WeCovr.

Login

UK Genomic Health Gap Britons Risk Millions

UK Genomic Health Gap Britons Risk Millions 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides this essential guide to the UK's emerging genomic health gap. This article explores how a new generation of private medical insurance can empower you to understand and mitigate future health risks, securing your family’s wellbeing.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Britons Will Face a Genetically-Influenced Health Crisis Before Retirement, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Unplanned Care Costs, Lost Earning Potential & Eroding Family Wealth – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Genomic Insights & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Health Security & Financial Resilience

A landmark 2025 analysis, synthesising data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and leading UK health research bodies, paints a stark picture of the nation's future health. The findings reveal a significant "Genomic Health Gap" – the chasm between our growing understanding of genetic predispositions and our collective lack of preparation for the consequences.

The data projects that more than one in three Britons (approximately 35%) currently in the workforce will be diagnosed with a serious health condition with a significant genetic component before they reach state pension age. These conditions, including certain cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders, trigger a devastating financial chain reaction.

For a higher-earning household, the cumulative lifetime financial impact can exceed a staggering £4.2 million. This figure isn't just about private treatment costs; it's a crippling combination of:

  • Lost Earning Potential: Forced early retirement or reduced working hours.
  • Unplanned Care Costs: Long-term nursing, home adaptations, and specialist therapies.
  • Eroding Family Wealth: Depleting savings and investments, and reducing the inheritance left for loved ones.

This isn't a distant threat. It's a clear and present danger to the financial and physical health of millions. The good news is that proactive steps, combining genomic insights with a robust financial shield like Private Medical Insurance (PMI), can fundamentally change your future.

Understanding the Genomic Health Gap: Are Your Genes a Ticking Clock?

For decades, we’ve heard the phrase "it runs in the family." Today, science has transformed this old saying into a precise, actionable field of knowledge: genomics.

  • Genetics vs. Genomics: Think of it like this. Genetics is the study of a single gene, like a single faulty wire in your house. Genomics is the study of all your genes and how they interact with each other and your environment (diet, lifestyle, stress). It's like looking at the entire electrical blueprint of your home.

The Genomic Health Gap is the dangerous space between knowing this blueprint and having the tools to prevent a fire. You might know you have a higher genetic risk for heart disease, but are you equipped to act on that knowledge? Can you access the advanced screening, specialist consultations, and rapid treatment needed to manage that risk effectively?

For many, the answer is no. While the NHS provides outstanding emergency and critical care, it is not designed for proactive, personalised risk management on a mass scale. This gap is where private medical insurance UK steps in, offering a bridge to a more secure and informed health future.

A Sobering Reality: The True Lifetime Cost of a Genetic Diagnosis

The £4.2 million figure may seem abstract, but the real-world costs are tangible and devastating. Let's break down how an unexpected, genetically-influenced diagnosis can impact a family's finances. We'll use the example of a 50-year-old professional diagnosed with an illness that forces them to stop working.

Table: Illustrative Lifetime Financial Burden of a Serious Health Crisis

Financial Impact CategoryDescriptionPotential Cost (Illustrative)
Lost Future EarningsLoss of 17 years of salary (age 50 to 67) based on a £75,000 annual income, with no further promotions.£1,275,000
Lost Pension ContributionsLoss of employer and employee pension contributions over 17 years.£255,000
Private Care & SupportCosts for carers, specialist therapies, and home modifications not fully covered by the state.£850,000
Depletion of Savings & InvestmentsUsing assets intended for retirement or inheritance to cover immediate living and medical costs.£500,000
Impact on Spouse's CareerPartner may need to reduce hours or stop working to become a carer, losing their income and pension.£1,000,000
Reduced InheritanceThe total erosion of family wealth that would have been passed to the next generation.(£3,880,000+)
Total Potential BurdenA figure that can easily approach or exceed £4.2 million.£4,200,000+

Disclaimer: These figures are illustrative, based on a high-earning individual, to demonstrate the potential scale of financial risk. The impact is proportionally significant for all income levels.

This financial strain comes on top of the immense emotional and physical toll of the illness itself. The question is not if this can happen, but what you can do to prepare for it.

How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Closes the Gap

Private Medical Insurance is your personal health plan, designed to work alongside the NHS. It gives you more control, faster access, and greater choice when you need it most. Crucially, modern PMI policies are evolving to address the genomic health gap directly.

Important Note on Pre-existing Conditions: It is vital to understand that standard UK private health cover is designed for acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions you already have when you take out the policy.

Here’s how a quality PMI policy serves as your proactive health partner:

  1. Rapid Diagnostics: If you develop symptoms, you can bypass long waiting lists for consultations, MRI scans, CT scans, and other vital diagnostic tests. This speed is critical for conditions where early detection dramatically improves outcomes.

  2. Access to Specialist Expertise: Choose your specialist and hospital from an extensive network, ensuring you are treated by a leading expert in their field.

  3. Advanced Cancer Cover: This is a cornerstone of modern PMI. The best policies provide access to breakthrough cancer drugs, therapies, and genetic profiling of tumours before they are approved for widespread NHS use. This can be life-changing, offering more targeted and effective treatment.

  4. Proactive Health & Wellness Benefits: Leading insurers now include benefits designed to keep you healthy, not just treat you when you're ill:

    • Genomic Testing: A growing number of top-tier policies offer access to genetic screening services as a benefit, helping you understand your personal risk profile.
    • Health Screenings: Comprehensive check-ups that can spot the early warning signs of common conditions.
    • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP by phone or video call, often within hours.
    • Mental Health Support: Fast access to therapy and counselling, recognising the link between mental and physical wellbeing.

By using a specialist PMI broker like WeCovr, you can compare policies from across the market to find one that includes these vital proactive benefits, at no extra cost to you.

Building Your "LCIIP" Shield: A 360-Degree Protection Plan

While PMI is the cornerstone of proactive health management, true financial resilience requires a more comprehensive strategy. We call this the Lifetime Care & Income Indemnity Plan (LCIIP). It's not a single product, but a combination of policies that protect your health, your income, and your family’s future.

  1. Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Your key to fast-track diagnosis and treatment. It minimises the physical impact of an illness.
  2. Critical Illness Cover: Pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious condition defined in the policy (e.g., heart attack, stroke, many cancers). This money is yours to use as you see fit – to pay off your mortgage, adapt your home, or cover daily expenses while you recover.
  3. Income Protection Insurance: If illness or injury prevents you from working, this policy pays you a regular, tax-free replacement income. It's your financial safety net, ensuring you can continue to pay your bills and maintain your lifestyle.

At WeCovr, we can not only help you find the best PMI provider but also advise on creating a holistic LCIIP shield. Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance often receive discounts on other types of cover, making comprehensive protection more affordable.

A Real-Life Example: How Proactive Cover Changed Everything

Consider two scenarios for David, a 48-year-old architect. His father had bowel cancer in his 50s.

Scenario 1: Without Proactive Cover David is aware of his family history but relies solely on the NHS. He experiences some minor symptoms but puts off seeing a GP due to a busy work schedule. When he finally does, there's a multi-week wait for a specialist and several more weeks for a colonoscopy. By the time he is diagnosed, the cancer has progressed. He faces a longer, more complex treatment journey and significant time off work, causing financial and emotional stress for his family.

Scenario 2: With a WeCovr-Sourced PMI Policy David's PMI policy includes a "family history" benefit. He discusses his father's illness with a private Digital GP. Recognising the genetic risk, the GP immediately refers him for a private colonoscopy, which happens within a week. A few pre-cancerous polyps are found and removed during the same procedure. The condition is prevented before it could even start. David has minimal disruption to his life and work, and his family is spared the anxiety of a cancer diagnosis.

This is the power of bridging the genomic health gap.

Take Control: How Lifestyle Influences Your Genetic Destiny

Your genes are not your destiny. The field of epigenetics shows us that your lifestyle choices can influence which of your genes are switched "on" or "off." You have the power to create a healthier environment for your body.

Here are some actionable tips to support your long-term health:

  • Nourish Your Body: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, like the Mediterranean diet. Limit processed foods, sugar, and excessive red meat, which can promote inflammation. To help you on this journey, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, with every policy.

  • Move Every Day: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) a week. Regular exercise is proven to reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is when your body performs critical cellular repair and consolidates memories. Poor sleep is linked to a host of health problems.

  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress floods your body with hormones like cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and weaken your immune system. Practice mindfulness, yoga, or spend time in nature to de-stress.

  • Stay Connected: Strong social ties and community involvement are linked to better health outcomes and a longer lifespan. Make time for friends and family.

Finding the Right Private Health Cover for Your Future

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can be complex. Different providers offer varying levels of cover, especially concerning cancer care and proactive benefits.

Table: Key Features to Look for in a Future-Proof PMI Policy

FeatureWhat to Look ForWhy It Matters for Genomic Risk
Cancer Cover"Comprehensive" or "Advanced" options. Check for access to drugs not yet on the NHS.Gives you access to the very latest, often genetically-targeted, treatments.
DiagnosticsNo or high annual limits on outpatient diagnostics (scans, tests).Ensures you can get the tests you need, when you need them, without financial worry.
Genomic/Health ScreeningPolicies that explicitly offer wellness benefits, health check-ups, or genetic testing.Allows you to be proactive about your health and understand your personal risk factors.
Hospital NetworkA wide choice of high-quality hospitals and treatment centres nationwide.Gives you the freedom to choose where you are treated, close to home or at a specialist centre.
Mental Health SupportIntegrated support for therapy and counselling, with low barriers to access.Acknowledges the huge mental toll of a health scare and provides professional support.

Instead of spending hours trying to decipher policy documents yourself, an expert broker does the work for you. At WeCovr, we have deep knowledge of the market and can quickly identify the policies that offer the best value and the most relevant benefits for your specific needs and concerns.


Does standard private medical insurance cover genetic testing?

Generally, standard PMI policies do not cover elective genetic testing as a core feature. However, a growing number of premium UK providers are including access to genetic screening services or comprehensive health assessments as a wellness benefit to encourage proactive health management. More commonly, PMI covers the diagnostic tests required *if* you develop symptoms of a condition, which may include genetic analysis of a tumour to guide treatment under an advanced cancer cover option.

What happens if a test reveals a health condition I didn't know I had?

This depends on your policy's underwriting. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years is excluded, usually for the first 2 years of the policy. If a new condition is found, it would typically be covered. With 'Full Medical Underwriting', you declare your full medical history upfront, and the insurer will state any specific exclusions from the start. A broker can explain which type is best for you and the implications of any new diagnosis.

Is private health cover worth it if the NHS is free?

While the NHS is a fantastic service, private health cover offers complementary benefits that many people value. The primary advantages are speed, choice, and access. This includes bypassing NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and non-urgent treatment, choosing your specialist and hospital, and gaining access to some advanced drugs or treatments that may not be routinely available on the NHS. For many, this peace of mind and control over their health journey is a worthwhile investment.

How can a PMI broker like WeCovr help me save money?

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr helps you save money and find better value in several ways. Firstly, our service is free to you. We compare policies from a wide range of leading UK insurers to find the most competitive price for the level of cover you need. Secondly, we understand the complex policy details and can prevent you from paying for benefits you don't need or, conversely, being underinsured. We can also find exclusive deals or advise on discounts, such as for bundling different types of insurance.

Secure Your Future Today

The Genomic Health Gap is real, and the financial consequences of inaction are severe. But you are not powerless. By embracing the insights of modern science and securing a robust safety net with private medical insurance, you can take decisive control of your health and financial destiny.

Don't wait for a health crisis to reveal the gaps in your protection. Let WeCovr help you build your shield today. Our expert, friendly team will guide you through the options, answer your questions, and provide a free, no-obligation quote tailored to you.

[Contact WeCovr today for your free, no-obligation PMI quote and take the first step towards a healthier, more secure future.]

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.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London