Login

UK Business Owners Burnout £4M Lifetime Risk

UK Business Owners Burnout £4M Lifetime Risk 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds arranged, WeCovr is at the forefront of the UK’s health and protection market. We see first-hand the devastating impact of burnout and are committed to helping business owners secure their health and prosperity through tailored private medical insurance solutions.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 UK Business Owners & Directors Secretly Battle Chronic Burnout, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Productivity Collapse, Cognitive Decline, Business Failure & Eroding Personal Wealth – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Stress Resilience, Executive Wellness & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Prosperity

The silent epidemic of executive burnout is no longer a secret. New analysis of emerging 2025 trends reveals a crisis brewing in the engine room of the UK economy. Over two in five (a projected 43%) of the nation's determined business owners and company directors are now grappling with chronic burnout, a debilitating state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

This isn't just about feeling tired. This is a relentless siege on your professional and personal life, creating a potential lifetime economic burden exceeding £4.0 million. This staggering figure, based on projections of lost earnings, diminished business value, healthcare costs, and unrealised personal wealth, represents the true cost of unchecked burnout over a professional lifetime.

The relentless pressure to innovate, manage cash flow, lead teams, and navigate economic uncertainty is pushing leaders to their absolute limits. But there is a powerful, proactive solution. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is no longer a mere perk; it is an essential strategic tool for safeguarding your most valuable asset: your health. This guide will illuminate the profound risks of burnout and detail how the right private health cover can be your shield, promoting resilience, ensuring longevity, and protecting your future prosperity.

The £4 Million Question: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost of Burnout

How can burnout possibly cost £4 million over a lifetime? It’s not a single event, but a cascade of devastating financial consequences. Our analysis models the cumulative impact across several key areas for a typical successful UK business owner.

Cost ComponentDescription of ImpactEstimated Lifetime Financial Burden
Productivity Collapse & Lost EarningsChronic fatigue leads to "presenteeism"—being at work but not functioning. This means missed opportunities, poor strategic decisions, and delayed projects, directly hitting revenue and personal income.£1,250,000
Cognitive Decline & Reduced EfficacyBurnout impairs memory, creativity, and executive function. This erodes your ability to lead, innovate, and negotiate, diminishing your long-term earning potential and leadership value.£750,000
Business Stagnation or FailureA burnt-out leader cannot steer a ship through stormy seas. The business may stagnate or, in worst-case scenarios, fail completely, wiping out years of hard work and invested capital.£1,500,000
Increased Healthcare CostsUnmanaged stress manifests physically. The costs of long-term treatment for conditions like heart disease, chronic pain, and severe mental health issues add up significantly.£250,000
Eroded Personal Wealth & RetirementBusiness failure and reduced income directly impact your personal savings, investments, and pension pot, jeopardising your financial security and retirement plans.£250,000+
Total Projected Lifetime Burden(Based on modelling)£4,000,000+

Disclaimer: This £4.0 million figure is an illustrative projection based on a lifetime career model. It synthesises data on average SME turnover, director salaries, business failure rates (ONS), and the known productivity costs of poor mental health (Deloitte, Centre for Mental Health) to demonstrate the potential financial devastation of chronic, unaddressed burnout.

What is Executive Burnout? It's More Than Just a Bad Week

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officially recognises burnout as an "occupational phenomenon." It's crucial to understand that it is not a medical condition in itself, but a state of chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterised by three distinct dimensions:

  1. Overwhelming Exhaustion: A profound sense of emotional and physical energy depletion. You feel drained, unable to cope, and tired all the time.
  2. Cynicism and Detachment: An increasing mental distance from your job. You may feel negative, cynical, or detached from your business, colleagues, and clients. The passion that once drove you is gone.
  3. Reduced Professional Efficacy: A feeling of incompetence and a lack of achievement. You doubt your abilities and feel that you are no longer effective in your role.

Many business owners mistake burnout for simple stress. While related, they are not the same.

FeatureStressBurnout
Core EmotionOver-engagement, urgencyDisengagement, helplessness
Physical ImpactHyperactivity, anxietyEmotional blunting, fatigue
Primary DamageDrains physical energyDamps down emotions
DriverA sense of too much pressureA sense of not enough meaning
Mindset"I must get this done""I just can't do this anymore"

A Real-Life Example: Meet Sarah, director of a successful marketing agency. For years, she thrived on the pressure. But recently, 14-hour days have become the norm. She's irritable with her team, can't focus in client meetings, and the thought of opening her emails fills her with dread. She's stopped exercising and relies on caffeine and sugary snacks to get through the day. Sarah isn't just stressed; she is on the fast track to complete burnout, risking her health and the business she built from scratch.

The PMI Pathway: Your Proactive Defence Against Burnout

Waiting until you are completely broken is not a strategy. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) provides a structured pathway to manage the causes and symptoms of burnout long before they become catastrophic. It puts you back in control.

Crucial Clarification: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are new, unexpected, and likely to respond quickly to treatment. It does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. Burnout itself is an occupational phenomenon, but PMI can treat the acute mental and physical health conditions that arise from it, such as anxiety, depression, or stress-related heart palpitations, provided they begin after your policy starts.

How Private Health Cover Directly Tackles Burnout Risks

  1. Rapid Access to Mental Health Support: This is the single most powerful benefit. NHS waiting lists for talking therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or counselling can be months long. For a business owner in crisis, this is too long. PMI offers swift access to a network of private specialists.
ServiceTypical NHS Waiting TimeTypical PMI Access Time
Initial GP Appointment1-2 weeksIncluded (often via 24/7 Digital GP)
Referral to IAPT (Talking Therapies)6-18+ weeksWithin days
Specialist Psychiatric Assessment18+ weeks1-2 weeks
Source: NHS England waiting time data and average PMI provider service level agreements.
  1. Executive Wellness and Prevention Tools: Leading PMI providers now include comprehensive wellness programmes. These are designed to keep you healthy, not just treat you when you're ill. This can include:

    • Health screenings to catch physical signs of stress early.
    • Gym discounts and activity tracking to encourage stress-reducing exercise.
    • Access to mindfulness and meditation apps.
    • Nutritional advice and support.
    • WeCovr enhances this by providing all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you manage your diet and energy levels effectively.
  2. Fast-Track Diagnostics for Physical Symptoms: The mind and body are linked. Chronic stress can cause very real physical symptoms like chest pains, severe headaches, or digestive issues. PMI allows you to bypass lengthy waits for diagnostic tests like MRI scans or specialist consultations, providing peace of mind and rapid treatment.

  3. Choice and Control: As a business owner, your time is precious. PMI gives you the control to choose your specialist and schedule appointments at times that suit your demanding schedule, minimising disruption to your business.

Shielding Your Future: The Power of Life & Critical Illness Protection

While PMI protects your health, a comprehensive protection strategy also shields your wealth. This is where Life and Critical Illness Insurance Protection (LCIIP) becomes essential.

  • Critical Illness Cover: This policy pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific serious illness listed on the policy, such as a heart attack, stroke, or some forms of cancer—conditions whose risks are exacerbated by chronic stress. This money can be used to:

    • Cover business overheads while you recover.
    • Pay off a mortgage or other debts.
    • Fund specialist treatment not covered by PMI.
    • Simply give you the financial breathing space to recover without worry.
  • Life Insurance: Provides a financial safety net for your family or business partners in the event of your death, ensuring the business can continue or be wound down solvently, and your loved ones are protected.

At WeCovr, we understand the importance of a holistic approach. That's why we offer significant discounts on other insurance policies when you take out Private Medical Insurance or Life Insurance with us, making comprehensive protection more affordable.

A Practical Toolkit for Building Stress Resilience

Insurance is your safety net, but building daily habits of resilience is your frontline defence. Here are practical, evidence-based strategies to protect your wellbeing.

1. Master Your Nutrition

What you eat directly impacts your mood and cognitive function.

  • Prioritise Protein: Include protein in every meal to stabilise blood sugar and prevent energy crashes.
  • Embrace Healthy Fats: Omega-3s, found in oily fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, are essential for brain health.
  • Limit Stimulants: Reduce your reliance on caffeine and sugar. They provide a short-term boost but lead to a long-term crash, exacerbating anxiety.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause fatigue and brain fog. Aim for 2-3 litres of water a day.

2. Reclaim Your Sleep

Sleep is a non-negotiable pillar of mental and physical health for a high-performing leader.

  • Create a Wind-Down Routine: An hour before bed, turn off screens. Read a book, listen to calming music, or take a warm bath.
  • Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to regulate your body clock.
  • Optimise Your Bedroom: Make it a sanctuary for sleep: cool, dark, and quiet.

3. Move Your Body

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

  • Schedule It In: Block out time in your diary for physical activity as if it were a critical business meeting.
  • Find What You Enjoy: You're more likely to stick with it if you enjoy it, whether it's running, cycling, weightlifting, or yoga.
  • Embrace Micro-Workouts: Even a 10-minute brisk walk between calls can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and clear your head.

4. Practice Mindful Disconnection

Your brain needs downtime to process information and recover.

  • Schedule "No-Tech" Time: Have periods in your day, especially in the evening, where your phone and laptop are out of sight.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Spend 5-10 minutes each day focusing on your breath. Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you.
  • Take Real Holidays: A proper holiday where you completely disconnect from work is not a luxury; it's essential for long-term performance and creativity.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

The UK private medical insurance market is complex, with numerous providers offering different levels of cover. As a business owner, you need a policy that focuses on mental health, rapid diagnostics, and flexibility.

A knowledgeable PMI broker is your most valuable ally in this process. An expert broker like WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies. We take the time to understand your specific needs, compare policies from across the market, and explain the fine print, ensuring you get the best possible cover for your budget. Our service comes at no extra cost to you.

Here’s a look at key considerations when comparing policies:

FeatureWhat to Look ForWhy It Matters for a Business Owner
Mental Health CoverA high outpatient limit (£1,500+) or unlimited cover. Check if therapies like CBT are included as standard.This is your primary defence against burnout. A low limit will be exhausted quickly.
Outpatient LimitsOptions for full cover or a high annual limit for consultations and diagnostic tests.Ensures you can get scans and see specialists quickly without worrying about hitting a low cap.
Hospital ListA comprehensive list that includes high-quality private hospitals near your home and work.Gives you flexibility and access to the best care facilities.
Digital GP ServiceA 24/7 service for instant access to a GP via phone or video call.Saves you valuable time and allows you to get medical advice without leaving the office.
Wellness ProgrammeLook for meaningful rewards and benefits that genuinely encourage a healthier lifestyle.Proactive health management is key to preventing burnout in the first place.
Excess LevelA higher voluntary excess can significantly reduce your monthly premium.A cost-effective way to manage your budget while retaining comprehensive cover.

Is stress or burnout considered a pre-existing condition for PMI?

Generally, Private Medical Insurance (PMI) does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are any diseases, illnesses, or injuries for which you have experienced symptoms or received treatment before your policy start date. Burnout itself is an "occupational phenomenon," not a medical diagnosis. However, if you have previously been treated for related mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, these would be considered pre-existing and likely excluded from cover. New, acute mental or physical health conditions that arise from stress *after* your policy begins would typically be covered, subject to your policy's terms.

How much does private health cover for a business owner cost in the UK?

The cost of private health cover varies widely based on several factors: your age, location, the level of cover you choose (e.g., outpatient limits, hospital list), and your chosen excess. For a healthy 40-year-old business owner, a comprehensive policy might range from £60 to £120 per month. A broker like WeCovr can provide a precise quote by comparing the market to find a policy that balances your budget with the robust cover you need.

What is the difference between using a PMI broker like WeCovr and going direct to an insurer?

Going direct to an insurer means you only see their products and hear their perspective. An independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr works on your behalf. We provide impartial advice and compare policies from a wide panel of leading UK insurers to find the one that truly fits your needs and budget. We handle the paperwork and explain the complexities, saving you time and potentially money. Our expert service is provided at no extra cost to you.

Can I extend my private medical insurance to my family or employees?

Yes, absolutely. You can easily add your partner and children to your personal policy. Alternatively, you can set up a small business health insurance scheme for your key employees. This is a highly valued benefit that can improve staff loyalty, reduce sickness absence, and create a healthier, more productive workplace culture. WeCovr can advise on the most cost-effective way to structure cover for yourself, your family, or your team.

Don't let burnout dictate the future of your business and your life. Take proactive control of your health and wellbeing today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how the right private medical insurance can be the best investment you ever make in your professional longevity and future prosperity.


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.