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UK Sedentary Crisis 2 in 3 Face £4M Health Risk

UK Sedentary Crisis 2 in 3 Face £4M Health Risk 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert insurance broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is at the forefront of helping UK families navigate their health and financial security. This article unpacks the UK’s escalating sedentary crisis and explains how private medical insurance can offer a vital protective pathway.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Working Britons Secretly Battle a Sedentary Lifestyle & Chronic Physical Inactivity, Fueling a Staggering £4.0 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Mental Health Decline & Premature Mortality – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health Screening, Personalised Activity Prescriptions & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Prosperity

A silent crisis is unfolding in offices, homes, and workspaces across the United Kingdom. New projections for 2025, based on the latest trends from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the NHS, paint a startling picture. An estimated 68% of working-age Britons—more than two in every three—are now living a sedentary lifestyle. This isn't just about missing the occasional gym session; it's a chronic state of physical inactivity that has become the default for millions.

The consequences are not merely abstract health warnings. They carry a devastating and tangible cost. For individuals who develop multiple severe, long-term health conditions as a result, the combined lifetime cost of medical care, lost income, and social support can spiral into the millions. This "Lifetime Cost of Illness and Injury Protection" (LCIIP) deficit represents a profound threat not only to our national health but to your personal prosperity and future well-being.

But there is a proactive path forward. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is evolving beyond a simple tool for skipping NHS queues. It is now a powerful wellness partner, offering a direct route to proactive health screenings, personalised activity programmes, and rapid specialist access—the very tools needed to combat inactivity and shield your most foundational asset: your health.

The Anatomy of a Crisis: Why Are We So Inactive?

To understand the solution, we must first grasp the problem. A "sedentary lifestyle" is defined by public health bodies as engaging in very low levels of energy expenditure for prolonged periods—essentially, too much sitting and not enough moving. The official UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines recommend adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Projections for 2025 suggest a concerning number of us are falling dangerously short.

Key Drivers of the UK's Sedentary Lifestyle:

  • The Rise of the Desk Job: An estimated 81% of the UK workforce is now in the service sector, with a significant proportion in office-based roles requiring 8+ hours of sitting per day.
  • Technological Comfort: From streaming services to instant food delivery, modern conveniences have engineered movement out of our daily lives.
  • Changes in Commuting: While a shift to remote work has benefits, it has also eliminated the "active commute"—the walk to the bus stop or the cycle to the station.
  • Time Poverty: Long working hours and family commitments leave many feeling they have no time or energy left for structured exercise.

This isn't a matter of individual blame. It's a societal shift that requires a conscious, deliberate response to reclaim our physical health.

Activity Level Category% of UK Adults (2025 Projections)Description
Active32%Meets or exceeds 150 mins/week of moderate activity.
Fairly Active21%Engages in 30-149 mins/week of moderate activity.
Inactive (Sedentary)47%Engages in less than 30 mins/week of moderate activity.

Source: Projections based on 2023-2024 data from the Health Survey for England and ONS.

The £4 Million+ Health Burden: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost

The headline figure of a £4.0 million+ lifetime burden is an illustrative projection representing a worst-case scenario for an individual developing multiple, severe chronic conditions. It combines direct healthcare costs (both NHS and private), loss of earnings due to inability to work, the need for long-term social care, and the cost of modifications to the home.

Let's break down the primary health risks fuelled by inactivity and their potential financial impact.

1. Type 2 Diabetes

A sedentary lifestyle is a primary driver of insulin resistance, the precursor to Type 2 Diabetes. The body becomes less effective at managing blood sugar, leading to a cascade of health problems.

  • Health Impact: Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage, and vision loss.
  • Financial Impact: NHS England estimates that the health service spends at least £10 billion a year on diabetes—around 10% of its entire budget. For an individual, costs include ongoing medication, specialist appointments, and managing complications, which can severely impact one's ability to work and earn over a lifetime.

2. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

Physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart, managing blood pressure, and controlling cholesterol levels. Inactivity does the opposite.

  • Health Impact: Coronary heart disease, angina, heart attack, and stroke.
  • Financial Impact: The British Heart Foundation reports that CVD costs the UK economy an estimated £19 billion annually. For an individual, a major event like a stroke can lead to significant loss of income, alongside long-term rehabilitation and care costs that can run into hundreds of thousands of pounds over a lifetime.

3. Mental Health Decline

The link between mind and body is undeniable. Physical activity is a proven, powerful tool for managing mental well-being.

  • Health Impact: Inactivity is strongly correlated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. It also contributes to a faster rate of cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia in later life.
  • Financial Impact: Mental ill-health is the single largest cause of disability in the UK. The cost to employers from lost productivity and absenteeism is estimated at over £56 billion a year (Deloitte, 2022). For an individual, it can mean periods out of work, reduced career progression, and the personal cost of seeking therapy.

4. Musculoskeletal Disorders

Our bodies are designed to move. Prolonged sitting puts immense strain on the spine, neck, and joints.

  • Health Impact: Chronic lower back pain, repetitive strain injury (RSI), neck and shoulder pain, and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
  • Financial Impact: Back pain is one of the leading causes of workplace absence. The cost of physiotherapy, pain management, and potential surgery, combined with lost earnings, can be substantial.

The Critical Role of Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is currently facing unprecedented pressure. Waiting lists for routine diagnostics and elective treatments can stretch for months, even years. In this environment, a proactive, preventative approach to your health is not a luxury—it's a necessity. This is where modern private medical insurance UK shines.

Important Note: It is crucial to understand that standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses that are curable and arise after your policy begins. It does not cover chronic or pre-existing conditions. For example, if you already have a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes, a new PMI policy will not cover its management.

However, PMI's true power in the fight against a sedentary lifestyle lies in its proactive and preventative benefits.

1. Proactive Health Screening & Early Detection

Many comprehensive PMI policies include benefits for regular health screenings. These can include:

  • Blood tests for cholesterol and glucose levels
  • Blood pressure checks
  • Body composition analysis (BMI, body fat percentage)
  • Even advanced screenings for cancer or heart conditions

Catching a rising blood sugar level before it becomes diabetes, or high blood pressure before it causes damage, is the essence of preventative healthcare. PMI gives you direct access to this vital information.

2. Personalised Activity Programmes & Wellness Rewards

This is where PMI has been revolutionised. Leading providers now actively incentivise healthy living.

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Get reduced rates at major UK gym chains.
  • Wearable Technology: Receive a subsidised or free fitness tracker (like an Apple Watch or Fitbit) to monitor your activity.
  • Reward Points: Earn points for hitting daily step counts, attending the gym, or buying healthy food. These points can be redeemed for cinema tickets, coffee, or even lower insurance premiums the following year.

These programmes, offered by providers you can compare through a PMI broker like WeCovr, transform your insurance from a passive safety net into an active partner in your health journey.

3. Swift Access to Diagnostics and Specialists

If you develop a new, acute problem linked to inactivity—such as sudden, severe back pain or worrying heart palpitations—PMI allows you to bypass long NHS waits.

  • Fast GP Access: Many policies offer 24/7 digital GP services, so you can speak to a doctor in minutes.
  • Rapid Referrals: Get a referral to a specialist consultant in days, not months.
  • Advanced Scans: Access MRI, CT, and ultrasound scans quickly to get a precise diagnosis and start the right treatment plan without delay.

4. Comprehensive Mental Health Support

Recognising the profound link between physical and mental health, most best PMI provider policies now offer robust mental health cover. This can include:

  • Fast access to counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
  • Consultations with psychiatrists.
  • In-patient care if required.

This support is vital for tackling the anxiety and depression that a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate.

Beyond PMI: Building Your LCIIP Shield

While PMI is the cornerstone of managing your immediate health, a truly robust plan to shield against the "Lifetime Cost of Illness and Injury" involves a wider strategy.

  • Critical Illness Cover: This pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness defined in the policy (e.g., heart attack, stroke, certain cancers). This money can be used for anything—to cover lost income, pay off a mortgage, or fund private treatment.
  • Income Protection Insurance: This provides a regular, replacement income if you are unable to work for a prolonged period due to any illness or injury. It is arguably the most fundamental protection for a working person.

As expert brokers, WeCovr can help you explore these options. We often provide discounts to clients who take out PMI or Life Insurance, helping you build a comprehensive and affordable financial shield.

Practical Steps to Reclaim Your Activity: A Five-Point Plan

Insurance is a powerful tool, but the first line of defence is action. Here are simple, effective ways to break the cycle of inactivity.

  1. The "Micro-Movement" Mindset: Forget finding an hour for the gym. Focus on two-minute bursts. Stand up and stretch every 30 minutes. Do squats while the kettle boils. Walk around the house during phone calls.
  2. Weaponise Your Commute: If you travel to a workplace, get off the bus or tube one stop early and walk the rest of the way. If you drive, park at the far end of the car park. These small additions accumulate.
  3. Find Your Joyful Movement: Exercise shouldn't be a punishment. Hate running? Try a dance class. Find the gym intimidating? Go for a hike in a local park. Join a social sports team. When you enjoy it, you'll stick with it.
  4. Embrace Technology for Good: Use a fitness tracker to set a simple daily step goal. A target of 7,000-10,000 steps is a great starting point. To help with nutrition, WeCovr provides complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, for our clients.
  5. Prioritise Sleep: Your body cannot recover and your mind cannot find the motivation to be active without adequate sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It's as important as diet and exercise.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover

Navigating the private health cover market can be complex. Policies vary significantly in their scope and benefits.

FeatureBasic PolicyMid-Range PolicyComprehensive Policy
In-patient CareCovered (with limits on hospital choice)Fully Covered (wider hospital list)Fully Covered (extensive choice)
Out-patient CareNot covered or very low limit (£0-£500)Capped cover (£500-£1,500)Fully covered or very high limit
TherapiesNot usually coveredLimited cover for physioExtensive cover (physio, chiro, osteo)
Mental HealthLimited or no coverSome outpatient therapyComprehensive cover, including in-patient
Wellness BenefitsBasic digital GPDigital GP, some health rewardsFull wellness programme, rewards, screenings

The best way to find a policy that matches your needs and budget is to speak with an independent expert. A broker like WeCovr can compare policies from across the market, explain the jargon, and find the perfect fit for you at no extra cost. Our advice is impartial and tailored to your circumstances, and we pride ourselves on our high customer satisfaction ratings.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get private medical insurance if I'm already inactive and have some health concerns?

Yes, you can. However, a crucial point to understand about UK private medical insurance is that it is designed for new, acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. Any health conditions you have before taking out the policy are known as 'pre-existing conditions' and will typically be excluded from cover. When you apply, the insurer will use a process called underwriting to assess your health. This is why it's so beneficial to get PMI when you are relatively healthy, to protect yourself against future, unforeseen problems.

Will my PMI policy pay for my gym membership to help me be more active?

A PMI policy will not usually pay for your gym membership directly. However, many leading UK health insurers now include incredibly valuable wellness programmes as a core part of their offering. These programmes actively incentivise a healthy lifestyle by providing significant discounts (often up to 50%) on memberships at major gym chains, offering rewards for hitting activity goals, and giving you access to subsidised fitness trackers. So, while it doesn't pay for it, it makes being active significantly more affordable.

Is private medical insurance worth the cost if the NHS is free?

This is a personal choice, but the value of PMI extends far beyond simply being an alternative to the NHS. The key benefits are choice, speed, and enhanced well-being. With PMI, you get to choose your specialist and hospital, bypass long NHS waiting lists for diagnosis and treatment of acute conditions, and access private rooms for a more comfortable recovery. Furthermore, the modern wellness and preventative screening benefits included in many policies can help you stay healthier in the first place, offering a proactive tool to manage your health that complements the excellent emergency and chronic care provided by the NHS.

The sedentary crisis is a real and present danger to the health and prosperity of millions in the UK. But it is not an insurmountable challenge. By understanding the risks, taking small, consistent steps to reintroduce movement into your life, and leveraging the powerful proactive tools offered by modern private medical insurance, you can build a formidable defence.

Protect your vitality, secure your future, and take the first step today.

Contact WeCovr for a free, no-obligation quote and let our experts help you find the right private medical insurance to shield your health and wealth.


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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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