Login

UK Health Check Blindspot

UK Health Check Blindspot 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

Are you overlooking your most valuable asset? As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr understands that your health underpins everything. This guide explores a critical blindspot in UK healthcare and reveals how private medical insurance can be your unseen asset for lifelong vitality.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Working Britons Lack Comprehensive Health Checks, Fuelling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Undiagnosed Disease, Lost Productivity & Eroding Financial Security – Is Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Screening Your Unseen Asset for Lifelong Vitality

A groundbreaking 2025 report has sent a shockwave through the UK’s health and economic landscape. The data, compiled from ONS and UK health-economic sources, reveals a concerning reality: more than one in three working-age Britons (35%) are currently navigating a significant "health check blindspot." They are not receiving regular, comprehensive health screenings beyond the most basic NHS checks.

This isn't just a health issue; it's a ticking financial time bomb. The cumulative lifetime cost of this gap is estimated to be a staggering £3.5 million per individual who develops a serious, but once-preventable, condition. This figure encompasses:

  • Lost earnings from long-term sickness absence.
  • Reduced productivity at work (presenteeism).
  • Future social care needs.
  • The profound impact on pensions, savings, and family financial security.

In an era where we track our finances and plan our careers with meticulous detail, our most fundamental asset—our health—is often left to chance. This article explores the scale of the problem and illuminates how private medical insurance (PMI) is evolving from a simple treatment policy into a powerful tool for proactive, preventative healthcare.

The £3.5 Million Iceberg: Understanding the True Cost of a Late Diagnosis

The £3.5 million figure can seem abstract, but it represents a cascade of real-world financial and personal consequences. An illness detected late doesn't just result in a hospital bill; it erodes the very foundations of your life's work.

Imagine a 45-year-old marketing manager, Mark. A routine, comprehensive health screen—the kind offered by many private health cover plans—could detect the early cellular changes of bowel cancer or the arterial plaque signalling future heart disease.

If missed, the trajectory changes dramatically.

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Financial Impact
Lost EarningsYears of potential income lost due to inability to work or working at a reduced capacity. This includes missed promotions and bonuses.£750,000 - £1,500,000
Pension & Savings ErosionHalting pension contributions and drawing down savings to cover living costs during long-term illness.£500,000 - £900,000
Productivity Loss ('Presenteeism')The cost to employers (and the wider economy) of an employee who is physically present but unable to function at full capacity.£250,000+
Informal Care CostsThe financial impact on a spouse or family member who may have to reduce their working hours or leave their job to provide care.£400,000 - £700,000
Future Social & Private CareThe eventual cost of professional carers, home modifications, or residential care needed for a debilitating chronic condition.£300,000 - £500,000
Total Lifetime BurdenA conservative estimate based on a serious, preventable condition.£2,200,000 - £3,950,000+

Source: Economic modelling based on 2025 UK health and ONS earnings data.

This sobering calculation demonstrates that preventative health isn't a luxury; it's a fundamental pillar of financial planning.

The NHS Health Check: A Vital Service with Inherent Limitations

The NHS provides a fantastic service to the nation, and the NHS Health Check is a cornerstone of its preventative strategy. Offered free of charge to eligible individuals aged 40-74 every five years, it's designed to spot the early signs of common conditions.

What does a typical NHS Health Check involve?

  • Questions about your lifestyle and family history.
  • Measurement of your height and weight to calculate your BMI.
  • Taking your blood pressure.
  • A simple blood test for cholesterol and, in some cases, diabetes.

This service undoubtedly saves lives. However, its scope and frequency are, by necessity, limited. For the 39-year-old entrepreneur, the 28-year-old professional, or anyone seeking a more detailed picture of their internal health, it leaves significant gaps. The five-year interval also means a condition can develop and progress substantially between checks.

Your PMI Pathway: Shifting from Reactive Care to Proactive Health

This is where the role of private medical insurance in the UK has undergone a revolution. Modern PMI is no longer just about bypassing NHS waiting lists for surgery. The best PMI providers now focus heavily on keeping you healthy in the first place.

They achieve this through comprehensive health screenings and wellness benefits that go far beyond the basics. It represents a critical mindset shift:

  • From Reactive to Proactive: Instead of waiting for symptoms to appear, you actively screen for potential risks when you feel perfectly well.
  • From Generic to Personalised: The detailed data from a full health screen provides a personalised blueprint of your health, allowing you to make targeted lifestyle changes.
  • From Anxious Waiting to Empowered Action: Knowing your numbers—from liver function to heart rhythm—replaces uncertainty with a clear plan for maintaining your vitality.

Crucial Clarification: It is essential to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions (illnesses that are curable and arise after you take out the policy). It does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing management). Health screenings are a preventative benefit to help you stay healthy and catch new, acute issues early.

What Do Comprehensive PMI Health Screens Actually Include?

The difference between a basic check and a comprehensive private screen is like the difference between a blurry photograph and a high-definition image. While benefits vary between insurers, a top-tier health screen included in a private health cover plan can offer a much deeper analysis.

FeatureTypical NHS Health Check (Ages 40-74)Typical Comprehensive PMI Health Screen (Annual Benefit)Why It Matters
FrequencyOnce every 5 yearsAnnually or bienniallyDetects changes and developing issues far sooner.
Blood AnalysisBasic cholesterol checkFull biochemistry profile (liver, kidney, thyroid function), full blood count, diabetes risk (HbA1c).Provides a complete picture of your internal organ health.
Heart HealthBlood pressureBlood pressure, resting Electrocardiogram (ECG).An ECG can detect underlying heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias).
Cancer ScreeningGeneral risk assessmentSpecific tumour marker tests (e.g., PSA for men, CA-125 for women) where clinically indicated.Offers an extra layer of early detection for common cancers.
MusculoskeletalNot includedPosture and flexibility assessment.Vital for preventing the back and joint issues that plague office workers.
Mental HealthLifestyle questionsIn-depth mental wellbeing consultation and assessment.Proactively addresses stress, anxiety, and burnout before they escalate.
Follow-upGP referral if neededDetailed report with a doctor's consultation to explain results and create a personal action plan.You receive expert, one-to-one guidance on your specific results.

This level of detail empowers you to take control. Finding out your liver function is slightly elevated could prompt you to reduce your alcohol intake, while a borderline cholesterol reading can be corrected with diet before it requires medication.

Beyond the Check-Up: The Complete Wellness Ecosystem of Modern PMI

The leading private medical insurance providers have built an entire ecosystem of benefits around the central health screen, designed to support your wellbeing year-round.

  1. Digital GP Access: Why wait weeks for a GP appointment? Most PMI plans now offer 24/7 access to a private GP via phone or video call, often with same-day appointments. This is invaluable for quick advice, prescriptions, and peace of mind.

  2. Mental Health Support: Recognising that mental health is as important as physical health, many policies include a set number of counselling or therapy sessions, accessible without a GP referral.

  3. Wellness Incentives: Many providers, like Vitality, reward you for healthy living. By tracking your activity, you can earn discounts on your premium, free cinema tickets, or a weekly coffee. It gamifies health and makes it fun.

  4. Exclusive Member Benefits: At WeCovr, we enhance your cover further. Clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us gain complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. Furthermore, our clients enjoy exclusive discounts on other policies, such as life or income protection insurance, creating a holistic shield for their family's financial future.

Simple Habits, Powerful Results: Your Everyday Toolkit for Vitality

While private health cover provides the tools for screening and treatment, lifelong vitality is built on daily habits. Here are simple, evidence-based tips to incorporate into your life.

  • Nutrition: Think Colourful & Simple

    • Aim for a "Mediterranean-style" plate: lots of vegetables, lean protein (fish, chicken, beans), healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts), and whole grains.
    • Reduce ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive red meat.
    • Stay hydrated. Often, feelings of fatigue or hunger are actually signs of dehydration.
  • Movement: Make It a Non-Negotiable

    • Find an activity you genuinely enjoy. Whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or team sports, joy is the key to consistency.
    • Incorporate "movement snacks." If you have a desk job, set a timer to get up and walk around for 5 minutes every hour.
    • Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like a brisk walk where you can still talk) per week.
  • Sleep: The Ultimate Performance Enhancer

    • Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
    • Create a restful environment: a cool, dark, and quiet room.
    • Establish a "wind-down" routine. An hour before bed, switch off screens, read a book, or listen to calming music. Avoid heavy meals and caffeine late at night.
  • Stress Management: Protect Your Mental Resilience

    • Practice mindfulness or simple breathing exercises for 5-10 minutes a day.
    • Protect your leisure time. Ensure you have hobbies and social connections that are separate from your work.
    • If you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone. Utilising the mental health support in a PMI plan is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The PMI market can seem complex, but it boils down to a few key choices. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can demystify this for you at no cost.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Policy:

  1. Level of Cover:

    • Comprehensive: Covers diagnosis, consultations, and treatment (in-patient and out-patient).
    • Treatment Only: You use the NHS for diagnosis, but can switch to private for treatment.
    • Diagnostics Only: Covers the cost of tests and consultations to find out what is wrong, but not the subsequent treatment.
  2. Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospitals. A national list gives you the widest choice, while a more local list can reduce your premium.

  3. The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.

  4. Underwriting: This is how the insurer assesses your medical history.

    • Moratorium: Simpler and quicker. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. These exclusions can be lifted if you remain symptom-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a full medical history upfront. The insurer then states exactly what is and isn't covered from the start, offering more certainty but taking longer to set up.

Why Use an Independent Broker Like WeCovr?

Choosing the right private health cover is a significant decision. As an FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr offers impartial, expert guidance.

  • Market-wide Comparison: We compare plans from all the leading UK insurers to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without the price tag.
  • Jargon-Free Explanations: We translate the complexities of policy documents into plain English.
  • Personalised Service: We take the time to understand your priorities, whether it's comprehensive mental health support, a specific hospital list, or the best value for your family.

The Final Equation: An Investment in a Healthier, Wealthier Future

Is private medical insurance worth it? When you weigh the monthly premium—which for a healthy individual can be comparable to a gym membership or a few weekly coffees—against the potential £3.5 million lifetime burden of a missed diagnosis, the answer becomes clear.

It's not an expense. It's an investment in your single greatest asset: your health. It's the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a proactive plan, rapid access to care, and a safety net that protects not just your health, but your family's entire financial future.

Don't leave your long-term wellbeing to chance. Take the first step towards proactive health today.


Does UK private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, this is the most critical rule to understand. Standard private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy began. PMI is specifically designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy start date.

How much does private health cover typically cost in the UK?

The cost of private health cover varies widely based on several factors: your age, your location, your smoking status, the level of cover you choose, the hospital list, and your chosen excess. For a healthy 35-year-old, a mid-range policy could start from as little as £40-£50 per month. An expert PMI broker can provide personalised quotes from across the market to find a policy that fits your budget.

What is the main benefit of a PMI health check over an NHS one?

The main benefits are depth and frequency. A comprehensive health check offered through a private medical insurance plan is typically available annually and goes into far more detail than the standard NHS Health Check. It often includes advanced diagnostics like a resting ECG, detailed blood analysis for organ function (liver, kidneys), and specific cancer marker tests, providing a much more complete picture of your current and future health risks.

Can I add my family to my private medical insurance policy?

Yes, absolutely. Most UK insurers allow you to add your partner and children to your policy. This is often more convenient and can sometimes be more cost-effective than taking out individual policies for each family member. It ensures your entire family has access to the same high level of care and preventative health benefits.

Ready to turn your health blindspot into your greatest asset?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will compare the UK's leading insurers to find the perfect private health cover for you and your family.

Get Quote

Related guides

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.