WeCovr.

Login

UK Sedentary Crisis Hidden Health Threat

UK Sedentary Crisis Hidden Health Threat 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies arranged, WeCovr helps you navigate the UK’s sedentary health crisis. This article explores how private medical insurance offers a vital pathway to proactive health, shielding you from the hidden costs of inactivity and securing your long-term wellbeing in the UK.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 Working Britons Experience Prolonged Sedentary Lifestyles, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Premature Mortality & Eroding Productivity – Is Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health & LCIIP Shield Your Unseen Investment in Longevity

The silent alarm is ringing across Britain. A landmark 2025 report, synthesising data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and NHS Digital, paints a stark picture of our nation’s health. The data reveals a hidden crisis, not in our hospitals, but in our chairs. Over 70% of the UK's working population—more than 23 million people—are now classified as having a prolonged sedentary lifestyle.

This isn't just about feeling a bit stiff after a long day at the desk. This epidemic of inactivity is a direct pipeline to a lifetime of health complications, costing the individual and the nation dearly. The estimated lifetime burden for a person developing multiple chronic conditions linked to inactivity now exceeds a staggering £4.1 million. This figure combines direct NHS treatment costs, lost earnings due to ill-health, the need for social care, and the economic impact of reduced productivity and premature mortality.

In this new reality, health is no longer about just treating sickness. It's about proactively preventing it. This is where modern Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and its associated financial shields, like Long-Term Care and Income Protection (LCIIP), evolve from a simple 'nice-to-have' into an essential investment in your future health and financial security.

The £4.1 Million Question: How Does Inactivity Cost So Much?

The £4.1 million figure can seem abstract, but it represents a tangible, lifelong cost that accumulates through several channels. Let's break down this lifetime burden per individual:

  • Direct NHS Costs: The treatment of chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers places an immense, long-term strain on NHS resources. This includes everything from GP appointments and medication to specialist consultations, surgery, and ongoing management, estimated to cost the health service hundreds of thousands of pounds over a person's lifetime.
  • Lost Earnings & Productivity: Chronic illness often leads to extended sick leave, reduced working hours, or early retirement. ONS projections for 2025 suggest that workdays lost to musculoskeletal and stress-related conditions—both heavily linked to sedentary work—are at an all-time high, eroding individual earning potential by an average of £1.5 million over a career.
  • Social Care Needs: Conditions like severe arthritis, stroke, or dementia, which are exacerbated by inactivity, can lead to a need for long-term care in later life. The cost of residential or at-home care can easily run into hundreds of thousands of pounds, often depleting personal savings and assets.
  • Reduced Quality of Life: Whilst harder to monetise, the impact on wellbeing is profound. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and the mental health toll of long-term illness represent a significant, unseen cost.

This isn't a future problem; it's a present-day reality for millions. The question is, what can you do to protect yourself?

Are You Part of the Sedentary 70%? A Quick Self-Assessment

A "sedentary lifestyle" isn't just for "couch potatoes." It's a hallmark of modern professional life. You might be at risk if you:

  • Sit for more than 7-8 hours a day (including work, commuting, and leisure).
  • Engage in less than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week (like brisk walking or cycling).
  • Work primarily at a desk or in a driving-based role.
  • Often feel stiff, sore, or fatigued after a day's work.
  • Find yourself choosing the lift over the stairs without a second thought.

If several of these points resonate with you, it’s a sign that now is the time to take proactive steps to safeguard your health.

The Slow-Motion Collision: Health Risks of a Desk-Bound Life

Sitting is often called "the new smoking," and for good reason. Prolonged inactivity is a primary contributor to a wide range of serious health conditions.

Health Risk CategorySpecific Conditions Linked to InactivityHow Inactivity Contributes
Metabolic DisordersType 2 Diabetes, Obesity, High CholesterolInactivity impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar and process fats, leading to insulin resistance and weight gain.
Cardiovascular DiseaseHeart Disease, Stroke, High Blood PressureSedentary behaviour weakens the heart muscle, stiffens arteries, and promotes the build-up of fatty plaques.
Musculoskeletal IssuesChronic Back Pain, Neck Strain, Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), OsteoporosisPoor posture and lack of movement weaken core muscles, compress spinal discs, and reduce bone density over time.
CancerIncreased risk of Colon, Breast, and Lung CancerThe exact mechanisms are still being studied, but links are associated with inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and weight gain.
Mental HealthAnxiety, Depression, Cognitive DeclineLack of physical activity can disrupt mood-regulating neurochemicals. Movement is a proven tool for managing stress and improving brain function.

These conditions don't appear overnight. They develop silently over years of inactivity, often becoming chronic and irreversible by the time symptoms are severe enough to disrupt your life.

The Crucial Distinction: How UK Private Medical Insurance Works

Before we explore the solution, it's vital to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance in the UK.

Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, or treatment for infections.
  • A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured but can be managed. Examples include diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and high blood pressure.

Crucially, private health cover does not typically cover pre-existing conditions or the routine, long-term management of chronic illnesses. Where PMI becomes your greatest ally is in its ability to intervene before a problem becomes chronic and in providing access to tools that help you prevent these conditions from developing in the first place.

Your Proactive Health Partner: How PMI Shifts from Cure to Prevention

Thinking of PMI as just a queue-jumping service for surgery is an outdated view. Modern policies are increasingly geared towards wellness, early diagnosis, and keeping you healthy.

Here’s how a good private health cover plan acts as your proactive health partner:

  1. Rapid Diagnostics: Feel a twinge in your back or a persistent pain in your knee? Instead of waiting weeks for an NHS GP appointment and then months for a specialist referral, PMI can get you an MRI scan or a consultation with a top physiotherapist in days. This early intervention can stop a minor issue from becoming a chronic, debilitating condition.

  2. Wellness and Lifestyle Benefits: The best PMI providers actively reward healthy living. Their benefits often include:

    • Discounted Gym Memberships: Making it cheaper and easier to stay active.
    • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a doctor via your phone for quick advice.
    • Mental Health Support: Access to therapy and counselling sessions without a long wait, tackling the stress and anxiety that often accompany high-pressure, sedentary jobs.
    • Health and Wellness Apps: Many providers offer apps for tracking fitness, nutrition, and mental wellbeing.

  3. Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: As part of our commitment to your health, WeCovr provides customers with complimentary access to our powerful AI calorie-tracking app, CalorieHero. It simplifies nutrition, helping you make informed choices to manage your weight and fuel your body correctly—a cornerstone of preventing inactivity-related diseases.

  4. Access to a Wider Range of Treatments: PMI can offer access to specialised physiotherapy, osteopathy, or chiropractic care that may have limited availability on the NHS, directly addressing the musculoskeletal toll of a sedentary life.

Beyond Health: The LCIIP Shield for Total Financial Protection

A health crisis is also a financial crisis. To create a truly robust defence, you need to look beyond healthcare to protect your income and long-term security. This is where the LCIIP shield comes in.

  • Income Protection (IP): If a chronic condition forces you to stop working, who pays your mortgage and bills? Income Protection is designed to replace a significant portion of your salary until you can return to work or retire. It’s the financial bedrock that allows you to focus on recovery without worrying about money.
  • Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed in the policy (like a heart attack, stroke, or certain cancers). This money can be used for anything—clearing debts, adapting your home, or funding private treatment not covered by your PMI.
  • Life Insurance: Provides a financial safety net for your loved ones if the worst should happen.

At WeCovr, we believe in holistic protection. That’s why clients who purchase Private Medical Insurance or Life Insurance with us can often benefit from exclusive discounts on other types of cover, making it more affordable to build a comprehensive LCIIP shield.

Choosing the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

The UK private medical insurance market is diverse, with each provider offering a different focus. Using a PMI broker like WeCovr is the smartest way to navigate the options, as we provide impartial, market-wide advice at no cost to you.

Here is a brief overview of some leading UK providers:

ProviderKey Strengths & Wellness FocusIdeal For
BupaExtensive network of hospitals and clinics. Strong focus on mental health support and comprehensive cancer cover.Individuals and families seeking a well-established provider with a vast, trusted network.
AXA HealthFlexible and modular plans. Strong digital GP service and a "Personalised Health" pathway.Those who want to customise their cover and appreciate strong digital integration.
Aviva"Healthier Solutions" policy with a wide range of hospital choices and a strong record on claims.People looking for straightforward, reliable cover from a major UK insurer.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that actively rewards healthy behaviour with discounts and perks (e.g., Apple Watch, cinema tickets).Proactive individuals who are motivated by rewards and want their insurance to be an active part of their lifestyle.

Our role at WeCovr is to understand your personal circumstances, health goals, and budget. We then compare these providers and more to find the policy that offers you the best value and the right kind of protection. Our high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to finding the right fit for every client.

10 Actionable Steps to Break the Sedentary Cycle Today

Insurance is your safety net, but prevention starts with you. Here are 10 simple, effective changes you can make right now:

  1. The 30-Minute Rule: Set a timer and stand up, stretch, or walk around for 2-3 minutes every half hour.
  2. Embrace "Movement Snacks": Do 10 squats while the kettle boils. Take the stairs instead of the lift. Park further away from the supermarket entrance.
  3. Optimise Your Workspace: Invest in an ergonomic chair. Position your monitor at eye level. Consider a standing desk for part of the day.
  4. Schedule Your Activity: Block out time in your calendar for a 30-minute brisk walk, just as you would for a meeting.
  5. Hydrate for Health: Drinking plenty of water aids muscle function, boosts energy, and can help prevent headaches.
  6. Master Your Nutrition with CalorieHero: Use your complimentary WeCovr access to track your food intake. A balanced diet rich in protein, fibre, and healthy fats is crucial for energy and weight management.
  7. Protect Your Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep impacts energy levels, food choices, and mental resilience.
  8. Find an Activity You Enjoy: You're more likely to stick with it. Whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or team sports, find your passion.
  9. The "Walking Meeting": If you have a one-to-one phone call, take it whilst walking outside.
  10. Stretch Before Bed: Gentle stretching can relieve muscle tension from the day and improve sleep quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing or chronic conditions?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. It does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma) or any conditions you had before taking out the policy. However, it is invaluable for diagnosing conditions quickly and providing access to wellness tools that can help prevent them.

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

Yes, this is arguably the best time to get it. Premiums are lower when you are young and healthy, and you can lock in cover before any conditions develop. Modern policies offer significant wellness benefits, like gym discounts, health screenings, and mental health support, which help you stay healthy and proactively manage your risk of future illness.

What is the difference between moratorium and full medical underwriting?

These are two ways insurers assess your medical history. With Full Medical Underwriting (FMU), you declare your entire medical history upfront, and the insurer tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. With Moratorium (Mori) Underwriting, you don't declare your full history initially. Instead, the policy automatically excludes any condition you've had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the last 5 years. These exclusions can be lifted if you remain trouble-free for a continuous 2-year period after your policy starts. A broker can help you decide which is right for you.

Why should I use a PMI broker instead of going directly to an insurer?

An expert PMI broker, like WeCovr, works for you, not the insurer. We provide impartial advice across the whole market to find the best policy for your specific needs and budget. We save you time, explain complex jargon, and can often find better deals than are available directly. Crucially, our service comes at no extra cost to you.

The sedentary crisis is a challenge, but it's one you can meet head-on. By combining small, sustainable lifestyle changes with the robust safety net of Private Medical Insurance, you can invest in your most valuable asset: your long-term health.

Don't wait for a health issue to become a life crisis. Take proactive control today. Get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote from WeCovr and start building your shield of protection.

Related guides

UK Movement Crisis Sedentary Health Threat
UK Movement Crisis Sedentary Health Threat
Read more →
UK Sedentary Crisis Hidden Health & Career Cost
UK Sedentary Crisis Hidden Health & Career Cost
Read more →
UK Sedentary Crisis Hidden £4.2M Health Burden
UK Sedentary Crisis Hidden £4.2M Health Burden
Read more →
UK Sedentary Crisis Silent Threat
UK Sedentary Crisis Silent Threat
Read more →
UK Sedentary Crisis The Hidden Health Cost
UK Sedentary Crisis The Hidden Health Cost
Read more →
UK Sedentary Crisis The Hidden Health & Wealth Drain
UK Sedentary Crisis The Hidden Health & Wealth Drain
Read more →
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.

Insurance Products

Resources

Legal

© 2026 WeCovr. Made with in London