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UK Screen Sickness The Hidden Health Drain

UK Screen Sickness The Hidden Health Drain 2026

As a leading FCA-authorised UK broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is at the forefront of the private medical insurance market. This article explores the growing crisis of "screen sickness," a hidden health drain affecting millions, and outlines how the right insurance can safeguard your vision and well-being.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 5 Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Digital Eye Strain, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Productivity Loss, Mental Health Decline, & Eroding Vision – Your PMI Pathway to Advanced Ocular Care, Integrated Wellness Support & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Well-being & Future Prosperity

The glow of the screen is the constant backdrop to modern British life. From our work desks to our evening sofas, we spend more time than ever staring into digital worlds. But this hyper-connectivity comes at a hidden cost. New analysis for 2025, based on escalating trends observed by the College of Optometrists and the Office for National Statistics (ONS), reveals a silent epidemic: over 40% of UK adults—more than 2 in 5—are now experiencing persistent symptoms of Digital Eye Strain (DES), often referred to as "Screen Sickness."

This isn't just a fleeting inconvenience. It's a chronic condition chipping away at our nation's health, productivity, and financial security, creating a significant lifetime burden. The right protection, accessed through a comprehensive private medical insurance UK policy, is no longer a luxury—it's an essential tool for navigating the health challenges of the digital age.

The Silent Epidemic: What is UK 'Screen Sickness'?

Digital Eye Strain, or Computer Vision Syndrome, isn't a single disease. It's a cluster of debilitating eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged use of computers, tablets, and mobile phones.

When you stare at a screen, your eyes work harder. You blink less frequently—sometimes as little as half the normal rate—leading to dryness and irritation. Your eyes are constantly refocusing and reacting to changing images, which strains the eye muscles. This sustained effort, day after day, leads to a cascade of symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain:

  • Ocular Discomfort:
    • Dry, itchy, or burning eyes
    • Watery or red eyes
    • Blurred or double vision
    • Difficulty focusing
  • Physical Pain:
    • Persistent headaches, especially around the temples and behind the eyes
    • Sore neck, shoulders, or back from poor posture
  • Mental & Cognitive Impact:
    • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
    • A feeling of fatigue or "heavy" eyes
    • Reduced concentration and attention span

For many, these are not occasional issues. They are a chronic, daily reality that quietly undermines their quality of life.

The Staggering Lifetime Cost: Deconstructing the £3.5 Million+ Burden

The term "£3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden" represents the cumulative cost across a cohort of just 100 individuals suffering from chronic, unmanaged screen sickness over their careers. It's a stark illustration of how seemingly minor health issues can spiral into major financial and personal crises.

Here's how the costs break down:

  1. Lost Productivity (£1.2 Million+): Chronic DES directly impacts work performance. A 2024 study by the University of Leeds highlighted that employees with moderate eye strain were up to 15% less productive. They make more errors, take more unscheduled breaks, and suffer from "presenteeism"—being at work but not fully functional. Over a 40-year career, this adds up to years of lost output and missed career opportunities.

  2. Private Healthcare & Wellness Costs (£900,000+): Without adequate insurance, the costs of managing symptoms mount. This includes frequent optometrist visits, specialist lenses, private consultations for persistent migraines, physiotherapy for neck pain, and mental health support—all paid out-of-pocket.

  3. Mental Health Decline & Support (£1.5 Million+): The link between chronic pain and mental health is well-documented by the NHS. The constant discomfort of DES can fuel anxiety, irritability, and even lead to depression. The blue light from screens also disrupts melatonin production, leading to poor sleep, which further damages mental resilience. The cost of therapy, medication, and lost well-being is immense.

Individual Lifetime Cost Example:

Cost CategoryEstimated Lifetime Cost (Per Person)Explanation
Productivity Loss£30,000+Based on a 5% productivity dip on an average UK salary over 40 years.
Private Care£20,000+Includes specialist consultations, advanced therapies, and supportive treatments.
Mental Health£35,000+Cost of private therapy, wellness programmes, and impact on earnings potential.
Total Individual Burden£85,000+A significant erosion of lifetime earnings and well-being for one person.

When you multiply this individual burden across a small group of 100 people, it's easy to see how the figure quickly exceeds £3.5 million, illustrating the vast societal impact of this hidden health drain.

The NHS vs. Private Care: Understanding Your Options for Eye Health

The NHS provides excellent emergency and essential ophthalmic care. However, it is designed to prioritise urgent and sight-threatening conditions, which can lead to significant gaps for those suffering from chronic but non-emergency issues like DES.

Where the NHS Excels:

  • Treatment for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
  • A&E services for sudden eye injuries or vision loss.
  • Free eye tests for eligible groups (under 16s, over 60s, those on certain benefits).

Potential Gaps for Screen Sickness Sufferers:

  • Long Waiting Lists: The latest NHS England data shows that waiting lists for routine ophthalmology appointments can stretch for many months. A new, concerning symptom could leave you waiting anxiously.
  • Limited Access to Diagnostics: Access to advanced imaging like OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans for early detection may be restricted on the NHS unless clear clinical signs of serious disease are present.
  • Treatment Thresholds: Conditions like dry eye syndrome might not meet the threshold for specialist referral until they become severe.

This is where private medical insurance acts as a powerful complement, bridging the gaps and giving you control over your health journey.

Your PMI Pathway: Unlocking Rapid, Advanced Ocular & Wellness Support

Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is designed to provide fast access to high-quality private healthcare for acute conditions. It works alongside the NHS to give you peace of mind and choice.

Crucial Clarification: Pre-existing & Chronic Conditions It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that begin after your policy starts. It does not cover chronic conditions (illnesses that require ongoing management rather than a cure) or pre-existing conditions you already have when you take out the policy. Conditions like short-sightedness (myopia) would be considered pre-existing and would be excluded from cover. However, a new, acute symptom—even if it's related to your eyes—could be eligible for investigation and treatment.

How a PMI Policy Can Directly Help with Eye-Related Health Issues:

  1. Swift Specialist Access: If you develop a new, acute symptom like persistent flashing lights or a sudden increase in floaters, PMI allows you to bypass NHS waiting lists and see a private ophthalmologist within days, not months.
  2. Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Private facilities often provide immediate access to state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, ensuring a faster and more thorough diagnosis of any underlying issues.
  3. Choice of Consultant and Hospital: You can choose a leading specialist in their field and a high-quality private hospital that is convenient for you.
  4. Cover for Eligible Treatments: If your diagnostic tests reveal an acute condition that requires treatment, such as cataract surgery or laser treatment for a retinal tear, your PMI policy is designed to cover the costs.

PMI in Action: A Real-Life Example

  • Sarah, a 45-year-old graphic designer, spends 10 hours a day on her computer. She developed severe headaches and saw "spiderwebs" floating in her vision. Her NHS GP referred her to an ophthalmologist, but the wait was 4 months.
  • Worried, she used her private health cover. She saw a top consultant within a week. An advanced scan revealed she had a small, developing tear in her retina—an acute condition.
  • The tear was sealed with a short laser procedure the following week, preventing a potential retinal detachment that could have permanently damaged her sight. Her PMI covered the consultation, scan, and procedure, which would have cost over £3,000 out-of-pocket.

Beyond Vision: Integrated Wellness Support in Modern PMI

The best PMI providers now understand that health is holistic. Their policies often include a suite of wellness benefits designed to tackle the root causes of conditions like screen sickness.

  • Mental Health Support: Most policies now offer access to a fixed number of counselling or therapy sessions, as well as digital mental health apps and 24/7 helplines to manage the stress and anxiety linked to chronic discomfort.
  • 24/7 Digital GP: Speak to a GP via phone or video call anytime, anywhere. This is perfect for getting initial advice on a new symptom without having to wait for an in-person appointment.
  • Physiotherapy & Musculoskeletal Support: Get fast access to treatment for the neck, back, and shoulder pain that often accompanies poor screen posture.
  • Wellness Incentives: Some insurers reward you with discounts or vouchers for tracking your activity, getting regular health checks, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to our cutting-edge AI calorie and nutrition tracker, CalorieHero, helping you manage your diet for better overall health—including your eyes.

LCIIP: The Ultimate Shield for Your Future Prosperity

To truly protect your foundational well-being, it's wise to think beyond just medical treatment. WeCovr can help you build what we call a Lifetime Comprehensive Integrated Insurance Plan (LCIIP)—a layered financial shield designed to protect you from every angle.

This isn't one single product, but a smart combination of covers:

  1. Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Pays for the treatment of acute illness and injury.
  2. Income Protection: If screen sickness or another illness becomes so severe that you cannot work, this policy pays you a regular, tax-free portion of your salary until you can return.
  3. Critical Illness Cover: Pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, life-altering condition defined in the policy. This money can be used for anything—modifying your home, paying off a mortgage, or covering lost income.

By bundling these protections, you create a safety net that not only gets you treated quickly but also ensures that a health crisis doesn't become a financial disaster. At WeCovr, we often provide discounts on other types of cover when you purchase PMI or Life Insurance, making comprehensive protection more affordable.

Practical Steps to Fight Screen Sickness Today

While insurance provides a crucial safety net, you can take proactive steps to reduce the impact of DES right now.

  • Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit relaxes your eye muscles.
  • Optimise Your Workspace:
    • Position your screen an arm's length away and slightly below eye level.
    • Minimise glare from windows and overhead lights. Use an anti-glare screen filter if needed.
    • Ensure your desk chair supports a healthy posture.
  • Adjust Screen Settings: Increase the text size, adjust the brightness to match the room's lighting, and use a "night mode" or blue light filter in the evenings.
  • Stay Hydrated & Eat for Eye Health: Dehydration can worsen dry eyes. Drink plenty of water and incorporate foods rich in eye-friendly nutrients.
NutrientGood ForFood Sources
Lutein & ZeaxanthinFiltering harmful blue lightKale, spinach, broccoli, eggs
Vitamin CReducing risk of cataractsOranges, peppers, strawberries
Vitamin EProtecting cells from damageNuts, seeds, vegetable oils
Omega-3 Fatty AcidsCombating dry eyeOily fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseed
ZincSupporting retinal healthOysters, red meat, beans, nuts

How a PMI Broker Like WeCovr Can Help

The UK private medical insurance market is complex, with dozens of providers and policies. A specialist PMI broker is your expert guide.

At WeCovr, our service is completely free to you. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and our experienced advisors leverage their deep market knowledge to:

  • Understand Your Needs: We listen to your specific health concerns, lifestyle, and budget.
  • Compare the Market: We compare policies from all the leading UK insurers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality, to find the perfect fit.
  • Explain the Fine Print: We translate the jargon and ensure you understand exactly what is and isn't covered, especially regarding outpatient limits, excesses, and hospital lists.
  • Secure the Best Price: We have access to preferential rates and can help you structure your policy to get the most value for your money.

With high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr is trusted by thousands to navigate the complexities of health and life insurance.


Does private medical insurance cover routine eye tests and glasses?

Generally, standard private medical insurance policies in the UK do not cover routine optical care like eye tests, glasses, or contact lenses. These are seen as predictable, everyday expenses rather than treatment for an unforeseen acute condition. However, some comprehensive policies allow you to add an "optical and dental" benefit for an extra premium, which can provide cashback towards these costs. Furthermore, if you develop a new, acute eye condition requiring specialist investigation, PMI would cover the costs of consultations and diagnostics.

Do I need to declare my short-sightedness when applying for PMI?

Yes, you must declare all previous and existing medical conditions, including short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. These will be classified as pre-existing conditions and will be excluded from your cover. This means the policy will not pay for glasses, contact lenses, or refractive laser eye surgery to correct your vision. However, it would still cover you for new, unrelated acute eye conditions that arise after your policy begins.

How can a broker like WeCovr help me find the right private health cover?

An expert broker like WeCovr acts as your personal advisor in the complex insurance market. Our service is free to you. We start by understanding your specific needs and budget. Then, we use our expertise to compare dozens of policies from all the top UK insurers, saving you time and effort. We explain the differences in cover, such as hospital lists and outpatient limits, ensuring there are no surprises. By navigating the market on your behalf, we help you find the most suitable private health cover at a competitive price.

Don't let screen sickness dictate your health and financial future. Take control today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable a comprehensive private medical insurance policy can be. Our expert advisors are ready to help you build the perfect protection plan for you and your family.

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Related guides

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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