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UK Health Check Gap

UK Health Check Gap 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr is committed to providing clear insights into the UK’s health landscape. This article explores the growing health check gap and explains how private medical insurance can offer a vital solution for proactive health management.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 Britons Skip Crucial Preventative Health Checks, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Undetected Illness, Costly Late Diagnoses & Eroding Vitality – Is Your PMI Pathway Your Shield for Proactive Health & Future Longevity

The figures are stark and paint a worrying picture of the nation's health. Projections for 2025, based on the latest public health data, indicate a significant and dangerous gap in preventative care. A vast majority of eligible adults are sidestepping the simple, free checks that could save their lives, extend their vitality, and prevent a cascade of personal and financial costs.

This isn't just about statistics; it's about real lives. It's about fathers missing the early signs of heart disease, mothers overlooking the indicators of Type 2 diabetes, and individuals of all ages unknowingly allowing treatable conditions to become life-altering chronic illnesses. The consequences are a national health crisis brewing beneath the surface, placing an immense strain on our beloved NHS and eroding the quality of life for millions.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dissect this critical issue, exploring:

  • The true scale of the UK's 'Health Check Gap'.
  • The devastating personal and financial costs of delayed diagnosis.
  • How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is evolving from a reactive treatment solution to a proactive wellness shield.
  • Practical steps you can take to safeguard your future health and longevity.

The Alarming Reality: What is the UK's 'Health Check Gap'?

The 'Health Check Gap' refers to the significant difference between the number of people eligible for preventative health screenings and the number who actually attend them. The cornerstone of the UK's preventative strategy is the NHS Health Check.

Offered free of charge to adults in England aged 40 to 74, this programme is designed to spot the early signs of major, yet often silent, conditions, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney disease
  • Certain types of dementia

The latest official data from NHS Digital reveals a concerning trend. In the five-year period between 2018 and 2023, over 14.8 million people were invited for an NHS Health Check. However, only 7.6 million attended. This means nearly half (48.5%) of those invited did not take up the offer. This is the gap, and it's where future health problems take root.

Why Are We Skipping These Lifesaving Checks?

The reasons are varied and deeply human. In a busy world, proactive health often takes a backseat to more immediate demands.

  • The "I Feel Fine" Fallacy: Many people operate under the assumption that if there are no symptoms, there is no problem. Unfortunately, conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and early-stage Type 2 diabetes are often asymptomatic.
  • Time and Convenience: Finding an hour to visit a GP surgery can be challenging amidst work, family, and other commitments.
  • Fear of the Unknown: For some, the anxiety of potentially receiving bad news is enough to deter them from getting checked, a phenomenon sometimes called "medical avoidance."
  • Lack of Awareness: Despite public health campaigns, a surprising number of people are simply unaware they are eligible for a free check or don't fully understand its importance.

This collective inaction creates a perfect storm, allowing preventable conditions to progress undetected until they become serious, costly, and much harder to treat.

The £4 Million+ Lifetime Burden: Deconstructing the Cost of Inaction

The "£4.0 Million+" figure in our headline represents an illustrative lifetime burden for a cohort of individuals whose conditions go undetected. It's a combination of direct costs to the health system and profound indirect costs to individuals and society. Let's break down this staggering cost.

1. The Financial Cost to the NHS and You

Early diagnosis is not just better for your health; it's significantly more cost-effective. When a condition is caught late, the required treatments are more complex, more invasive, and far more expensive.

Real-World Example: Bowel Cancer

  • Early Stage (Stage 1): Diagnosis might lead to a simple, minimally invasive procedure to remove a polyp. The cost to the NHS is relatively low, and the patient can return to normal life quickly.
  • Late Stage (Stage 4): The cancer has spread. Treatment will likely involve major surgery, extensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and ongoing specialist care. The cost to the NHS can be over ten times higher than early-stage treatment.

For the individual, a late diagnosis can be financially devastating:

  • Loss of Earnings: Prolonged and debilitating treatment can lead to significant time off work, or even the inability to work at all.
  • Additional Expenses: Costs for travel to specialist hospitals, home modifications, and private care needs can quickly accumulate.

2. The Personal Cost: Eroding Vitality and Quality of Life

The true cost of inaction cannot be measured in pounds and pence alone. It is paid in the currency of health, happiness, and time.

Aspect of LifeImpact of Early DiagnosisImpact of Late Diagnosis
TreatmentOften simpler, less invasive, shorter duration.Complex, intensive, prolonged treatment with more side effects.
Quality of LifeMinimal disruption. Quick return to work, hobbies, and family life.Significant and often permanent reduction in physical and mental wellbeing.
PrognosisExcellent. High chance of a full cure or effective long-term management.Poor. Lower survival rates and a higher likelihood of it becoming a chronic, life-limiting illness.
Mental HealthManageable stress, with a clear path forward.Severe anxiety, depression, and trauma associated with a life-threatening diagnosis.
Family ImpactLess strain on loved ones and caregivers.Substantial emotional and financial burden on the entire family unit.

A diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes caught early can often be managed, or even reversed, with diet and lifestyle changes. Left for years, it can lead to irreversible nerve damage, vision loss, kidney failure, and amputations. This is the stark reality of the 'Health Check Gap'.

Your Proactive Shield: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Bridges the Gap

While the NHS provides an essential service, its resources are stretched. Waiting lists for diagnostics and treatment can be long, and the scope of preventative checks is necessarily limited. This is where private medical insurance UK steps in, not just as a safety net for when things go wrong, but as a proactive tool to keep you healthy in the first place.

A Critical Clarification: It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions (illnesses that are curable and short-term) that arise after you take out your policy. PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions (illnesses that require long-term management, like diabetes or asthma).

However, its power lies in providing the tools for early detection and rapid intervention, helping to prevent a condition from becoming chronic.

Fast-Track Diagnostics: The Power of Speed

Imagine your GP suspects something is wrong. On the NHS, you might face a wait of several weeks or even months for a diagnostic scan like an MRI or CT. This waiting period is filled with anxiety and allows a potential condition to progress.

With a comprehensive PMI policy, the journey is vastly different:

  1. GP Referral: You see your GP (either NHS or a private virtual GP).
  2. Specialist Consultation: Your PMI provider authorises a consultation with a specialist, often within days.
  3. Diagnostic Tests: The specialist refers you for scans or tests, which can typically be booked and completed within a week.

This rapid pathway means you get a definitive diagnosis in a fraction of the time, enabling treatment to start immediately if needed.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Health Checks and Screenings

Many of the best PMI providers now include sophisticated health checks and screenings as part of their premium plans, going far beyond the basic NHS check.

FeatureTypical NHS Health CheckTypical Comprehensive PMI Health Benefit
FrequencyOnce every 5 years (for ages 40-74)Often available annually or biennially.
Blood TestsBasic cholesterol and diabetes risk.Comprehensive panel including liver function, kidney function, full blood count, and sometimes cancer markers (e.g., PSA for men).
CardiovascularBlood pressure and BMI check.May include an electrocardiogram (ECG) or more advanced cardiac risk scoring.
Cancer ScreeningsNot included (part of separate NHS screening programmes).May offer cover for specific screenings based on age and risk factors.
PersonalisationStandardised for everyone.Tailored assessments based on your lifestyle, family history, and personal concerns.

These advanced checks provide a much deeper and more detailed picture of your current health, empowering you to make informed decisions and catch any issues at the earliest possible stage.

Beyond Diagnosis: Wellness Benefits and Rewarding Healthy Living

Modern private health cover is undergoing a revolution. Insurers have realised that it's better for everyone if their members stay healthy. This has led to an explosion of wellness benefits and rewards designed to encourage a proactive approach to health.

These aren't just gimmicks; they are powerful tools to help you build and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Common benefits include:

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Significant savings at major UK gym chains.
  • Wearable Technology: Subsidised smartwatches and fitness trackers from brands like Apple, Fitbit, and Garmin to help you monitor your activity and sleep.
  • Activity Rewards: Earn points for walking, running, or cycling, which can be redeemed for free coffee, cinema tickets, or even lower premiums.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling, therapy apps, and mindfulness resources.
  • Nutritional Advice: Consultations with registered nutritionists to help you optimise your diet.

WeCovr's Commitment to Your Wellbeing

At WeCovr, we believe in this holistic approach. That's why, in addition to finding you the perfect PMI policy, we offer our clients added value to support their health journey:

  • Complimentary CalorieHero App: All our clients gain free access to CalorieHero, our powerful AI-driven calorie and nutrition tracking app, making healthy eating simpler than ever.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: When you take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy with us, you can unlock exclusive discounts on other types of cover you may need.

Choosing the Right PMI Pathway: A Guide to UK Providers

The UK private medical insurance market is diverse, with numerous providers and policy options. Navigating it can feel overwhelming. This is why working with an expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr is so valuable. We do the hard work for you, comparing the market to find a policy that fits your needs and budget, at no cost to you.

Here are the key factors to consider:

Key Policy Decisions

  1. Level of Cover:

    • Basic: Covers inpatient treatment only (when you need a hospital bed overnight).
    • Mid-Range: Includes inpatient cover plus a set level of outpatient cover (for consultations and diagnostics that don't require a hospital stay).
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive inpatient and outpatient cover, often with added benefits like dental, optical, and mental health support.

  2. Underwriting Type:

    • Moratorium: Simpler to set up. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms of or treatment for in the last 5 years. This exclusion can be lifted if you remain symptom and treatment-free for that condition for 2 continuous years after your policy starts.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a full medical history upfront. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. It's more complex initially but provides greater clarity.

  3. The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess will result in a lower monthly premium.

  4. Hospital List: Policies offer different tiers of hospitals. A list restricted to local hospitals will be cheaper than a nationwide list that includes premium central London hospitals.

A Glimpse at Major UK PMI Providers

ProviderKnown ForBest Suited For
AvivaA major, trusted UK insurer with a wide range of policy options and a strong digital health offering.Individuals and families looking for solid, comprehensive cover from a household name.
AXA HealthA global health specialist with a focus on clinical expertise and strong mental health support pathways.Those prioritising access to a broad range of specialists and mental wellbeing services.
BupaThe UK's best-known health insurer, operating its own network of hospitals and clinics for a seamless experience.People who value an integrated system and the trust associated with the Bupa brand.
VitalityA unique provider that actively rewards healthy living with discounts and perks.Active individuals who want to be incentivised for staying fit and healthy.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can provide a detailed comparison of these providers and many others, ensuring you get the best possible terms. Our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to finding the right solution for every client.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (those you have sought advice or treatment for in the past, typically the last 5 years) or chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma. However, some underwriting types, like a moratorium, may allow for cover of a pre-existing condition after a set period (usually 2 years) without symptoms or treatment.

Is a PMI health check the same as the NHS Health Check?

No, they are often quite different. While the NHS Health Check provides a valuable baseline assessment for those aged 40-74, the health checks and screenings offered by comprehensive PMI policies are typically more frequent (e.g., annually) and more in-depth. They may include a wider range of blood tests, heart health checks like an ECG, and more personalised assessments, offering a deeper insight into your overall health.

How much does private health cover cost in the UK?

The cost of private health cover varies significantly based on several factors: your age, your location, your smoking status, the level of cover you choose, your chosen excess, and the hospital list you select. A basic policy for a young, healthy individual could be as low as £30-£40 per month, while a comprehensive policy for an older person with no excess could be over £150 per month. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a personalised quote.

Why should I use a PMI broker like WeCovr?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr costs you nothing, but provides immense value. We use our expertise to scan the entire market, comparing policies from all leading UK providers to find the one that best suits your specific needs and budget. We explain the complex jargon in plain English and can help guide you through the application and claims process, saving you time, money, and stress.

Take Control of Your Health Today

The health check gap is more than a statistic; it's a personal risk with profound consequences. Relying solely on a stretched public system for preventative care means potentially missing the crucial window for early diagnosis.

Private medical insurance offers a powerful alternative: a proactive pathway to managing your health. It provides rapid access to diagnostics, advanced health screenings, and a suite of wellness benefits designed to protect and enhance your vitality for years to come. It is your shield against the uncertainty of waiting lists and the devastating impact of late diagnosis.

Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Invest in your future longevity now.

Take the first step towards proactive health. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our experts design a personalised PMI plan that will be your shield for a healthier, longer 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:

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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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