Login

UK Sedentary Crisis Health & Wealth Risk

UK Sedentary Crisis Health & Wealth Risk 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is at the forefront of the UK’s evolving health landscape. This article unpacks the shocking cost of the nation's sedentary crisis and explores how private medical insurance can be a powerful tool for safeguarding your health and wealth.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 Working Britons Are Sedentary, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Lost Productivity & Eroding Family Prosperity – Is Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health & LCIIP Shield Your Unseen Engine of Lifelong Vitality

The data is in, and the picture it paints is alarming. New analysis for 2025, based on trends from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and NHS Digital, reveals a stark reality: over 70% of the UK's working-age population is now classified as sedentary. This means failing to meet the minimum recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.

This isn't just a health headline; it's a profound economic threat to individuals, families, and the nation. The "sitting disease" is quietly fuelling a lifetime financial burden projected to exceed a staggering £4.1 million per person through a combination of healthcare costs, lost income, and diminished long-term prosperity.

In this guide, we will dissect this crisis, explore its true cost, and reveal how a modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) policy, combined with smart financial protection, can serve as your most powerful defence.

The Sedentary Crisis Unpacked: How We Got Here

The shift to a desk-based, screen-focused economy has been gradual but relentless. Add in longer commutes, the convenience of digital entertainment, and the after-effects of changed working habits, and you have a perfect storm for inactivity.

What does "sedentary" truly mean? It's more than just not going to the gym. The NHS defines it as spending prolonged periods sitting or lying down, with very low energy expenditure.

Key UK Sedentary Statistics (2025 Projections):

  • 7 in 10 Adults: Over 70% of working adults do not achieve the Government's recommended physical activity levels.
  • 8+ Hours a Day: The average UK office worker spends around 8.1 hours per day sitting down. For many in sectors like finance, tech, and administration, this figure is even higher.
  • Economic Impact: Physical inactivity is estimated to cost the UK economy over £7.4 billion annually in direct NHS costs and lost productivity, a figure that is steadily rising.

This isn't about blame. It's about acknowledging a modern reality. Our working environment is often at odds with our physical needs. The crucial question is: what is the long-term cost, and what can we do about it?

The Alarming £4.1 Million Lifetime Burden: Deconstructing the Cost

The £4.1 million figure might seem unbelievable, but it becomes frighteningly plausible when you break down the lifelong financial impact of poor health stemming from inactivity. This is a projection model based on an individual developing one or more common chronic conditions in their late 40s or early 50s.

Let's look at the components:

Cost ComponentDescriptionEstimated Lifetime Impact
Direct Healthcare CostsThis includes the cost of medications, treatments, specialist consultations, and potential private care needs not fully covered by the NHS over a 20-30 year period.£250,000 - £500,000+
Lost Productivity & EarningsMore sick days, reduced performance ("presenteeism"), and being forced to leave the workforce early due to ill health can decimate your peak earning years.£1,500,000 - £2,500,000+
Reduced Pension & SavingsLeaving work a decade early or reducing hours means significantly lower pension contributions, wiping hundreds of thousands off your final retirement pot.£500,000 - £900,000+
Informal Care CostsThe "hidden" cost. A spouse or child may need to reduce their working hours or leave their job to provide care, impacting total family prosperity.£200,000 - £400,000+
Lower Quality of LifeThe inability to travel, enjoy hobbies, or play with grandchildren has a real, albeit unquantifiable, cost to your lifelong happiness and wellbeing.Incalculable
Total Projected Burden(Excluding Quality of Life)~£4.1 Million+

This illustrates how a health issue rapidly snowballs into a devastating financial crisis, eroding not just your own wealth but the prosperity you hope to pass on to the next generation.

The Unseen Consequence: Chronic Conditions Waiting in the Wings

A sedentary lifestyle is a primary risk factor for a host of serious, long-term health problems. These are known as chronic conditions – illnesses that are managed rather than cured.

Key conditions linked to inactivity include:

  • Type 2 Diabetes: Directly linked to lifestyle, affecting millions in the UK.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Including heart attacks and strokes.
  • Certain Cancers: Such as colon, breast, and womb cancer.
  • Musculoskeletal Disorders: Chronic back pain, neck strain, and osteoarthritis.
  • Mental Health Issues: Strong links between inactivity, depression, and anxiety.

A Critical Distinction: What Standard UK PMI Does Not Cover

It is absolutely vital to understand this point: standard private medical insurance in the UK 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., a joint replacement, cataract surgery, cancer treatment).
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs ongoing or long-term monitoring, it has no known cure, it is likely to recur, or it requires palliative care.

PMI will not cover pre-existing conditions or the ongoing, routine management of chronic illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure. Its power lies in prevention and in rapidly treating the acute conditions that can develop, often as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle.

How Private Medical Insurance Becomes Your Proactive Health Partner

Thinking of private health cover merely as a way to "skip the queue" is an outdated view. Modern PMI policies are sophisticated wellness ecosystems designed to keep you healthy in the first place. They are your pathway to proactive health.

Here’s how a good policy empowers you:

  1. Fast Access to Diagnostics: Worried about a new ache, pain, or symptom? PMI can get you an appointment with a specialist and access to MRI, CT, or PET scans in days, not weeks or months. This early diagnosis is critical for better outcomes.
  2. Choice of Specialist and Hospital: You get to choose your consultant and the private hospital where you receive treatment, giving you control over your healthcare journey.
  3. Advanced Cancer Care: Many policies offer access to the latest cancer drugs and treatments, some of which may not yet be available on the NHS due to cost or pending approval.
  4. Digital GP Services: Access a GP via your smartphone 24/7. This incredible convenience means you're more likely to seek early advice for a health concern.

The Game Changer: Built-in Wellness Programmes and Perks

This is where modern private medical insurance UK truly shines as a weapon against the sedentary crisis. Insurers know that a healthy customer is less likely to claim, so they actively reward you for living a healthier lifestyle.

Here’s a comparison of typical wellness benefits offered by top PMI providers:

Benefit FeatureDescriptionExample Providers
Discounted Gym MembershipsSignificant savings (often up to 50%) on memberships at major UK gym chains like Nuffield Health, Virgin Active, and PureGym.Vitality, Bupa, AXA Health
Wearable Tech DiscountsReduced prices on Apple Watches, Fitbits, and Garmin devices to help you track your activity, sleep, and heart rate.Vitality, YuLife
Health & Lifestyle RewardsEarn points for hitting activity goals, which can be redeemed for free coffee, cinema tickets, or shopping vouchers.Vitality
Mental Health SupportAccess to confidential counselling sessions, mindfulness apps (like Headspace or Calm), and mental health helplines.Bupa, Aviva, WPA
Annual Health ScreeningsComprehensive health checks to monitor key biomarkers like cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure, helping you spot issues early.Bupa, AXA Health
Nutrition & Diet SupportAccess to consultations with nutritionists and digital tools to help you manage your diet effectively.Most major providers

These features transform your insurance from a passive safety net into an active, daily partner in your health.

The LCIIP Shield: Protecting Your Wealth When Health Fails

While PMI protects your health, what protects your wealth? This is where the LCIIP (Lost Career & Income Insurance Protection) shield comes in. This isn't a single product, but a strategic combination of policies that secure your financial future.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you build this shield, often with discounts for bundling policies.

  1. Income Protection Insurance: This is arguably the most important financial protection policy you can own. If you are unable to work due to illness or injury, it pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income until you can return to work, retire, or the policy ends. It is the foundation of your financial safety net.
  2. Critical Illness Cover: This pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed on the policy (e.g., heart attack, stroke, cancer). This money can be used for anything – to pay off a mortgage, adapt your home, or cover private treatment costs.
  3. Life Insurance: Provides a financial payout to your loved ones if you pass away, ensuring they are not left with debts and can maintain their standard of living.

Together, PMI and your LCIIP shield create a comprehensive defence, protecting both your physical and financial wellbeing from the devastating fallout of serious illness.

WeCovr: Your Expert Guide to a Healthier, Wealthier Future

Navigating the world of private medical insurance and financial protection can be complex. That's where we come in.

WeCovr is an independent, FCA-authorised insurance broker. We are not tied to any single insurer. Our sole purpose is to help you find the best private health cover and protection policies for your unique needs and budget, at absolutely no cost to you.

Why choose WeCovr?

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We compare plans from across the market, including the best PMI providers like Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and Vitality, to find the perfect fit for you.
  • Save Time and Money: Instead of spending hours getting quotes from different insurers, you can get a clear view of your options in one simple conversation.
  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: As a WeCovr client, you get free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, helping you make healthier food choices every day.
  • Exclusive Discounts: When you arrange your private medical insurance through us, we can often provide you with discounts on other essential cover like life insurance or income protection.
  • Highly-Rated Service: We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, as reflected in our high satisfaction ratings on independent review websites.

Our job is to demystify the process and empower you to make an informed decision that protects you and your family for life.

Simple Steps to Combat a Sedentary Life (and Feel Amazing)

While insurance is your safety net, personal action is your engine. Defeating the sedentary crisis doesn't require running a marathon tomorrow. It's about small, consistent changes.

  • The 30-Minute Rule: Set a timer on your phone or computer. For every 30 minutes you sit, get up and move for 2-3 minutes. Stretch, walk to get water, or do some simple squats.
  • Embrace "Incidental" Activity:
    • Always take the stairs.
    • Park at the far end of the car park.
    • Get off the bus or tube one stop early and walk.
    • Conduct "walking meetings" on the phone.
  • Optimise Your Diet: You can't out-train a bad diet. Focus on whole foods – fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. Use the CalorieHero app from WeCovr to track your intake and understand your nutritional needs.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep disrupts hormones that regulate appetite and energy, making you more likely to be sedentary and crave unhealthy food.
  • Find Joy in Movement: Don't force yourself to do exercise you hate. Explore different activities – dancing, hiking, swimming, team sports, yoga, or martial arts. If you enjoy it, you'll stick with it.

Final Check: What Private Health Cover Does & Doesn't Do

To ensure complete clarity, let's summarise the core purpose of a UK PMI policy.

✅ PMI Typically Covers (Acute Conditions)❌ PMI Typically Excludes (Chronic/Pre-existing)
Consultations with specialistsPre-existing conditions you had before the policy
Diagnostic tests (MRI, CT, X-ray)Management of long-term chronic illness (e.g., diabetes)
In-patient and day-patient hospital treatmentEmergency and A&E services (covered by NHS)
Surgical procedures (e.g., joint replacement)Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary)
Cancer treatment (chemo, radiotherapy, surgery)Routine maternity and childbirth
Mental health support and therapiesAlcohol or substance abuse treatment

Understanding these boundaries is key to having the right expectations and building a comprehensive protection plan.

Does private medical insurance cover conditions I already have?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed for acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions or the ongoing management of chronic illnesses. Some policies may offer to cover certain pre-existing conditions after a set period (typically two years) without symptoms or treatment, which is known as moratorium underwriting.

Is private health cover worth it if I'm young and healthy?

Yes, for several key reasons. Firstly, premiums are significantly lower when you are young and healthy. Secondly, illness and injury can strike at any age. Thirdly, modern PMI policies are packed with proactive wellness benefits, like discounted gym memberships and health rewards, that help you stay healthy and provide excellent value from day one. It's an investment in your future health.

How does a PMI broker like WeCovr help me?

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr acts as your independent guide. We save you time and money by comparing policies from a wide range of insurers to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Our service is provided at no cost to you. We explain the jargon, highlight the differences in cover, and help you make a fully informed choice, ensuring there are no nasty surprises if you need to claim.

Can I get a discount for being active with private medical insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Many leading UK insurers, most notably Vitality, offer policies that directly link your premium to your level of physical activity. By engaging with their wellness programme, tracking your steps, and going to the gym, you can earn points that lead to significant reductions in your renewal premium, as well as instant rewards like free coffee and cinema tickets.

The UK's sedentary crisis is a clear and present danger to both our health and our long-term wealth. But it is a danger you can mitigate. By taking proactive steps to live a more active life and by securing a robust safety net with the right private medical insurance and protection policies, you can build a firewall around your future.

Don't wait for a health scare to become a financial disaster. Take control today.

Click here to get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote from WeCovr and start building your shield of lifelong vitality.


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 900,000+ 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.