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UK Preventable Disease Crisis

UK Preventable Disease Crisis 2026 | Top Insurance Guides

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is at the forefront of the UK's health landscape. This article explores the rising tide of preventable disease and explains how the right private medical insurance can be a powerful tool for safeguarding your long-term vitality.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Britons Are At High Risk of Developing Preventable Chronic Diseases, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Lost Healthspan, Escalating Treatment Costs, and Eroding Financial Security – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health Optimisation & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Vitality

The health of our nation is at a critical juncture. Alarming projections, based on the latest data from leading UK health authorities, paint a stark picture for 2025 and beyond. More than half of the UK population is now considered at high risk of developing a preventable, long-term illness, such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or certain forms of cancer.

This isn't just a health headline; it's a looming crisis with profound personal and financial consequences. The cumulative lifetime cost of managing such a condition – through lost income, healthcare expenses, and a diminished quality of life – is estimated to exceed a staggering £4.2 million for many individuals. This "burden of disease" is a silent threat to our future wellbeing and financial security.

But there is a pathway to a different future. This guide illuminates the risks we face and reveals how modern private medical insurance (PMI) has evolved from a simple treatment solution into a powerful tool for proactive health optimisation, helping you and your family to thrive.

The Alarming Reality: Deconstructing the £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden

When we talk about the cost of illness, we often think only of medical bills. The reality is far broader and more impactful. The £4.2 million figure represents a lifetime of accumulated loss, broken down into three key areas.

1. Lost Healthspan & Quality of Life: "Healthspan" is the period of our lives spent in good health, free from the limitations of chronic disease. While our lifespan might be increasing, our healthspan is stagnating. A chronic condition can steal decades of active, vibrant living. The cost here isn't just financial; it's the missed holidays, the inability to play with grandchildren, and the daily struggle with symptoms.

2. Escalating Direct & Indirect Costs: The NHS, while remarkable, bears the brunt of treatment costs, estimated at billions annually for conditions like diabetes and heart disease. However, individuals also face significant out-of-pocket expenses:

  • Prescription charges (in England).
  • Specialist dietary foods.
  • Home modifications.
  • Private consultations or therapies not available on the NHS.

3. Eroding Financial Security & Lost Earnings: A long-term illness is one of the single greatest threats to your financial stability.

  • Reduced Earning Potential: Frequent sick days, reduced productivity, or being forced to leave work can decimate your income.
  • Career Stagnation: Opportunities for promotion may be missed due to health limitations.
  • Impact on Pensions: Lower lifetime earnings translate directly into a smaller pension pot.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how these costs can accumulate over a lifetime for an individual diagnosed with a preventable chronic condition at age 45.

Cost CategoryEstimated Lifetime Financial ImpactDescription
Lost Earnings£1,500,000+Reduced salary, missed promotions, and potential early retirement due to ill health over a 20+ year career.
Reduced Pension Value£500,000+The knock-on effect of lower lifetime contributions and investment growth.
Private Care & Support£250,000+Costs for carers, home help, or private therapies not covered by the state in later life.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses£50,000+Includes specialist equipment, travel to appointments, and dietary needs.
"Non-Financial" Cost£1,900,000+ (Valued)An economic valuation of lost healthspan, representing the years lived with disability and reduced quality of life.
Total Lifetime Burden~£4,200,000A conservative estimate of the total economic and personal impact.

Source: Projections based on ONS earnings data, Health Survey for England trends, and economic models from UK health charities.

What's Fuelling the Crisis? The Perfect Storm of Modern Life

This health crisis hasn't appeared from nowhere. It's the result of gradual, systemic shifts in how we live, work, and eat. According to Public Health England and ONS data, several key factors are responsible.

  • The Rise of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs): Today, over 50% of the average UK shopping basket consists of UPFs. These foods, high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, are directly linked to obesity, inflammation, and an increased risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.
  • Sedentary Lifestyles: The shift from manual labour to office-based work means millions of us spend over 8 hours a day sitting down. The NHS reports that physical inactivity is responsible for 1 in 6 UK deaths.
  • The Stress Epidemic: Relentless work pressures, financial worries, and the "always-on" culture of modern technology have led to unprecedented levels of chronic stress. This isn't just a mental strain; it elevates cortisol, a hormone that contributes to weight gain, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system.
  • A National Sleep Debt: The Sleep Charity reports that as many as 40% of UK adults suffer from sleep issues. Poor sleep disrupts critical hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, making weight gain and associated diseases more likely.

Real-Life Example:

Meet Sarah, a 48-year-old marketing manager from Manchester. Juggling a demanding job and family life, her health took a backseat. Lunches were often sandwiches at her desk, exercise was a distant memory, and she consistently slept less than six hours a night. A routine check-up revealed pre-diabetes and high blood pressure. While these conditions are manageable, they put her on a path toward a future she hadn't planned for – one involving daily medication, constant monitoring, and an elevated risk of a heart attack or stroke.

The NHS Under Strain & The PMI Paradox: Understanding Coverage Limits

The National Health Service is the jewel in our nation's crown, providing exceptional care to millions. However, it is fundamentally a reactive system, designed to treat illness once it occurs. With waiting lists for routine procedures now exceeding 7.5 million according to the latest NHS England figures, its ability to focus on proactive, preventative medicine is severely limited.

This is where many people look to private medical insurance. But it is critically important to understand its primary function.

The Golden Rule of UK PMI: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Standard private medical insurance UK policies are designed to cover acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

  • Examples of Acute Conditions Covered by PMI:
    • Joint replacement (hip, knee)
    • Cataract surgery
    • Hernia repair
    • Diagnosis and treatment for new cancer symptoms
    • Gallstone removal

Conversely, PMI does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions. A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured but can be managed through medication and therapy.

  • Examples of Chronic Conditions NOT Covered by PMI:
    • Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes
    • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
    • Asthma
    • Crohn's Disease
    • Multiple Sclerosis

Furthermore, PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions – any illness or symptom you had before your policy began. This is why taking out cover while you are still healthy is paramount.

Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health: Beyond Just Treatment

So, if PMI doesn't cover chronic disease management, how can it help prevent it?

The answer lies in the evolution of modern health insurance. The best PMI providers now understand that it's better to keep their members healthy than to pay for expensive treatment down the line. As a result, they have built a wealth of preventative tools and wellness benefits directly into their policies.

These features empower you to take control of your health, catch issues early, and build a lifestyle that dramatically reduces your risk of developing a preventable disease in the first place.

Here’s what a leading private health cover policy can offer:

FeatureHow It Helps You Stay HealthyExample Providers Offering This
Digital GP AppointmentsGet 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, often within hours. Perfect for getting early advice on a nagging symptom before it becomes a major issue.Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva
Health ScreeningsComprehensive health checks to assess your risk for key diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, giving you a clear picture of your current health.Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality
Wellness ProgrammesGet substantial discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers (like Apple Watch), and healthy food. It financially rewards you for making healthy choices.Vitality, Aviva
Mental Health SupportAccess to confidential counselling or therapy without a long NHS wait. Managing stress is key to preventing physical illness.All major providers
Nutritionist ConsultationsGet expert, personalised advice on building a diet that fuels your body and reduces disease risk.AXA Health, Bupa

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can be invaluable here. We analyse policies from across the market to find the one with the wellness benefits that best match your lifestyle and health goals, all at no extra cost to you.

Financial Fortification: Shielding Your Future with Life & Critical Illness Cover

While PMI's wellness benefits help you proactively manage your health, it's wise to have a financial safety net in place. This is where Life and Critical Illness Cover comes in.

  • Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This policy pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a list of specified serious conditions, such as a heart attack, stroke, or certain types of cancer. This money is yours to use as you wish – to cover lost income, pay off your mortgage, fund private treatment, or simply give you breathing space to recover without financial stress. It directly counteracts the "eroding financial security" component of the £4.2 million burden.
  • Life Insurance: This provides a payment to your loved ones if you pass away, ensuring they are financially secure.

Think of it this way:

  • PMI helps you stay healthy and get treated quickly if you fall ill.
  • Critical Illness Cover protects your finances if you are diagnosed with a serious condition.

As a comprehensive insurance brokerage, WeCovr can help you find competitive quotes for both. We often provide discounts to clients who take out a PMI or Life Insurance policy, creating a holistic shield for your health and wealth.

The WeCovr Advantage: More Than Just a Broker

Choosing the right insurance can feel overwhelming. At WeCovr, we make it simple. We are an independent, FCA-authorised broker dedicated to finding the best solution for your unique needs.

Here's what sets us apart:

  • Expert, Impartial Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best policy for you from across the market.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is completely free for our clients. We receive a commission from the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service as excellent on independent review websites, praising our clarity, knowledge, and support.
  • Exclusive Health Tools: When you work with WeCovr, you get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It's the perfect companion to your PMI wellness journey, making it easy to build healthy eating habits.

Your 5-Step Blueprint to a Healthier Future

Taking control of your health doesn't require a radical overhaul. Small, consistent changes can have a massive impact on your long-term wellbeing.

  1. Move with Purpose: You don't need to run a marathon. The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. This could be a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week, a weekend bike ride, or a dance class. Find something you enjoy and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
  2. Eat Smarter, Not Less: Focus on adding more whole foods to your diet – vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. Use a tool like CalorieHero to understand your current habits and make simple swaps, like replacing a sugary snack with a piece of fruit. The goal is nourishment, not deprivation.
  3. Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: turn off screens an hour before bed, ensure your room is dark and cool, and avoid caffeine in the afternoon.
  4. De-stress Daily: Find a simple stress-management technique that works for you. This could be a 10-minute mindfulness app, listening to music, spending time in nature, or connecting with a friend. Many PMI policies now offer access to mindfulness apps and resources.
  5. Be Proactive with Health Checks: Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Use the health screenings offered by your private medical insurance UK policy, and attend your free NHS Health Check when invited (available for those aged 40-74). Early detection saves lives.

The future of UK health may look challenging, but your personal future doesn't have to follow that trend. By understanding the risks and embracing the proactive tools available through modern private health cover, you can build a robust defence against preventable disease, protecting not just your healthspan but your financial future, too.


Does private medical insurance cover chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions – illnesses or injuries that are curable with treatment. The management of chronic illnesses remains the responsibility of the NHS. However, PMI can be crucial for diagnosing the initial symptoms that may lead to a chronic diagnosis.

Can I get PMI if I already have a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can still get PMI, but the pre-existing condition and any related issues will be excluded from your cover. Insurers use two main methods for this: 'moratorium underwriting', which automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the last 5 years, or 'full medical underwriting', where you declare your full medical history. A broker can help you decide which is best for your situation.

How much does private medical insurance UK cost?

The cost of PMI varies significantly based on several factors, including your age, your location (as hospital costs differ across the UK), the level of cover you choose (e.g., outpatient limits, choice of hospitals), and your medical history. A policy for a young, healthy individual might start from as little as £30 per month, while comprehensive cover for an older person could be several hundred pounds. The best way to get an accurate figure is to get a tailored quote.

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

Using an expert PMI broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages. Firstly, we provide access to a wide range of policies from different insurers, saving you the time and effort of comparing them yourself. Secondly, our expert advisers offer impartial advice to help you understand the complex terms and find a policy that truly meets your needs and budget. Finally, our service is completely free to you, as we are paid by the insurer.

Ready to take control of your health and secure your future?

The expert team at WeCovr is here to help you navigate your options. Get your free, no-obligation quote today and discover how the right private health cover can put you on the path to a longer, healthier, and more financially secure life.

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Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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