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UK Inactivity Crisis 4 in 5 Britons at Risk

UK Inactivity Crisis 4 in 5 Britons at Risk 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 800,000 policies of various types issued, WeCovr is at the forefront of the UK’s private medical insurance market. This article explores a growing national health emergency—the inactivity crisis—and explains how proactive private health cover can be your most powerful defence for a healthier future.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 4 in 5 Britons Secretly Face a Sedentary Lifestyle Crisis, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Premature Mortality, Lost Productivity & Eroding Quality of Life – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health Assessments, Integrated Wellness Programs & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Longevity

A silent epidemic is sweeping the United Kingdom. It isn't a virus, but a lifestyle. New analysis based on current trends from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Public Health England projects a startling reality for 2025: over four in five adults are at risk from a sedentary lifestyle. This isn't just about being a "couch potato." It's about the cumulative effect of desk jobs, long commutes, and screen-based leisure, which quietly erode our health.

This creeping inactivity is fuelling a national health crisis, contributing to a staggering societal economic burden. The costs, when combining treatment for chronic disease, lost productivity, and the need for social care, are astronomical. For an individual, a lifetime of chronic illness can lead to significant personal financial strain and, more importantly, a severe loss of quality of life.

But there is a powerful, proactive solution. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) has evolved. It’s no longer just for when things go wrong; it’s a comprehensive toolkit for staying healthy, catching problems early, and building a resilient, energetic future. This guide will illuminate the scale of the inactivity crisis and show you how a modern private health cover plan is your pathway to vitality and longevity.

The Scale of the Crisis: Are You One of the 80%?

It’s easy to dismiss the term "sedentary." Many of us believe we're active enough. We walk to the station, do the weekly shop, or play with the kids in the park. However, the official definition can be surprising.

According to NHS guidelines, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. A sedentary lifestyle is characterised by prolonged periods of sitting or lying down, both at work and at home.

Consider a typical day:

  • 8 hours sleeping
  • 8 hours sitting at a desk
  • 1-2 hours sitting while commuting
  • 3-4 hours sitting for meals and relaxation (e.g., watching TV)

That’s up to 14 hours of being sedentary. Even with a 30-minute gym session, the negative effects of prolonged sitting can take their toll. This is the "secret" crisis affecting an estimated 80% of the UK population—individuals who don't consider themselves inactive but whose daily routines say otherwise.

The Devastating Health Consequences of Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle is a direct contributor to a host of debilitating health conditions. It's not a matter of 'if', but 'when' the effects will begin to show.

Health RiskImpact on the Body
Type 2 DiabetesInactivity impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, dramatically increasing the risk of developing this lifelong condition.
Cardiovascular DiseaseLack of movement contributes to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and poor circulation, leading to heart attacks and strokes.
Certain CancersResearch by Cancer Research UK links prolonged sitting to an increased risk of bowel, womb, and lung cancers.
Musculoskeletal DisordersWeakened muscles, poor posture from sitting, and brittle bones (osteoporosis) lead to chronic back pain, joint issues, and a higher risk of falls.
Mental Health DeclinePhysical activity is a proven mood booster. A lack of it is strongly linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression.

The financial cost follows the physical decline. An individual diagnosed with a serious chronic condition like heart failure faces not just the physical struggle but also potential loss of income and significant lifestyle adjustments. This is the personal burden that contributes to the wider societal cost.

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions in UK PMI

Before we explore the PMI solution, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK.

Important: Standard private health cover is designed to treat acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy. 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.

PMI does not cover:

  • Pre-existing conditions: Any illness or injury you had before the policy start date.
  • Chronic conditions: Conditions that are ongoing, have no known cure, and require long-term management, such as diabetes, arthritis, or high blood pressure.

So, how can PMI help with a crisis rooted in chronic disease? The answer lies in prevention, early diagnosis, and rapid treatment of acute issues before they become chronic. By giving you the tools to stay healthy and the means to fix new problems quickly, PMI helps you avoid crossing the line from healthy to chronically ill.

The Two Pathways: NHS vs. PMI for Early Intervention

Imagine you develop persistent knee pain—a common issue for those with sedentary jobs. Let's see how the journey might unfold.

StageStandard NHS PathwayPMI Pathway
Initial ConsultationAppointment with your GP.Appointment with your GP or a digital GP service, often available within hours.
ReferralReferred to an NHS physiotherapist or specialist.Referred to a specialist of your choice from the insurer's approved network.
Waiting TimeNHS waiting lists for diagnostics (like an MRI) can be several months. The target is 18 weeks from referral to treatment.An MRI or other diagnostic scan can often be arranged within a week.
Diagnosis & TreatmentTreatment begins after the waiting period.With a swift diagnosis, treatment (e.g., physiotherapy, keyhole surgery) can begin almost immediately.
OutcomeThe long wait can cause the initial acute injury to worsen, potentially leading to chronic arthritis.The acute injury is treated quickly, preventing long-term damage and the onset of a chronic condition.

This is the power of PMI: it closes the dangerous gap between spotting a problem and fixing it.

Your Proactive Defence: How Modern PMI Builds Foundational Health

Today’s best private health cover is less about a hospital bed and more about a holistic approach to your wellbeing. Insurers know that a healthy client is good for everyone, so they invest heavily in programmes designed to keep you out of the hospital.

A good policy, sourced through an expert PMI broker like WeCovr, can provide access to a suite of powerful preventative tools.

1. Proactive Health Assessments

Many comprehensive PMI policies include regular health checks. These are not just a quick chat; they are detailed assessments that can include:

  • Blood pressure measurement
  • Cholesterol tests
  • Blood glucose checks
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) analysis
  • Lifestyle and nutrition questionnaires

These assessments provide a snapshot of your internal health, flagging potential issues like pre-diabetes or rising cholesterol levels long before they become symptomatic. This gives you a crucial window to make lifestyle changes.

2. Integrated Wellness and Rewards Programmes

This is where PMI truly shines as a tool against inactivity. Leading providers like Vitality, Aviva, and Bupa have revolutionised the market with programmes that actively reward you for healthy living.

Benefits can include:

  • Discounted gym memberships at major chains like Nuffield Health and Virgin Active.
  • Wearable tech discounts on Apple Watches or Fitbits to track your activity.
  • Points-based rewards systems: Earn points for walking, running, or cycling, which can be redeemed for coffee, cinema tickets, or even lower insurance premiums.
  • Online health resources, including workout plans, healthy recipes, and mindfulness guides.

These programmes gamify health, providing tangible incentives to get up from your desk and move.

3. Complimentary Tools for a Healthier You

At WeCovr, we go a step further. We believe in empowering our clients with practical, everyday tools. That's why when you arrange your PMI with us, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's the perfect companion to your new active lifestyle, helping you fuel your body correctly. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or life insurance through WeCovr can often benefit from discounts on other types of insurance cover, providing even greater value.

Shielding Your Future: The Concept of LCIIP (Lifetime Chronic Illness & Injury Protection)

LCIIP, or Lifetime Chronic Illness & Injury Protection, isn't a formal insurance product. It's a concept that describes the ultimate benefit of a proactive PMI strategy. It’s the "shield" you build around your long-term health.

How does it work?

  1. Wellness Programmes help you build healthy habits, reducing your baseline risk of inactivity-related diseases.
  2. Health Assessments act as an early-warning system, catching biological markers before they become full-blown conditions.
  3. Fast-Track Diagnostics & Treatment for acute issues (like a sports injury, back pain, or a new lump) ensure they are resolved quickly, preventing them from developing into chronic, life-limiting problems.

A Real-World Example: Mark, a 52-year-old software developer, spends most of his day sitting. He starts experiencing sharp pains in his lower back.

  • Without PMI: He sees his GP, who recommends painkillers and rest. When it doesn't improve, he's put on a waiting list for physiotherapy, which is months away. During this time, his pain becomes constant, affecting his work and sleep. The acute muscle strain develops into a chronic pain condition.
  • With PMI: He uses his insurer's digital GP app and gets a same-day video call. He's referred for an MRI the following week, which identifies a slipped disc. He begins a course of private physiotherapy within ten days, gets specialist treatment, and is back to full health in two months. His acute injury is resolved before it could become a chronic burden.

Mark’s PMI didn't "cure" a chronic condition. It stopped one from ever developing. That is the essence of the LCIIP shield.

How to Choose the Best Private Health Cover in the UK

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can feel complex. Policies are highly customisable, and what's right for one person may not be right for another. An independent broker like WeCovr, with our high customer satisfaction ratings and deep market knowledge, can provide impartial advice at no cost to you.

Here are the key factors to consider:

FeatureDescriptionWhat to Look For
Level of CoverDetermines what's included, from basic (in-patient only) to comprehensive (in-patient, out-patient, therapies, mental health).A comprehensive plan offers the best preventative and wellness benefits to combat inactivity.
Hospital ListThe network of private hospitals you can use. Some are national, others are more localised.Ensure the list includes high-quality hospitals that are convenient for you.
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess lowers your monthly premium.Choose an excess level you are comfortable paying. Options typically range from £0 to £1,000.
UnderwritingThe method the insurer uses to assess your health history. The two main types are Moratorium and Full Medical Underwriting.A broker can explain the pros and cons of each. Moratorium is quicker, while FMU provides more certainty on what's covered from day one.
Wellness BenefitsThe rewards and discounts for healthy living. This is a key differentiator between providers.Compare the wellness programmes from providers like Vitality, AXA, Bupa, and Aviva to see which best suits your lifestyle.

Beyond Insurance: Simple, Powerful Lifestyle Changes

While PMI is a powerful tool, it works best when combined with personal commitment. Here are some simple, evidence-based tips to break the cycle of sedentarism.

1. Embrace "Movement Snacking" You don't need a one-hour gym session every day. Break up long periods of sitting with short bursts of activity.

  • Set a timer to stand up and stretch every 30 minutes.
  • Do 10 squats while waiting for the kettle to boil.
  • Take phone calls while walking around the room.

2. Optimise Your Diet for Energy What you eat directly impacts your energy levels and desire to be active.

  • Prioritise Protein: Include lean protein (chicken, fish, tofu, beans) in every meal to keep you full and maintain muscle mass.
  • Choose Complex Carbs: Swap white bread and pasta for whole grains, sweet potatoes, and oats for sustained energy release.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause fatigue and brain fog. Aim for 2-3 litres of water a day. Our CalorieHero app can help you track this.

3. Prioritise Sleep Sleep is when your body repairs muscle, consolidates memory, and regulates hormones.

  • Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine: turn off screens an hour before bed, read a book, or listen to calming music.
  • Ensure your bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet.

4. Make Activity Social Exercising with others can boost motivation and make it more enjoyable.

  • Join a local walking group or rambling club.
  • Sign up for a team sport like 5-a-side football or netball.
  • Arrange active outings with friends and family, like a bike ride or a hike, instead of meeting at a pub or café.

By integrating these small changes, you begin to build a lifestyle where activity is a natural and enjoyable part of your day, powerfully complementing the safety net provided by your private health cover.


Does private medical insurance cover conditions caused by an inactive lifestyle?

This is a critical point. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover chronic conditions, many of which (like type 2 diabetes or hypertension) are linked to an inactive lifestyle. However, PMI is designed to diagnose and treat acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. By providing fast access to specialists and treatments for new issues (e.g., joint pain, a sports injury), it can prevent them from becoming chronic, long-term problems. Furthermore, many policies include wellness programmes to help you avoid these conditions in the first place.

Can I get PMI if I already have a chronic condition like arthritis or diabetes?

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but the policy will not cover the pre-existing chronic condition or any related treatments. All new, eligible acute conditions that arise after you join would be covered according to your policy's terms. This is why it is so beneficial to get cover while you are still healthy, as a preventative measure for the future.

What are the main benefits of using a PMI broker like WeCovr?

Using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages at no cost to you. Firstly, we provide expert, impartial advice, helping you compare policies from across the market to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Secondly, we simplify the complex application process and explain the jargon. Finally, we can often find deals and options not available to the general public, ensuring you get the best possible value and the most suitable wellness benefits.

The threat posed by the UK's inactivity crisis is real and growing. It jeopardises not only our long-term health but also our financial security and quality of life. Taking proactive steps today is the only way to shield your future. A modern private medical insurance policy is one of the most powerful investments you can make in your continued vitality.

Don't wait for a health scare to force your hand. Take control of your health journey today.

[Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote from WeCovr and Start Building Your Health Defence Today]

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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