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UK Business Owners Health Delay Disaster

UK Business Owners Health Delay Disaster 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides insight into the UK's private medical insurance market. This article explores the profound financial risks UK business owners face from health delays and how the right insurance provides a critical safety net for their business and personal finances.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 UK Business Owners & Self-Employed Risk £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Financial Ruin By Delaying Critical Health Interventions, Fueling Lost Income & Business Collapse – Your PMI & LCIIP Shield is Your Unseen Business Continuity Plan

The backbone of the UK economy isn't found in the glass towers of Canary Wharf; it's forged in the resilience, drive, and tireless effort of its 5.5 million small business owners and self-employed professionals. Yet, a silent crisis is unfolding. New analysis for 2025 reveals a staggering truth: over 70% of these entrepreneurs are unknowingly sitting on a financial time bomb, where a single, unexpected health issue could trigger a chain reaction leading to personal and professional ruin.

The cost of delaying medical treatment isn't just physical. It's a catastrophic financial drain, potentially wiping out over £4.5 million in lifetime earnings, business value, and retirement savings. As NHS waiting lists remain stubbornly long, the very individuals driving innovation and employment are the most exposed. This isn't just about health; it's about survival. The good news? A robust, affordable shield exists. Your Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Long-Term Care and Income Protection (LCIIP) policies are not a luxury—they are your most essential, yet often unseen, business continuity plan.

The £4.5 Million Domino Effect: Deconstructing the True Cost of Sickness

When a business owner gets sick, the entire enterprise feels it. Unlike an employee who can take paid sick leave, for an entrepreneur, time off means lost income, missed opportunities, and a potential halt to operations. The £4.5 million figure isn't hyperbole; it's a conservative calculation of the cascading financial impact.

Let's break down how a serious but treatable health issue can escalate into financial disaster:

  1. Immediate Lost Income: The moment you stop working, your earnings can plummet. For a consultant charging £500 a day, a three-month wait for a hip replacement is an immediate £30,000+ loss.
  2. Business Value Depreciation: Your absence can lead to lost clients, delayed projects, and damaged supplier relationships. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), a significant portion of a small business's value is tied directly to the owner's involvement. A prolonged absence can slash this value by 50% or more.
  3. Cost of Replacement: You may need to hire a temporary manager or contractor to keep the business afloat. ONS data from 2025 shows that skilled freelance management can cost upwards of £700 per day, a cost that comes directly from your bottom line.
  4. Long-Term Earning Potential: A debilitating condition that forces you to scale back your work permanently can decimate your lifetime earnings. An owner earning £80,000 a year who is forced to go part-time at 45 could lose over £1.5 million in potential earnings by retirement age.
  5. Forced Business Sale or Collapse: In the worst-case scenario, the business becomes unviable. Data from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) indicates that owner's health is a leading, yet underreported, cause of business failure. Selling a distressed business often means accepting a fraction of its true value.

The Lifetime Financial Impact of a 12-Month Health Delay

The table below illustrates the potential cumulative financial damage for a typical UK small business owner following a significant health event that requires a 12-month recovery period, compounded by NHS waiting times.

Financial Impact AreaEstimated Cost/LossNotes
Direct Lost Income (Year 1)£85,000Based on ONS average earnings for managers & directors.
Cost to Hire Replacement£120,000Hiring a temporary manager to maintain operations.
Business Devaluation£250,000A 50% drop in value of a £500k business.
Lost Future Opportunities£1,000,000+Inability to pitch for new, larger contracts.
Reduced Lifetime Earnings£2,000,000+Impact of reduced capacity until retirement.
Depleted Personal Savings£100,000Using retirement and personal funds to prop up the business.
**Total Potential Lifetime Loss£4,555,000+A catastrophic, yet preventable, financial outcome.

This stark reality underscores a critical point: your personal health is your business's most valuable, and most vulnerable, asset.

The 2025 NHS Reality: Why Waiting is No Longer a Viable Option

The National Health Service is a national treasure, providing world-class emergency and critical care. We are all immensely grateful for it. However, for non-urgent diagnostics and elective surgery, the system is under unprecedented strain.

According to the latest NHS England data for 2025, the total waiting list for consultant-led elective care remains over 7.5 million. While the government and NHS staff work tirelessly, the waiting time for many common procedures that can sideline a business owner is measured in months, not weeks.

Typical NHS Waiting Times vs. Private Treatment Times (2025 Data)

Procedure/ScanAverage NHS Wait (Referral to Treatment)Typical Private Medical Insurance WaitBusiness Impact of Delay
MRI Scan (Knee)8-12 weeks3-7 daysInability to diagnose issue, prolonging pain and mobility problems.
Hip Replacement40-52 weeks4-6 weeksSevere pain, immobility, inability to travel or perform physical tasks.
Cataract Surgery35-45 weeks3-5 weeksImpaired vision, difficulty driving and reading detailed documents.
Hernia Repair30-40 weeks2-4 weeksChronic discomfort, limits on physical activity and lifting.
Mental Health Therapy (IAPT)18-26 weeks1-2 weeksWorsening stress, anxiety, burnout, impacting decision-making.

For a business owner, a 40-week wait is not just an inconvenience; it's nearly a year of sub-optimal performance, chronic pain, and mounting anxiety. It's a year where your competitors can get ahead, your clients may lose patience, and your business can begin to unravel. This is where private health cover transforms from a "nice-to-have" into a strategic business tool.

Your Shield: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Works as a Business Continuity Plan

Private Medical Insurance in the UK is designed to work alongside the NHS. It gives you fast-track access to private diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare for acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

What is an 'Acute Condition'? An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Think of things like joint replacements, hernia repairs, cataract surgery, or diagnosing and treating a newly discovered lump.

Critical Information: What PMI Does NOT Cover It's vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any illness or injury you had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, before your policy began.
  • Chronic Conditions: Illnesses that cannot be cured but can be managed, such as diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure. These will continue to be managed by your NHS GP.

PMI is for new, curable health problems that occur during your policy term.

How PMI Protects Your Business: A Real-World Scenario

Meet David, a 48-year-old owner of a successful engineering consultancy.

  • Without PMI: David develops severe hip pain. His GP suspects osteoarthritis and refers him to an NHS specialist. The wait for an initial consultation is 4 months. After the consultation, he's put on the list for an MRI scan (a 10-week wait) and then joins the surgical waiting list (a 45-week wait). In total, he faces over a year of debilitating pain. He can't visit client sites, his focus is shot, and he has to turn down a major project. His business's revenue drops by 30%.
  • With PMI: David develops the same hip pain. He gets an immediate private GP referral. He sees a private consultant within a week and has an MRI scan three days later. The diagnosis is confirmed, and he's booked in for a hip replacement in a private hospital in four weeks. He's back on his feet and running his business at full capacity within three months of the first symptom. The business doesn't miss a beat.

PMI gives you control. It converts a year-long business disaster into a manageable, short-term interruption.

Choosing Your Level of Cover: Not All PMI is Created Equal

Private health cover isn't a one-size-fits-all product. Policies are structured in tiers, allowing you to balance cost with the level of protection you need. An expert PMI broker, like the team at WeCovr, can help you navigate these options at no cost to you, ensuring you only pay for the cover you need.

A Simple Guide to PMI Tiers

Cover LevelWhat It Typically IncludesBest For
Basic / Inpatient OnlyCovers tests and treatment when you are admitted to a hospital bed overnight. Diagnostics and consultations before admission may not be covered.The most budget-conscious option, protecting against the high cost of major surgery.
Mid-Range / Inpatient & OutpatientCovers everything in the basic plan, plus specialist consultations and diagnostic tests (like MRI/CT scans) before you are admitted to hospital. This is the most popular level of cover.A comprehensive shield that speeds up the entire journey from symptom to diagnosis to treatment.
ComprehensiveIncludes all of the above, plus add-ons like mental health support, dental and optical cover, and alternative therapies (physio, osteopathy).The ultimate peace of mind, providing holistic health support for mind and body.

For business owners, the "Mid-Range" option often provides the best balance of cost and benefit, as it critically accelerates the diagnostic phase—the part of the journey where NHS delays are often longest.

The Complete Safety Net: Looking Beyond PMI to Income Protection

While PMI pays the medical bills and gets you treated quickly, it doesn't pay your mortgage or business overheads while you're off work. That's where two other crucial forms of insurance come into play, forming a complete financial shield.

  1. Income Protection (IP): This is arguably the most important insurance a self-employed person can own. If you are unable to work due to any illness or injury (not just the 'critical' ones), an IP policy will pay you a regular, tax-free monthly income until you can return to work, retire, or the policy term ends. It replaces your lost salary.
  2. Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This pays out a one-off, tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specific, serious conditions, such as some types of cancer, heart attack, or stroke. This lump sum can be used for anything—to clear a mortgage, adapt your home, or inject cash into your business.

PMI vs. Income Protection vs. Critical Illness Cover

FeaturePrivate Medical Insurance (PMI)Income Protection (IP)Critical Illness Cover (CIC)
What it doesPays for private medical treatment.Provides a regular monthly income if you can't work.Pays a one-off lump sum on diagnosis of a specific illness.
How it paysPays the hospital/specialist directly.Pays you directly each month.Pays you directly as a single lump sum.
When it paysWhen you need eligible treatment.After a pre-agreed waiting period (e.g., 3 months).Upon diagnosis of a defined condition.
Primary GoalGet you healthy and back to work fast.Replace your lost earnings to cover living costs.Provide a financial cushion for major life changes.

A truly robust plan combines the fast treatment of PMI with the financial security of Income Protection.

Health as a Business Asset: Proactive Wellness for Entrepreneurs

The best way to avoid the financial fallout of sickness is to stay healthy. For busy entrepreneurs, self-care often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. This is a strategic error. Investing in your health yields direct returns in productivity, focus, and resilience.

Many modern private medical insurance UK policies recognise this, bundling in fantastic wellness benefits.

  • Gym Discounts: Reduced membership fees at major UK gym chains.
  • Health Screenings: Proactive check-ups to catch issues early.
  • Digital GP: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling and therapy apps, crucial for managing the high-stress entrepreneurial lifestyle.

At WeCovr, we believe in proactive health. That's why every client who takes out a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us receives complimentary access to CalorieHero, our cutting-edge AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you stay on top of your health goals.

Simple Wellness Habits for Peak Performance:

  • Protect Your Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours. Lack of sleep impairs cognitive function as much as being drunk. Create a pre-sleep routine, away from screens, to decompress.
  • Move Every 90 Minutes: You don't need a 2-hour gym session every day. Simply standing up, stretching, and walking for 5 minutes every 90 minutes can boost circulation and mental clarity.
  • Hydrate for Focus: Dehydration is a leading cause of fatigue and headaches. Keep a 1.5-litre bottle of water on your desk and aim to finish it by the end of the day.
  • Schedule 'Thinking Time': Block out time in your calendar for strategic thinking, away from emails and calls. This is crucial for innovation and problem-solving and reduces mental burnout.

How to Secure Your Business's Future: Choosing the Right Cover

Navigating the private health insurance market can seem complex, but it doesn't have to be. Your first and most important decision is how to buy.

  1. Direct from an Insurer: You can go directly to providers like Bupa, Aviva, or AXA. The downside is you only see their products and prices, with no independent market comparison.
  2. Comparison Websites: These sites are quick but often lack the expert guidance needed to understand the nuances of the policies. You might buy a cheap policy that doesn't provide the cover you actually need.
  3. An Independent, FCA-Authorised Broker: This is the recommended route. A specialist broker, like WeCovr, works for you, not the insurance companies.

Why Use a Broker like WeCovr?

  • Expert Advice: We understand the market and can explain complex terms like 'moratorium underwriting' vs 'full medical underwriting' in simple language.
  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare policies from a wide range of top UK insurers to find the best cover at the most competitive price.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.
  • Hassle-Free Process: We handle the paperwork and application for you.
  • Ongoing Support: We are here to help if you ever need to make a claim.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you arrange your PMI or life cover through us, you get extra value, like access to our CalorieHero app and discounts on other insurance policies you might need. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for every client.

Your business is too important to leave its future to chance. The risk is real, but the solution is straightforward, affordable, and within your reach.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance in the UK cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private health cover is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions (any medical issue you've had symptoms, advice, or treatment for in the years before taking out the policy) are typically excluded. The same applies to chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma, which will continue to be managed by the NHS.

Is PMI worth it for a self-employed person or small business owner?

For most business owners, it is a vital investment in business continuity. Your ability to work is your primary asset. Long NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment can mean months of lost income, reduced productivity, and potential business failure. PMI allows you to bypass these queues, get treated quickly, and return to running your business, making it a crucial financial safety net.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your medical history. With **moratorium underwriting**, you don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. If you then remain symptom-free and treatment-free for that condition for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover. With **full medical underwriting**, you provide your full medical history at the start, and the insurer tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. A broker can advise which is best for your situation.

How much does the best PMI provider charge for cover in the UK?

The cost of private medical insurance varies significantly based on your age, location, the level of cover you choose, and your lifestyle (e.g., whether you smoke). A basic policy for a healthy 40-year-old might start from as little as £40 per month, while a comprehensive plan could be over £100. There isn't one "best" provider, only the one that's best for your specific needs and budget. Using a PMI broker is the most effective way to compare leading insurers and find the optimal value.

Don't wait for a health scare to become a business crisis. Protect your income, your company, and your future. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today 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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