or two compared to much longer waits via the NHS.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic mental health condition for insurance purposes?

An 'acute' condition is one that is expected to respond to treatment and resolve, such as a new episode of anxiety that can be treated with a course of therapy. Standard PMI is designed to cover these. A 'chronic' condition is one that requires long-term management and has no known cure, such as bipolar disorder or long-standing, treatment-resistant depression. The ongoing management of chronic conditions is not covered by standard UK private medical insurance policies.

Your business is your life's work. But your greatest asset, the one that underpins everything, is you. Investing in your health is the most critical strategic decision you can make. The burnout crisis is real, but with proactive steps and the right support system, it is not inevitable.

Protect your greatest asset. Speak to a WeCovr expert today for a free, no-obligation quote and find the right private medical insurance to safeguard your health and your business.

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