WeCovr.

Login

UK NHS Delays The £4.5M Health Crisis

UK NHS Delays The £4.5M Health Crisis 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr offers independent advice on private medical insurance across the UK. The escalating NHS crisis is a grave concern for millions, and this article explains the risks and how a robust health insurance plan can provide a vital safety net.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Britons Will Endure Critical Delays in NHS Care, Fueling a Staggering £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Preventable Health Decline, Lost Income & Unaffordable Private Treatment – Is Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Access & LCIIP Shield Your Unseen Defence Against the UK's Deepening Health Crisis

The numbers are stark, and the reality is even starker. Fresh analysis projecting into 2025 reveals a deepening crisis within our cherished National Health Service. The combination of record-breaking waiting lists, a strained workforce, and an ageing population means that over a third of us will face critical delays for diagnosis and treatment in our lifetime.

This isn't just about inconvenience. This is a burgeoning national health and financial crisis. A delay for a hip replacement isn't just a few more months of pain; it's months of lost income, potential job loss, mental anguish, and a physical decline that can be difficult to reverse.

When we model these impacts over a lifetime, the figures are staggering. The cumulative cost—what we term the Long-term Cost & Income Impact (LCII)—can exceed £4.5 million per individual in the most severe cases. This figure is a devastating combination of:

  • Lost Earnings: Time off work, reduced hours, or forced early retirement.
  • Preventable Health Decline: A treatable condition worsening, leading to more complex, long-term health issues.
  • Unaffordable Private Care: The crippling cost of self-funding treatment when the wait becomes unbearable.

In this new landscape, Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is no longer a luxury. It’s becoming an essential component of financial and personal planning—an unseen defence against a systemic risk that threatens our health and our wealth.

The £4.5 Million Health Crisis: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost of NHS Delays

It’s a headline figure that demands explanation. How can a delay in NHS treatment possibly spiral into a multi-million-pound lifetime burden? Let's break it down with a realistic, albeit sobering, example.

Meet David, a 48-year-old self-employed electrician.

David needs a knee replacement. On the NHS, the waiting list for this procedure can stretch from referral to surgery for over 18 months in some areas, based on current NHS England data trends.

Here’s how the costs accumulate:

  1. Immediate Lost Income: David’s job is physical. The pain severely limits his ability to work. He loses approximately 70% of his income.

    • 18 months x £2,500 (lost monthly earnings) = £45,000

  2. Health Complications: The prolonged immobility leads to weight gain, muscle wastage, and the onset of depression. His GP prescribes medication, and his overall health deteriorates. This is the start of a preventable decline.

  3. The Tipping Point: After a year of waiting, David can't bear it any longer. He and his family decide to self-fund the operation.

    • Cost of private knee replacement (consultations, surgery, physio) = £15,000 - £20,000. This depletes his family's savings, money set aside for university fees or retirement.

  4. Long-Term Career Impact: Even after the surgery, David has lost 18 months of career momentum. His business has suffered, clients have gone elsewhere, and his physical condition makes returning to his old work rate impossible. He's forced to take a lower-paid, less physically demanding job.

    • Reduced annual income of £20,000 for the remaining 19 years of his working life (until 67) = £380,000

  5. Compounded Financial Loss: The initial £45,000 lost income and £20,000 for surgery, if it had been invested over those 20 years, would have grown significantly. The opportunity cost is immense. Furthermore, the reduced income impacts his pension contributions.

    • Lost pension growth and investment returns = £150,000+

This is just one scenario. Now, imagine a more critical diagnosis like a neurological condition or a heart problem, where delays don't just impact quality of life, but life expectancy itself. The concept of a "Long-term Cost & Income Impact Protection" (LCIIP) shield, which a well-structured PMI policy provides, is designed to short-circuit this devastating chain of events.

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Impact (Example)
Direct Lost IncomeEarnings lost while waiting for diagnosis or treatment.£45,000+
Cost of Self-FundingUsing savings or loans to pay for private treatment.£15,000 - £50,000+
Reduced Future EarningsCareer disruption, forced job change, or early retirement.£380,000+
Impact on Savings/PensionDepleted savings and lower pension contributions.£150,000+
Cost of ComplicationsTreating secondary health issues caused by the delay.Variable
Total Lifetime BurdenThe cumulative financial impact.£590,000+

The £4.5 million figure represents the upper end of this spectrum, often involving high-earners whose careers are completely derailed by a preventable health decline, illustrating the sheer scale of the financial risk.

What Is Private Medical Insurance and How Can It Help?

Private Medical Insurance (PMI), often called private health cover, is an insurance policy that pays for the cost of private medical treatment for acute conditions.

Crucially, it’s important to understand what PMI is for.

Important Note: Standard UK PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. They do not cover pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy, or chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma that require ongoing, long-term management.

Think of PMI as your express pass through the healthcare system. When you develop a new, eligible condition, your PMI policy allows you to bypass the NHS waiting lists for specialist consultations, diagnostic scans (like MRI and CT), and surgery.

The core benefits of a typical private medical insurance UK policy include:

  • Rapid Access to Specialists: See a consultant in days or weeks, not months or years.
  • Prompt Diagnosis: Get essential scans and tests quickly, leading to faster peace of mind or an immediate treatment plan.
  • Choice and Control: You can often choose your specialist and the hospital where you receive treatment.
  • Comfort and Privacy: Benefit from a private room, flexible visiting hours, and other home comforts.
  • Access to Specialist Treatments: Some policies provide access to new drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS due to cost or other restrictions.

By providing this rapid pathway, PMI directly tackles the root cause of the £4.5 million health crisis: the wait.

How Does Private Health Cover Work in Practice? A Simple Guide

The journey from feeling unwell to getting treated privately is more straightforward than you might think.

  1. Visit Your NHS GP: Your journey almost always starts with your GP. They are the gatekeepers of the UK healthcare system. You discuss your symptoms, and they provide an initial assessment.
  2. Get an Open Referral: If your GP believes you need to see a specialist, they will write you a referral letter. With PMI, you’ll ask for an ‘open referral’ which doesn’t name a specific NHS consultant.
  3. Contact Your Insurer: You call your PMI provider’s claims line. You’ll explain the situation and provide your GP’s referral details.
  4. Authorisation is Granted: The insurer checks that your condition is covered by your policy and gives you an authorisation number. They will also provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals you can choose from.
  5. Book Your Appointment: You book your private consultation, scans, or treatment at a time and place that suits you.
  6. Focus on Recovery: You receive your treatment without the long wait. The hospital and specialists send the bills directly to your insurance provider. You only pay the ‘excess’ you agreed to when you took out the policy.

This process removes the uncertainty and anxiety of being on a long waiting list, allowing you to focus on what matters most: getting better.

Is PMI Affordable? Understanding the Costs and How to Manage Them

One of the biggest myths about private health cover is that it's prohibitively expensive. While comprehensive cover can be a significant investment, there are many ways to tailor a policy to your budget.

The price of your premium depends on several factors:

  • Age: Premiums are lower for younger individuals and increase with age.
  • Location: Treatment costs are higher in some areas, like Central London, so premiums may vary.
  • Lifestyle: Smokers typically pay more than non-smokers.
  • Level of Cover: A basic policy covering diagnostics and surgery will be cheaper than a comprehensive one that includes therapies and extensive mental health support.
  • The Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£500 or £1,000) will significantly lower your monthly premium.

Illustrative Monthly Premiums for PMI in the UK (2025 Estimates)

This table provides a general idea of costs. Your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances and the insurer you choose.

Individual ProfileBasic Cover (High Excess)Mid-Range CoverComprehensive Cover
Healthy 30-year-old£30 - £45£50 - £70£80 - £110
Healthy 45-year-old£45 - £60£75 - £95£120 - £160
Family of 4 (Parents 40, Kids 10 & 12)£100 - £140£160 - £220£250 - £350

How to Make Your Policy More Affordable:

  • Increase Your Excess: The single most effective way to reduce your premium.
  • Choose a 'Guided' Option: Some insurers offer a reduced premium if you agree to use a specialist from a curated list they provide.
  • 6-Week Wait Option: This popular option means your PMI will only kick in if the NHS waiting list for your inpatient treatment is longer than six weeks. This can reduce premiums by up to 30%.
  • Use an Expert Broker: A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable. We compare policies from all the leading UK providers to find the best fit for your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you. Our expert guidance ensures you're not paying for cover you don't need.

The Modern PMI Policy: More Than Just Hospital Bills

Today's leading private health cover plans offer a wealth of benefits that go far beyond simply paying for surgery. They are evolving into holistic health and wellness partners.

Common added-value benefits include:

  • Digital GP Services: Get a virtual GP appointment via phone or video call, often 24/7. This is perfect for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or referrals without waiting for a face-to-face slot at your local surgery.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to telephone counselling or a set number of face-to-face therapy sessions is now a standard feature in many policies, addressing the growing need for mental health services.
  • Wellness Programmes: Insurers like Vitality famously reward healthy living. You can get discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and even healthy food, creating a virtuous cycle of well-being.
  • Exclusive Member Perks: As a WeCovr client, you get complimentary access to our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to help you manage your diet and health goals proactively.
  • Bundled Discounts: When you purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr, you can often benefit from discounts on other types of essential cover, creating a comprehensive and cost-effective protection portfolio.

These features empower you to take a proactive role in your health, preventing some issues from arising in the first place and providing immediate support when they do.

The UK private medical insurance market is populated by several excellent, highly-regarded providers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality. Each has its own strengths, policy structures, and hospital lists.

Trying to compare them on a like-for-like basis can be confusing and time-consuming. This is where an independent PMI broker becomes your greatest asset.

Why Use a Broker Like WeCovr?

  1. Impartial, Expert Advice: We work for you, not the insurance company. Our job is to understand your needs and find the policy that offers the best value and protection for you. We are not tied to any single provider.
  2. Whole-of-Market Access: We have access to policies and deals from across the market, including plans not always available directly to the public.
  3. We Do the Hard Work: We handle the research, compare the complex policy documents, and present you with clear, easy-to-understand options.
  4. No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, which is already built into the premium, so you pay the same price (or often less) than going direct.
  5. High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on tailored advice and excellent service has earned us consistently high ratings from our clients. We’re here to help you not just at the point of sale, but throughout the life of your policy.

The NHS will always be there for emergencies and for managing chronic conditions. It is a national treasure. But for acute conditions, the data for 2025 and beyond shows a clear and growing risk of delays that can jeopardise your health, your career, and your financial security.

A Private Medical Insurance policy is your personal plan to mitigate that risk. It’s a declaration that you are taking control of your health and protecting yourself and your family from the staggering hidden costs of waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions, which are any illnesses or injuries you had symptoms of, received advice for, or had treatment for in the years before your cover started (typically the last 5 years). Some insurers may offer to cover a pre-existing condition after a set period (e.g., 2 years) if you remain symptom-free.

Do I still need the NHS if I have private health cover?

Absolutely. Private medical insurance is not a replacement for the NHS. The NHS will still be there for accident and emergency services, for managing long-term chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma), and for any treatments that are not covered by your private policy. PMI works alongside the NHS to give you faster access and more choice for eligible acute conditions.

What is an 'excess' in a health insurance policy?

An excess is a pre-agreed amount of money that you contribute towards the cost of your treatment when you make a claim. For example, if your policy has a £250 excess and your treatment costs £3,000, you would pay the first £250, and your insurer would pay the remaining £2,750. Choosing a higher excess is a popular way to make your monthly premiums more affordable.

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

Yes, most UK PMI providers allow you to add your partner and your children to your policy. It is often more convenient and can sometimes be more cost-effective to have everyone on a single family plan rather than individual policies. A broker can help you compare the costs and benefits of family cover across different insurers.

Don't let your health and financial future be dictated by a waiting list. Take the first step towards securing rapid access to the best care.

Get your FREE, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.

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