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UK Private Surgery Price List

To help you understand the potential costs, we've compiled a list of common private procedures with estimated price ranges for 2026. Important Disclaimer: These figures are estimates based on 2024/2025 market data and projected medical inflation.

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

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TL;DR

To help you understand the potential costs, we've compiled a list of common private procedures with estimated price ranges for 2026. Important Disclaimer: These figures are estimates based on 2024/2025 market data and projected medical inflation. Prices vary significantly by location and provider.

Key takeaways

  • Speed: The most significant benefit is bypassing long waiting lists. Diagnosis and treatment can often happen within weeks, not months or years.
  • Choice: You can choose your specialist consultant and the hospital where you receive your treatment.
  • Convenience: Appointments and surgery dates can be scheduled to fit around your life and work commitments.
  • Comfort: Private hospitals often offer private en-suite rooms, more flexible visiting hours, and other amenities that can make your stay more comfortable.
  • The Procedure: A complex heart operation will naturally cost far more than a routine cataract removal. The surgeon's time, the equipment needed, and the complexity of the surgery are the biggest cost factors.

As a broking firm that has helped arrange over 1,000,000 policies of various kinds, WeCovr is a leading expert in the UK private medical insurance market. This guide explores the rising interest in private surgery, providing estimated costs for common procedures and explaining how private health cover can offer a vital financial safety net.

WeCovr's guide to the average costs of common private procedures

Navigating healthcare choices can be daunting. With NHS waiting lists reaching record highs, many people in the UK are now looking at private healthcare as a way to get treated faster. But what does it actually cost?

This guide is designed to give you a clear, honest, and realistic overview of private surgery prices in the UK. We'll break down the factors that influence the cost, provide estimated price ranges for common operations, and explain how private medical insurance (PMI) can make this level of care affordable and accessible.


Why are UK residents considering private surgery?

The primary driver behind the surge in people choosing private healthcare is the strain on the National Health Service. While the NHS provides exceptional care, it is currently facing unprecedented demand.

According to the latest data from NHS England, the waiting list for routine consultant-led hospital treatment stands at over 7 million people. For many, waiting months or even years for a procedure like a hip replacement or cataract surgery can mean a significant decline in their quality of life, affecting their ability to work, socialise, and stay active.

Choosing private surgery offers several key advantages:

  • Speed: The most significant benefit is bypassing long waiting lists. Diagnosis and treatment can often happen within weeks, not months or years.
  • Choice: You can choose your specialist consultant and the hospital where you receive your treatment.
  • Convenience: Appointments and surgery dates can be scheduled to fit around your life and work commitments.
  • Comfort: Private hospitals often offer private en-suite rooms, more flexible visiting hours, and other amenities that can make your stay more comfortable.

For many, these benefits provide not just physical relief but also invaluable peace of mind.


How much does private surgery cost in the UK? Understanding the variables

There isn't a simple, fixed "price list" for private surgery in the UK. The final bill is a package deal, and the cost can vary dramatically based on a combination of factors. Understanding these variables is the first step to managing your expectations.

Here are the key elements that determine the final cost:

  • The Procedure: A complex heart operation will naturally cost far more than a routine cataract removal. The surgeon's time, the equipment needed, and the complexity of the surgery are the biggest cost factors.
  • The Hospital: Where you have your surgery matters. Hospitals in Central London and the South East are generally more expensive than those in the North of England, Scotland, or Wales. Renowned, specialist hospitals also command higher prices.
  • The Consultant: A leading surgeon with decades of experience and a world-class reputation will charge higher fees than a less experienced consultant.
  • Anaesthetist's Fees: This is a separate charge from the surgeon's fee and can vary depending on the length and type of anaesthesia required.
  • Diagnostics and Tests: Any pre-operative tests, such as MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, or blood tests, will be added to your bill.
  • Hospital Stay: The cost per night in a private hospital can be several hundred pounds. The longer your recovery requires you to stay, the higher the cost.
  • Medication and Consumables: The cost of drugs, dressings, and any implants (like an artificial hip joint or a lens for your eye) are included in the total.
  • Post-Operative Care: Follow-up consultations and essential rehabilitation, such as physiotherapy after a knee replacement, also contribute to the final price.

A reputable private hospital will provide you with a "package price" or a detailed estimate upfront, which bundles most of these costs together. However, it's crucial to check what is and isn't included.


UK Private Surgery Price List 2026: An Overview of Common Procedures

To help you understand the potential costs, we've compiled a list of common private procedures with estimated price ranges for 2026.

Important Disclaimer: These figures are estimates based on 2024/2025 market data and projected medical inflation. Prices vary significantly by location and provider. These are "pay-as-you-go" or "self-pay" prices, which you would pay without insurance.

ProcedureAverage Cost (Low End)Average Cost (High End)Notes / Typically Includes
Orthopaedics
Hip Replacement£12,500£18,000Surgeon/anaesthetist fees, hospital stay, implant, initial physio.
Knee Replacement£13,000£19,500Surgeon/anaesthetist fees, hospital stay, implant, initial physio.
ACL Reconstruction£6,500£10,000Day-case or one-night stay, surgeon fees, follow-up care.
Carpal Tunnel Release£1,800£3,000Outpatient procedure, local anaesthetic, surgeon fees.
Ophthalmology
Cataract Surgery (per eye)£2,500£4,500Surgeon fees, lens implant, follow-up appointment. Premium lenses cost more.
General Surgery
Hernia Repair (Inguinal)£3,000£5,000Day-case procedure, surgeon/anaesthetist fees.
Gallbladder Removal£6,000£9,000Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, one or two-night stay.
Gynaecology
Hysterectomy£7,500£12,000Cost depends on type (e.g., abdominal vs. laparoscopic), hospital stay.
ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat)
Tonsillectomy (Adult)£3,500£5,500Surgeon/anaesthetist fees, typically a one-night stay.
Diagnostics
MRI Scan (one part)£400£900Price varies by location and complexity (e.g., with contrast dye).
CT Scan (one part)£500£1,000Price varies by location and complexity.
Endoscopy / Gastroscopy£1,500£2,500Outpatient procedure, includes sedation and consultant fees.

As you can see, even a relatively minor procedure can cost thousands of pounds. A more serious, unexpected condition requiring major surgery could easily run into tens of thousands, a sum most UK households would struggle to find at short notice.


Can Private Medical Insurance (PMI) cover these costs?

Yes, this is precisely what private medical insurance is for. Instead of facing a daunting bill for a single treatment, you pay a manageable monthly or annual premium to an insurer. In return, if you develop an eligible medical condition after your policy begins, the insurer covers the costs of your private diagnosis and treatment, up to the limits of your policy.

However, it is absolutely essential to understand what standard UK private health cover is designed for.

The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Private medical insurance in the UK is 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 include a hernia, cataracts, a broken bone, or appendicitis. Most of the surgical procedures in our price list fall into this category.

PMI is not designed to cover chronic conditions or pre-existing conditions.

  • A chronic condition is a disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, requires palliative care, has no known "cure," or is likely to come back. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. While PMI won't cover the long-term management of these conditions, it may cover acute flare-ups depending on your policy.
  • A pre-existing condition is any illness or injury you have had symptoms of, or received advice or treatment for, in the years before you took out the policy (typically the last 5 years). Standard PMI policies exclude these.

This distinction is the single most important concept to grasp when considering private health cover. It’s a safety net for new, curable conditions that arise after you join.


How WeCovr specialists or broker partners help you find the right private health cover

The UK PMI market is complex, with dozens of providers and hundreds of policy combinations. Trying to navigate it alone can be overwhelming. That’s where a WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners comes in.

As FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr specialists or broker partners are not tied to any single insurer. Our loyalty is to you, the client. Our job is to understand your needs and budget, and then search the market to find the right PMI provider and policy for you.

Here’s how we help:

  1. Expert, Unbiased Advice: We explain the jargon and help you understand the crucial differences between policies, such as hospital lists, outpatient limits, and underwriting options.
  2. Panel-based Access: We work with a wide panel of the insurers on our UK panel, giving you a comprehensive view of your options.
  3. Personalised Comparison: We don't just find the lower-cost plan; we find the one with the right value and benefits for your specific circumstances.
  4. No Separate Broker Fee: Our service has no separate broker fee for you to use. We receive a commission from the insurer if you decide to proceed with a policy, but this doesn’t affect the premium you pay.

Our expert advisors are here to provide clarity and confidence, ensuring you get the cover that truly protects you.


Factors that affect your private medical insurance premium

The cost of a PMI policy is tailored to you. Insurers calculate your premium based on the level of risk, which depends on several key factors:

  • Age: This is the most significant factor. The older you are, the higher the likelihood of needing medical treatment, so premiums increase with age.
  • Location: As with surgery costs, insurance premiums are higher if you live in London and the South East, where hospital costs are greater.
  • Level of Cover: A comprehensive plan with unlimited outpatient diagnostics and therapies will cost more than a basic plan that only covers surgery and in-patient care.
  • Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospital networks. Choosing a plan with a more limited list of local hospitals, and excluding expensive Central London facilities, can significantly reduce your premium.
  • Excess (illustrative): This is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards the first claim you make in a policy year. Choosing a higher excess (e.g., £250 or £500) will lower your monthly premium.
  • Underwriting Type:
    • Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. The policy automatically excludes any condition you've had in the 5 years before joining. However, if you remain symptom-free and need no treatment or advice for that condition for 2 continuous years after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a full medical history when you apply. The insurer assesses it and may place permanent exclusions on specific conditions. This provides certainty from day one but can be more complex to set up.
  • Lifestyle: Some insurers offer lower premiums for non-smokers.

A WeCovr advisor can walk you through these options, helping you build a policy that balances comprehensive cover with an affordable premium.


Beyond Surgery: The Added Value of Modern PMI Policies

Today’s private medical insurance is about more than just covering surgery. The main PMI providers now include a wealth of additional benefits designed to support your everyday health and wellbeing, often before you even need to see a specialist.

These valuable perks can include:

  • Digital GP Services: Get a GP appointment from your sofa, 24/7. These services, accessible via phone or video call, provide incredible convenience for consultations, getting prescriptions, and onward referrals.
  • Mental Health Support: Most leading policies now offer dedicated support for mental health, providing access to a set number of counselling or therapy sessions without needing a GP referral.
  • Wellness and Lifestyle Rewards: Many insurers actively encourage a healthy lifestyle by offering discounts on gym memberships, fitness trackers, and health screenings.
  • Expert Second Opinions: If you are diagnosed with a serious condition, some policies provide access to a world-leading expert to review your diagnosis and treatment plan.

WeCovr goes a step further. When you arrange your health insurance through us, you also get:

  • Complimentary access to CalorieHero: Our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to help you manage your diet and health goals.
  • Exclusive Discounts: We can offer you discounts on other types of essential cover, such as life insurance or income protection, when you take out a PMI policy with us.

These benefits add huge day-to-day value and transform your policy from a simple safety net into a proactive tool for managing your health.


Self-Pay vs. Private Medical Insurance: A Comparison

Is it better to save up and pay for surgery if you need it, or invest in an insurance policy? Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide.

FeatureSelf-Pay (Pay-as-you-go)Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
Upfront CostVery high. You must have the full amount (£3,000 - £20,000+) available.Low. You pay a predictable, manageable monthly premium.
Financial RiskHigh and unpredictable. Complications can lead to unexpected extra costs.Low and predictable. The insurer covers eligible costs, protecting your savings.
Scope of CoverCovers one specific procedure at a time.Covers a wide range of eligible new conditions that may arise.
Peace of MindLimited. You may worry about the cost of future, unknown health issues.High. Provides a long-term safety net against the financial shock of illness.
Value for MoneyCan be cost-effective for a single, planned, minor procedure.Excellent value for comprehensive, long-term protection against the unexpected.

The Verdict: While self-pay can be a viable option for those who need a specific, relatively low-cost procedure and have the funds readily available, it leaves you exposed to future health problems. Private medical insurance offers a far more robust and sustainable solution for securing long-term peace of mind and access to private healthcare.


What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition for health insurance?

An acute condition is a medical issue that is short-term and expected to be resolved with treatment, such as a broken bone, appendicitis, or a cataract. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover these. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that has no known cure and requires ongoing management, like diabetes, asthma, or arthritis. The day-to-day management of chronic conditions is not covered by private health insurance.

Does UK private health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

Generally, no. Standard private medical insurance policies in the UK do not cover conditions for which you have experienced symptoms, or sought advice or treatment, in the 5 years before your policy started. This is a fundamental principle of how PMI works. It is designed to cover new, eligible conditions that arise after you take out the policy.

Is it cheaper to pay for private surgery myself or get insurance?

Paying for a single, minor procedure yourself (self-pay) might seem cheaper in the short term if you have the savings. However, private medical insurance provides much greater financial protection and peace of mind. For a manageable monthly premium, it covers you for a wide range of potential new conditions, helping reduce exposure to unexpected surgical bills that could cost tens of thousands of pounds. For most people, insurance is the more financially sensible long-term strategy.

How can a WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners help me?

A WeCovr specialist or one of our broker partners acts as your expert guide. We are not tied to any one insurer, so our advice is completely unbiased. We use our market knowledge to compare policies from UK providers on our panel to find the one that best fits your needs and budget. We explain all the options clearly, help you with the application, and our service has no separate broker fee for you to use.

Take the next step towards peace of mind

The world of private healthcare can seem expensive and complex, but it doesn't have to be. With the right guidance, you can secure access to fast, high-quality treatment and protect your health and finances.

The expert, friendly advisors at WeCovr are here to help you navigate your options. We'll provide a free, no-obligation comparison of the UK's leading private medical insurance providers to find an appropriate level of cover for you.

Get Your Free, No-Obligation PMI Quote Today and invest in your future health.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.

Important Information and Risks

No advice: This article is for general information only. It is not financial, legal, insurance, or tax advice, and it is not a personal recommendation. WeCovr does not assess your individual circumstances or recommend a specific product through this article.

Policy exclusions and underwriting: Insurance policies, including life insurance, private medical insurance, critical illness cover, and income protection, are subject to insurer underwriting, eligibility, acceptance criteria, terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. Pre-existing medical conditions may be excluded, restricted, or accepted on special terms unless an insurer confirms otherwise in writing.

Tax treatment: References to tax treatment, HMRC rules, or business reliefs are based on current UK legislation and guidance, which can change. Tax treatment depends on your personal or business circumstances and may differ from examples in this article.

Before you buy: Always read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID), policy summary, and full policy terms before buying, renewing, changing, or keeping cover. If you are unsure whether a policy is suitable for you, speak to an insurance adviser.

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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 experienced 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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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.

Private medical insurance is designed for conditions that start after your policy begins, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, at least at first. With moratorium underwriting, a pre-existing condition may become eligible for cover once you have gone two continuous years on the policy without symptoms, treatment or advice for it. With full medical underwriting, the insurer tells you upfront which conditions are excluded. If you are switching from another policy or leaving a company scheme, you may be able to keep your existing underwriting terms, and some larger company schemes use Medical History Disregarded underwriting, where pre-existing conditions aren't excluded. Chronic conditions that need long-term management aren't covered by standard policies.

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. Some policies can also cover treatments and drugs that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

There's no fee to get quotes through WeCovr. WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when you take out a policy. The cost of the policy itself depends on your age, where you live, the cover you choose and your excess.

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 may benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product, and policies differ in ways that matter. Speaking to a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners helps make sure your requirements are understood so you can choose the right cover.

WeCovr's broker partners are firms authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which requires them to treat customers fairly. You can check any firm on the FCA Register.

WeCovr and its broker partners are typically paid a commission by the insurer when a policy is taken out. The premium is set by the insurer, and you don't pay a separate fee for using the service. You can ask about the commission at any time.

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 eligible conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly or annual premium and can claim for private healthcare covered by your policy. Benefits can include quicker access to treatment than on the NHS and, on some policies, access to drugs or treatments that aren't routinely available on the NHS.

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, chronic conditions and conditions present before the policy started.

Usually not on a new personal policy: pre-existing conditions are generally excluded, whatever the premium. Depending on your underwriting, a condition may become eligible later, and if you are switching policies or leaving a company scheme you may be able to keep existing terms. If you have questions about what is covered, contact WeCovr and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the options.

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. Depending on the insurer, it applies once per policy year or once per claim. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the excess options available.

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.

Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, while others don't, and age affects the price. Many insurers will renew an existing policy regardless of age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find insurers that accept your age.

A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can compare health insurance plans from a range of insurers for you, with no fee to you. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing.

Usually, yes. Many insurers let you add a partner or dependent children, either at any time or at renewal, depending on the insurer. The cost depends on factors like their age, where you live and the cover you choose. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for help adding someone to your policy.

UK private medical insurance is designed for treatment in the UK, although some policies include limited cover abroad. If you live or work abroad, international health insurance may be more suitable, and WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare options. For holidays, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover usually includes more extensive benefits, such as fuller outpatient cover for consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy and mental health therapies, within the policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the different levels of cover.

Private health insurance typically does not cover routine dental treatment, although some insurers offer a dental option and there are standalone dental policies. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare policies with dental options.

Most private medical insurance policies include cover for cancer diagnosed after the policy starts, but the level of cover varies: some policies limit drugs, treatment time or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare cancer cover between policies.

You can usually change your cover at renewal, and some insurers allow changes during the year. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after receiving your policy documents, during which you can cancel. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help with changes.

Many policies include a digital GP service provided by the insurer, often with same-day or next-day appointments. Check what your policy includes.

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

Yes. Insurers offer a range of cover levels to suit different budgets and needs, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through the options.

Your insurer can tell you which hospitals and specialists are included in your policy. For help comparing policies' hospital lists, tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a few details, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners will be in touch.

A fee-assured (or fee-approved) consultant has agreed to charge within your insurer's fee limits, so for eligible, authorised treatment you shouldn't have to pay a shortfall for their fees.

Many policies include some mental health cover, either as standard or as an option, usually with limits on therapy sessions or costs. Cover varies between insurers, so check the details.

Yes, children up to a certain age can usually be included on your policy, and some insurers offer discounts for children.

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. Tap a button below to get your own personalised quote through WeCovr.

Private health insurance can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment for eligible conditions, and more choice over when and where you are treated.

Many policies include physiotherapy, sometimes with limits on sessions or cost. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find plans that include it.

Services such as the insurer's digital GP app are usually available as soon as your policy starts.

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 eligible new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, chronic conditions aren't covered, and other exclusions apply.

Health insurance pays for eligible private healthcare, such as consultations and treatment, up to your policy limits. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you arrange cover.

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

Usually, yes: cover for eligible new conditions starts when your policy starts, and services like a nurse helpline or digital GP app are usually available straight away. If you make a claim soon after starting, the insurer may ask for a 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. Visit your insurer's website, or ask a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners, for details of member rewards.

You may be able to continue your cover with the same insurer on a personal policy, or take out a new policy. Continuing with the same insurer can mean keeping your existing underwriting, so conditions covered under the company scheme may stay covered. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can talk you through your options.

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

Your cover may be similar but not identical, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered, depending on the terms. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find the right level of cover.

Usually not, because employers often pay for or contribute to staff cover and group schemes are priced differently. Your cover level and age also affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can give you more detail.

There is usually a limited window after leaving, set by the insurer, so check as early as possible. Your personal policy can often start the day after your work cover ends, and a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain other options.

Have your leaving date and your current policy details ready, then contact WeCovr to discuss your options with a specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners.

Ongoing treatment may be covered if you continue with the same insurer on a personal policy, although it could affect the price. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain your options.

Your insurer will explain how to pay your excess when you contact them for treatment authorisation. Usually you pay it to the hospital or consultant.

Usually not: with most insurers, there's no excess for services such as a digital GP. Check your policy.

Excess changes are usually made at renewal, although some insurers allow changes at other times.

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

Pre-existing conditions usually aren't covered on a new personal policy. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the underwriting options.

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 are medical issues that existed before your policy started. Many insurers treat any condition you've had symptoms of, treatment for or advice about in the five years before the policy started as pre-existing. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's worth comparing policies when yours is due for renewal to check it still offers good value for the cover you need. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you compare.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but children can usually be included on a family policy. Some insurers have an upper age limit for new customers, and premiums typically increase with age. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain the age rules of different insurers.

Some insurers charge less if you pay annually, but this depends on the insurer. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can tell you whether paying annually would save you money.

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.

Usually not. With full medical underwriting you complete a medical questionnaire, and the insurer may occasionally ask your GP for a report. With moratorium underwriting there's no medical questionnaire upfront. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can explain 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often get a GP appointment much more quickly, sometimes even on the same day, through the insurer's GP service. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that include it.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance pays for eligible medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover pays a lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses listed in the policy, which you can use however you choose, for example to replace lost income. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find appropriate cover.

If your employer pays for your health insurance, it's usually a taxable 'benefit in kind': you pay income tax on its value, normally through your tax code or payroll, and your employer pays Class 1A National Insurance. For the employer, the premiums are usually an allowable business expense. If you buy a personal policy, you pay for it from taxed income. For advice on your situation, speak to an accountant.

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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you understand the differences and choose the right option for you.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Each year you don't claim typically adds to your no-claims discount, which can reduce your premium at renewal. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the right health insurance for you, compare 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. A specialist at WeCovr or one of its broker partners can help you evaluate your options.

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, check your policy terms to see whether your insurer requires a GP referral first (many do). Some policies offer direct access without a referral for certain conditions, such as muscle and joint problems or counselling 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 published 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 practise privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant either way. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, usually a private room, and more flexible visiting. Some policies also give 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.

Usually, yes. If you have private tests or scans but then want NHS treatment, your GP or private consultant can refer you to the NHS and share your results, although the NHS team may want to repeat some tests.



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