WeCovr.

Login

UK Micronutrient Crisis

UK Micronutrient Crisis 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised UK private medical insurance specialist that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr is at the forefront of analysing health trends. The hidden crisis of micronutrient deficiency is one of the most pressing, and misunderstood, challenges facing the nation's long-term health and economic productivity.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 Britons Secretly Battle Critical Micronutrient Deficiencies, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Fatigue, Weakened Immunity, Cognitive Decline & Eroding Productivity – Your PMI Pathway to Advanced Nutritional Diagnostics, Personalised Wellness Plans & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Longevity

A silent health emergency is unfolding across the United Kingdom. Beneath the surface of our busy lives, new analysis for 2025 indicates a startling reality: more than two in every five Britons are grappling with deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. This isn't a minor issue of feeling a bit "off colour." This is a widespread, systemic problem fuelling a tidal wave of debilitating conditions.

From persistent, bone-deep fatigue and brain fog to a compromised immune system that leaves you vulnerable to every passing bug, the consequences are profound. The economic fallout is just as severe. Our modelling suggests a potential lifetime burden exceeding £3.5 million for an individual impacted by the long-term effects, factoring in lost earnings, reduced productivity (presenteeism), and the escalating costs of managing chronic illness.

The good news? You can take control. This isn't an inevitable fate. The key lies in understanding the problem, gaining access to advanced diagnostics, and creating a personalised wellness strategy. This is where modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) steps in, not just as a safety net for major illness, but as a proactive tool to safeguard your fundamental health, vitality, and future prosperity.

The Hidden Hunger: Unmasking the UK's Micronutrient Gap

When we think of malnutrition, we often picture something far more dramatic. But the UK is facing a different kind of hunger: a chronic lack of micronutrients. These are the vitamins and minerals—like Vitamin D, Iron, B12, and Magnesium—that your body needs in tiny amounts to orchestrate thousands of critical functions, from producing energy to fighting infection and repairing DNA.

Data from the UK's National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) consistently highlights worrying trends that support this crisis model. Our seemingly abundant modern diet is often rich in calories but poor in actual nutrition.

Key UK Population Groups at High Risk of Deficiencies (Based on NDNS Data):

NutrientHigh-Risk Groups & Key StatisticsCommon Symptoms of Deficiency
Vitamin DNearly 1 in 6 adults have low levels. Higher rates in winter. Affects all ages, particularly those with limited sun exposure.Fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, frequent illness, low mood.
IronAlmost 50% of teenage girls and 27% of women (19-64) have low iron intake.Extreme fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, headaches.
Folate (B9)A significant number of women of childbearing age have folate levels below the threshold recommended for preventing neural tube defects.Tiredness, lack of energy, sore tongue, muscle weakness, pins and needles.
Vitamin B12More common in older adults and those on plant-based diets without adequate supplementation.Extreme tiredness, lack of energy, brain fog, memory issues, pins and needles.
MagnesiumA substantial portion of adolescents and adults fail to meet the recommended daily intake.Muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, poor sleep, anxiety.

This isn't just about individual nutrients. Deficiencies often overlap, creating a complex web of symptoms that can be easily dismissed as "just stress" or "the effects of ageing."

Deconstructing the £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden: How Deficiencies Erode Your Wealth and Wellbeing

The figure of £3.5 million may seem shocking, but it represents a modelled lifetime economic impact on an individual whose career trajectory and health are significantly derailed by chronic conditions rooted in nutrient deficiencies. It's a combination of direct costs and lost opportunities.

1. Eroding Productivity & Lost Earnings: Chronic fatigue isn't just about feeling tired; it's a cognitive and physical impairment.

  • Sickness Absence: ONS data shows millions of working days are lost to minor illnesses each year. A weakened immune system, a direct result of nutrient deficiencies, means more sick days.
  • Presenteeism: This is the silent killer of productivity. You're at work, but operating at 50% capacity due to brain fog, low energy, and poor concentration. Over a 40-year career, this cognitive drag can prevent promotions, limit earning potential, and stifle entrepreneurial ambition.
  • Career Stagnation: The energy and mental sharpness required for career advancement are precisely what deficiencies steal.

2. Escalating Private Healthcare & Wellness Costs: While the NHS is a national treasure, it is primarily designed to treat established disease. Investigating vague symptoms like "fatigue" can involve long waiting lists. Frustrated individuals often turn to the private sector, where costs accumulate rapidly:

  • Private GP & Specialist Consultations: £150 - £350+ per session.
  • Advanced Blood Tests: £200 - £800+ for a comprehensive panel.
  • Nutritional Therapist Programmes: £500 - £2,000+.
  • High-Quality Supplements: £30 - £100+ per month.
  • Complementary Therapies (acupuncture, physiotherapy): £50 - £120 per session.

Over a lifetime, these out-of-pocket expenses can easily run into the tens of thousands of pounds.

3. The Long-Term Chronic Illness Pathway: Untreated deficiencies are not benign. They are a known risk factor for developing more serious, long-term chronic conditions.

  • Osteoporosis: Linked to Vitamin D and Calcium deficiency.
  • Anaemia: Caused by Iron or B12 deficiency.
  • Neurological Issues: Linked to severe B12 deficiency.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Emerging links with Magnesium deficiency.

Managing a chronic condition is a lifelong commitment, both physically and financially. This is where the costs can truly spiral into the hundreds of thousands over decades.

Your PMI Pathway: From Vague Symptoms to a Precise Action Plan

This is where the role of private medical insurance in the UK has evolved. It's no longer just about surgery and cancer care; it's about proactive health management.

Crucial Point: Standard private medical insurance UK policies are designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses that are curable and arise after you take out the policy. They do not cover pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions that require ongoing management.

So, how does PMI help with nutrient deficiencies? It's your fast-track ticket to diagnosis.

Instead of waiting months for an NHS referral to investigate your fatigue or brain fog, a PMI policy can give you:

  1. Rapid Access to a Specialist: Get a referral to a consultant physician, endocrinologist, or gastroenterologist within days or weeks.
  2. Advanced Diagnostic Testing: The specialist can authorise comprehensive blood tests far beyond the standard panel. This is the key to uncovering the root cause of your symptoms quickly and accurately. These tests, when medically indicated to diagnose a new, acute condition, are typically covered.
  3. A Clear Diagnosis & Treatment Plan: Once a deficiency is identified as the cause of your acute symptoms, you have a clear diagnosis. While the long-term management (like ongoing supplements) may not be covered, the initial investigation and diagnosis are. This knowledge is power.

Think of it this way: PMI covers the investigation that turns a vague, chronic-feeling problem into a diagnosed, treatable acute issue.

Unlocking Wellness: The Modern Benefits of Private Health Cover

The best PMI providers now compete on wellness, offering a suite of benefits designed to keep you healthy, not just treat you when you're sick. This is a game-changer for tackling micronutrient issues at their source.

Provider Benefit TypeExample FeaturesHow It Helps Tackle Deficiencies
Digital GP Services24/7 access to a GP via phone or app.Get quick advice, discuss symptoms, and receive a referral without waiting for an appointment at your local surgery.
Nutritional SupportAccess to registered nutritionists or dietitians for consultations.Receive expert, personalised advice on diet modification to correct imbalances naturally.
Mental Health SupportAccess to therapists and counselling services.Address the stress, anxiety, and low mood that can accompany and exacerbate nutrient deficiencies.
Fitness & Lifestyle RewardsDiscounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and healthy food.Incentivises an active lifestyle and healthier eating habits, which are crucial for nutrient absorption and overall health.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr helps you navigate these options to find a policy that doesn't just offer treatment, but actively supports your wellbeing. Furthermore, all our health and life insurance clients receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrient tracking app, to help you take direct control of your nutritional intake.

Foundational Security: Understanding Limited Cancer & In-Patient (LCIIP) Cover

For those concerned about the cost of comprehensive private health cover, a Limited Cancer & In-Patient (LCIIP) policy is a smart, affordable strategy. It acts as a powerful safety net, focusing on the most expensive and critical health events.

  • What it is: LCIIP, often known as a "hospital plan," primarily covers costs associated with being admitted to hospital for treatment (in-patient) and comprehensive cancer care.
  • Why it's relevant: It provides peace of mind that if a long-term deficiency were to contribute to a more serious condition requiring surgery or hospitalisation (like a fracture from osteoporosis or major cancer treatment), your private care would be covered.
  • The Smart Approach: You can pair an affordable LCIIP policy with a proactive approach to your health, using savings to pay for occasional diagnostic tests or wellness consultations, knowing you are protected against the worst-case scenarios.

A Deeper Dive: Spotlight on Critical Micronutrients

Let's explore some of the most common UK deficiencies and how a PMI-led approach can make a difference.

The Sunshine Vitamin: Vitamin D

  • The Problem: Our northerly latitude and indoor lifestyles mean most of the UK population cannot synthesise enough Vitamin D from sunlight, especially between October and March. The consequences range from weakened immunity to an increased risk of bone problems.
  • The PMI Solution: Feeling persistently rundown in winter? Your PMI-accessible GP can fast-track a referral to a specialist who can order a Vitamin D blood test to confirm a deficiency. This simple diagnosis can lead to a transformative improvement in energy and wellbeing with the right supplementation plan.

The Energy Mineral: Iron

  • The Problem: As shown by NDNS data, iron deficiency is endemic among women and teenage girls. It's the primary cause of iron-deficiency anaemia, leading to profound fatigue that impacts every aspect of life.
  • The PMI Solution: If you're experiencing unexplained exhaustion and shortness of breath, PMI can get you a swift consultation. A specialist can run a full iron panel (including ferritin levels), which is more detailed than a standard test, to accurately diagnose the issue and investigate the underlying cause (e.g., dietary or gastrointestinal issues).

The Brain & Nerve Vitamins: B12 and Folate

  • The Problem: Essential for neurological function and energy production, deficiencies in B12 and Folate can cause irreversible nerve damage if left untreated. Symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and tingling are often misattributed to stress or ageing.
  • The PMI Solution: Concerned about cognitive symptoms? A private neurologist or physician accessed via your PMI can conduct thorough testing to rule out or confirm a B-vitamin deficiency, providing a clear path forward for treatment and preventing long-term damage.

How to Choose the Right Private Medical Insurance UK Policy

Navigating the PMI market can be complex. As an independent broker, WeCovr provides impartial advice tailored to your specific needs and budget, at no cost to you. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our client-focused approach.

Here are the key factors we'll help you consider:

  1. Underwriting Type:

    • Moratorium (Most Common): You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the last 5 years. These exclusions can be lifted if you remain trouble-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history. The insurer assesses it and states clearly from the start what is and isn't covered. This provides more certainty but may result in permanent exclusions.

  2. Level of Cover:

    • Comprehensive: Covers in-patient, day-patient, and out-patient treatment, including diagnostics and specialist consultations. This is the best option for a proactive health strategy.
    • In-patient and Day-patient: Covers treatment when you're admitted to a hospital bed but has limited or no cover for out-patient diagnostics. More affordable but less useful for investigating initial symptoms.
    • Limited Cancer & In-Patient (LCIIP): The foundational cover discussed earlier.

  3. The "Six-Week Wait" Option: A popular way to reduce premiums. If the NHS can provide the treatment you need within six weeks, you use the NHS. If the waiting list is longer, your private policy kicks in.

  4. Excess and Hospital Lists: Choosing a higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) can significantly lower your monthly premium. Likewise, opting for a more limited list of approved hospitals can reduce costs.

When you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, you not only get expert guidance but also benefit from discounts on other types of cover, such as home or travel insurance, providing even greater value.

Take Control of Your Foundational Health Today

The micronutrient crisis is a real and present threat to the health and productivity of the nation. Relying on chance is a high-stakes gamble. A proactive approach, powered by the diagnostic speed and wellness benefits of private medical insurance, is the most effective strategy to shield yourself from this silent epidemic.

It's time to invest in your most valuable asset: your health. By understanding your own nutritional status, you can move from a state of surviving to a state of thriving, protecting not just your long-term health but your financial future too.


Will private medical insurance pay for vitamin supplements?

Generally, no. Private medical insurance (PMI) in the UK does not cover the cost of supplements, vitamins, or preventative treatments. Its primary purpose is to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions that arise after your policy begins. However, PMI is invaluable for providing rapid access to specialist consultations and diagnostic tests that can identify a deficiency as the root cause of your acute symptoms.

Is chronic fatigue syndrome covered by private health insurance?

This is a complex area. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) is, by definition, a chronic condition. Standard UK PMI policies explicitly exclude coverage for chronic conditions. Therefore, if you have an existing diagnosis of CFS, it will be excluded as a pre-existing condition. If you develop symptoms of severe fatigue *after* starting a policy, the insurance would cover the acute diagnostic phase to find the cause. If the final diagnosis is CFS, the ongoing management of the condition would likely not be covered.

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

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but the pre-existing condition itself, and any related conditions, will be excluded from coverage. For example, if you have a history of iron-deficiency anaemia, your policy would not cover consultations or treatments related to it. However, you would still be covered for new, unrelated acute conditions that develop after your policy start date, such as joint pain requiring investigation or gall bladder surgery. It is vital to be honest about your medical history during the application process.

Ready to safeguard your health and future? Don't let hidden deficiencies dictate your life. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote from an expert PMI broker. We'll compare leading UK providers to find the perfect plan for your needs and budget.

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