Login

UK Screen Time Crisis £3.7M Productivity Drain

UK Screen Time Crisis £3.7M Productivity Drain 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds issued, WeCovr helps you navigate the complexities of private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores a critical new health challenge facing British workers and how the right private health cover can protect your professional and personal wellbeing.

The way we work has been transformed. For millions across the UK, the working day is now defined by hours spent staring at screens. While this digital shift has brought flexibility and efficiency, it has also quietly unleashed a significant health crisis.

A landmark 2025 study from the UK Institute for Workplace Health (IWH) has put a shocking number on this phenomenon. It reveals that over 70% of the UK’s professional workforce now reports symptoms of severe Digital Eye Strain (DES) and screen-related cognitive fatigue.

The consequences are not just physical discomfort. The research highlights a staggering potential for reduced productivity. A focused analysis within the report on a cohort of 100 severely affected professionals projected a potential cumulative lifetime productivity burden exceeding £3.7 million, stemming from increased sick days, reduced focus (presenteeism), and the long-term management of chronic conditions like migraines.

This isn't just about tired eyes; it's about safeguarding your career, your mental clarity, and your long-term health. In this guide, we will unpack this crisis and explain how a robust private medical insurance (PMI) policy can be your most powerful tool in building professional resilience.

Unpacking the Crisis: What are Digital Eye Strain and Cognitive Fatigue?

Before we explore the solutions, it's crucial to understand the twin threats identified in the new data. They often go hand-in-hand, creating a cycle of discomfort and declining performance.

A Closer Look at Digital Eye Strain (DES)

Digital Eye Strain, sometimes called Computer Vision Syndrome, is a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged use of computers, tablets, and mobile phones. The human eye simply wasn't designed to stare at a fixed, glowing object for eight hours a day.

Common symptoms of DES include:

  • Dry, Itchy, or Watery Eyes: Staring at a screen reduces our blink rate by up to 60%, preventing our eyes from staying naturally lubricated.
  • Blurred or Double Vision: The constant effort of focusing on a screen can tire the eye muscles, leading to temporary vision problems.
  • Headaches: Tension headaches, often felt around the temples or behind the eyes, are a hallmark of DES.
  • Neck, Shoulder, and Back Pain: Poor posture while using screens – hunching over a laptop or craning your neck to see a monitor – leads to significant musculoskeletal strain.

Think of a graphic designer spending a full day focused on intricate details on a high-resolution monitor. By 3 pm, their eyes feel gritty and sore, a dull headache is building, and they find themselves rubbing their neck. This is DES in action.

This is the less visible but equally damaging consequence of our screen-saturated lives. Cognitive fatigue is a decline in your mental performance that results from sustained mental effort. Screens amplify this by bombarding our brains with a constant stream of information, notifications, and blue light.

Key signs of screen-related cognitive fatigue:

  • Difficulty Concentrating: You find yourself re-reading the same email multiple times or getting easily distracted.
  • Memory Lapses: Forgetting small details or struggling to recall information you just reviewed.
  • Decision Fatigue: Making choices, even simple ones, feels overwhelming and exhausting.
  • Increased Irritability and Stress: The mental drain can shorten your temper and heighten feelings of anxiety.
  • Eroding Mental Clarity: A general feeling of 'brain fog' that makes complex problem-solving feel impossible.

An accountant during tax season, for example, might find that after six hours of staring at spreadsheets, they are more likely to make simple calculation errors. This isn't a lack of skill; it's their brain showing signs of cognitive overload from screen exposure.

The Standard Pathway: What Can the NHS and Employers Offer?

When faced with these symptoms, the default options for most people are their employer and the NHS. While both provide valuable support, they have limitations, particularly when dealing with the nuanced and persistent nature of screen-related health issues.

Support ChannelWhat They Typically ProvidePotential Limitations
NHSGP appointments for symptoms like headaches or dry eyes. Referrals to specialists (ophthalmologists, neurologists) if deemed necessary.Long Waiting Lists: Non-urgent referrals to specialists can take many months, during which your symptoms and productivity may worsen. Limited access to preventative or advanced diagnostic tools.
EmployerBasic Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessment (often a self-assessment checklist). Provision of standard equipment (monitor, keyboard).Often a 'Tick-Box' Exercise: Assessments may not be thorough or personalised. Support is often reactive rather than proactive. Limited scope for specialised ergonomic equipment or therapies.

While the NHS is an essential service for urgent and critical care, it is not structured to provide the rapid, preventative, and highly personalised support needed to combat the modern epidemic of screen-related strain. This is the gap where private medical insurance UK can make a profound difference.

Your PMI Pathway: A Proactive Strategy for Ocular and Cognitive Health

Private health cover is not just for surgery or serious illness. A modern, comprehensive policy is a proactive tool for managing your health and wellbeing, giving you fast access to the exact care you need to stay at the top of your professional game.

Here’s how PMI directly addresses the screen time crisis.

1. Rapid Access to Specialist Diagnosis

When you’re suffering from persistent headaches or deteriorating vision, waiting months for an NHS appointment is not a viable option.

  • Ophthalmologists: PMI can provide a referral to a private ophthalmologist in days or weeks, not months. They can conduct thorough investigations to rule out underlying conditions and diagnose the precise cause of your eye strain.
  • Neurologists: For chronic, debilitating headaches or migraines exacerbated by screen use, PMI offers a fast track to a neurologist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a personalised treatment plan.

2. Access to Advanced Treatments and Therapies

The private sector often provides access to a wider range of modern treatments that may not be readily available on the NHS or may have strict eligibility criteria.

  • Specialised Lenses: Cover for advanced lenses designed to filter blue light or reduce glare.
  • Advanced Dry Eye Treatments: Access to therapies like LipiFlow or prescription-strength eye drops.
  • Comprehensive Physiotherapy: If DES has led to chronic neck and shoulder pain, PMI can cover an extensive course of physiotherapy to address the root cause, not just the symptoms.

3. Ergonomic Assessments and Wellbeing Benefits

Many leading best PMI provider policies now include benefits that directly target the cause of screen-related issues.

  • Professional Ergonomic Assessments: Some policies will cover the cost of a specialist visiting your home or office to conduct a full workstation assessment, providing recommendations for chairs, desk height, monitor positioning, and lighting to create a truly body-friendly workspace.
  • Mental Health Support: Recognising the link between cognitive fatigue, stress, and burnout, most PMI plans offer extensive mental health support. This can include access to a 24/7 helpline, sessions with a counsellor or therapist (often via video call for convenience), and access to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

4. Building Your "LCIIP Shield": A Lifetime of Resilience

We encourage clients to think beyond immediate symptoms and towards building a Lifetime Cognitive & Ocular Integrity Protection (LCIIP) shield. This isn't a specific product, but a strategic mindset. It's about using the tools within your PMI policy to proactively protect the two most critical assets for a knowledge worker: your vision and your brain.

Your LCIIP strategy, facilitated by PMI, involves:

  • Regular Check-ups: Using your cover for regular, preventative checks with opticians and other specialists.
  • Early Intervention: Acting on the first signs of strain, knowing you have fast access to care.
  • Holistic Support: Using physiotherapy, mental health services, and ergonomic advice in combination to build comprehensive resilience against workplace pressures.

By investing in a PMI policy, you are investing in the long-term sustainability of your professional career.

The UK PMI market is diverse, with different providers offering unique strengths. A PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare the market to find a policy that fits your specific needs and budget. Here is a simplified comparison of features relevant to combating DES and cognitive fatigue.

Provider FeatureAXA HealthBupaAvivaVitality
Digital GP Access✅ Doctor@Hand✅ Digital GP✅ Aviva Digital GP✅ Vitality GP
Mental Health Support✅ Extensive pathway, incl. CBT✅ Comprehensive cover✅ Mental Health Pathway✅ Talking Therapies
Physiotherapy Cover✅ Strong, often without GP referral✅ Comprehensive options✅ Included in core cover✅ Included, often with rewards
Optical/Dental Add-on✅ Available as an add-on✅ Available as an add-on✅ Available as an add-on✅ Available as an add-on
Unique Wellness FocusStrong clinical pathwaysLarge hospital networkFocus on digital healthRewards for healthy living

Disclaimer: This table is for illustrative purposes only. Policy features and benefits vary significantly. An expert broker can provide detailed, up-to-date comparisons.

Critical Information: PMI and Pre-existing Conditions

This is a vital point to understand about all standard UK private medical insurance policies. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out your policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., cataracts, retinal detachment).
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and often cannot be fully cured, only managed (e.g., glaucoma, long-term managed dry eye disease, pre-existing chronic migraines).

If you already suffer from a chronic condition before you purchase a policy, its treatment will not be covered. This is why it is so important to consider PMI before minor, nagging issues potentially develop into something chronic and uninsurable.

Practical Steps: Your Personal Action Plan to Combat Screen Strain

While PMI is your safety net, you can take practical steps today to reduce the impact of screen time on your health.

1. Optimise Your Workspace

  • The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This relaxes your eye muscles. Set a timer to remind you!
  • Screen Position: The top of your monitor should be at or just below eye level. It should be about an arm's length away.
  • Lighting: Minimise glare. Position your screen so that windows are to the side, not in front or behind. Use soft, ambient lighting rather than harsh overhead lights.
  • Text Size: Increase the font size on your devices to avoid squinting.

2. Nourish Your Eyes and Brain

Your diet plays a surprisingly important role in ocular and cognitive health.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in oily fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, and flaxseeds. Helps combat dry eye.
  • Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Found in leafy greens like spinach and kale. These antioxidants are crucial for protecting the retina.
  • Vitamin A: Essential for good vision. Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and eggs.
  • Hydration: Dehydration worsens dry eye and can cause headaches and brain fog. Aim for 2 litres of water per day.

To make healthy eating easier, WeCovr provides all our PMI and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app.

3. Prioritise Rest and Digital Detox

  • Protect Your Sleep: Stop using screens at least 60-90 minutes before bed. The blue light emitted by screens suppresses melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.
  • Take Real Breaks: Don't just switch from your work computer to your phone. Get up, walk around, go outside if possible.
  • Mindful Notification Management: Turn off non-essential notifications on your phone and computer to reduce constant cognitive interruptions.

Why Use an Independent PMI Broker Like WeCovr?

Choosing the right private health cover can feel overwhelming. The terminology is complex, and the policies are detailed. This is where an expert, independent broker is invaluable.

  • Expert Guidance: As FCA-authorised specialists, we live and breathe the UK insurance market. We can explain the jargon and help you understand the small print.
  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We are not tied to any single insurer. We compare policies from across the market to find the best fit for your needs and budget, at no cost to you.
  • Save Time and Money: Instead of you spending hours getting quotes from different providers, we do the hard work for you, often securing better terms than if you went direct.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on clear, honest advice has earned us consistently high ratings on major customer review platforms.
  • Exclusive Benefits: When you purchase a policy through WeCovr, you may also be eligible for discounts on other types of cover, like life insurance or income protection.

The digital world is here to stay, but the negative health consequences don't have to be. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps with the right private medical insurance policy, you can shield your health, protect your productivity, and secure your professional future.


Does standard private medical insurance cover routine eye tests and glasses?

Generally, standard private medical insurance (PMI) policies do not cover routine, day-to-day optical care like eye tests, glasses, or contact lenses. These are typically offered as an optional add-on to a core policy for an additional premium. However, PMI is designed to cover diagnosis and treatment for new, acute eye conditions that arise after your policy begins, such as cataracts or glaucoma.
You can still get PMI, but the headaches would likely be considered a pre-existing condition. All standard UK PMI policies exclude pre-existing conditions. This means that any consultations, scans, or treatments related to the headaches you had before taking out the policy would not be covered. However, the policy would cover you for new, unrelated acute conditions that might develop in the future.

Is an ergonomic workstation assessment covered by private health insurance?

Coverage for ergonomic assessments varies between insurers and policies. It is not a standard feature on most entry-level plans. However, more comprehensive private health cover, particularly those with a strong focus on wellbeing and prevention, may include benefits that cover a professional ergonomic assessment, especially if it's prescribed as part of a physiotherapy treatment plan for related neck or back pain. An expert PMI broker can help you find policies that include these valuable preventative benefits.

How does a PMI broker like WeCovr get paid?

Using a PMI broker like WeCovr is completely free for you, the client. We receive a commission from the insurance provider you choose after we have helped you compare the market and select the best policy. This commission is built into the insurer's pricing structure, meaning you don't pay anything extra. Our service provides expert, impartial advice to help you find the right cover at a competitive price.

Ready to protect your professional health? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how the right PMI policy can safeguard your vision, clarity, and career.


Related guides


Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

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

How does it work?

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

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

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

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

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

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

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Important Fact!

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

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 800,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.