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UK Global Health Risks Travel Burden

UK Global Health Risks Travel Burden 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the critical need for robust private medical insurance. This article explores the shocking new health risks facing UK professionals who travel internationally, and explains how the right protection provides an undeniable shield against financial and personal disaster.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 UK Professionals & Business Owners Face a Serious Health Crisis While Travelling Internationally, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Uninsured Medical Costs, Emergency Repatriation & Major Career Disruption – Is Your PMI & LCIIP Shield Your Undeniable Global Protection

The life of a UK professional or business owner is increasingly global. A business trip to New York, a conference in Dubai, or a client meeting in Singapore are now routine. But beneath the surface of this global ambition lies a startling and overlooked risk. New analysis for 2025 reveals a grim reality: over a quarter of internationally-travelling UK professionals will face a significant health crisis while abroad during their careers.

The consequences are not just a ruined trip. They represent a potential lifetime burden exceeding a staggering £3.5 million, composed of uninsured medical bills, six-figure emergency repatriation costs, and devastating career disruption.

For the driven, ambitious individuals building businesses and careers, this is a risk that cannot be ignored. The question is no longer if you need protection, but whether the cover you have—your Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Life & Critical Illness Insurance (LCIIP)—is truly fit for purpose in a globalised world.

The £3.5 Million Burden: Deconstructing the Data

This alarming £3.5 million figure isn't the cost of a single incident. It's a calculated "lifetime burden"—a composite of the direct, indirect, and long-term financial shocks that a serious overseas health crisis can trigger. Let's break it down.

Direct Medical Costs: The Tip of the Iceberg

Your standard GHIC card is only for state-provided, emergency care in the EU. It is not a substitute for insurance. Elsewhere, you are entirely on your own, and the costs can be astronomical. A simple accident can spiral into a life-altering bill.

Consider the typical costs for common medical emergencies in popular business travel destinations, based on data from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) case logs.

Medical EmergencyUSA CostUAE CostSpain Cost (Private)
Broken Leg (with surgery)£40,000+£25,000+£15,000+
Appendicitis£50,000+£20,000+£12,000+
Heart Attack (with bypass)£150,000 - £250,000+£80,000+£50,000+
Intensive Care (per day)£5,000 - £10,000+£3,000+£2,000+

These figures don't include consultations, scans, medication, or follow-up appointments. They show how quickly costs can escalate, far exceeding the medical limits of a basic travel insurance policy.

Emergency Repatriation: The Hidden £100,000+ Flight Home

If you are seriously ill or injured, you cannot simply book a commercial flight home. You may need a medical escort, a specialised stretcher, or, in the most critical cases, a private air ambulance. This is known as medical repatriation, and it is incredibly expensive.

  • Air Ambulance from the USA East Coast: £80,000 - £100,000
  • Air Ambulance from Southeast Asia: £100,000 - £120,000+
  • Medical Escort on a Commercial Flight (Europe): £10,000 - £25,000

Without comprehensive insurance that explicitly covers repatriation, you or your family would be responsible for this bill.

Career Disruption & Lost Income: The Silent Financial Drain

For a business owner or a senior professional, the impact of a three-month recovery is not just three months of lost salary. It's a cascade of financial consequences that forms the largest part of the £3.5 million lifetime burden.

  • Lost Income: Months or even years of reduced earnings.
  • Missed Opportunities: Losing out on crucial contracts, promotions, or business development cycles.
  • Business Impact: The cost of hiring a temporary replacement, loss of client confidence, or even the failure of a small business if a key person is absent.
  • Long-Term Health Impact: A serious illness can lead to chronic conditions, reducing your capacity to work at the same intensity for the rest of your career.

When you add up decades of potentially suppressed earnings and lost business growth, the £3.5 million figure becomes a chillingly plausible threat to your financial security.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Does It Cover Me Abroad?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is a cornerstone of health security in the UK. It's designed to give you choice, speed, and comfort when you need medical treatment. But how does it function when you're thousands of miles from home?

The Core Purpose of UK PMI: Acute Conditions, Swiftly Treated

At its heart, private medical insurance UK is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

Think of things like:

  • Joint pain requiring a hip replacement
  • Cataracts
  • Hernias
  • Diagnosis and treatment for most cancers

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic & Pre-existing Conditions This is the single most important concept to understand. Standard UK PMI does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions.

  • Chronic Condition: A condition that cannot be cured, only managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and Crohn's disease.
  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness or injury you had before your policy's start date.

Your PMI policy is for new, unexpected health problems that arise after you are insured.

The "Travel Cover" Extension: Your PMI's Global Reach

Many comprehensive PMI policies from the best PMI providers like Bupa, Aviva, and AXA Health offer a "travel cover" or "international health" option. This is not standard travel insurance; it's an extension of your medical policy to provide cover for emergencies abroad.

This add-on typically covers:

  1. Emergency Medical Treatment: Covers the costs if you fall ill or have an accident while on a trip.
  2. Emergency Dental Treatment: For sudden, painful dental problems.
  3. Medical Repatriation: Arranges and pays for your transport back to the UK if it's medically necessary.

However, these add-ons have limits. They are usually designed for short trips (e.g., up to 90 days) and may have geographical restrictions. They are perfect for holidays and business travel, but not for living abroad permanently.

PMI vs. Standard Travel Insurance: A Critical Distinction You Can't Afford to Ignore

Many travellers believe a cheap annual travel policy is all they need. For a lost suitcase, it might be. For a complex medical emergency, it often falls dangerously short. A robust private health cover plan offers a different level of protection.

Here’s a clear comparison:

FeatureStandard Annual Travel InsuranceComprehensive PMI with Travel Add-on
Primary PurposeCovers trip-related issues like cancellations, delays, and lost baggage, with some medical cover.Focuses on comprehensive health and medical treatment, both in the UK and abroad.
Medical Cover LimitUsually capped (e.g., £5m-£10m). Can be exhausted by a single complex incident in the US.Often much higher or unlimited for eligible treatment, integrated with your main policy.
Pre-existing ConditionsTypically excluded or require specialist (and expensive) declaration and cover.Excluded for new conditions, but the policy's underwriting rules apply consistently.
RepatriationIncluded, but may have strict criteria and use preferred, sometimes slower, providers.Managed by medical experts focused on patient wellbeing, often with superior service levels.
Continued Care in UKStops once you land in the UK. You are handed over to the NHS.Seamless transition. Your PMI policy continues to cover your eligible private treatment and rehabilitation back in the UK.
Mental HealthVery limited or no cover for mental health emergencies.Many PMI plans now offer extensive mental health support, which can be vital after a traumatic event.
Direct BillingLess common. You may have to pay upfront and claim back thousands of pounds.Insurers often have global networks to arrange direct payment with hospitals, protecting your cash flow.

The most important difference is "Continued Care in the UK". With travel insurance, your private care ends the moment you are back on UK soil. With PMI, your journey to recovery continues seamlessly in a private UK hospital of your choice, managed by your insurer. This is a game-changer for recovery and returning to work quickly.

The LCIIP Shield: Protecting Your Income and Future

While PMI handles the immediate medical crisis, what about the long-term financial fallout? This is where the "LCIIP" shield comes in: Life, Critical Illness, and Income Protection. These policies work alongside your PMI to provide a complete financial safety net.

Income Protection: Your Monthly Salary When You Can't Work

If a serious illness or injury abroad leaves you unable to work for six months, a year, or even longer, how would you pay your mortgage and bills? Income Protection is the answer.

  • How it works: It pays you a tax-free monthly income (usually 50-60% of your gross salary) if you're unable to work due to illness or injury.
  • The benefit: It replaces your lost earnings, removing financial stress so you can focus entirely on your recovery. For business owners, it can provide the funds to keep the business afloat while you are recuperating.

Critical Illness Cover: A Lump Sum for Life-Altering Events

Critical Illness Cover provides a tax-free lump sum on the diagnosis of a specific, serious condition listed in the policy (e.g., a heart attack, stroke, or some types of cancer).

  • How it works: This is money you can use for anything. You could clear your mortgage, adapt your home for new mobility needs, pay for specialist treatment not covered by insurance, or simply give your family a financial cushion.
  • The benefit: It provides financial freedom at the most difficult time, preventing a health crisis from becoming a full-blown financial catastrophe.

A savvy professional should see PMI, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Cover not as separate products, but as an interconnected shield protecting their health, wealth, and future. As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can advise on combining these policies for maximum protection, often with discounts for holding multiple products.

Real-Life Scenarios: When International Travel Goes Wrong

These anonymised scenarios, based on real cases, illustrate the stakes.

Scenario 1: The Entrepreneur in the USA

  • Who: A 45-year-old tech entrepreneur from Manchester on a funding trip to California.
  • What happened: Suffered a major heart attack during a meeting.
  • The Uninsured Cost:
    • Ambulance & Emergency Room: £15,000
    • Heart Surgery (Stents): £120,000
    • 10 Days in Cardiac Care Unit: £70,000
    • Medical Repatriation (Business Class with Nurse): £20,000
    • Total Direct Cost: £225,000
  • The PMI Solution: His comprehensive PMI with a global option had a £5 million medical limit. The insurer's 24/7 global assistance team liaised with the US hospital, guaranteed the costs directly, and arranged his repatriation. Back in the UK, his policy covered cardiac rehabilitation, getting him back to his business months earlier than would have been possible via the NHS alone.

Scenario 2: The Consultant in Dubai

  • Who: A 52-year-old management consultant from London.
  • What happened: Involved in a serious car accident, resulting in multiple fractures and internal injuries.
  • The Uninsured Cost:
    • Intensive Care & Multiple Surgeries: £85,000
    • Air Ambulance Repatriation to the UK: £90,000
    • Lost Earnings (6 months): £75,000
    • Total Financial Hit: £250,000
  • The LCIIP Shield Solution: Her PMI covered all medical and repatriation costs. Crucially, her Income Protection policy kicked in after a three-month waiting period, paying her £4,000 a month and replacing a significant portion of her lost income. This prevented her from having to dip into her life savings or sell investments to cover her living costs.

Proactive Health for the Global Professional: Wellness on the Go

The best way to manage health risks is to prevent them. As a global professional, integrating wellness into your travel routine is not a luxury; it's a necessity.

Pre-Travel Health Checklist

  1. Consult Your GP: Discuss your destination, planned activities, and any necessary vaccinations or preventative medications (e.g., for malaria).
  2. Pack a Medical Kit: Include essentials like antiseptic wipes, plasters, pain relief, antihistamines, and any personal prescription medication (with a doctor's note).
  3. Know Your Numbers: Be aware of your blood type, any allergies, and the details of your insurance policy. Keep a digital and physical copy.
  4. Check FCDO Advice: The government's travel advice provides the latest health and safety information for your destination.

Maintaining Routine While Abroad

  • Sleep: Combat jet lag by adjusting to the local time zone as quickly as possible. Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bedtime. Use an eye mask and earplugs.
  • Diet: It's easy to overindulge on expenses. Aim for balance. Use a tool to keep track of your intake. WeCovr policyholders get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, making it easy to stay on track anywhere in the world.
  • Activity: Long-haul flights and back-to-back meetings are sedentary. Use the hotel gym, go for a walk to explore the city, and stretch regularly during flights to prevent DVT.
  • Hydration: Dehydration worsens jet lag and concentration. Drink plenty of water, especially on planes and in hot climates.

How to Choose the Best Private Health Cover for Your Global Lifestyle

Selecting the right private medical insurance UK policy is a critical decision. A broker can guide you, but it's essential to understand the key components.

Key Policy Features to Look For

  • Level of Cover: Do you need just in-patient cover (for treatment requiring a hospital bed) or comprehensive out-patient cover (for consultations, diagnostics, and therapy)?
  • Hospital List: Does the policy give you access to a nationwide network of hospitals, including premier facilities like those on London's Harley Street?
  • Excess: How much are you willing to pay towards a claim? A higher excess will lower your premium.
  • International Options: Check the specifics of the travel cover. What is the trip duration limit? Are any countries excluded? What is the financial limit?
  • Mental Health Cover: Post-trauma support can be vital. Look for policies with strong mental health pathways.

Understanding Underwriting: Moratorium vs. Full Medical

This is how an insurer assesses your health history.

  1. Moratorium (MORI) Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the insurer will generally exclude treatment for any condition you've had symptoms of, or received treatment for, in the five years before your policy started. However, if you go two full years on the policy without needing treatment, advice, or medication for that condition, it may become eligible for cover. It's quick and simple.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer reviews your medical history and may write to your GP. They will then state clearly from the outset what is and isn't covered. It takes longer but provides absolute clarity from day one.

An expert adviser at WeCovr can explain which option is best for your personal circumstances.

Why Use a PMI Broker Like WeCovr?

Navigating the private health cover market alone can be complex and time-consuming. A specialist broker works for you, not the insurer.

  1. Expertise & Impartiality: We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Our advisers are experts who compare policies from across the market to find the one that fits your specific needs and budget.
  2. No Cost to You: Our service is free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium. You pay the same price or less than going direct.
  3. We Do the Hard Work: We handle the research, paperwork, and application process, saving you valuable time and effort.
  4. High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on clear, honest advice has earned us consistently high ratings on major customer review platforms.
  5. Added Value: When you arrange your PMI or Life Insurance through us, we can offer discounts on other policies and provide complimentary access to our CalorieHero wellness app.

The risks of global travel are real and growing. The cost of being unprepared is simply too high. A comprehensive shield of Private Medical Insurance and LCIIP is not an expense; it is a fundamental investment in your health, your career, and your family's future security.

Do I need to declare my travel plans to my PMI provider?

Generally, you do not need to inform your insurer for every individual short trip (e.g., a week's holiday or a 3-day business trip) as long as your policy includes a worldwide travel option. However, you must check your policy documents for the maximum trip duration, which is often around 30, 60, or 90 consecutive days. If you plan to be away for longer, you must speak to your insurer. It is also your responsibility to check FCDO advice and ensure you are not travelling to a region or country that your policy excludes.

What is the difference between an 'in-patient' and 'out-patient' on a PMI policy?

This is a key distinction in private medical insurance. 'In-patient' refers to treatment that requires you to be admitted to a hospital and occupy a bed, even if it's just for a day (as a 'day-patient'). This typically includes surgeries and major procedures. 'Out-patient' refers to all treatment that does not require a hospital bed, such as specialist consultations, diagnostic tests like MRI scans, and physiotherapy sessions. Basic PMI policies may only cover in-patient treatment, while more comprehensive policies will include extensive out-patient cover.

Is mental health support covered when I'm travelling abroad?

This depends entirely on your specific policy. Standard travel insurance policies offer very little, if any, cover for mental health crises. However, many modern, comprehensive UK PMI policies now include significant mental health benefits. If your policy has a global travel add-on, this support may extend to cover acute psychiatric emergencies abroad and, crucially, provide access to therapy and counselling services upon your return to the UK to help you process a traumatic event. Always check your policy wording or speak to a broker to be sure.

If I have a medical emergency abroad, how do I make a claim?

All major insurers with global cover provide a 24/7 international emergency helpline. This number will be on your policy documents and membership card – you should save it to your phone before you travel. In an emergency, you (or someone with you) should call this number as soon as possible. Their expert team will guide you, liaise with the local hospital, guarantee payment for eligible treatment, and begin making arrangements for medical repatriation if it becomes necessary.

Don't leave your global health and financial security to chance. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote from a leading UK PMI broker. Our experts will help you compare the best private health cover and build the undeniable global protection you and your family deserve.

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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:

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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.

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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.

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