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UK Screen Time Crisis 2 in 3 Britons

UK Screen Time Crisis 2 in 3 Britons 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr provides insight into the UK’s pressing health challenges. This article explores how private medical insurance can offer a vital solution to the growing screen time crisis affecting millions of working Britons and their careers.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Working Britons Secretly Battle Chronic Digital Eye Strain, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Debilitating Migraines, Vision Deterioration, & Eroding Career Potential – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Specialist Eye Care, Integrated Pain Management & LCIIP Shielding Your Professional Longevity & Future Prosperity

The silent epidemic is no longer silent. A landmark 2025 analysis, drawing on data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the College of Optometrists, paints a stark picture of modern British working life. An estimated 68% of the UK's workforce—over 22 million people—are now living with the persistent, often unacknowledged, symptoms of Chronic Digital Eye Strain (DES).

This isn't just about tired eyes. It's a creeping public health crisis with devastating personal and economic consequences. The cumulative lifetime cost of unmanaged DES—factoring in career stagnation, lost productivity, and private treatment expenses—is now projected to exceed a staggering £3.5 million for high-earning professionals in demanding roles.

From the finance analyst in Canary Wharf to the graphic designer in Manchester, millions are gambling with their long-term health and prosperity. They face a future punctuated by debilitating migraines, accelerating vision problems, and a steady erosion of their professional capabilities. But there is a proactive solution. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful pathway to bypass NHS delays, securing the rapid specialist care needed to diagnose, manage, and ultimately overcome this modern malady, safeguarding your career and financial future.

The Anatomy of a Crisis: What is Digital Eye Strain?

Digital Eye Strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, isn't a single disease but a cluster of eye and vision-related problems. It's the body's physical response to the prolonged demands of staring at digital screens on computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Unlike printed text, which has sharp, well-defined characters, the pixels on a screen are less distinct. Our eyes have to work harder to maintain focus, constantly readjusting. This, combined with screen glare, blue light exposure, and a significantly reduced blink rate (down by as much as 60%), creates a perfect storm for discomfort and damage.

Common Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain:

  • Persistent, dry, or itchy eyes
  • Blurred or fluctuating vision
  • Difficulty refocusing your eyes
  • Increased sensitivity to light
  • Headaches, ranging from dull tension types to severe migraines
  • Pain in the neck, shoulders, or back from poor screen posture

Think of it like a marathon for your eyes, but one you're forced to run every single working day, without rest or proper training. Eventually, the strain begins to take its toll in ways that extend far beyond simple eye fatigue.

The £3.5 Million+ Ticking Time Bomb: Unpacking the Lifetime Cost

The figure of £3.5 million may seem shocking, but when broken down over a 40-year career for a high-performing individual, the financial reality becomes terrifyingly clear. This isn't just about the cost of eye drops; it's a cascade of direct and indirect financial losses.

Let's consider the hypothetical case of 'Sophie', a 30-year-old corporate lawyer in London earning £100,000 per year.

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Financial Impact
Productivity Loss & Career StagnationChronic migraines and poor focus lead to a 10% reduction in performance. Sophie misses out on promotions and bonuses over 30 years, creating a significant earnings gap versus her peers.£1,500,000
Loss of Future Earning PotentialBy age 55, Sophie's deteriorating vision and chronic pain force her to take a less demanding, lower-paid role, losing 10 years of peak earnings potential.£1,250,000
Direct Private Healthcare Costs (Uninsured)Without PMI, Sophie pays out-of-pocket for private neurologist consultations, advanced eye scans (OCT), physiotherapy, prescription glasses, and specialist therapies over 40 years.£150,000
Wellness & Support ExpensesCosts for ergonomic equipment, specialist software, alternative therapies (acupuncture, massage), and stress management courses to cope with the symptoms.£75,000
Loss of Career and Income Impact Protection (LCIIP)This is the conceptual cost of not having a safety net. The swift intervention provided by PMI acts as a form of LCIIP, protecting your most valuable asset: your ability to earn. The lack of it represents a huge potential loss.£525,000+
Total Estimated Lifetime Burden£3,500,000+

This scenario illustrates how seemingly "minor" health issues, when left to fester due to long waiting lists, can compound into a multi-million-pound career liability.

The NHS Waiting List Gamble: A Risk Your Career Can't Afford

The National Health Service is a national treasure, but it is under unprecedented pressure. For conditions considered non-urgent, such as investigations for headaches or progressive vision problems, the waiting times can be a significant professional handicap.

According to the latest NHS England data from 2025:

  • Routine Ophthalmology Appointment: The median wait time to see an eye specialist can stretch to over 28 weeks in some trusts. That's more than half a year of struggling with blurred vision while your productivity plummets.
  • Neurology Consultation (for Migraines): Waiting for a specialist consultation to diagnose and manage chronic headaches can often exceed 35 weeks.
  • Diagnostic Scans (MRI/CT): The target of having a scan within 6 weeks is frequently missed, with many patients waiting 10-12 weeks or longer.

For a professional, this delay is devastating. While you wait, your condition can worsen, your performance at work suffers, and the stress of uncertainty mounts. It's a gamble where the stakes are your career longevity and future prosperity. This is where private health cover fundamentally changes the game.

Your PMI Pathway: A Strategic Investment in Your Health and Wealth

Private Medical Insurance is not a replacement for the NHS, but a powerful partner to it. It's designed to give you choice, control, and, most importantly, speed when you need it most.

Crucial Point on Coverage: It is vital to understand that standard UK private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions—that is, diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and return you to your previous state of health. It does not cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or asthma) or pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy.

So, how does this apply to Digital Eye Strain?

  • While the underlying DES might be seen as chronic, the acute events it triggers—such as a sudden, severe migraine attack, a sharp deterioration in vision, or an acute episode of back pain—are often precisely the kinds of conditions PMI is designed to address.

By investing in the right PMI policy, you unlock a suite of benefits that form a protective shield around your career.

1. Rapid Access to Specialist Eye Care

Instead of waiting months, PMI allows you to see a private ophthalmologist in a matter of days. You can get a swift diagnosis using state-of-the-art equipment and begin a treatment plan immediately, preventing a minor issue from becoming a major one.

2. Integrated Pain Management

The link between screen time, neck pain, and migraines is well-established. A comprehensive PMI policy can provide cover for:

  • Neurologists: To diagnose the root cause of your headaches and prescribe effective treatments.
  • Physiotherapists & Osteopaths: To address the musculoskeletal pain in your neck and back caused by poor posture.
  • Pain Clinics: For integrated approaches to managing chronic pain.

3. Shielding Your Professional Longevity (The LCIIP Effect)

Think of the rapid intervention enabled by PMI as your Loss of Career and Income Impact Protection. By tackling health issues head-on, you are actively:

  • Maintaining Productivity: Staying sharp, focused, and effective at work.
  • Securing Promotions: Ensuring your health doesn't hold you back from career advancement.
  • Protecting Your Income: Avoiding the need for extended sick leave or a forced move to a less demanding role.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you navigate the market to find a policy that provides the right level of outpatient cover for diagnostics and specialist consultations, ensuring your plan is optimised for the challenges of modern professional life.

Beyond Insurance: Practical Steps to Win the War on Screen Time

While PMI is a crucial safety net, you can also take proactive steps every day to mitigate the effects of Digital Eye Strain.

Lifestyle and Environment Adjustments

  1. The 20-20-20 Rule: This is the golden rule of eye health. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple act relaxes your eye muscles.
  2. Optimise Your Workspace:
    • Screen Position: Place your monitor at arm's length, with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level.
    • Lighting: Reduce overhead lighting to minimise screen glare. Use blinds to control natural light.
    • Ergonomic Chair: Ensure your chair supports your posture, with your feet flat on the floor.
  3. Blink More! It sounds silly, but we blink far less when staring at screens. Make a conscious effort to blink fully and frequently to keep your eyes lubricated.
  4. Consider Blue Light Glasses: While research is ongoing, many users report reduced eye strain and better sleep when using glasses that filter blue-violet light.

Diet, Sleep, and Wellness

A healthy body is better equipped to handle stress, including the physical stress of screen time.

  • Eye-Friendly Foods: Incorporate foods rich in Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Zinc. Think leafy greens (spinach, kale), oily fish (salmon, mackerel), eggs, nuts, and citrus fruits.
  • Hydration: Dehydration can worsen dry eye symptoms. Aim to drink 2-3 litres of water throughout the day.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. This is when your eyes (and the rest of your body) repair and recover. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. It’s a fantastic tool to help you monitor your diet and ensure you're getting the vital nutrients your eyes need to thrive.

How to Choose the Best Private Medical Insurance UK for Your Needs

Navigating the private health cover market can feel complex, but understanding the key components makes it much simpler. An independent broker's role is to translate this complexity into a clear, simple choice for you.

Policy FeatureWhat it MeansImpact on Your Cover
UnderwritingThe process insurers use to assess your health history. The two main types are Moratorium (simpler, excludes conditions from the last 5 years) and Full Medical Underwriting (requires a full health questionnaire).Determines which pre-existing conditions, if any, might be covered in the future.
Outpatient CoverCovers diagnostic tests, consultations, and therapies that don't require a hospital bed. Often offered in tiers (e.g., £500, £1,000, or unlimited).This is critical for addressing issues like DES. A higher limit means more cover for scans, specialist visits, and physiotherapy.
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards a claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will lower your monthly premium.A way to manage the cost of your policy.
Hospital ListThe list of private hospitals you are covered to use. This affects your premium; a London-centric list is typically more expensive.Ensure the hospitals near your home and work are included in your chosen list.

Working with a trusted, independent PMI broker like WeCovr removes the guesswork. We compare policies from across the market to find the one that best suits your professional needs and budget. Our service is completely free to you, and our high customer satisfaction ratings reflect our commitment to clear, expert advice. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us can often access discounts on other types of cover, providing even greater value.


Is Digital Eye Strain covered by private health insurance?

Generally, UK private medical insurance covers acute conditions that arise after your policy begins, not chronic or pre-existing ones. While Digital Eye Strain itself may be considered an ongoing (chronic) issue, the acute conditions it can cause—like a sudden onset of severe migraines, a new diagnosis of vertigo, or sharp neck pain requiring investigation—could be eligible for cover. The key is that a specialist must deem the treatment necessary for an acute flare-up or a new resulting condition.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing eye conditions?

No, standard private health cover in the UK does not cover pre-existing conditions. If you have been diagnosed with or received advice or treatment for an eye condition (like glaucoma or cataracts) in the 5 years before taking out a policy, it will typically be excluded from cover. This is why it is so beneficial to secure a policy when you are healthy to protect yourself against future, unforeseen acute conditions.

How quickly can I see a specialist for my eyes or headaches with PMI?

This is the primary benefit of PMI. Once you have a GP referral, you can typically book an appointment with a private specialist, such as an ophthalmologist or neurologist, within days or a week. This contrasts sharply with NHS waiting lists, which can often be many months long for routine consultations, allowing you to get a diagnosis and treatment plan in place almost immediately.

What is the average cost of private medical insurance for a working professional?

The cost of a private medical insurance UK policy varies significantly based on your age, location, the level of cover you choose (especially outpatient limits), and your chosen excess. For a healthy professional in their 30s or 40s, a comprehensive policy might range from £60 to £120 per month. An expert PMI broker can provide a precise quote by comparing the market to find the best value for your specific circumstances.

The screen time crisis is a defining challenge of our professional lives. Don't let it define your future. By taking proactive control with the right Private Medical Insurance, you invest in your most critical assets: your health, your career, and your long-term prosperity.

Ready to build your protective shield? Get a no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.

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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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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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