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UK Professionals Silent Hypertension Crisis

UK Professionals Silent Hypertension Crisis 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr provides this essential guide to the UK’s silent hypertension crisis and how private medical insurance can offer a vital lifeline. This article explores how professionals can leverage PMI for rapid diagnostics and proactive health management.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 3 Working Britons Secretly Battle Undiagnosed or Unmanaged High Blood Pressure, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Stroke, Heart Disease, Kidney Failure & Eroding Business Stability – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Advanced Cardiovascular Diagnostics, Integrated Lifestyle Support & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Prosperity

The frantic pace of modern professional life is taking a silent, devastating toll. A landmark 2025 UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) report has sent shockwaves through the health and business communities. The data reveals a hidden epidemic: more than one in three UK professionals are living with undiagnosed or poorly managed hypertension (high blood pressure).

This isn't just a health statistic; it's a ticking time bomb threatening personal wellbeing and national economic stability.

The "silent killer," as it's rightly known, often presents no symptoms until it triggers a catastrophic health event. The cumulative lifetime cost of managing the consequences—including stroke, heart attacks, dementia, and kidney failure—is now estimated at a staggering £4.1 million per 100 individuals, factoring in direct NHS costs, social care, and lost economic productivity. For businesses, it translates into lost talent, reduced productivity, and escalating corporate health plan costs.

But there is a clear pathway to regaining control. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is no longer a mere convenience; it's a strategic tool for proactive health management. It offers a swift route to advanced cardiovascular diagnostics, bypassing lengthy NHS queues. It provides integrated lifestyle support to manage risk factors and can even offer financial shields like a Limited Cash Income in lieu of Private treatment (LCIIP), safeguarding both your health and your prosperity.

Understanding the Enemy: What is Hypertension?

At its simplest, blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It's measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and recorded as two numbers:

  • Systolic pressure (the top number): The pressure when your heart beats.
  • Diastolic pressure (the bottom number): The pressure when your heart rests between beats.

For years, high blood pressure can cause no noticeable symptoms. You can feel perfectly fine while, internally, it relentlessly damages your circulatory system. This damage stiffens and narrows your arteries, forcing your heart to work harder and less efficiently.

UK Blood Pressure Categories (NHS 2025 Guidelines)

CategorySystolic (mmHg)Diastolic (mmHg)What It Means
Ideal90-12060-80You're in a healthy range. Keep up the good work!
Elevated121-13981-89You are at risk of developing high blood pressure. Time for lifestyle changes.
Stage 1 Hypertension140-15990-99A formal diagnosis of high blood pressure. GP will recommend lifestyle changes and may consider medication.
Stage 2 Hypertension160+100+A more severe level requiring prompt lifestyle changes and medication.

The long-term consequences are severe, directly contributing to:

  • Heart Attacks & Heart Disease: The leading cause of death in the UK.
  • Strokes: A major cause of disability and death.
  • Vascular Dementia: Impaired blood flow to the brain affects memory and cognitive function.
  • Kidney Disease: Damaged blood vessels in the kidneys can lead to kidney failure and the need for dialysis.
  • Aortic Aneurysms: A dangerous bulge in the body's main artery.

The NHS Reality vs. The PMI Advantage

The National Health Service is a national treasure, providing incredible care under immense pressure. However, for a condition like potential hypertension, which requires swift investigation to prevent long-term damage, waiting times can be a significant source of anxiety and risk.

Getting a GP appointment can take weeks. A referral to a cardiologist can take months. Specialist diagnostic tests, like 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (the gold standard for diagnosis) or an echocardiogram to check heart function, often have their own lengthy waiting lists.

This is where private medical insurance UK fundamentally changes the equation. It empowers you to bypass these queues and take immediate action.

Your PMI Pathway to Cardiovascular Control

A quality PMI policy acts as your personal health concierge, fast-tracking you through three crucial stages of care.

1. Rapid, Advanced Diagnostics

Imagine noticing slightly elevated readings on a home blood pressure monitor or having a family history of heart disease. With PMI, your journey looks very different:

  • Fast GP Access: Most policies include a Digital GP service, allowing you to speak to a doctor within hours, often via video call, 24/7.
  • Swift Specialist Referral: If the GP agrees, you can receive an open referral to see a private consultant cardiologist in a matter of days, not months.
  • Immediate Testing: Your consultant can schedule essential tests immediately. This could include:
    • 24-Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM): To get a true picture of your blood pressure throughout a normal day.
    • Electrocardiogram (ECG): To check your heart's rhythm and electrical activity.
    • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to assess its structure and function.
    • Comprehensive Blood Tests: To check for cholesterol, kidney function, and other related risk factors.

This speed is not a luxury; it's a critical advantage that can lead to an earlier, more accurate diagnosis, allowing for interventions before irreversible damage occurs.

2. Integrated Lifestyle & Wellness Support

The best PMI providers understand that health is about more than just treating illness; it's about prevention. Modern policies are packed with value-added benefits designed to help you manage your health proactively.

  • Mental Health Support: Stress is a major contributor to high blood pressure. Most plans offer access to counselling or digital therapy platforms to help you manage workplace and life pressures.
  • Nutritionist Services: Get professional advice on creating a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) plan.
  • Discounted Gym Memberships & Wearable Tech: Providers often partner with major gym chains and tech companies to make a healthy lifestyle more affordable.
  • Health and Wellness Apps: Many insurers provide complimentary access to apps for mindfulness, fitness, and nutrition.

At WeCovr, we enhance this by providing our PMI and Life Insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, making healthy eating simpler and more intuitive.

3. Shielding Your Finances with Advanced Cover Options

Comprehensive health cover also protects your financial wellbeing.

  • NHS Cash Benefit (or LCIIP): This feature, sometimes referred to as Limited Cash Income in lieu of Private treatment, is a valuable option. If you choose to receive your eligible treatment on the NHS instead of privately, the insurer pays you a tax-free cash sum for each day or night you spend in an NHS hospital. This can help cover lost income or other expenses, reducing financial stress during a difficult time.
  • Critical Illness Cover: While separate from PMI, it's often purchased alongside it. If you are diagnosed with a specified critical illness covered by the policy (like a major heart attack or stroke), this cover pays out a lump sum to use however you see fit—clearing a mortgage, adapting your home, or covering lost earnings.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you explore how these different covers can be bundled to create a comprehensive safety net. We also offer discounts on other policies when you purchase your PMI or Life Insurance through us.

The Most Important Rule: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most critical concept to understand about UK private health cover. It is designed to treat acute conditions, not to manage chronic ones.

Condition TypeDefinitionPMI Coverage
AcuteA disease, illness or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.Covered. This includes the diagnosis of a condition and the treatment to cure or resolve it.
ChronicA disease, illness or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, control or relief of symptoms; it has no known cure; it is likely to recur.Not Covered. Routine management, check-ups, and medication for a long-term condition are not covered by standard PMI.

How this applies to hypertension:

  • Covered: Using PMI to investigate symptoms (like headaches or dizziness) that lead to a diagnosis of hypertension.
  • Not Covered: The ongoing, day-to-day management of diagnosed hypertension. This includes routine GP checks to monitor your blood pressure and prescriptions for your blood pressure medication. This care remains with your NHS GP.
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: If you have already been diagnosed with high blood pressure before taking out a policy, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover.

However, if you develop an acute complication related to your well-managed hypertension after taking out your policy (and subject to your underwriting terms), the treatment for that acute event may be covered. An expert adviser at WeCovr can explain these crucial nuances based on your personal circumstances.

How to Choose the Best PMI Provider for You

Navigating the private medical insurance market can feel complex, but it boils down to a few key choices. Working with an independent broker simplifies this process immensely, as they compare the market for you at no cost.

Here are the key factors to consider:

  1. Underwriting Type:

    • Moratorium: Simpler to set up. The insurer will not cover any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the 5 years before your policy starts. However, if you go 2 full years on the policy without any issues relating to that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
    • Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide a full health questionnaire upfront. The insurer gives you a definitive list of what is and isn't covered from day one. It's more work initially but offers total clarity.
  2. Level of Cover:

    • Basic: Typically covers inpatient and day-patient treatment only.
    • Mid-Range: Adds a level of outpatient cover (e.g., £1,000 for consultations and diagnostics).
    • Comprehensive: Offers extensive inpatient and outpatient cover, plus therapies and often more wellness benefits.
  3. Hospital List: Insurers offer different tiers of hospitals. A London-centric list will be more expensive than a national list that excludes pricey central London clinics.

  4. Excess: This is the amount you agree to pay towards any claim. A higher excess (£250, £500) will significantly lower your monthly premium.

Example Comparison of Mid-Range PMI Plans

FeatureProvider A (e.g., Aviva)Provider B (e.g., Bupa)Provider C (e.g., Vitality)
Outpatient CoverUp to £1,000Full Cover (can be limited)Up to £1,500
Digital GPYes, includedYes, includedYes, included
Mental HealthCovered as standardCovered (pathway may differ)Covered, with pathway options
Wellness ProgrammeDiscounts on gym/techRewards for healthy livingActive Rewards (Apple Watch, etc.)
Broker ViewStrong core product, trusted brandExtensive network, comprehensive optionsInnovative, rewards-focused approach

Note: This is an illustrative table. Features and benefits vary greatly between specific policies. An independent broker provides actual, up-to-date comparisons.

Proactive Steps You Can Take Today

While PMI is a powerful tool, your daily habits are your first line of defence against high blood pressure.

  • Diet: Reduce your salt intake to under 6g (about one teaspoon) a day. Embrace the DASH diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
  • Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running or HIIT) per week.
  • Weight Management: Losing even a small amount of weight if you are overweight can make a huge difference to your blood pressure.
  • Alcohol: Stick within the recommended guidelines of no more than 14 units per week, spread over several days with alcohol-free days in between.
  • Stop Smoking: Smoking causes your arteries to narrow, raising your blood pressure. Quitting is the single best thing you can do for your heart health.
  • Manage Stress: Make time for relaxation. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or simply spending time in nature can have a profound impact.
  • Know Your Numbers: Get a reliable home blood pressure monitor and check your readings periodically. Knowledge is power.

By combining these healthy habits with the safety net of a robust private health cover plan, you create a formidable defence for your long-term health and vitality.

I suspect I have high blood pressure but I'm not diagnosed. Do I need to declare this when applying for PMI?

Yes, you must be honest. When applying for private medical insurance, insurers will ask if you have experienced any symptoms, whether you have sought a diagnosis or not. It's crucial to declare any symptoms like recurrent headaches, dizziness, or chest pain. Withholding information can invalidate your policy. The best approach is to discuss your concerns with a PMI broker who can advise on the correct way to declare this and find an insurer with favourable underwriting terms.

Can private medical insurance UK cover my hypertension medication?

Generally, no. Standard UK PMI policies do not cover the routine management of chronic conditions, which includes the cost of ongoing prescriptions for conditions like hypertension. This long-term care remains the responsibility of your NHS GP. PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis of the condition and the treatment of acute flare-ups, not the day-to-day management.

What happens if I develop high blood pressure *after* my PMI policy starts?

If you develop symptoms and are diagnosed with hypertension after your policy's start date, your PMI policy would typically cover the costs of the initial private consultations and diagnostic tests needed to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, hypertension becomes a chronic condition. The ongoing management (e.g., routine check-ups and medication) would then transition back to the NHS, but your PMI remains in place to cover new, unrelated acute conditions that may arise in the future.

Is a work-provided PMI policy enough to cover serious heart conditions?

It depends entirely on the level of cover your employer has chosen. Some corporate schemes are comprehensive, but many are basic plans designed to get employees back to work quickly, and may have low outpatient limits or exclude certain conditions. It is vital to review your group policy documents. If the cover is insufficient, you can purchase an individual top-up policy to enhance it. A broker can help you analyse your workplace cover and identify any gaps.

The silent hypertension crisis is real, but it does not have to define your future. By understanding the risks and taking proactive control, you can protect your most valuable assets: your health and your ability to provide for yourself and your family. Private Medical Insurance is a cornerstone of that protection.

Ready to build your shield against the unexpected? Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert, FCA-authorised team will help you compare the UK's leading insurers and find the perfect policy to secure your health and prosperity.


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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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