Login

UK Diagnostic Delays 1 in 4 Britons at Risk

UK Diagnostic Delays 1 in 4 Britons at Risk 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is committed to providing clarity on complex topics like private medical insurance. This article dissects the growing crisis of diagnostic delays in the UK and explains how the right health cover can provide a vital safety net.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Face Crippling Diagnostic Delays, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Worsening Health, Lost Productivity & Eroding Life Quality – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid & Accurate Diagnosis, Timely Treatment & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Health Security

The United Kingdom is facing a silent health emergency. Projections for 2025, based on the latest NHS and Office for National Statistics (ONS) data, paint a stark picture. More than a quarter of the population could find themselves trapped in agonising waits for crucial diagnostic tests, from MRI scans to specialist consultations.

This isn't just about inconvenience. A delay in diagnosis can set off a devastating chain reaction we call the Lifetime Cost of Illness and Impairment Pathway (LCIIP). This pathway represents a cumulative burden potentially exceeding £4.0 million over a lifetime, comprising deteriorating health, lost earnings, and a profoundly diminished quality of life.

In this essential guide, we unpack the data, explain the true cost of waiting, and show how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful and accessible route to bypass these delays, securing your health, finances, and future peace of mind.

The Anatomy of a Crisis: Why Are UK Diagnostic Waits So Long?

The strain on the NHS is not a new story, but the scale of the diagnostic bottleneck has reached critical levels. Millions are waiting for key tests that determine the course of their treatment and, ultimately, their health outcomes.

According to NHS England data, the median waiting time for many standard diagnostic tests is now measured in months, not weeks. By 2025, these figures are projected to lengthen further.

Diagnostic Test/Procedure2024 Median Wait (NHS England)Projected 2025 Median Wait
MRI Scan9 Weeks11+ Weeks
CT Scan7 Weeks9+ Weeks
Non-obstetric Ultrasound8 Weeks10+ Weeks
Endoscopy (e.g., Colonoscopy)14 Weeks16+ Weeks
Cardiology Consultation18 Weeks22+ Weeks
Orthopaedic Consultation20 Weeks25+ Weeks

Source: Projections based on analysis of current NHS England waiting list data and trends.

What does this mean for you? If your GP suspects a condition that requires an MRI scan, you could face nearly three months of uncertainty, anxiety, and potentially worsening symptoms before you even get a clear picture of what's wrong. For conditions where early intervention is critical, such as cancer or neurological disorders, these delays can have life-altering consequences.

The £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden: Understanding the True Cost of Waiting (LCIIP)

The figure of a £4.0 million+ lifetime burden might seem abstract, but it becomes terrifyingly real when you break it down. This is the LCIIP – the Lifetime Cost of Illness and Impairment Pathway. It's the cumulative financial and personal impact of a delayed diagnosis.

Let's illustrate this with a hypothetical but realistic example:

Meet Mark, a 45-year-old self-employed graphic designer with persistent knee pain.

  1. The Initial Wait & Worsening Condition: Mark’s GP suspects a torn meniscus and refers him for an NHS MRI. The wait is 12 weeks. During this time, his pain worsens, he limps heavily, and he can no longer cycle or play football with his children. The constant discomfort disrupts his sleep and concentration.

  2. Delayed Diagnosis & More Complex Treatment: The MRI finally confirms a complex tear that has worsened due to the delay. What might have been a simple keyhole procedure now requires more invasive surgery and a longer recovery period.

  3. Lost Productivity & Income:

    • Pre-Surgery: Mark loses an average of 5 hours of work per week due to pain, fatigue, and multiple appointments (£15,000 lost income over a year).
    • Post-Surgery: He requires 8 weeks off work completely for recovery, followed by 6 months of reduced hours during rehabilitation (£30,000 lost income).
    • Long-Term Impact: He develops osteoarthritis in the knee, a chronic condition, forcing him to reduce his working hours permanently. Over the next 20 years of his working life, this could amount to over £500,000 in lost potential earnings.
  4. Worsening Health & Private Costs: The osteoarthritis requires ongoing pain management. Frustrated with NHS waits for physiotherapy, he pays for private sessions (£2,000 per year). The chronic pain impacts his mental health, leading to anxiety.

  5. Eroding Life Quality: Mark can no longer enjoy his hobbies. Family holidays are restricted. The chronic pain and financial stress strain his relationships. This loss of quality of life is immeasurable but profound.

When you compound these factors—lost income, future earning potential, private top-up costs, and the economic impact of a lower quality of life over decades—the lifetime financial and wellbeing cost can easily spiral into the millions. This is the LCIIP in action.

The PMI Pathway: Your Shield Against Diagnostic Delays

Private Medical Insurance is not a luxury; it is a strategic tool for managing your health and protecting your financial future. It provides a parallel pathway that runs alongside the NHS, offering speed, choice, and control when you need it most.

Crucial Point: It's vital to understand that standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. It does not cover pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy, nor does it cover the long-term management of chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma.

Here’s how the two pathways compare for someone needing a diagnosis:

Stage of JourneyStandard NHS PathwayPMI Pathway
GP ConsultationWait for a GP appointment at your local surgery.Access a private Digital GP, often 24/7, for a same-day video consultation.
Specialist ReferralGP refers you. Join a waiting list, potentially for many months.Digital GP provides an instant open referral.
Seeing a SpecialistWait to see an NHS consultant at a designated hospital.Book to see a specialist of your choice, often within a few days.
Diagnostic Scans/TestsJoin another waiting list for an MRI, CT, or other test (weeks to months).Scans and tests are booked at a private hospital or clinic, often within 48-72 hours.
Receiving ResultsWait for results and a follow-up NHS appointment.Results are delivered quickly, often directly by your chosen consultant in a follow-up appointment.
Starting TreatmentIf treatment is needed, you join the relevant NHS treatment waiting list.Treatment can be scheduled immediately at a private hospital of your choice.

With PMI, the entire diagnostic process can be condensed from many months of stressful waiting into just a few days. This speed is not just about convenience; it's about:

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Getting the right tests done quickly.
  • Timely Treatment: Starting the right treatment sooner, leading to better outcomes.
  • Peace of Mind: Dramatically reducing the anxiety and uncertainty of waiting.
  • Financial Protection: Preventing the cascade of lost income and productivity associated with the LCIIP.

The world of private medical insurance can seem complex, but it's built around providing flexible options to suit different needs and budgets. An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can help you compare policies from the best PMI providers at no cost to you, ensuring you get the right cover without overpaying.

Here are the key elements to consider:

1. Types of Underwriting

This is how an insurer assesses your medical history.

  • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy starts. However, if you go 2 full years on the policy without needing treatment, advice, or medication for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
  • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. This provides more certainty but can be a more involved process.

2. Levels of Cover

  • Comprehensive Cover: The most extensive option, covering diagnosis, outpatient consultations, and inpatient treatment (when you need a hospital bed).
  • Diagnostics Only: A highly cost-effective option focused purely on getting a fast diagnosis. It covers consultations and scans but not the subsequent treatment, which you would then have via the NHS. This is an excellent choice for those primarily concerned with bypassing the initial waiting lists.
  • Treatment Only: Covers you once you have a diagnosis from the NHS, allowing you to bypass the NHS treatment waiting list.

3. Key Policy Features

  • Outpatient Limit: The maximum amount your policy will pay for consultations and tests that don't require a hospital bed. This can range from £0 to unlimited. A good mid-range limit is often £1,000-£1,500.
  • Excess: The amount you agree to pay towards a claim, similar to car insurance. A higher excess (£250, £500) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Hospital List: Insurers have different lists of approved hospitals. Ensure the list includes convenient, high-quality facilities near you.

Working with an impartial broker ensures you understand these trade-offs and build a policy that perfectly matches your priorities.

More Than Just Medicine: The Modern Wellness Benefits of PMI

Today’s leading private health cover policies offer far more than just hospital treatment. They are evolving into holistic health and wellness partners.

Many policies now include as standard:

  • 24/7 Digital GP: Instant access to a GP via your phone, wherever you are.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to a set number of counselling or therapy sessions without a GP referral.
  • Wellness Apps & Programmes: Tools to help you manage your diet, fitness, and overall wellbeing.
  • Health & Lifestyle Discounts: Money off gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings.

At WeCovr, we enhance this value further. When you take out a PMI policy with us, you receive:

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: Our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you stay on top of your health goals.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us are eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect your entire life for less.

Our clients frequently tell us how much they value this holistic approach, and we consistently receive high satisfaction ratings for our service and expertise.

Proactive Health: Tips to Support Your Wellbeing

Whether you have PMI or not, taking proactive steps to manage your health is crucial. While waiting for any medical appointment, focusing on what you can control can make a significant difference to your physical and mental state.

  • Nourish Your Body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and oily fish. Reduce processed foods, sugar, and excessive alcohol, which can exacerbate inflammation and negatively impact mood.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate hormones, repair tissues, and manage stress levels. If pain or anxiety disrupts your sleep, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before bed.
  • Gentle Movement: If you're in pain, high-impact exercise may be off the cards. However, gentle movement like walking, swimming, or stretching can improve blood flow, reduce stiffness, and release endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators.
  • Mind Your Mind: The mental toll of a health scare is immense. Practice mindfulness, speak to trusted friends or family, and don't hesitate to use resources like the NHS's talking therapies service. Keeping a journal can also be a powerful way to process your worries.
  • Communicate Effectively: When speaking with your GP, be prepared. Write down your symptoms, when they started, and any questions you have. Ask clearly about the expected wait time for your referral and if there is anything you can do to manage your symptoms in the meantime.

Take Control of Your Health Security Today

The data is clear: the risk of being caught in long diagnostic delays is real and growing, and the lifetime consequences can be devastating. Relying solely on a system under immense pressure is a gamble with your most precious assets: your health and your financial stability.

Private medical insurance in the UK is the definitive way to take back control. It provides a direct, rapid, and effective pathway to the diagnosis and treatment you need, precisely when you need it. It acts as a shield against the crippling LCIIP, preserving not only your physical health but also your ability to work, earn, and enjoy life to the fullest.

Don't wait until a health concern becomes a crisis. Explore your options today.

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

Generally, an **acute condition** is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery, such as a joint injury, appendicitis, or a cataract. Private medical insurance is designed to cover these. A **chronic condition** is one that is long-lasting and often cannot be fully cured, requiring ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, asthma, and osteoarthritis. The long-term management of chronic conditions is not covered by standard PMI policies.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. A condition is typically considered pre-existing if you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice for it in the five years before your policy starts. This is a fundamental principle of PMI, which is designed to cover new, unforeseen health issues that arise after you take out the cover.

How much does private health cover cost in the UK?

The cost of private health cover varies widely based on several factors, including your age, your location, the level of cover you choose, the excess you select, and your medical history. A basic policy focused on diagnostics might start from as little as £30 per month for a young, healthy individual, while a comprehensive policy with no excess could be over £100 per month. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote.

Why should I use a PMI broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Using an expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no extra cost to you. We compare policies from a wide range of leading insurers to find the best fit for your specific needs and budget, saving you time and potentially money. We provide impartial advice, explaining the complex jargon and policy differences in plain English. If you go direct, you only get one perspective and one price, whereas a broker provides a view of the whole market to ensure you make a fully informed choice.

Ready to build your shield against health uncertainty? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.


Related guides


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.