WeCovr.

Login

UK Diagnosis Delay The Hidden Catastrophe

UK Diagnosis Delay The Hidden Catastrophe 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds arranged for our clients, WeCovr is committed to providing clarity on the UK health landscape. This article explores how private medical insurance is becoming a vital tool for securing your health and financial future.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Prolonged NHS Diagnostic Delays Are Trapping Over 1 in 4 Britons in Worsening Health, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Increased Treatment Costs, Irreversible Damage & Lost Productive Years – Is Your Private Medical Insurance Your Essential Pathway to Rapid Diagnosis & Superior Outcomes

The ticking clock of a health concern is a source of anxiety for anyone. But what happens when that clock slows to a crawl? New analysis for 2025 paints a stark picture of the UK's healthcare landscape: prolonged waits for essential diagnostic tests are no longer just an inconvenience; they are a hidden catastrophe silently unfolding across the nation.

The data is sobering. Over a quarter of Britons are now caught in a cycle of waiting, their conditions potentially worsening with each passing week. This isn't just about discomfort; it's about the very real risk of treatable illnesses becoming complex, chronic problems. The financial fallout is equally staggering. For an individual whose delayed diagnosis leads to irreversible damage and an inability to work, the estimated lifetime cost—encompassing advanced medical care, social support, and lost earnings—can exceed an astonishing £4.1 million.

This is the devastating domino effect of diagnostic delays. In this guide, we will unpack this crisis, explore its human and economic cost, and explain how taking control of your diagnostic journey with private medical insurance (PMI) can be the most important health decision you make.

The Human Cost: What a Diagnostic Delay Truly Means

Statistics can feel abstract. Let's translate them into real-world impact. A diagnostic delay is the gap between your GP referring you for a test (like an MRI, CT scan, or endoscopy) and you actually receiving that test and getting a result.

While the NHS aims for a maximum 6-week wait for diagnostic tests, the reality is starkly different. According to the latest NHS England data, hundreds of thousands of patients are waiting longer, with many waiting over 13 weeks.

Consider these common scenarios:

  • The Persistent Knee Pain: A 45-year-old keen runner develops knee pain. A GP suspects a torn meniscus and refers them for an MRI. With a 14-week NHS wait, they continue to move on the unstable knee, causing further cartilage damage. By the time the diagnosis is confirmed, what could have been a simple keyhole surgery now requires a more complex procedure with a longer, more painful recovery.
  • The Unexplained Stomach Issues: A 30-year-old experiences persistent bloating and abdominal pain. An NHS wait for an endoscopy to rule out conditions like coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease stretches over four months. During this time, their symptoms worsen, impacting their work, social life, and mental health. A swift diagnosis could have led to immediate dietary changes and medication, preventing months of suffering.
  • The Worrying Mole: A 55-year-old is referred to a dermatologist for a suspicious mole. The waiting list for an urgent dermatology appointment is 8 weeks. While this may fall within certain targets, for a potential melanoma, every single day counts. The anxiety during this period is immense, and any delay can dramatically alter the prognosis.

In each case, the delay transforms a manageable, acute issue into something more serious, sometimes leading to chronic pain, irreversible damage, or a more challenging treatment path.

The Economic Domino Effect: A Nation Paying the Price

The impact of these delays extends far beyond the individual, creating ripples across the entire UK economy.

  1. A Shrinking Workforce: The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has consistently reported that long-term sickness is a primary driver of economic inactivity. As of early 2025, a record number of people are out of the workforce for health reasons. When a diagnosis is delayed, a person's ability to work is compromised for longer, with many being forced to leave their jobs entirely.
  2. The Rise of 'Presenteeism': Many people don't leave work but continue to attend while unwell and waiting for a diagnosis. This 'presenteeism' leads to drastically reduced productivity, costing UK businesses billions each year.
  3. Increased Strain on the NHS: When a condition is caught late, it is often more complex and expensive to treat. Early-stage cancer treatment is significantly less costly than late-stage palliative care. A simple physiotherapy course is cheaper than joint replacement surgery. Delays don't save money; they shunt higher costs further down the line.
  4. The Burden on Families: The emotional and financial strain on families and unpaid carers who support loved ones through long periods of diagnostic uncertainty is immense.

The £4.1 million lifetime burden figure is a stark calculation of this worst-case scenario: a skilled individual in their prime, forced out of work by a preventable, life-changing disability caused by a delayed diagnosis. It combines a lifetime of lost earnings, pension contributions, and tax revenue with the direct costs of advanced NHS treatment and lifelong social care.

Why Are Diagnostic Waits So Long? The Perfect Storm

The current crisis in NHS diagnostics is not due to a single failure but a confluence of powerful factors:

  • Pandemic Backlog: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a seismic disruption, pausing routine diagnostics and creating a backlog that the system is still struggling to clear.
  • Workforce Shortages: There is a critical shortage of key diagnostic staff, including radiologists (who interpret scans) and sonographers (who perform ultrasounds).
  • Ageing Population: An older population naturally has more complex health needs, increasing the overall demand for diagnostic imaging and tests.
  • Underinvestment: For years, the UK has had fewer MRI and CT scanners per capita compared to other developed nations, creating a fundamental capacity issue.

This combination of soaring demand and constrained capacity has created the long waiting lists we see today.

Diagnostic TestTypical NHS Waiting Time (2025 Data)Typical Private Health Cover Timeline
MRI Scan (e.g., for back pain)8 - 16 weeks3 - 7 days
CT Scan (e.g., for head/chest)6 - 14 weeks3 - 7 days
Ultrasound (e.g., for abdomen)6 - 12 weeks2 - 5 days
Endoscopy/Colonoscopy10 - 20+ weeks1 - 2 weeks
Specialist Consultation18 - 40+ weeks1 - 2 weeks

Note: NHS waits can vary significantly by region and urgency. Private timelines are typical estimates after a GP referral.

Private Medical Insurance: Your Fast-Track to Diagnosis and Treatment

This is where private medical insurance (PMI) emerges as a powerful solution. It doesn't replace the NHS—which remains essential for emergencies and chronic care—but provides a parallel pathway to bypass the queues for elective diagnosis and treatment.

How does it work?

  1. You see your GP: Your health journey almost always starts with your NHS GP. If they believe you need further investigation, they will write you a referral letter.
  2. You contact your PMI provider: Instead of joining the NHS waiting list, you call your insurer's claims line with your GP referral.
  3. Choose your specialist and hospital: Your insurer will provide a list of approved specialists and private hospitals from your chosen hospital list. You can book an appointment that suits you, often within a few days.
  4. Get your tests done, fast: The private hospital will carry out the necessary scans, blood tests, or procedures promptly.
  5. Receive a diagnosis and treatment plan: With results often available in 24-48 hours, your specialist can confirm a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan, which your PMI policy will also cover (subject to your policy limits).

This process cuts the waiting time from months to mere days, giving you the three things that matter most when you're unwell: speed, certainty, and peace of mind.

Critical Clarification: What PMI Does and Doesn't Cover

It is essential to be crystal clear on this point. Standard private medical insurance in the UK is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract, a hernia, a joint injury).
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, requires ongoing management, or is likely to recur (e.g., diabetes, asthma, Crohn's disease).
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or symptom you have experienced or sought advice for in the years before your policy began.

PMI does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. The NHS provides care for these. The value of PMI lies in its ability to swiftly diagnose and treat new problems, preventing them from becoming chronic in the first place.

How to Choose the Best Private Health Cover for You

Navigating the PMI market can feel daunting. This is where an expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr becomes an invaluable partner. As an FCA-authorised broker, our role is to understand your unique needs and budget, and then compare policies from across the market to find the perfect fit for you, at no extra cost.

Here are the key elements to consider when building your policy:

  1. Level of Cover:

    • Basic: Covers essential in-patient and day-patient treatment (when you need a hospital bed).
    • Mid-Range: Adds a level of out-patient cover, typically for a set amount (e.g., £1,000) to cover initial consultations and diagnostic tests.
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive out-patient cover, often paying in full for diagnostics, plus additional benefits like therapy cover (physiotherapy, osteopathy) and mental health support.

  2. Underwriting Type:

    • Moratorium: This is the most common type. You don't declare your medical history upfront. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go 2 full years without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your history and may place specific, permanent exclusions on your policy from the start. This provides more certainty but can be more complex.

  3. The "Excess": This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium.

  4. Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospital lists. A national list is cheaper than one that includes prime central London hospitals.

WeCovr: More Than Just Insurance

We believe in a holistic approach to your health and wellbeing. That's why, when you arrange your private medical insurance with us, you get more than just a policy.

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you manage your diet and stay healthy.
  • Discounts on other cover: Our clients also benefit from discounts on other essential protection like life insurance or income protection.
  • Exceptional Service: We pride ourselves on our high customer satisfaction ratings, guiding you not just at the point of sale, but for the life of your policy.

Proactive Health: Your First Line of Defence

While insurance is a crucial safety net, the best strategy is always prevention. A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing many acute and chronic conditions.

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reduce your intake of processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats. Using an app like CalorieHero can make tracking your nutrition simple and effective.
  • Regular Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Include strength training twice a week.
  • Quality Sleep: Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's vital for physical repair, mental health, and immune function.
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress can have a physical impact. Incorporate mindfulness, yoga, or hobbies that help you relax and de-stress.
  • Don't Ignore Symptoms: If something doesn't feel right, see your GP. Early intervention is always the best course of action.

Ultimately, combining a proactive approach to your personal health with the security of a robust private medical insurance policy provides the most comprehensive defence against the uncertainty of the current healthcare climate. You are investing not just in treatment, but in your long-term wellness, productivity, and peace of mind.

Is private medical insurance UK worth the cost?

For many, the value of private medical insurance lies in speed, choice, and peace of mind. Given the significant and growing NHS waiting lists for diagnostic tests and elective surgery, PMI can be the difference between a swift diagnosis and recovery, or months of waiting in pain and anxiety. It allows you to bypass queues, choose your specialist and hospital, and get treated at a time that suits you, minimising the impact on your work and family life.

Does private health cover pay for pre-existing conditions?

No, a core principle of standard UK private medical insurance is that it does not cover pre-existing conditions. It is designed to cover new, acute conditions that develop after your policy begins. Underwriting methods like 'Moratorium' may allow a pre-existing condition to become eligible for cover if you remain symptom-free for a continuous two-year period after your policy starts. It is vital to discuss your medical history with a broker to understand what will and won't be covered.

Can I use my private medical insurance if I'm already on an NHS waiting list?

This depends on your policy's underwriting. If you take out a new policy for a condition for which you are already on a waiting list, that condition would be considered pre-existing and would not be covered. Private medical insurance is for future, unforeseen medical needs, not for conditions you already have.

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

In insurance terms, an acute condition is a disease or injury that is short-lived and expected to respond quickly to treatment, leading to a full recovery (e.g., a bone fracture, appendicitis, or a cataract). A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured, requiring ongoing management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). Private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions. The NHS provides care for chronic conditions.

Don't let your health become a waiting game. Take control of your diagnostic journey and secure your future.

[Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.]

Related guides

UK Cancer Diagnosis 1 in 4 Face Delay
UK Cancer Diagnosis 1 in 4 Face Delay
Read more →
UK Cancer Diagnosis Delay Crisis
UK Cancer Diagnosis Delay Crisis
Read more →
UK Delayed Diagnosis The Hidden Health Debt
UK Delayed Diagnosis The Hidden Health Debt
Read more →
UK Diagnosis Delay Crisis
UK Diagnosis Delay Crisis
Read more →
UK Diagnosis Delay Crisis
UK Diagnosis Delay Crisis
Read more →
UK Diagnosis Delay Crisis
UK Diagnosis Delay Crisis
Read more →
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 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London