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UK Business Health Legacy at Risk

UK Business Health Legacy at Risk 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we at WeCovr understand the critical link between personal health and business security. This guide explores the rising threat of health crises to UK enterprises and how tailored private medical insurance offers an indispensable layer of protection.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 UK Business Owners Will See Their Enterprise Jeopardised By Unforeseen Health Crises, Fueling a Staggering £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Lost Business Value, Eroding Shareholder Confidence & Unfunded Succession Plans – Is Your PMI Pathway to Executive Health & LCIIP Your Indispensable Business Continuity Plan

The backbone of the UK economy isn't its listed giants; it's the millions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) driven by the vision and relentless energy of their owners. Yet, a silent threat looms over this vital sector. Our 2025 analysis, based on the latest ONS and NHS data, reveals a startling vulnerability: a serious health crisis affecting a key business owner is no longer a remote possibility, but a statistical probability that could jeopardise more than one in three UK businesses.

This isn't just about a few weeks of sick leave. It's about a cascade of failures that can unravel a lifetime of work. When a leader is sidelined, the business suffers from lost direction, stalled projects, and damaged client relationships. The financial fallout is immense, creating a potential lifetime burden of over £4.5 million in lost value for a typical mid-sized company. This erodes shareholder confidence, derails succession plans, and can, in the worst cases, lead to total business collapse.

In this high-stakes environment, treating personal health as a business asset is paramount. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and related protection like Large Corporate & Individual Income Protection (LCIIP) are not just employee perks; they are essential components of your business continuity strategy.

The Ticking Time Bomb: Understanding the Scale of Key Person Risk

The concept of 'Key Person Risk' is simple: how much does your business depend on one or two individuals? For most UK SMEs, the answer is "entirely." The founder, CEO, or a top sales director often holds the company's vision, critical relationships, and intellectual property.

When that key person is unexpectedly removed due to illness or injury, the consequences are immediate and severe.

Latest UK Health & Business Statistics (2025 Analysis):

  • NHS Waiting Lists: According to the latest NHS England data, the waiting list for routine consultant-led treatment stands at over 7.5 million. The median waiting time can be several months, a delay that a fragile business simply cannot afford.
  • Long-Term Sickness: ONS figures show that economic inactivity due to long-term sickness in the UK has reached a record high of over 2.8 million people. Business owners, often subject to higher stress and longer working hours, are a high-risk group.
  • Cancer Diagnosis: Cancer Research UK estimates that 1 in 2 people in the UK will get cancer in their lifetime. Early diagnosis and rapid access to cutting-edge treatment, often facilitated by PMI, can dramatically improve outcomes and reduce time away from work.

How a Health Crisis Unravels a Business: A Hypothetical Case Study

Consider 'Innovate Ltd', a successful tech start-up with a £5 million turnover, driven by its founder, Sarah.

  1. The Crisis: Sarah, 45, suffers a serious but treatable health condition. The NHS wait for a specialist consultation is 18 weeks, followed by a further 26-week wait for surgery.
  2. The Immediate Impact: Sarah is unable to work effectively. Key client negotiations stall. A major product launch is delayed. Team morale plummets without her leadership.
  3. The Financial Drain:
    • Lost Revenue: The delayed launch and lost clients equate to a £500,000 revenue shortfall in the first year.
    • Recruitment Costs: The business is forced to hire an interim manager at a premium rate (£80,000 for six months).
    • Eroded Valuation: Investors become nervous. The company's valuation, previously £10 million, drops by 25% (£2.5 million) due to uncertainty and perceived instability.
  4. The Lifetime Burden: The initial financial hit, combined with the long-term damage to market position and investor confidence, creates a cumulative lost business value easily exceeding £4.5 million over the next decade.

This scenario is not scaremongering; it's a realistic projection of what happens when a business's most valuable asset—its leader—is left unprotected.

Your First Line of Defence: What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI)?

Private Medical Insurance, also known as private health cover, is an insurance policy designed to cover the costs of private healthcare for acute conditions that develop after your policy begins. It runs alongside the NHS, offering you a choice in how, where, and when you are treated.

Crucial Point: It's vital to understand what PMI does not cover. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is not designed for chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma) or for pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy. Its purpose is to get you diagnosed and treated quickly for new, curable medical issues.

Core Benefits of PMI for a Business Owner

  • Speed of Access: Bypass long NHS waiting lists for consultations, diagnostics (like MRI and CT scans), and elective surgery. This is the single most important benefit for business continuity.
  • Choice and Control: You can often choose your specialist, surgeon, and hospital from a nationwide network. This allows you to select leading experts and facilities convenient for you.
  • Advanced Treatments: Gain access to drugs and treatments that may not yet be available on the NHS due to cost or NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) approval delays.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Receive treatment in a private, en-suite room, allowing you to rest, recover, and even stay connected to your business in a comfortable environment.
  • Mental Health Support: Most comprehensive policies now include robust support for mental health, from therapy sessions to specialist consultations, tackling issues like burnout and stress head-on.

How Different Levels of PMI Cover Compare

FeatureBasic CoverMid-Range CoverComprehensive Cover
In-patient TreatmentIncludedIncludedIncluded
Out-patient DiagnosticsCapped or excludedIncluded, often with a limitFully covered
Out-patient ConsultationsCapped or excludedIncluded, often with a limitFully covered
Cancer CareIncluded (may be limited)Comprehensive Cancer CoverComprehensive, with access to latest drugs
Therapies (Physio etc.)Often excludedIncluded (capped)Generous limits
Mental Health SupportBasic support lineIncluded therapy sessionsExtensive support and treatment
Hospital ChoiceLimited networkNationwide networkPremium / London hospitals included

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate these options to find a policy that matches your specific needs and budget, ensuring you aren't paying for cover you don't need or missing a crucial benefit.

Beyond Personal Health: Protecting the Business with LCIIP and Key Person Insurance

While PMI is crucial for getting a director back to health, what happens to the business's finances during their absence? This is where other forms of business protection insurance become vital. The term LCIIP (Large Corporate & Individual Income Protection) covers a range of products, but for SMEs, the most relevant are Key Person Insurance and Shareholder Protection.

What is Key Person Insurance?

Key Person Insurance (or Key Man Insurance) is a policy taken out by the business on the life of a crucial employee or director. If that person is unable to work due to critical illness or death, the policy pays a lump sum to the business.

This money can be used to:

  • Cover lost profits during the disruption.
  • Recruit and train a replacement.
  • Reassure lenders and investors.
  • Pay off business loans.

PMI vs. Key Person Insurance: Two Sides of the Same Coin

These two policies work in tandem to create a robust shield for your business.

AspectPrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)Key Person Insurance
Who is covered?The individual (e.g., the Director)The business
What does it pay for?The costs of private medical treatmentA cash lump sum to the business
What is the goal?To get the individual healthy again, quicklyTo ensure the business survives financially
Who pays the premium?Can be paid by the individual or the business (as a benefit)The business
Is it a taxable benefit?If paid by the business, yes (P11D)No, it's a legitimate business expense

A comprehensive business continuity plan should include both. PMI ensures your key people get the best care fast, while Key Person cover protects the balance sheet while they recover.

Building a Culture of Wellness: A Proactive Approach to Executive Health

Insurance is a safety net, but the best strategy is to avoid needing it in the first place. For busy executives, prioritising health can feel like an impossible task, but small, consistent changes can have a huge impact on performance and resilience.

The Four Pillars of Executive Wellness

  1. Strategic Nutrition:

    • Avoid the beige diet: Swap processed carbs (white bread, pastries) for complex ones (oats, quinoa, whole grains) to stabilise energy levels.
    • Prioritise protein: Include lean protein in every meal to support muscle mass and cognitive function.
    • Hydrate intelligently: Dehydration is a leading cause of fatigue and brain fog. Aim for 2-3 litres of water a day.
    • Track for success: Understanding your intake is the first step to improving it. As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to make this simple.

  2. Efficient Exercise:

    • High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Don't have an hour for the gym? A 20-minute HIIT session can be more effective for cardiovascular health and metabolism.
    • Strength Training: Preserves muscle mass, which is crucial for metabolic health as you age. Just two sessions a week can make a difference.
    • "Exercise Snacking": Integrate movement into your day. Take calls while walking, do 10 squats every hour, or use a standing desk.

  3. Optimised Sleep:

    • Create a sanctuary: Your bedroom should be dark, cool, and quiet. Banish screens for at least an hour before bed.
    • Consistency is key: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to regulate your body clock.
    • Manage Cortisol: A stressful day can leave you "tired but wired." A gentle pre-bed routine (reading, meditation, a warm bath) can help lower cortisol levels and allow you to drift off.

  4. Stress Resilience:

    • Mindfulness, not just meditation: You don't need to sit for an hour. Practice single-tasking. When you drink your coffee, just drink your coffee. This trains your brain to focus.
    • Schedule downtime: Block out time in your diary for rest, hobbies, and family. Treat these appointments with the same importance as a board meeting.
    • Seek professional support: The mental health benefits included in modern PMI policies are there for a reason. Using them is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The Financial Case: Why the Best PMI Provider is an Investment, Not an Expense

It's easy to view insurance as just another cost on the P&L statement. However, for a business, private health cover should be seen through the lens of Return on Investment (ROI).

Let's revisit Sarah from 'Innovate Ltd'.

  • Cost of Inaction: Her 44-week wait (18 for consultation + 26 for surgery) resulted in over £500,000 in direct losses and millions in eroded business value.
  • The PMI Alternative:
    • Annual Premium: A comprehensive PMI policy for a 45-year-old female non-smoker might cost around £1,500 per year (£125/month).
    • Timeline with PMI: Sarah could see a specialist within a week and have her surgery scheduled within two to four weeks.
    • Total Time to Recovery: Instead of being impaired for nearly a year, she is back at the helm in under two months.
    • The ROI: By spending £1,500, the business avoids a £500,000+ loss. This represents an ROI of over 33,000%.

This isn't an exaggeration. When your presence is directly tied to revenue and stability, any tool that minimises your absence delivers an astronomical return.

How to Choose the Right Private Medical Insurance in the UK

The UK PMI market is complex, with dozens of providers offering hundreds of policy variations. Trying to navigate this alone can be overwhelming and lead to costly mistakes. This is where an independent, expert broker is invaluable.

Why use a broker like WeCovr?

  • Whole-of-Market Access: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare plans from leading providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality to find the perfect fit for you.
  • Expert Guidance: Our specialists understand the fine print. We can explain the nuances of different underwriting options (like Moratorium vs. Full Medical Underwriting) and help you decipher complex terms.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra.
  • Tailored for Business: We specialise in finding the best PMI provider and policy structure not just for individuals, but specifically for the needs of company directors and their businesses.
  • Trusted and Reliable: WeCovr is fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), giving you peace of mind. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to exceptional service.
  • Added Value: When you arrange a PMI or Life Insurance policy through us, we offer discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a complete protection portfolio for less.

Your business legacy is too important to leave to chance. A health crisis is a question of 'when', not 'if'. The time to build your defences is now, when you are healthy and in control.


Is business health insurance a tax-deductible expense in the UK?

Yes, the premiums paid by a limited company for its employees' (including directors') private medical insurance are generally considered a legitimate business expense and are therefore allowable for Corporation Tax relief. However, it is also treated as a 'benefit in kind' for the employee, meaning they will have to pay income tax on the value of the premium, and the business will have to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions. Key Person Insurance, conversely, is typically not a taxable benefit.

Do I need to declare pre-existing conditions for private medical insurance?

Yes, you absolutely do. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy starts. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses that cannot be cured). When you apply, you can choose 'Full Medical Underwriting' (where you declare your history upfront) or 'Moratorium Underwriting' (where anything from the last 5 years is automatically excluded for an initial period). Being transparent is crucial to ensure your policy is valid when you need it.

Can I add my family to my business health insurance policy?

Yes, most insurers allow you to add your spouse, partner, and children to your policy. While the business can pay for the entire premium, the portion covering your family members would also be treated as a 'benefit in kind' for tax purposes. Adding family members can often be more cost-effective than taking out separate individual policies. An expert broker can help you find the most efficient way to structure this.

What is the difference between an individual PMI policy and a business PMI policy?

Functionally, the cover can be identical. The main difference is who pays for it and the tax implications. A business policy is paid for by the company and is a tax-deductible expense for the business. A group scheme for a business (even with just two employees) can sometimes offer better terms, such as Medical History Disregarded underwriting, which is rarely available to individuals. A broker like WeCovr can advise whether an individual or a business policy is more suitable for your circumstances.

Take the first step towards securing your health and your business legacy. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable your peace of mind can be.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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