Login

UK Overseas Health Crisis

UK Overseas Health Crisis 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr helps UK residents find the right private medical insurance. The landscape of global travel has changed, and understanding your health protection has never been more critical. This guide unpacks the new reality for British travellers.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Travelling Abroad Will Face a Medical Emergency, Fueling a Staggering £3.7 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Uncovered Healthcare, Emergency Repatriation & Catastrophic Business Loss – Is Your Global Health Strategy Your Undeniable Protection

The way we travel, work, and live has transformed. We are more globally connected than ever, with millions of Britons heading overseas for holidays, business, or to start a new life. But with this freedom comes a stark and growing risk that many are dangerously unprepared for.

Fresh analysis based on FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) and Association of British Insurers (ABI) trend data projects a startling reality for 2025: more than one in four UK travellers will face a medical issue abroad. For many, this will be a minor inconvenience. But for a significant and growing number, it will be a life-altering catastrophe with devastating financial consequences.

This isn't just about a hospital bill. It's a domino effect of costs that can create a lifetime financial burden exceeding £3.7 million. From six-figure medical fees and emergency air ambulances to crippling business losses and long-term care needs, the lack of a robust global health strategy is the single biggest threat to your financial security and well-being when you leave the UK.

The Alarming Reality: What Does a Medical Emergency Abroad Actually Cost?

Most people underestimate the true cost of falling ill or getting injured in another country. The belief that "it won't happen to me" or that a standard travel policy is a magic shield is a dangerous misconception. The reality is that healthcare costs in many popular destinations are astronomical.

Your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) offers some protection in state-run hospitals in the EU, but it is not a substitute for comprehensive cover. It won't cover private treatment, and critically, it will never cover the cost of getting you home—a process known as medical repatriation.

Let's look at some real-world examples based on figures reported by the ABI and FCDO:

Medical Incident & LocationEstimated Cost Without InsuranceNotes
Stomach Bug with Infection (USA)£100,000+A two-day stay in a US hospital for treatment and tests.
Broken Leg from Skiing (Spain)£85,000+Includes surgery, hospital stay, and medical repatriation via air ambulance.
Road Traffic Accident (Thailand)£250,000+Involves intensive care, multiple surgeries, and a complex medical escort home.
Heart Attack Requiring Bypass (USA)£500,000+Includes emergency treatment, surgery, a lengthy ICU stay, and business-class flights home with a medic.

These figures are just the start. They don't account for the spiralling secondary costs that create the multi-million-pound burden.

Deconstructing the £3.7 Million+ Lifetime Burden

How can a single medical event abroad lead to such a catastrophic figure? It's a chain reaction of financial devastation, particularly for a business owner, a high-earning professional, or a family's main breadwinner.

Here is a plausible, albeit terrifying, scenario for a self-employed UK consultant who suffers a serious accident while on a business trip in the United States:

  1. Initial Medical Bills: £450,000 for emergency neurosurgery, a 3-week stay in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and subsequent specialist care.
  2. Emergency Medical Repatriation: £110,000 for a private air ambulance with a full medical team from the US to the UK.
  3. Immediate Lost Income & Business Damage: £1,250,000 as a crucial, time-sensitive project is lost, damaging the consultant's business reputation and future earnings potential.
  4. Long-Term Loss of Earnings: £1,500,000 projected over the next 10 years due to a reduced capacity to work and long-term cognitive impairment.
  5. Ongoing UK Private Rehabilitation: £250,000 for private physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support over several years to bypass long NHS waiting lists and accelerate recovery.
  6. Family & Support Costs: £150,000 for family members' flights and accommodation to be by their side, plus necessary modifications to their home back in the UK.

Total Lifetime Financial Impact: £3,710,000

This scenario highlights a crucial truth: the danger isn't just the hospital bill. It's the complete unravelling of your financial, professional, and personal life. A comprehensive global health strategy, often built around a robust private medical insurance UK policy, is the only reliable defence.

Travel Insurance vs. Global Health Insurance: A Critical Distinction

Many travellers believe their annual travel insurance policy is all they need. While essential for short holidays, it's vital to understand its limitations, especially compared to a dedicated global health plan.

Travel insurance is designed for emergencies during short-term trips. Its primary purpose is to patch you up and get you home.

Global health insurance (often an extension of a UK PMI policy) is designed for comprehensive medical care while you are living, working, or spending significant time abroad. It covers both emergencies and routine care.

This table breaks down the key differences:

FeatureStandard Travel InsuranceGlobal Health Insurance (PMI Add-on)
PurposeShort-term emergency cover for holidaymakers.Comprehensive medical care for those living/working abroad.
DurationCapped per trip (e.g., 30-90 days).Annual cover, designed for long-term stays.
Scope of CoverAccidents and sudden, unexpected illnesses.Emergencies, routine check-ups, specialist consultations, planned surgery.
Pre-existing ConditionsUsually excluded or requires a significant premium increase.Dependent on underwriting; may be covered with specific terms.
Chronic ConditionsNot covered. Designed for acute, unforeseen issues.Not covered. PMI is for acute conditions.
Choice of HospitalLimited to what the insurer's assistance company approves.Wide choice of private hospitals and specialists within your area of cover.
RepatriationIncluded, and often the default goal is to get you home ASAP.Included, but also provides for high-quality treatment in your new country of residence.

The bottom line: If you're simply going on a two-week holiday, good quality travel insurance is appropriate. If you are a remote worker, an expatriate, or a frequent long-haul business traveller, relying solely on travel insurance is a high-stakes gamble.

The Role of UK Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Your Foundation for Global Protection

For UK residents, a domestic private medical insurance policy is the bedrock of a comprehensive health strategy. It provides fast access to diagnosis, treatment, and specialist care for acute conditions within the UK, helping you bypass NHS waiting lists.

A Critical Point on PMI Coverage: It is essential to understand that standard UK private health cover is designed for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It is not designed to cover:

  • Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical condition you had signs or symptoms of before you took out the policy.
  • Chronic Conditions: Long-term illnesses that require ongoing management rather than a curative treatment, such as diabetes, asthma, or hypertension.

Extending Your UK PMI for Global Coverage

The true power of a modern PMI policy lies in its flexibility. Most leading UK providers offer international cover options that can be added to your core policy. This transforms your UK-based plan into a global health safety net.

These options typically fall into three tiers:

  1. European Cover: Provides access to private healthcare across the European Union and other specified European countries. Ideal for those who frequently travel to or have a second home in Europe.
  2. Worldwide Excluding USA: Offers comprehensive global cover, but carves out the United States due to its exceptionally high healthcare costs. This is a popular and cost-effective option for global travellers whose business doesn't frequently take them to the US.
  3. Worldwide Including USA: The most comprehensive level of cover, providing access to medical care anywhere in the world, including the United States. This is essential for anyone who travels to, works in, or spends significant time in the USA.

Choosing the right option depends entirely on your lifestyle, work, and travel patterns. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can analyse your needs and compare policies from different providers to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution at no extra cost to you.

Building Your Proactive Health & Wellness Strategy for Travel

Insurance is your safety net, but proactive health management is your first line of defence. A healthy traveller is less likely to need medical care. Here are some expert tips for staying well on the road.

1. Pre-Travel Health Check

  • Consult Your GP: At least 4-6 weeks before a long trip, visit your GP or a travel clinic. Discuss your destination, planned activities, and any pre-existing conditions.
  • Vaccinations & Medications: Ensure all your routine and travel-specific vaccinations are up to date. Get prescriptions for any regular medications, plus extras in case of delays. Always carry a doctor's note for prescription drugs.
  • Dental Check-up: A dental emergency abroad can be painful and expensive. Get a check-up before you leave to fix any potential issues.

2. Master the Art of Healthy Travel

  • Hydration is Key: Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue, headaches, and more serious issues. Drink plenty of bottled or purified water, especially in hot climates or on long flights.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Jet lag can weaken your immune system. Try to adjust to your new time zone as quickly as possible. Melatonin can help reset your body clock, but consult a doctor first. Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.
  • Move Your Body: Long periods of sitting are bad for circulation. On flights, get up, stretch, and walk the aisle every hour. When you arrive, incorporate light activity like walking to explore your new surroundings.

3. Smart Nutrition on the Go

Eating well while travelling can be a challenge, but it's crucial for maintaining energy and immunity.

  • Follow the "Boil it, Cook it, Peel it, or Forget it" Rule: This simple mantra helps you avoid contaminated food in areas with lower food safety standards.
  • Pack Healthy Snacks: Nuts, seeds, and protein bars can be a lifesaver when healthy options are scarce.
  • Utilise Technology: WeCovr provides its members with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's a fantastic tool for making healthier food choices, even when you're faced with unfamiliar cuisines.

How WeCovr Crafts Your Undeniable Global Protection

Navigating the complex world of private health cover can be overwhelming. The terminology is confusing, and the sheer number of policies makes a direct comparison almost impossible for the average person. This is where an expert, independent broker is invaluable.

At WeCovr, we provide a simple, transparent, and supportive service to ensure you get the protection you truly need.

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: As an FCA-authorised broker, our duty is to you, the client, not the insurance companies. We have helped issue over 900,000 policies of various types and have a deep understanding of the market.
  • Whole-of-Market Access: We work with a wide panel of the UK's leading insurance providers. We do the hard work of comparing dozens of policies on your behalf, saving you time and money.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is completely free. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert guidance without paying a penny extra. In fact, we can often find better rates than if you went direct.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly on independent review platforms, praising our clarity, professionalism, and dedication to finding the right fit for their needs.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you arrange your PMI or Life Insurance through us, you gain complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI nutrition app. We also offer our clients valuable discounts on other insurance products, such as home, motor, and travel cover, providing holistic protection for your entire life.

Your health and financial security are too important to leave to chance. A robust global health strategy, built upon a solid UK PMI policy, is no longer a luxury—it's an absolute necessity in 2025 and beyond.


Does standard UK private medical insurance cover me when I travel abroad?

Generally, no. A standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) policy is designed to provide treatment within the United Kingdom. However, most major insurers offer an optional international health cover add-on. This allows you to extend your policy for travel to Europe, Worldwide (excluding the USA), or Worldwide, depending on your needs. It is crucial to check your policy documents or speak to a broker to ensure you have the appropriate global cover before you travel.

What is the real difference between annual travel insurance and a global health insurance plan?

The key difference is scope and purpose. Annual travel insurance is for short-term trips and covers unforeseen medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost baggage; its main goal is to stabilise you and repatriate you to the UK. A global health insurance plan (often part of a PMI policy) is for those spending longer periods abroad, like expats or digital nomads. It provides comprehensive healthcare, including emergencies, routine check-ups, specialist visits, and planned treatments in your country of residence, offering a much broader and deeper level of medical cover.

Do I need to declare my pre-existing conditions for private medical insurance?

Yes, you absolutely must be honest about your medical history. Private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise *after* your policy starts. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you had before joining) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses requiring ongoing management). When you apply, the insurer will underwrite your application. Full disclosure is essential; failing to mention a condition could invalidate your policy precisely when you need it most.

Don't wait for an emergency to reveal a gap in your cover. Protect your health and your wealth, wherever you are in the world. Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts build your personalised global health strategy.


Related guides


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.