WeCovr.

Login

UK Health Delays 2 in 5 Britons Face Work Crisis

UK Health Delays 2 in 5 Britons Face Work Crisis 2025

At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies of various kinds, we see the real-world impact of NHS delays on UK families. This guide explores how private medical insurance provides a crucial safety net, protecting your health, career, and financial future from the growing strain on public services.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 Working Britons Will Face Career-Altering Delays in Diagnosis or Treatment Due to NHS Waiting Lists, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Lost Income, Business Stagnation & Eroding Family Futures – Is Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Access & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional & Personal Longevity

The United Kingdom is facing a silent crisis. It isn't found in headline inflation figures or political debates, but in the quiet, growing anxiety of millions. As we move through 2025, the strain on our cherished NHS has created a secondary, devastating impact on our nation's economic and personal wellbeing.

New analysis, based on projecting current trends from NHS and Office for National Statistics (ONS) data, reveals a startling forecast: over two in five working-age Britons are now on a trajectory to face a significant, career-altering delay in either diagnosis or treatment during their working lives. This isn't just about discomfort; it's about derailed careers, shuttered businesses, and futures fundamentally altered. The cumulative lifetime cost for a single high-earning professional or business owner can spiral beyond £4.0 million in lost income and opportunities.

This guide is an urgent wake-up call. We will dissect the data, explore the real-world consequences, and illuminate the solution that offers a shield against this uncertainty: Private Medical Insurance (PMI). Think of it as your personal Loss of Credibility and Income Insurance Protection (LCIIP) – a strategic tool to safeguard not just your health, but your entire professional and personal legacy.

The Domino Effect: How NHS Waiting Times Cripple Careers and Businesses

A health issue is rarely just a health issue. For a working professional, a business owner, or a freelancer, a long wait for medical care can trigger a catastrophic domino effect that ripples through every aspect of their life.

According to the latest ONS data, the number of people economically inactive due to long-term sickness has reached a record high, now standing at over 2.8 million. This isn't just a statistic; it represents millions of individual stories of lost potential.

Consider these common scenarios:

  • The Sales Director: A top-performing sales director in her 40s develops persistent knee pain. Her GP refers her to an orthopaedic specialist. The NHS waiting list for an initial consultation is nine months. The subsequent wait for an MRI scan is four months, and the wait for potential keyhole surgery is over a year. During this nearly two-year period, she can't travel for key client meetings, her performance plummets, she misses out on a promotion, and her annual bonus evaporates. The chronic pain affects her sleep and mood, impacting her leadership.
  • The Self-Employed Electrician: A 35-year-old electrician develops a painful shoulder condition. He is the business. If he can't work, the income stops. He's told the wait for physiotherapy and a potential steroid injection on the NHS is six months. In that time, he loses clients, his business reputation suffers, and he's forced to dip into his family's savings just to cover the mortgage.
  • The Tech Consultant: A programmer in his late 20s experiences debilitating migraines and "brain fog." A neurological referral has an 18-month wait. He struggles to concentrate, misses project deadlines, and his employer begins to question his reliability. His career progression stalls before it has even truly begun.

The £4.0 Million Case Study: A Lifetime of Lost Opportunity

The figure of a "£4.0 million+ lifetime burden" might seem abstract, but it becomes terrifyingly real when you map it to a high-earning individual.

Let's imagine a 45-year-old partner at a law firm earning £200,000 per year. She develops a neurological condition that requires specialist diagnosis and ongoing management.

  • Year 1-2 (The Wait): A 24-month delay for diagnosis and treatment initiation leads to a significant decline in her performance. She is unable to take on high-stakes cases and her billable hours fall.
  • Year 3 (The Impact): Her condition worsens without timely intervention. She is forced to step down from her partnership role, taking a less demanding, lower-paid position at £80,000 per year.
  • The Lifetime Cost: Over the next 20 years until retirement at 67, she loses £120,000 in salary each year.
Financial Impact CategoryCalculationTotal Loss
Lost Salary£120,000/year x 20 years£2,400,000
Lost Pension ContributionsEstimated 15% employer/employee contribution on lost salary£360,000
Lost Bonuses & Profit ShareEstimated £50,000/year x 20 years£1,000,000
Compounded Investment LossOpportunity cost of not investing lost income£500,000+
Total Estimated Lifetime BurdenSum of all losses£4,260,000+

This is the brutal financial reality of a career derailed by a health delay. It doesn't even account for the emotional toll on the individual and their family. This is the risk you face when your access to healthcare is outside of your control.

A Sobering Look at UK Health Statistics in 2025

To understand why private medical insurance in the UK has shifted from a "nice-to-have" to a "need-to-have," we must look at the data shaping our new reality.

  • The Overall Waiting List: As of early 2025, the NHS England waiting list for routine hospital treatment continues to hover around the 7.5 million mark. This number represents individual treatments, not people, meaning many individuals are on multiple lists.
  • The "Hidden" Waiting List: Beyond the official figures, there's the wait to see a GP in the first place, the wait for a referral, and the wait for diagnostic tests. These add months, sometimes years, to the patient journey.
  • Cancer Targets: Crucial targets for seeing a specialist within two weeks of an urgent cancer referral, and starting treatment within 62 days, have been consistently missed across the country. In a condition where every day counts, these delays can have life-altering consequences.
  • Mental Health Services: Waiting times for adult and children's mental health services (CAMHS) remain critically long, with many people waiting over a year for access to therapy and psychiatric support.

This isn't a criticism of the incredible, hardworking staff within the NHS. It's a simple acknowledgment of a system under unprecedented strain from a growing and ageing population, resource constraints, and the long-term effects of the pandemic.

Your Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Works

Private Medical Insurance is a policy you pay for—either monthly or annually—that gives you access to private healthcare for specific types of conditions. It's designed to work alongside the NHS, not replace it entirely. You would still rely on the NHS for accidents and emergencies, for example.

The core purpose of PMI is to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions.

  • What is an acute condition? An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. Examples include joint pain requiring replacement surgery, hernias, cataracts, or most types of cancer.

The Critical Exclusion: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to understand about standard UK PMI policies.

PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any illness, disease, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that cannot be cured, only managed. This includes illnesses like diabetes, asthma, hypertension (high blood pressure), and certain types of arthritis.

PMI is designed for new, treatable health problems that arise after you take out your cover. It's a shield for the future, not a solution for the past.

The PMI Advantage: Bypassing Queues and Securing Your Future

When you have a PMI policy, the journey from symptom to solution is transformed. Instead of joining a months-long queue, you enter a parallel, fast-track system.

Health Journey StageStandard NHS PathwayPMI Pathway
Initial ConsultationWait weeks for a GP appointment.Access a 24/7 virtual GP, often same-day.
Specialist ReferralGP refers you to NHS specialist. Wait 6-18+ months.GP provides an open referral. You choose a specialist and can often be seen within days or weeks.
DiagnosticsJoin the queue for scans (MRI, CT, etc.). Wait can be months.Scans are booked promptly, often within a week of the specialist consultation.
Treatment/SurgeryJoin the surgical waiting list. Wait can be 12-24+ months.Treatment or surgery is scheduled at your convenience, typically within a few weeks.
RecoveryRecovery in a shared ward.Recovery in a private, en-suite room.

The key benefits are clear:

  1. Rapid Access: The single biggest advantage. It minimises the time you spend in pain, anxiety, and being unable to work or live your life fully.
  2. Choice and Control: You can often choose your specialist, consultant, and the hospital where you receive treatment from a pre-approved list.
  3. Access to Advanced Treatments: Some policies provide cover for drugs or treatments that may not be available on the NHS due to cost or other restrictions.
  4. Comfort and Privacy: A private room can significantly improve your recovery experience, offering peace and quiet when you need it most.
  5. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have this safety net in place removes a huge source of "what if" anxiety for you and your family.

Decoding Your PMI Policy: Key Features and Options to Consider

Not all private health cover is the same. Policies are highly customisable to balance your budget with your desired level of cover. An expert PMI broker, like the team at WeCovr, can help you navigate these choices at no cost to you.

Here are the main levers you can pull to adjust your policy:

FeatureDescriptionImpact on Premium
Underwriting TypeMoratorium: Simpler application, but conditions from the last 5 years are excluded for an initial period (usually 2 years). Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You declare your full medical history. Insurer gives a clear "yes" or "no" on what's covered from day one.Moratorium can sometimes be cheaper initially. FMU provides more certainty.
Excess LevelThe amount you agree to pay towards a claim each year (e.g., £0, £100, £250, £500).A higher excess significantly lowers your monthly premium.
Hospital ListInsurers have tiered hospital lists. A basic list covers local private hospitals. A comprehensive list includes prime central London hospitals.A more restricted hospital list will reduce the cost.
Outpatient CoverCover for consultations and diagnostics that don't require a hospital stay. Can be nil, capped (e.g., £1,000), or full cover.Reducing or removing outpatient cover is a major way to lower premiums.
Therapies CoverCover for treatments like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic.Can be added as an optional extra.
Mental Health CoverSpecific cover for psychiatric and therapeutic support.An increasingly popular and valuable add-on.

Choosing the right combination is key. For example, a healthy 40-year-old might opt for a high excess (£500) and limited outpatient cover, focusing their budget on securing fast access to surgery if needed. This makes comprehensive cover surprisingly affordable.

Is Private Health Cover Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis

A common question is, "Can I afford it?" The better question is, "Can I afford not to have it?"

Let's compare the cost of a typical PMI policy with the potential cost of inaction.

Assumptions:

  • A 40-year-old non-smoker in good health.
  • Mid-range policy with a £250 excess.
  • Earning a salary of £50,000 per year (£4,167 per month).
ScenarioCost of PMICost of NHS Delay
Monthly CostApprox. £60 - £90£0
Annual CostApprox. £720 - £1,080£0
EventNeeds knee surgery.Needs knee surgery.
Access TimeSurgery within 6 weeks.Surgery wait is 12 months.
Work ImpactOff work for 2 months (1 post-op, 1 recovery).Unable to work effectively for 12 months due to pain and immobility. Signed off work for 6 months.
Financial OutcomePays £250 excess. Loses 1 month's pay (£4,167) if SSP is minimal. Total cost: ~£4,417.Loses 6 months' pay. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is minimal (~£116/week). Estimated lost income: £22,000+. Plus potential career damage.

In this realistic scenario, the cost of a single year's delay is more than 20 times the annual cost of the insurance policy that would have prevented it. The value proposition is not just financial; it's about reclaiming lost time, preventing career stagnation, and protecting your quality of life.

Beyond Treatment: The Added Value of Modern PMI Policies

The best PMI providers today offer far more than just hospital treatment. They are evolving into holistic health and wellness partners. When you buy a policy, you often gain access to a suite of benefits designed to keep you healthy.

  • 24/7 Virtual GP Services: Speak to a GP via phone or video call anytime, anywhere. Get prescriptions, advice, and referrals without waiting.
  • Mental Health Support: Many policies now include access to confidential counselling lines or a set number of therapy sessions, recognising the link between mental and physical health.
  • Wellness Programmes: Get discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings. Some insurers even reward you for healthy living with lower premiums or other perks.
  • Expert Second Opinions: If you receive a serious diagnosis, you can have your case reviewed by a world-leading expert to ensure your diagnosis and treatment plan are correct.

At WeCovr, we enhance this value further. All clients who purchase Private Medical or Life Insurance receive complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, helping you manage your diet effectively. Furthermore, our clients often benefit from discounts on other types of insurance, such as home or travel cover, creating a comprehensive and cost-effective protection package.

A Holistic Approach to Your Health: Protecting Your Longevity

While insurance provides a vital safety net, the first line of defence is always your own lifestyle. Small, consistent habits can have a profound impact on your long-term health, reducing your risk of needing major medical intervention in the first place.

  1. Nourish Your Body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods—fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Use tools like CalorieHero to understand your intake and make informed choices. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  2. Move Every Day: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Incorporate strength training twice a week to maintain muscle mass and bone density.
  3. Prioritise Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a restful environment, stick to a regular sleep schedule, and avoid screens before bed. Good sleep is critical for physical repair, cognitive function, and emotional regulation.
  4. Manage Stress: Chronic stress is a major contributor to ill health. Find healthy coping mechanisms that work for you, whether it's mindfulness, meditation, yoga, spending time in nature, or engaging in a hobby.
  5. Stay Connected: Strong social ties are a powerful predictor of longevity and wellbeing. Make time for friends and family.

Choosing the Right Path: How an Expert PMI Broker Can Help

The UK private medical insurance market is complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy combinations. Trying to compare them yourself can be overwhelming and lead to costly mistakes, like buying the wrong level of cover or paying too much.

This is where an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable asset.

  • We are experts: We live and breathe the PMI market every day. We know the providers, the policies, and the fine print inside out.
  • We are impartial: Our loyalty is to you, the client, not to any single insurance company. We compare the market to find the best PMI provider and policy for your specific needs and budget.
  • We save you money: We have access to deals and policy structures that aren't always available to the public. Our service is free to you; we are paid a commission by the insurer you choose.
  • We save you time and hassle: We do all the research, fill out the complex forms, and explain your options in plain English, empowering you to make a confident decision.

Our clients consistently rate our service highly because we provide clarity and confidence in a confusing market.

The question is no longer whether you can afford to be proactive about your health, but how you can afford not to be. The data is clear: waiting lists are a direct threat to the careers, businesses, and financial futures of millions of Britons. A Private Medical Insurance policy is your pathway to rapid access, giving you the control to shield your professional and personal longevity.

Do I need to declare my full medical history to get private health cover?

It depends on the type of underwriting you choose. With 'Full Medical Underwriting' (FMU), you provide your complete medical history upfront, giving you certainty on what is covered from day one. With 'Moratorium' underwriting, you don't need to declare your history, but any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the last five years is automatically excluded for the first two years of the policy. If you remain symptom-free for that two-year period, the condition may then be covered.

Will my private medical insurance premium go up every year?

Premiums are likely to increase over time for two main reasons. The first is age, as the risk of needing medical care increases as you get older. The second is medical inflation – the rising cost of new medical technologies, drugs, and hospital charges, which typically runs higher than general inflation. However, you can manage costs by reviewing your policy annually with a broker, adjusting your excess, or changing your hospital list.

Why do I need PMI if I already have the NHS? Isn't it a waste of money?

Private Medical Insurance is not a replacement for the NHS, but a complement to it. You will still rely on the NHS for emergency services (A&E) and the management of chronic conditions. PMI's value lies in providing rapid access to diagnosis and treatment for acute conditions, bypassing long waiting lists that can negatively impact your career, income, and quality of life. Think of it as insurance for your timeline and your financial wellbeing, not just your health.

Can I get private health cover if I have a pre-existing condition?

Generally, standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any health issue for which you have sought advice, symptoms, or treatment before the policy start date. The purpose of PMI is to cover new, acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. While the pre-existing condition itself won't be covered, you can still get a policy to cover you for any new, unrelated conditions that may occur in the future.

Don't let your future be determined by a waiting list. Take control today.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote from WeCovr and Secure Your Peace of Mind]

Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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

Important Information

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

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

About WeCovr

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

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2025 WeCovr. Made with in London