Login

UK Business Health Trap

UK Business Health Trap 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

As a leading FCA-authorised UK broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr is witnessing a silent crisis unfold. This article unpacks the devastating Business Health Trap facing UK entrepreneurs and explains how proactive protection, like private medical insurance, is no longer a luxury—it's an essential survival tool.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 UK Business Owners & Self-Employed Are Ignoring Early Health Warnings, Fueling a Staggering £4.8 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Advanced Disease, Business Failure & Eroding Family Legacies – Is Your PMI Pathway & LCIIP Shield Your Proactive Defence Against Future Health Catastrophe

This culture of "presenteeism" and self-neglect is creating a direct line to late-stage disease, personal bankruptcy, and business collapse. The cumulative lifetime cost—factoring in lost earnings, diminished business value, private care for advanced conditions, and the erosion of family wealth—is projected to exceed a staggering £4.8 million per individual case of advanced critical illness.

For the person who is the business, health is not just personal. It is the company's single most valuable, and most vulnerable, asset. Are you sleepwalking into this trap? Or have you built your defence?

The £4.8 Million Wake-Up Call: Deconstructing the Business Health Trap

The £4.8 million figure seems astronomical, but it becomes terrifyingly real when you break down the financial domino effect of a delayed diagnosis for a business owner. This isn't just about medical bills; it's a holistic calculation of a life's work unravelling.

Let's analyse the components based on a hypothetical case of a 48-year-old consultant, "Mark," who ignores a persistent health issue that later becomes a Stage 3 cancer diagnosis.

The Lifetime Financial Burden of a Delayed Diagnosis

Financial Impact AreaCost Breakdown & ExplanationEstimated Lifetime Cost
Lost Personal EarningsMark is unable to work for 18-24 months during intensive treatment and recovery. His projected earnings of £90,000/year are lost.£180,000+
Business Value CollapseAs the key person, Mark's absence causes client loss and project cancellations. The business's saleable value plummets from £500,000 to near zero.£450,000+
Advanced Treatment CostsWhile the NHS provides excellent care, waiting lists (currently over 7.5 million, according to 2024 NHS England data) can be long. Seeking faster, potentially more advanced private treatment for late-stage illness can be prohibitively expensive without insurance.£150,000+
Eroded Family Legacy & PensionTo cover living costs and business debts, Mark is forced to liquidate his pension pot early (incurring tax penalties) and sell family assets. The inheritance he planned to leave is gone.£1,000,000+
Lifetime Opportunity CostThis is the silent killer. The total projected value Mark would have generated over his remaining career (until age 67) is wiped out. This includes business growth, investments, and further pension contributions.£3,000,000+
Total Lifetime BurdenThe cumulative financial catastrophe from one ignored health warning.£4,780,000+

This scenario isn't scaremongering. It's the documented reality for thousands of UK families every year. Your health and your business are inextricably linked. When one fails, the other follows.

The Entrepreneur's Dilemma: Why Are You So at Risk?

Business owners and the self-employed are wired for resilience, but this strength can become a critical weakness when it comes to health. The very traits that drive success—grit, focus, and an immense capacity for work—also create the perfect conditions for the Business Health Trap.

Here are the primary reasons why this demographic is uniquely vulnerable:

  • The "No Work, No Pay" Reality: Unlike employees with statutory sick pay, for the self-employed, a day off for a GP visit is a day of lost income. The financial pressure to keep working, even when feeling unwell, is immense.
  • Time Poverty: Your diary is packed. Finding a two-hour slot for a doctor's appointment, let alone follow-ups and tests, feels impossible. It's always easier to put it off until "next week."
  • The Burden of Responsibility: You're not just letting yourself down; you feel the weight of your clients, employees, and family on your shoulders. The thought of admitting vulnerability or stepping back is terrifying.
  • The "Invincibility" Complex: Entrepreneurs are problem-solvers. Many subconsciously believe they can "push through" or "work off" a health issue just like any other business challenge.
  • Fear of the Unknown: What if the doctor finds something serious? The fear of a diagnosis and its consequences can lead to avoidance, a dangerous psychological game where ignorance feels like bliss.

Ignoring a symptom doesn't make it disappear. It simply gives it time to grow, silently and exponentially, until it becomes too big to ignore and infinitely more difficult—and costly—to treat.

Your Proactive Defence: Understanding the PMI & LCIIP Shield

Waiting for the NHS is a gamble many business owners cannot afford to take. While the NHS is a national treasure for emergency and chronic care, its current waiting lists for diagnostics and elective treatment can be the death knell for a small business.

This is where a two-pronged private protection strategy becomes essential: Private Medical Insurance (PMI) for fast treatment and Limited Company Income Protection (LCIIP) to secure your finances.

1. The PMI Pathway: Your Fast-Track to Diagnosis and Treatment

Private Medical Insurance UK is a health insurance policy that pays for the costs of private healthcare for acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

Critical Note: Standard PMI policies in the UK do not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already knew about) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that can be managed but not cured). PMI is for new, curable health problems.

The "PMI Pathway" bypasses the queues and uncertainty, putting you back in control.

NHS vs. The PMI Pathway: A Comparison

StageStandard NHS Journey (Illustrative)The PMI Pathway
1. SymptomA persistent back pain develops.A persistent back pain develops.
2. GP AccessWait 1-2 weeks for a routine GP appointment.Access a 24/7 digital GP service, often same-day.
3. ReferralGP refers you to a specialist. The NHS waiting list for this first consultation can be 18+ weeks.The private GP provides an open referral. You choose a specialist and book an appointment, often within days.
4. DiagnosticsFurther waiting for scans (MRI, CT). This can add several more weeks or months.Scans and diagnostic tests are booked and completed within a week of the specialist consultation.
5. TreatmentDiagnosis confirmed. You join the waiting list for surgery or treatment, which could be 6-12 months long.Treatment is scheduled at a private hospital of your choice, at a time that suits you, often within 2-4 weeks.
Total Time9-18+ Months3-6 Weeks

For a business owner, the difference between a 12-month delay and a 4-week resolution is the difference between survival and failure.

2. The LCIIP Shield: Protecting Your Income While You Recover

What if you could afford to take the time off to get better? That’s what income protection does. A Limited Company Income Protection Plan (LCIIP) is a specific type of policy owned and paid for by your business.

  • How it works: If you're unable to work due to illness or injury, the policy pays a regular monthly income (e.g., up to 80% of your salary and dividends).
  • Tax Efficiency: Because the company pays the premiums, they are typically considered a legitimate business expense and are therefore tax-deductible.
  • Peace of Mind: This removes the financial fear. You can focus 100% on your recovery, knowing the bills are being paid and your family is secure.

PMI gets you treated quickly. LCIIP pays you while you're being treated. Together, they form a comprehensive shield for you and your business.

The Wellness Revolution: Modern Private Health Cover is About More Than a Cure

The best private medical insurance providers in the UK have evolved. They understand that prevention is better than cure, especially for busy professionals. Modern policies are now proactive health and wellness partnerships.

Here are some of the game-changing benefits included in many PMI plans today:

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Speak to a GP via video call from your home or office, anytime. Get prescriptions, advice, and referrals without the wait.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to therapy, counselling, and psychiatric support is now a core component, tackling stress and burnout before they become crises.
  • Proactive Health Screenings: Policies often include cover for regular check-ups to catch potential issues like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes at their earliest, most treatable stages.
  • Wellness Apps and Rewards: Get discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and even your insurance premium for staying active and healthy.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's another tool in your arsenal to proactively manage your health, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight and diet, which are cornerstones of long-term wellbeing.

Actionable Health Tips for the Time-Poor Entrepreneur

  1. Ring-fence Health Time: Book your health appointments (and exercise) in your diary as you would a non-negotiable client meeting.
  2. Embrace "Snackable" Wellness: Can't manage a 60-minute gym session? Try a 10-minute brisk walk after lunch, 10 minutes of stretching in the morning, and 10 minutes of mindfulness before bed. It all adds up.
  3. Prioritise Sleep: Lack of sleep destroys cognitive function, decision-making, and immunity. Aim for 7-8 hours. Treat your bedtime as a hard deadline.
  4. Hydrate and Fuel Properly: Your brain and body run on what you feed them. Keep a water bottle on your desk at all times. Avoid relying on caffeine and sugar for energy; opt for slow-release carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
  5. Listen to Your Body: That nagging pain, persistent cough, or unusual fatigue is your body's early warning system. Do not ignore it. Use your digital GP service to get it checked out immediately.

The UK private medical insurance market is complex. Providers like Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality all offer excellent but different products. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs, budget, and health priorities.

This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable ally.

  • We Are Independent: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best policy for you from across the market.
  • We Are Experts: We understand the fine print, the jargon (like "moratorium underwriting" vs. "full medical"), and the nuances of policies for the self-employed and limited company directors.
  • There Is No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium price. You pay the same, or often less, than going direct.
  • We Save You Time and Hassle: We do the research, compare the quotes, and handle the application, freeing you up to focus on your business.
  • We Offer More: When you arrange cover through WeCovr, we can also offer discounts on other essential policies, such as life insurance or critical illness cover, creating a holistic protection plan.

WeCovr consistently earns high satisfaction ratings from our clients because we prioritise clear, honest advice tailored to each individual's unique situation.

Understanding the Costs: What Influences Your PMI Premium?

It's impossible to give a one-size-fits-all price, but understanding the key factors will help you see what a policy might cost.

Illustrative Monthly PMI Premiums (2025 Estimates)

Age GroupBasic Cover (High Excess, Core Cover)Comprehensive Cover (Low Excess, Full Outpatient)
30-39£35 - £55£70 - £110
40-49£50 - £80£95 - £150
50-59£75 - £120£140 - £220
60+£110 - £180£200 - £350+

Disclaimer: These are illustrative estimates only. Actual quotes will vary based on:

  • Age: Premiums increase with age.
  • Location: Costs are typically higher in London and the South East.
  • Cover Level: The more comprehensive the cover (e.g., outpatient diagnostics, mental health), the higher the cost.
  • Excess: A higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) will lower your premium.
  • Hospital List: Choosing a list with fewer, more local hospitals can reduce the cost compared to a nationwide list including prime London clinics.
  • Underwriting: Moratorium underwriting (which automatically excludes recent pre-existing conditions) is often quicker and simpler than Full Medical Underwriting (where you declare your full history).

An expert at WeCovr can walk you through these options to design a policy that provides the right protection at a price that fits your budget.

Is private medical insurance worth it for a self-employed person in the UK?

Absolutely. For a self-employed person, time is money and health is the business's core asset. With NHS waiting lists potentially stretching for months for diagnosis and treatment, private medical insurance can mean the difference between a swift recovery and business failure. It provides fast access to specialists and private hospitals, bypassing queues and getting you back to work sooner.

Does UK private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had symptoms of, or sought advice for, before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes). Some policies may cover a pre-existing condition after a set period (e.g., two years) if you have remained symptom-free, but this is a key exclusion to be aware of.

How does a PMI broker like WeCovr get paid?

An independent PMI broker like WeCovr provides advice and arranges your policy at no direct cost to you. We are paid a commission by the insurance provider you choose to proceed with. This commission is already factored into the insurer's standard pricing, so you don't pay more for our expert, impartial advice; in fact, our market knowledge can often help you find a better-value policy than you might find going direct.

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

Yes, most business health insurance policies are flexible and allow you to add your spouse, partner, and dependent children. Extending this peace of mind to your family can be a valuable benefit. It ensures that a health issue for a loved one, which can be just as stressful and disruptive as your own, is also dealt with quickly and effectively, allowing you to maintain focus on your work and their recovery.

Your health is not an expense; it's the single most important investment you will ever make in your business and your family's future. The Business Health Trap is real, and the stakes are too high to ignore.

Don't wait for a warning sign to become a catastrophe. Take proactive control today.

Get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote from WeCovr and build your proactive defence in minutes.


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.