Login

UK Entrepreneur Burnout The £4.5M Cost

UK Entrepreneur Burnout The £4.5M Cost 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various kinds arranged, WeCovr provides leading advice on private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the devastating cost of entrepreneur burnout and how proactive health planning can protect you and your business.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 UK Entrepreneurs & Business Leaders Face Chronic Cognitive Burnout, Fueling a Staggering £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Impaired Decision-Making, Lost Innovation & Business Stagnation. Discover How PMI & LCIIP Shield Your Enterprise & Future Success

The life of a UK entrepreneur is a high-wire act. It’s a relentless pursuit of innovation, growth, and success, often at a significant personal cost. New analysis for 2025 paints a stark picture: over 70% of the UK's most dynamic business leaders are now experiencing symptoms of chronic cognitive burnout.

This isn't just about feeling tired. It's a creeping cognitive fog that erodes judgement, stifles creativity, and leads to a cascade of poor decisions. When modelled over a 30-year career, the cumulative impact of this burnout—factoring in missed opportunities, staff turnover, project failures, and personal health decline—creates a staggering potential lifetime cost exceeding £4.5 million per affected leader.

In this definitive guide, we will unpack this shocking figure, explore the science behind cognitive burnout, and reveal how strategic health investments like Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Leadership & Key Person Insurance Policies (LCIIP) are no longer a luxury, but a critical defence for your enterprise and your future.

The £4.5 Million Question: Deconstructing the True Cost of Burnout

That £4.5 million figure might seem astronomical, but it becomes frighteningly plausible when you break down the hidden costs that accumulate over an entrepreneur's career. This is not a direct financial loss but a modelled lifetime burden of lost value and incurred costs.

Here’s how the numbers stack up:

Cost FactorDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Impact
Impaired Decision-MakingBurnout leads to 'decision fatigue'. A single poor strategic choice—a bad hire, a mistimed market entry, a failed product launch—can cost a growing business hundreds of thousands. Multiplied over a career, this becomes millions.£1,500,000+
Lost Innovation & OpportunityCognitive exhaustion kills creativity. The 'next big idea' never materialises. Competitors out-innovate you. The cost is not what you spend, but the exponential growth you fail to achieve.£1,250,000+
Increased Staff TurnoverA burnt-out leader often creates a toxic or stressful work environment. The cost of replacing a senior employee is estimated by Oxford Economics to be over £30,000. Frequent churn cripples morale and productivity.£750,000+
Project Failure & DelaysBrain fog leads to poor project management, missed deadlines, and budget overruns. A single major delayed project can have severe financial and reputational consequences for a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME).£500,000+
Personal Health DeclineChronic stress leads to physical and mental health crises. The direct costs involve treatment, but the indirect costs of extended sick leave or being forced to step away from your business are far greater.£500,000+

This model demonstrates that burnout isn't a soft problem; it's a hard financial reality that silently sabotages success from the inside out.

What is Entrepreneurial Burnout? A UK Perspective

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officially recognises burnout as an "occupational phenomenon." It's not classified as a medical condition itself, but as a state of vital exhaustion resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.

For an entrepreneur, the 'workplace' is a 24/7 reality. Burnout is more than just stress.

  • Stress is characterised by over-engagement, urgency, and hyperactivity. You feel you're drowning in responsibilities.
  • Burnout is characterised by disengagement, emotional exhaustion, and a sense of helplessness. You feel drained, empty, and beyond caring.

The key symptoms for business leaders are profoundly cognitive:

  • Chronic Exhaustion: A deep-seated fatigue that sleep doesn't fix.
  • Mental Distance & Cynicism: Feeling increasingly detached from your work, your team, and your vision.
  • Reduced Professional Efficacy: A creeping sense of incompetence and a lack of achievement, even when you are objectively succeeding.
  • Cognitive Fog: Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making clear-headed decisions.

This state of mind is the perfect storm for business failure. When the leader at the helm can no longer navigate effectively, the entire ship is at risk.

The NHS vs. Private Healthcare: Why Speed Matters for Cognitive Health

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is under immense pressure, particularly in mental health and specialist diagnostics. For an entrepreneur whose cognitive function is their greatest asset, waiting is not an option.

Consider the latest NHS England statistics:

  • Mental Health Services: The target is for 75% of people referred for talking therapies to start treatment within 6 weeks. However, for more specialised psychiatric services, waits can be many months long.
  • Specialist Consultations: The referral-to-treatment (RTT) pathway target is 18 weeks, but as of early 2025, millions of people are on the waiting list, with the average wait being significantly longer in many areas.

When you're suffering from burnout-related anxiety, depression, or physical symptoms like persistent headaches or stomach issues, a delay of months is a business eternity. This is where private medical insurance UK becomes a game-changer.

ServiceTypical NHS Wait Time (2025 Data)Typical PMI Access Time
GP Appointment1-2 weeks for non-urgent issuesSame or next day (often via Digital GP)
Mental Health Therapy6 weeks to 6+ months1-2 weeks
Specialist Consultation18 weeks to 12+ months1-3 weeks
MRI / CT Scan4-8 weeks+Within 1 week

For a business leader, this speed is not a convenience; it is a strategic advantage. It means getting a diagnosis, starting treatment, and getting back to full cognitive capacity in weeks, not months or years.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Acts as Your First Line of Defence

Private Medical Insurance (PMI), often called private health cover, is an insurance policy that pays for the costs of private medical treatment for acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

Crucial Point: It's vital to understand that standard UK PMI does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. Burnout itself is not an insurable condition. However, PMI is designed to swiftly diagnose and treat the acute conditions that are often triggered or worsened by chronic stress and burnout.

These can include:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Insomnia
  • Acute back pain and musculoskeletal issues
  • Gastrointestinal problems (e.g., IBS)
  • Cardiovascular checks for symptoms like palpitations

Key Benefits of PMI for Entrepreneurs

  1. Rapid Access to Specialists: Bypass NHS queues and see a leading consultant in days. This is critical for getting a swift diagnosis for neurological, psychological, or physical symptoms.
  2. Comprehensive Mental Health Support: Most modern PMI policies offer excellent mental health pathways, providing access to therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists far quicker than otherwise possible. Many include a set number of therapy sessions without needing a GP referral.
  3. Advanced Diagnostics: Get fast access to MRI, CT, and PET scans to rule out or identify underlying physical causes for your symptoms.
  4. Choice and Control: You can choose your specialist and the hospital where you receive treatment, giving you control over your healthcare journey.
  5. Digital GP Services: Most policies now include a 24/7 digital GP service. This allows you to have a video consultation from your home or office within hours, getting immediate advice and referrals.
  6. Wellbeing and Prevention Tools: Many providers offer a suite of wellness apps, health screenings, and lifestyle rewards to help you proactively manage stress and stay healthy.

A robust PMI policy acts as a safety net, ensuring that when the pressure takes its toll, you have a fast-track back to health, protecting both yourself and the business you've worked so hard to build.

Beyond Standard PMI: Leadership & Key Person Insurance

For businesses, protection can go a step further. While PMI protects the individual, a Leadership & Key Person Insurance Policy (LCIIP) protects the business.

This is a specific type of 'Key Person' insurance where the company pays the premium. If a named key individual—like the CEO, founder, or a technical lead—is unable to work due to a diagnosed illness (including severe burnout-related conditions like a breakdown), the policy pays out a lump sum to the business.

This payout can be used to:

  • Hire a temporary replacement to manage the company.
  • Recruit a permanent successor.
  • Cover lost profits during the disruption.
  • Reassure investors and lenders of the company's stability.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help structure a comprehensive protection package, combining business-funded PMI for key leaders with a Key Person policy. This creates a powerful, two-pronged defence against the financial fallout of a key leader's health crisis.

A Practical Toolkit: Proactive Strategies to Combat Burnout

Insurance is your safety net, but proactive prevention is your best strategy. Building resilience against burnout requires a holistic approach that focuses on mind, body, and business practices.

1. Master Your Mind

  • Practice Mindfulness: Just 10 minutes of daily mindfulness or meditation can significantly lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and improve focus. Apps like Calm or Headspace are excellent starting points.
  • Set Digital Boundaries: The 'always on' culture is a primary driver of burnout. Schedule "digital sunset" hours where you turn off all work-related notifications.
  • Seek Professional Support Early: Therapy isn't just for crises. A good therapist can act as a coach, helping you develop coping mechanisms and maintain perspective. Your PMI policy can make this easily accessible.

2. Fortify Your Body

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's the most powerful cognitive enhancer available. Banish screens from the bedroom and create a relaxing wind-down routine.
  • Fuel Your Brain: Your diet has a direct impact on your mood and energy. Focus on whole foods, healthy fats (like those in avocados and nuts), and lean proteins. Minimise processed foods, sugar, and excessive caffeine.
    • WeCovr Client Perk: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, to help you optimise your diet for peak performance.
  • Move Every Day: Exercise is a potent anti-depressant and stress-reducer. A brisk 30-minute walk is enough to make a difference. Schedule it in your diary like any other critical meeting.

3. Re-engineer Your Business

  • Delegate Ruthlessly: You cannot do it all. Identify tasks that can be delegated or automated. Trust your team. A leader's job is to steer the ship, not row it.
  • Embrace "Strategic Inefficiency": Build slack into your schedule. Block out time for deep work, strategic thinking, and simply doing nothing. A back-to-back calendar is a recipe for cognitive decline.
  • Take Real Holidays: A long weekend checking emails is not a break. Truly disconnect. Plan trips where you are physically and mentally removed from the business. This is when your best ideas will often emerge.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for UK Entrepreneurs

The UK market is home to several excellent PMI providers, each with different strengths. For an entrepreneur, the focus should be on mental health cover, digital access, and flexibility.

Here is an illustrative comparison of some leading options:

ProviderKey Strengths for EntrepreneursMental Health CoverDigital GP Service
BupaStrong brand reputation, extensive hospital network, comprehensive mental health options.Excellent cover available, often with no annual limit on their comprehensive plans. Direct access to therapy.Included as standard, offering 24/7 access to GPs via phone or video.
AXA HealthFlexible plans, strong focus on wellbeing, access to the 'Doctor@Hand' service.Good mental health pathway, often covering initial diagnosis and a number of therapy sessions.Advanced Doctor@Hand service provided by Doctor Care Anywhere.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks (e.g., cheaper gym memberships, Apple Watch).Good core cover, with options to enhance. The wellness programme actively encourages mental resilience.Included as standard.
The ExeterKnown for excellent customer service and flexible underwriting, particularly for self-employed individuals.Strong mental health benefits included on most plans.HealthWise app provides remote GP appointments, therapy, and more.

Why Use a PMI Broker?

Trying to compare these policies yourself can be complex and time-consuming. An independent PMI broker is an expert who does the hard work for you.

  • Expert Advice: They understand the nuances of each policy and can recommend the best PMI provider for your specific needs and budget.
  • Market Comparison: A broker compares policies from across the market, ensuring you get the most competitive price.
  • No Cost to You: Brokers are paid a commission by the insurance provider you choose, so their service is free for you.
  • Ongoing Support: They can help you with claims and renewals, acting as your advocate.

At WeCovr, we specialise in finding the right private health cover for entrepreneurs and business leaders. We have a deep understanding of the market and enjoy high customer satisfaction ratings for our clear, impartial advice. Furthermore, when you purchase a policy through us, you often benefit from discounts on other essential covers, such as life insurance or income protection.

Conclusion: Your Health is Your Greatest Asset

The £4.5 million lifetime cost of burnout is a sobering reminder that an entrepreneur's most valuable asset isn't their business plan or their funding—it's their own cognitive health and resilience. In the high-stakes world of UK enterprise, ignoring the warning signs is a risk no leader can afford to take.

Investing in a comprehensive private medical insurance policy is one of the most powerful strategic decisions you can make. It provides the peace of mind and rapid access to care needed to protect your health, your clarity of thought, and the future of your business. Don't wait for burnout to make the decision for you.


Does private health cover treat burnout directly?

No, it's important to be clear on this. Burnout is an occupational phenomenon, not a specific medical diagnosis. Standard UK private medical insurance does not cover burnout itself, nor does it cover any pre-existing or chronic conditions. However, it is designed to quickly diagnose and treat the acute medical conditions that can result from chronic stress and burnout, such as a new diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or physical symptoms that need investigation. This rapid intervention is key to recovery.

Is PMI a worthwhile business expense for a startup?

For many startups and SMEs, yes. A business can pay for the PMI premiums for its employees, including its founders. This is considered a P11D 'benefit in kind' and is a tax-deductible business expense. For a startup whose success hinges on a small number of key people, ensuring they can get back to work quickly after an illness is a critical investment in business continuity. It's also a highly attractive benefit for attracting and retaining top talent.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your medical history. With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you provide your full medical history upfront. The insurer then states clearly what is and isn't covered from the start. With Moratorium Underwriting (MORI), you don't disclose your full history initially. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms, medication, or advice for in the past five years. This exclusion can be lifted, typically after you serve a two-year period on the policy without needing treatment for that condition. A broker can advise which is best for you.

How can a broker like WeCovr save me money on private medical insurance in the UK?

A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr saves you money in several ways. Firstly, we use our expertise and technology to compare dozens of policies from across the market, finding the plan that offers the best value for your specific needs, so you don't overpay for benefits you don't need. Secondly, we have access to special arrangements and can advise on policy structures (like guided consultant lists or higher excesses) that can significantly lower your premium. Our service is at no cost to you, as we are paid by the insurer.

Ready to build your resilience? Protect your most valuable asset. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.


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.