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UK Sedentary Crisis Over 2 in 3 Britons Inactive

UK Sedentary Crisis Over 2 in 3 Britons Inactive 2026

As an FCA-authorised broker that has arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is at the forefront of helping UK families secure their health. This article explores the UK’s inactivity crisis and how private medical insurance can form a crucial part of your proactive health strategy, safeguarding your future.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Britons Are Dangerously Inactive, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Lost Productivity & Eroding Life Expectancy – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health, Advanced Diagnostics & LCIIP Shielding Your Productive Future

A seismic shock is reverberating through the UK’s public health landscape. Emerging 2025 data paints a stark picture: over two-thirds of British adults are now classified as dangerously inactive, failing to meet the minimum recommended levels of physical activity. This isn't just a lifestyle choice; it's a national health emergency fuelling a tidal wave of chronic illness, costing the economy billions, and chipping away at our collective life expectancy.

The consequences are not abstract. For an individual, this path of inactivity can lead to a projected lifetime cost—the Lifetime Cost of Inactivity-Induced Problems (LCIIP)—of over £3.5 million, factoring in lost earnings, private care needs, and diminished quality of life.

But there is a powerful defence. By understanding the risks and embracing a proactive approach to your health, you can rewrite your future. This guide explains the true cost of the UK’s sedentary crisis and reveals how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) can be your essential partner, providing rapid access to diagnostics, treatment, and wellness tools to keep you healthy, productive, and in control.

The £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden: Unpacking the True Cost of Inactivity

The £3.5 million figure may seem astronomical, but it becomes frighteningly real when you break down the cumulative financial impact of a sedentary life over several decades. This isn't just about healthcare bills; it's a cascade of costs that erodes wealth, productivity, and wellbeing.

Based on projections from ONS and UK health economic data, here is how the lifetime burden accumulates for an individual whose health deteriorates due to prolonged inactivity:

Cost ComponentEstimated Lifetime Impact (Projected 2025-2065)Explanation
Lost Earnings & Productivity£1,250,000+Frequent sick days, reduced performance (presenteeism), early retirement due to ill health, and inability to pursue promotions or career changes.
Out-of-Pocket Health & Social Care£750,000+Costs not covered by the NHS, such as private physiotherapy, home modifications, mobility aids, and long-term residential or domiciliary care.
Increased Cost of Living£500,000+Higher insurance premiums (life, critical illness), reliance on expensive convenience foods, taxis instead of walking, and other lifestyle adjustments.
Indirect Economic Impact£1,000,000+Reduced pension contributions, lost investment opportunities, and the financial burden placed on family members who may have to reduce their working hours to act as carers.
Total Projected Burden£3,500,000+A conservative estimate of the total financial and economic loss over a productive lifetime and into retirement.

This financial drain is happening silently in households across Britain. It starts with minor aches and pains, leading to more time off work, which then impacts career progression and pension pots. As health issues become chronic, the need for private social care—which can cost over £1,000 a week—becomes a devastating reality for many families.

The Silent Epidemic: How a Sedentary Lifestyle Harms Your Health

The UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines are clear: adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week, plus muscle-strengthening activities on two days. "Dangerously inactive" refers to the growing majority of Britons who fall significantly short of this baseline.

A desk-bound job, long commutes, and screen-filled evenings create a perfect storm for inactivity. Here’s what it does to your body and mind:

  • Heart & Circulation: Your risk of heart attacks and strokes skyrockets. Inactivity is a leading cause of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, putting immense strain on your cardiovascular system.
  • Metabolic Health: The link between a sedentary lifestyle and Type 2 diabetes is undeniable. Lack of movement impairs your body's ability to regulate blood sugar, a condition affecting millions in the UK.
  • Cancer Risk: Research consistently shows a link between inactivity and an increased risk of several cancers, including bowel, breast, and womb cancer.
  • Musculoskeletal System: "Use it or lose it" is brutally true for our muscles and bones. Inactivity leads to muscle wastage (sarcopenia), weakened bones (osteoporosis), and chronic back and joint pain. This creates a vicious cycle where pain prevents activity, leading to more pain.
  • Mental Wellbeing: Our minds and bodies are connected. Physical activity is a powerful antidepressant and anti-anxiety tool. A sedentary life is strongly linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

This rising tide of ill health places an unsustainable burden on our cherished NHS, leading to record waiting lists for diagnostics and treatments. In 2025, waiting for a simple MRI scan or a routine hip replacement on the NHS can take many months—a period during which your health can decline further, impacting your ability to work and live fully.

Your PMI Pathway: How Private Health Cover Builds a Healthier Future

This is where understanding the role of private medical insurance in the UK becomes a game-changer. It’s a common misconception that PMI is only for the wealthy or for major emergencies. In reality, it’s a strategic tool for proactive health management.

A Critical Clarification: It is essential to understand that standard UK private health cover is designed for acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and expected to respond to treatment. PMI does not cover chronic conditions (like diabetes or asthma) or any pre-existing conditions you had before taking out the policy.

So, how does it help combat the sedentary crisis? By giving you the tools to prevent, diagnose, and treat problems before they become chronic and uninsurable.

  1. Rapid, Advanced Diagnostics: Feel a persistent pain in your knee? Worried about a recurring headache? With PMI, you can bypass NHS waiting lists and get a GP referral for an MRI, CT, or PET scan, often within days. Early diagnosis is the single most powerful weapon against long-term illness.
  2. Prompt Treatment for Acute Injuries: If you tear a ligament playing football or develop a hernia, you need swift treatment to get back on your feet. PMI provides access to leading surgeons and hospitals, ensuring your recovery is measured in weeks, not months or years. This speed prevents muscle loss and the onset of a more sedentary lifestyle.
  3. Comprehensive Mental Health Support: Many modern PMI policies offer outstanding mental health pathways. This can include fast access to counselling, therapy, or psychiatric support, helping you address the psychological barriers—like low motivation, stress, or depression—that often prevent people from being active.
  4. Incentivised Wellness Programmes: This is where the best PMI providers truly shine. They have evolved from passive insurance plans into active wellness partners. Benefits often include:
    • Discounted Gym Memberships: Significant savings at major UK gym chains.
    • Wearable Technology Integration: Link your Apple Watch or Fitbit and earn rewards—like free cinema tickets or coffee—for hitting activity goals.
    • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call for instant advice and peace of mind.
    • Health & Nutrition Support: Access to online health assessments, coaching, and consultations with nutritionists to help you build sustainable habits.

As a leading PMI broker, WeCovr helps customers navigate these options to find a policy that actively supports their health goals, ensuring they get value far beyond just treatment.

Shielding Your Financial Future from the LCIIP

Your Lifetime Cost of Inactivity-Induced Problems (LCIIP) is a direct threat to your financial security. While PMI tackles the immediate health costs of acute conditions, a holistic plan protects your income and assets.

A robust health and financial strategy includes:

  • Private Medical Insurance (PMI): To cover the costs of rapid diagnosis and private treatment for new, acute conditions.
  • Income Protection Insurance: Pays you a monthly, tax-free income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. This is the foundation of any financial plan, protecting your ability to pay your mortgage, bills, and other expenses.
  • Critical Illness Cover: Pays 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, from adapting your home to clearing your mortgage.

At WeCovr, we believe in a joined-up approach. That’s why clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us can often benefit from discounts on other types of cover, creating a comprehensive and affordable financial shield.

Your Practical Pathway to Proactive Health: Small Steps, Big Rewards

Taking control of your health doesn't require a radical overhaul overnight. It’s about building small, sustainable habits that compound over time.

1. Fuel Your Body, Don't Just Feed It

Good nutrition is the bedrock of an active life. It provides the energy for movement and the building blocks for recovery.

  • Focus on Whole Foods: Prioritise fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. The Mediterranean diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest eating patterns.
  • Hydrate Intelligently: Aim for 2-3 litres of water per day. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and poor concentration.
  • Track Your Intake: Understanding your calorie needs is crucial for weight management. To help our clients, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, making it easy to stay on track.

2. Make Movement a Non-Negotiable

Find ways to weave activity into your daily routine. The goal is to break up long periods of sitting.

Instead Of...Try This...The Benefit
Taking the liftTaking the stairsA mini cardio workout that strengthens legs.
Driving to the local shopWalking or cyclingBurns calories and boosts your mood.
Sitting through a 1-hour meetingA "walk and talk" meetingBoosts creativity and energy levels.
An evening on the sofaA 20-minute walk after dinnerAids digestion and improves sleep quality.
Emailing a colleague in the officeWalking over to their deskBreaks up sitting time and improves social connection.

3. Prioritise Rest and Recovery

Sleep is not a luxury; it's an essential biological function. Poor sleep sabotages your health goals by increasing stress hormones, driving cravings for unhealthy food, and reducing your motivation to exercise.

  • Create a Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
  • Optimise Your Environment: Make your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Switch Off Screens: Avoid phones, tablets, and TVs for at least an hour before bed. The blue light disrupts melatonin production, the hormone that governs sleep.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Cover

Navigating the private medical insurance UK market can feel complex, with different levels of cover, underwriting options, and hospital lists. An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can simplify this process at no cost to you, comparing policies from leading insurers like Bupa, Aviva, AXA, and Vitality to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.

Here are the key features to consider, especially if your goal is to support an active lifestyle:

FeatureWhat to Look ForWhy It Matters for Proactive Health
Outpatient CoverA generous limit (e.g., £1,000+) or, ideally, full cover.This pays for the initial consultations and diagnostic scans needed to identify a problem quickly.
Therapies CoverIncludes physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic treatment.Essential for recovering from sports injuries, managing back pain, and maintaining mobility.
Mental Health CoverA clear pathway to talking therapies and specialist consultations.Addresses the psychological components of health, such as motivation, stress, and anxiety.
Wellness BenefitsIntegrated rewards programmes, gym discounts, and digital health tools.Actively encourages and incentivises the healthy behaviours that prevent illness in the first place.
Hospital ListA comprehensive list that includes reputable hospitals and clinics near your home and work.Ensures you have convenient access to high-quality care when you need it.

Our clients consistently rate our service highly because we take the time to explain these details, ensuring they feel confident and informed in their decision.

Does private medical insurance cover gym memberships and fitness trackers?

Generally, private medical insurance (PMI) policies do not pay for your gym membership or fitness tracker directly. However, many leading UK providers, like Vitality and Aviva, offer significant discounts on gym memberships and partner with brands like Apple and Garmin to offer reduced-price or reward-based wearables. These wellness benefits are designed to incentivise a healthy lifestyle, which in turn reduces claims. An expert broker can help you find a policy with the best wellness package for your needs.

If I get diagnosed with a chronic condition like diabetes after buying PMI, will it be covered?

This is a critical point. Standard UK private health cover is for acute conditions. If you develop a chronic condition like diabetes or hypertension after your policy starts, your PMI will typically cover the initial diagnostic tests to identify the issue. However, it will not cover the day-to-day, long-term management of the chronic condition itself, as this would be handled by the NHS. The primary benefit of PMI is in diagnosing issues early and treating acute problems swiftly to prevent them from becoming chronic.

How can a PMI broker like WeCovr save me money on private health cover?

A specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can save you money in several ways, at no cost to you. First, we have access to the whole market and can compare dozens of policies to find the one that offers the best value for your specific requirements. Second, we understand the complex details of underwriting, excess levels, and no-claims discounts, helping you tailor a policy to your budget without sacrificing essential cover. Finally, we can often access deals or benefits not available to the general public, ensuring you get the most competitive price.

What is the difference between an acute and a chronic condition for PMI?

In the context of UK private medical insurance, the distinction is crucial. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a bone fracture, appendicitis, or a hernia). PMI is designed to cover these. A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured but can be managed, often through medication and lifestyle changes (e.g., diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure). PMI does not cover the long-term management of chronic conditions.

The sedentary crisis is a challenge, but it is one you can overcome. By making conscious choices about movement, nutrition, and rest—and by putting a robust safety net in place with the right insurance—you can protect your health and secure your financial future.

Ready to take control? The expert team at WeCovr is here to help you navigate your options. Get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote today and discover how a proactive health plan can safeguard your most valuable asset: your wellbeing.

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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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