WeCovr.

Login

UK Energy Crisis Your Hidden Drain

UK Energy Crisis Your Hidden Drain 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr sees firsthand how health impacts financial security. This article explores the UK's hidden energy crisis and how private medical insurance can be a vital tool for protecting your career, prosperity, and most importantly, your wellbeing.

Shocking New UK Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Energy Depletion & Unexplained Fatigue, Fueling a Staggering £3.7 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Lost Productivity, Eroding Career Momentum & Unfulfilled Potential – Your PMI Pathway to Advanced Diagnostics, Personalised Vitality Protocols & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Prosperity

It’s a silent epidemic spreading through offices, workshops, and home-working setups across the United Kingdom. It’s not a virus, but it’s just as debilitating. It’s a profound, persistent, and often unexplained lack of energy that goes far beyond simple tiredness.

New workplace wellness data reveals a startling truth: over a third of the UK's working population is running on empty. They are battling a constant state of fatigue that drains their productivity, dims their ambition, and quietly sabotages their long-term career prospects. This isn't just about feeling sleepy after a late night; it's a chronic state of depletion that standard remedies like coffee and an early night can't fix.

The consequences are not just personal; they are economic. This pervasive energy crisis is creating a lifetime financial burden for affected individuals that can exceed a staggering £3.7 million in lost earnings, missed promotions, and squandered potential.

But there is a pathway back to vitality. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful solution, providing rapid access to the advanced diagnostics and specialist care needed to uncover the root cause of your fatigue. It's the key to unlocking personalised vitality protocols and creating a shield—what we call Long-term Career & Income Impact Protection (LCIIP)—to safeguard your future.

The Scale of the UK's Fatigue Epidemic

You might think you’re the only one struggling to get through the day, propped up by caffeine and sheer willpower. You are not alone. According to recent large-scale surveys of the British workforce, the problem is widespread:

  • Over 33% of UK Employees report experiencing persistent and unexplained fatigue that negatively impacts their work performance and daily life.
  • The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that a record 185.6 million working days were lost to sickness or injury in 2023, with "minor illnesses" – a category where fatigue is a primary symptom – being a leading cause.
  • Mental Fatigue is Soaring: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) notes that stress, depression, or anxiety accounted for nearly half of all work-related ill health cases, with fatigue being a cornerstone symptom.

This isn't just a post-pandemic hangover. It's a fundamental shift in the nation's health, driven by a perfect storm of modern pressures, changing work habits, and complex underlying medical issues that often go undiagnosed.

The £3.7 Million+ Ghost in Your Payslip: How Fatigue Destroys Lifetime Earnings

The idea that feeling tired could cost you millions over your lifetime might sound dramatic, but the financial logic is devastatingly simple. Chronic energy depletion isn’t just a health issue; it's a career-limiting condition.

Let's break down this projected £3.7 million+ lifetime burden for a typical professional. This is a model based on the cumulative impact of fatigue over a 40-year career.

Financial Impact AreaDescription of LossPotential 40-Year Financial Impact
Subtle Productivity DragYou're present, but not performing at 100%. Projects take longer, ideas are less innovative. This can result in smaller bonuses and lower annual pay rises, compounding year after year.£250,000 - £500,000+
Increased Sickness AbsenceTaking extra "duvet days" due to burnout or low energy. Even with company sick pay, this marks you as less reliable and can impact performance reviews.£50,000 - £100,000+
Missed Promotions (The Career Killer)This is the largest factor. When you lack energy, you're less likely to volunteer for challenging projects, lead teams, or impress senior management. Being overlooked for just two key promotions can be the difference between a senior management salary and a middle-management plateau.£1,500,000 - £3,000,000+
Stunted Professional DevelopmentLacking the mental energy to study for new qualifications, attend networking events, or keep up with industry trends, causing your skills to stagnate.£100,000 - £200,000+

Total Projected Lifetime Burden: Up to £3.7 Million+

This is the hidden cost of "powering through." It's a slow erosion of your professional momentum and financial future, happening so gradually you might not even notice until it's too late.

Why Are We So Tired? Uncovering the Root Causes

Unexplained fatigue is rarely due to a single cause. It's often a complex web of interconnected factors. Getting to the bottom of it requires a holistic and investigative approach that the time-pressed NHS is often unable to provide for such "vague" symptoms.

Potential culprits include:

  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of Iron, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, or Magnesium are incredibly common in the UK and are classic causes of fatigue.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), adrenal fatigue, or imbalances in sex hormones can wreak havoc on your energy levels.
  • Post-Viral Fatigue: Following infections like COVID-19, glandular fever, or even a bad flu, many people experience lingering fatigue that can last for months or years.
  • Chronic Stress & Burnout: The continuous release of the stress hormone cortisol can exhaust your adrenal system, leading to a state of profound mental and physical exhaustion.
  • Poor Sleep Quality: It's not just about the hours you sleep, but the quality. Conditions like sleep apnoea, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts, can destroy restorative sleep without you even knowing it.
  • Undiagnosed Food Intolerances: Conditions like coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity can cause systemic inflammation that manifests as brain fog and fatigue.
  • Gut Health Issues: An imbalanced gut microbiome can affect everything from your immune system to your mood and energy production.

The NHS vs. The Private Pathway: A Tale of Two Journeys

When you present to your GP with "Tired All The Time" (TATT), you begin a journey. The path you take can dramatically affect the outcome.

The Typical NHS Journey:

  1. Initial GP Visit: A 10-minute appointment. You might be told to improve your diet, sleep, and exercise.
  2. Basic Blood Tests: If fatigue persists, the GP may order a standard blood panel (e.g., Full Blood Count, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone).
  3. Long Waits for Referrals: If the basic tests are normal but you're still exhausted, getting a referral to a specialist like an endocrinologist or immunologist can take many months, sometimes over a year. The NHS waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at over 7.5 million people.
  4. Frustration and Inaction: Many people fall through the cracks, left to manage their debilitating symptoms alone because a clear, diagnosable cause hasn't been found quickly.

The Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Journey:

  1. Fast-Track GP Access: Many PMI policies include a digital GP service, allowing you to get an appointment within hours.
  2. Open Referral: The private GP can provide an "open referral" to a specialist.
  3. Rapid Specialist Consultation: You can typically see a private consultant of your choice within days or weeks, not months.
  4. Advanced, Comprehensive Diagnostics: This is the game-changer. A private consultant can order extensive tests in one go, far beyond the standard NHS panel. This could include:
    • Full Thyroid Panel: (TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Thyroid Antibodies)
    • Hormone Panels: (Cortisol, DHEA, Testosterone, Oestrogen)
    • Advanced Nutritional Testing: (Ferritin, Active B12, Vitamin D)
    • Inflammatory Markers: (hs-CRP, ESR)
    • MRI/CT Scans: To rule out other underlying issues.
    • Sleep Studies: To investigate conditions like sleep apnoea.
FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Medical Insurance Pathway
GP AccessDays or weeks for an appointmentHours or same-day (with digital GP)
Specialist Referral6-18+ months waiting listDays or weeks
Diagnostic TestsBasic initial tests, slow to escalateComprehensive, advanced testing from the start
Choice of SpecialistLimited to who is available locallyChoice of leading consultants nationwide
Time to DiagnosisMonths or years; often inconclusiveWeeks

A Crucial Note on Pre-Existing and Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand a core principle of the UK PMI market. Standard private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (ailments you already had or had symptoms of) or chronic conditions (illnesses that require long-term management, like diabetes or asthma).

So, how does this apply to fatigue? Fatigue itself is a symptom. PMI can be invaluable in funding the investigation to find the underlying acute cause.

  • If your fatigue is caused by a new, diagnosable acute condition (like a severe vitamin deficiency or a newly developed thyroid problem), PMI will cover the diagnosis and treatment.
  • If the investigation reveals a chronic condition, your PMI will have covered the crucial diagnostic phase, giving you a fast answer. However, the long-term management would then typically revert to the NHS. Getting that fast, clear diagnosis is often the most important battle.

Your PMI Toolkit: The Tools to Reclaim Your Vitality

Think of a good private medical insurance UK policy as your personal health toolkit. When you're facing an energy crisis, it provides the specific instruments you need to fix the problem.

  1. The Diagnostic Powerhouse: Gain access to cutting-edge scans and blood tests that pinpoint the precise biochemical reason for your fatigue. No more guesswork.
  2. The Specialist Brain Trust: Connect with leading endocrinologists, immunologists, nutritionists, and neurologists who can interpret your results and create a targeted plan.
  3. Mental Wellbeing Support: Most top-tier PMI policies now include comprehensive mental health cover, providing access to therapists or psychiatrists to tackle the burnout and stress components of fatigue.
  4. Complementary Therapies: Many policies offer a set number of sessions with physiotherapists, osteopaths, or chiropractors, which can help address physical pain that contributes to energy drain.

By using these tools, you move from being a passive sufferer to the empowered CEO of your own health.

Introducing LCIIP: Your Shield for Professional Longevity

We believe a modern professional needs more than just a pension plan; they need a Long-term Career & Income Impact Protection strategy.

LCIIP isn't a formal insurance product. It's a powerful concept for understanding the true value of your health. It’s the protective shield that having robust private health cover provides for your career and financial future.

How PMI forms the core of your LCIIP shield:

  • Minimises Downtime: By getting diagnosed and treated quickly, you spend less time feeling unwell and unable to work at your best.
  • Preserves Career Momentum: You maintain your performance, stay visible for key projects, and remain on track for promotions.
  • Reduces Financial Shocks: It covers the cost of private treatment, which can run into thousands or tens of thousands of pounds, protecting your savings.
  • Provides Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a fast-track option to the best care reduces health-related anxiety, freeing up mental energy to focus on your career and family.

Without this shield, a single, persistent health issue like chronic fatigue can derail a lifetime of hard work.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover

Navigating the world of private medical insurance can feel complex, but it boils down to a few key choices. An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, can guide you through this process at no extra cost to you, ensuring you get the right cover for your needs and budget.

Key considerations include:

  • Level of Outpatient Cover: This is crucial for diagnostics. Will your policy cover specialist consultations and tests in full, or is there a yearly limit?
  • Hospital List: Which private hospitals are you covered to use? Does it include facilities near your home and work?
  • Excess Level: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess will lower your monthly premium.
  • Underwriting Type: You can choose 'Moratorium' (which automatically excludes pre-existing conditions from the last 5 years) or 'Full Medical Underwriting' (where you declare your medical history upfront).

An independent broker doesn't work for the insurance companies; they work for you. WeCovr compares policies from all the best PMI providers to find the optimal blend of cover and cost.

WeCovr Added Value: As a WeCovr client, you not only get expert, unbiased advice but also additional benefits to support your health journey:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you manage your diet effectively.
  • Multi-policy Discounts: When you protect your health with PMI or your family with life insurance through us, you can get discounts on other types of cover, like home or car insurance.

Our high customer satisfaction ratings are built on a foundation of trust, expertise, and a genuine commitment to our clients' long-term wellbeing.

Can I get private medical insurance if I already feel tired all the time?

Yes, you can. However, it's crucial to understand how pre-existing conditions are handled. If you take out a 'Moratorium' policy, any condition (including fatigue) for which you have had symptoms, medication, or advice in the 5 years before your policy started will be excluded for an initial period (usually 2 years). If you have 'Full Medical Underwriting', you must declare your fatigue. The insurer might place an exclusion on investigations for it. The key benefit of PMI is often for future, new conditions that may arise, or for getting rapid diagnostics if a new, distinct symptom appears. An expert broker can help you navigate this.

Will PMI pay for things like vitamins, supplements, or special diets?

Generally, no. Private medical insurance is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions. It does not typically cover the cost of vitamins, supplements, gym memberships, or specific dietary plans. However, it will cover the cost of the consultant who might recommend these lifestyle changes and the diagnostic tests that led to that recommendation. For example, it would cover the blood test showing a Vitamin D deficiency, but not the Vitamin D tablets themselves.

How quickly can I see a specialist with private health cover?

The speed is a primary benefit of private health cover. Once you have a GP referral (which can often be obtained in hours via a digital GP service included in your policy), you can typically book an appointment with a private consultant within a few days to a couple of weeks. This is a stark contrast to the NHS, where waiting times for many specialisms can be many months or even over a year.

Is it better to use a PMI broker like WeCovr or go direct to an insurer?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr offers significant advantages at no extra cost to you. A broker works for you, not the insurer. We can compare the entire market to find the best policy for your specific needs and budget, explaining the complex differences in policy terms. Going direct to one insurer only gives you one option and one price. A broker provides choice, expert guidance, and can often find more comprehensive cover for a similar price, ensuring there are no nasty surprises when you need to claim.

Don't let fatigue steal your future. The first step to reclaiming your energy, protecting your career, and securing your financial prosperity is to get informed.

Take control of your health and career today. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr and discover how affordable your private medical insurance shield can be.

Related guides

UK Business Leaders The Hidden Energy Crisis
UK Business Leaders The Hidden Energy Crisis
Read more →
UK Energy Drain Crisis
UK Energy Drain Crisis
Read more →
UK Energy Drain Crisis
UK Energy Drain Crisis
Read more →
UK's Hidden Energy Crisis
UK's Hidden Energy Crisis
Read more →
UK's Hidden Energy Crisis
UK's Hidden Energy Crisis
Read more →
UK's Hidden Energy Crisis
UK's Hidden Energy 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