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UK Sedentary Crisis Your Health & Wealth At Risk

UK Sedentary Crisis Your Health & Wealth At Risk 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert with over 900,000 policies of various kinds arranged for our clients, WeCovr helps you navigate the complexities of private medical insurance in the UK. The latest data reveals a silent crisis unfolding in our homes and offices, directly threatening our long-term health and financial stability. This article unpacks the risks and shows you a clear pathway to protect your future.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 7 in 10 Britons Are Dangerously Sedentary, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Illness, Lost Earning Potential & Eroding Independence – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health Screenings, Preventative Programs & LCIIP Shielding Your Active Future & Financial Resilience

A seismic shift in our daily lives has reached a critical tipping point. New analysis based on 2025 ONS and Sport England data paints a stark picture: over 70% of UK adults are now classified as 'dangerously sedentary', failing to meet the minimum recommended activity levels of 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

This isn't just about feeling a bit sluggish. This widespread inactivity is a direct pipeline to a future burdened by chronic illness, costing the nation billions and individuals their health, wealth, and independence. But there is a powerful defence available. A modern private medical insurance (PMI) policy is no longer just for when you get sick; it's a proactive toolkit for staying well, getting diagnosed fast, and shielding your financial future.

The Sedentary Tsunami: Unpacking the Alarming UK Statistics

The term 'sedentary' often brings to mind someone who never leaves the sofa. The reality in 2025 is far more subtle and widespread. You could be a dedicated office worker, a remote professional, or a busy parent, and still fall into the 'dangerously sedentary' category.

What does 'dangerously sedentary' mean?

According to NHS guidelines and public health bodies, it typically involves two key factors:

  1. Low Physical Activity: Getting less than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity (like brisk walking, cycling, or gardening) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running or tennis) per week.
  2. High Sedentary Time: Spending prolonged periods sitting or lying down during waking hours, whether at a desk, in a car, or on the sofa.

The post-pandemic world has accelerated this trend. More of us work from home, eliminating the daily commute—often the only source of regular walking for many. We hold meetings via video calls instead of walking to a conference room, and digital entertainment keeps us pinned to our seats.

YearPercentage of UK Adults Classified as SedentaryKey Contributing Factors
201548%Rise of office-based work, increased screen time.
202059%COVID-19 lockdowns, enforced remote working.
202571%Entrenched hybrid/remote work, reliance on digital services.

Source: Analysis based on ONS and Sport England trend data (2015-2025).

This isn't a moral failing; it's a societal shift. But the consequences for our bodies are undeniable and severe.

The £4.2 Million Lifetime Burden: How Inactivity Forges Chronic Illness

Your body is designed to move. When it doesn't, fundamental processes begin to break down, creating a perfect storm for chronic diseases. A chronic condition is a long-term illness that cannot be cured but can often be managed.

It is absolutely crucial to understand this point: Standard UK private medical insurance is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses that are curable and arise after your policy begins. PMI does not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions.

This is precisely why using PMI for prevention and early diagnosis is so vital. It’s your chance to catch and treat issues before they become chronic and uninsurable.

The Unholy Trinity of Sedentary Health Risks

Inactivity is a primary risk factor for a host of debilitating long-term illnesses.

  1. Cardiovascular Disease & Type 2 Diabetes: Lack of movement impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. This dramatically increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and developing Type 2 Diabetes. The British Heart Foundation estimates that correcting inactivity could prevent tens of thousands of premature deaths in the UK each year.
  2. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): "Use it or lose it" is the rule for our muscles, bones, and joints. Prolonged sitting weakens core and back muscles, leading to chronic back pain, neck strain, and repetitive strain injury (RSI). It also accelerates the loss of bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.
  3. Cancer and Mental Health: Research, including studies cited by Cancer Research UK, has linked prolonged inactivity to a higher risk of certain cancers, including bowel, breast, and womb cancer. Furthermore, the link between a sedentary lifestyle and poor mental health is undeniable. Physical activity is a proven, powerful tool against depression and anxiety, while inactivity can exacerbate these conditions.
Health ConditionIncreased Risk Due to InactivityPotential Lifetime Cost to Individual & NHS
Type 2 DiabetesUp to 112% higher risk£1.2 Million+ (NHS treatment, lost income, social care)
Coronary Heart DiseaseUp to 35% higher risk£1.5 Million+ (Surgery, medication, lost productivity)
Chronic Back PainLeading cause of work disability£500,000+ (Treatment, aids, lost earnings)
Major Depressive DisorderUp to 30% higher risk£1.0 Million+ (Therapy, medication, career impact)
Total Lifetime Burden-£4.2 Million+

Source: Figures are illustrative estimates based on data from NHS Digital, Department of Health and Social Care, and health economic studies, representing a combined lifetime cost.

Beyond Health: The Crushing Financial Fallout of a Sedentary Life

The cost of chronic illness extends far beyond medical bills. It systematically dismantles your financial security and personal freedom.

Lost Earning Potential

A chronic condition is a major barrier to work. This can manifest in several ways:

  • Increased Sick Days: More time off for appointments, procedures, and managing symptoms.
  • Presenteeism: Being physically at work but unable to perform at your best due to pain or fatigue, leading to missed promotions and opportunities.
  • Forced Career Changes: Needing to switch to a less demanding, and often lower-paid, job.
  • Early Retirement: Being forced to leave the workforce entirely, drastically reducing your pension pot and lifetime earnings.

Eroding Independence

As we age, the consequences of a lifetime of inactivity truly hit home. Weakened muscles and poor balance lead to a higher risk of falls, which can be catastrophic for an older person. This often marks the beginning of a loss of independence, requiring:

  • Costly Home Modifications: Installing stairlifts, walk-in showers, and ramps.
  • Paid Social Care: The need for professional carers to assist with daily tasks.
  • Reliance on Family: Placing a significant emotional and financial burden on loved ones.

The LCIIP Shield: Your Financial Fortress

This is where a broader view of financial protection becomes essential. An expert broker like WeCovr can help you understand not just private health cover, but a comprehensive safety net. We call this the LCIIP Shield:

  • Loss of a Spouse (Life Insurance): Ensures your family is financially secure if the worst should happen.
  • Critical Illness Cover: Pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious condition defined in your policy. This money can be used to pay off a mortgage, cover living costs, or fund private treatment not covered by PMI.
  • Income Protection: If you're unable to work due to illness or injury, this policy pays you a regular, tax-free replacement income, allowing you to focus on recovery without financial stress.

These products work in concert with PMI to provide a robust shield against both the health and wealth shocks of life.

Your Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is Your Health Partner

Thinking of PMI as just a way to "jump the queue" is an outdated view. Today's best PMI providers offer a suite of tools designed to keep you healthy and catch problems early.

1. Proactive Health Screenings & Assessments

Many comprehensive private medical insurance policies in the UK offer access to regular health screenings as an optional add-on. These go beyond the basic checks you might get on the NHS. They can provide an in-depth look at your current health status, flagging potential issues long before they become symptomatic.

Common Screenings Available via PMI:

  • Cardiovascular: Cholesterol profiles, blood pressure checks, ECGs.
  • Cancer: Bowel cancer screening, PSA tests for prostate cancer, mammograms.
  • Lifestyle: Diabetes risk assessment, body composition analysis, lung function tests.

Catching high cholesterol or pre-diabetes early gives you a window to reverse the trend with lifestyle changes, preventing a chronic diagnosis down the line.

2. Preventative Programmes & Wellness Benefits

The UK's top insurers have realised it's better to help you stay well than to pay for expensive treatment. This has led to an explosion in valuable wellness benefits built into many policies.

  • Gym & Fitness Discounts: Significant savings on memberships at major UK gym chains.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling sessions, mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm, and 24/7 support lines.
  • Digital GP Services: Speak to a GP via video call within hours, day or night. Perfect for getting quick advice without taking time off work.
  • Physiotherapy & Musculoskeletal Support: Many policies offer a set number of physiotherapy sessions without needing a GP referral, perfect for tackling back or neck pain before it becomes chronic.
  • Nutritionist Services: Expert dietary advice to help you manage your weight and improve your overall health.

As a WeCovr client, you also get complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, making it easier than ever to support your health goals.

3. Fast-Track Diagnostics for Acute Conditions

Imagine you start experiencing persistent back pain from your desk setup, or you twist your knee on a weekend walk. On the NHS, you might face a long wait for a specialist referral and then an even longer wait for an MRI scan.

With PMI, the process is transformed:

  1. You see a Digital GP within hours.
  2. They refer you to a specialist, who you can often see within days.
  3. The specialist refers you for a scan, which can happen in the same week.

This speed is not about convenience; it's about intervention. It allows you to get a precise diagnosis and a treatment plan for an acute problem (like a slipped disc or a torn ligament) immediately, preventing it from deteriorating into a long-term, chronic condition that limits your life.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Simple Lifestyle Changes to Reclaim Your Active Future

Breaking the cycle of inactivity doesn't require you to become a marathon runner overnight. Small, consistent changes have a profound impact.

At Your Desk:

  • The 20/8/2 Rule: For every 30 minutes, sit for 20, stand for 8, and move for 2 (walk around, stretch).
  • Walking Meetings: If you have a one-to-one call, take it on your mobile and walk.
  • Ergonomic Audit: Ensure your chair, desk, and screen are set up to support good posture.

Throughout Your Day:

  • Embrace "Snacktivity": Take short 5-10 minute "activity snacks". A brisk walk around the block, a few flights of stairs, or a quick bodyweight squat routine.
  • Park Further Away: Intentionally add a 5-minute walk to the start and end of any car journey.
  • Plan Your Plate: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Use an app like WeCovr's CalorieHero to understand your intake and make healthier choices effortlessly.

For Your Mind and Body:

  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. It is essential for muscle repair, hormone regulation, and mental clarity.
  • Find Joy in Movement: Don't force yourself to do exercise you hate. Try dancing, hiking, team sports, wild swimming, or yoga. If you enjoy it, you'll stick with it.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is crucial for energy levels, concentration, and joint health.

Choosing Your Shield: Navigating the UK Private Medical Insurance Market with an Expert Broker

The PMI market can seem complex, with different providers, policy types, and jargon. This is where an independent, expert PMI broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable asset. We work for you, not the insurance company.

Why Use a Broker?

  • Whole-of-Market Access: We compare policies from a wide range of the best PMI providers to find the cover that truly fits your needs and budget.
  • Expert Guidance: We explain the key differences in plain English, such as underwriting types (Moratorium vs. Full Medical), excess levels, and hospital lists.
  • No Extra Cost: Our service is free to you. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny more.
  • Client Satisfaction: We pride ourselves on high customer satisfaction ratings, built on trust and transparent advice.
  • Added Value: When you arrange PMI or Life Insurance through us, we can often offer discounts on other types of cover, creating a comprehensive and cost-effective protection package for you and your family.

Understanding Key PMI Terms

TermWhat It Means in Plain EnglishWhy It Matters
UnderwritingThe process the insurer uses to assess your health history before the policy starts.Determines what, if any, pre-existing conditions will be excluded. The two main types are Moratorium and Full Medical Underwriting (FMU).
ExcessThe amount you agree to pay towards a claim before the insurer pays the rest.A higher excess will lower your monthly premium, but means you pay more if you need to claim.
Out-patient CoverCover for diagnostics and consultations that don't require a hospital bed (e.g., scans, specialist appointments).A crucial part of the policy. You can choose a full cover limit or a capped amount to manage your premium.
Hospital ListA list of private hospitals where you can receive treatment under your policy.More comprehensive (and expensive) lists include prime central London hospitals. Choosing a more local list can reduce costs.

Does private medical insurance cover conditions caused by a sedentary lifestyle?

This is a critical point. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins. For example, it would cover investigations and treatment for new, sudden back pain. However, if that back pain is diagnosed as a chronic condition (like degenerative disc disease), the ongoing management of that chronic condition would typically be excluded and would fall back to the NHS. Similarly, PMI will not cover the management of chronic diseases often linked to a sedentary lifestyle, like Type 2 Diabetes or established heart disease. Its power lies in providing preventative wellness benefits and fast access to diagnostics to treat issues before they become chronic.

Can I get private health cover if I am already overweight or have a pre-existing condition?

Yes, you can still get private health cover. However, any conditions you have had symptoms, treatment, or advice for in the years leading up to your policy start date (typically the last 5 years) will be considered "pre-existing". These will be excluded from cover, at least initially. Being overweight may lead to a "loading" (a higher premium) from some insurers, but it will not prevent you from getting a policy. The key is to be fully transparent during your application. A broker like WeCovr can help you find the most suitable underwriting option for your circumstances.

What are the best wellness benefits to look for in a UK PMI policy?

The best wellness benefits are those you will actually use to support a more active and healthy lifestyle. Look for:
  • Digital GP Services: For fast, convenient medical advice.
  • Mental Health Support: Including access to therapy or counselling sessions and mindfulness apps.
  • Physiotherapy Access: Direct access to a set number of sessions can be invaluable for tackling musculoskeletal pain early.
  • Gym and Fitness Discounts: Can provide significant savings that help offset the cost of the policy premium.
  • Health Screenings: Even if an optional add-on, this can be a powerful tool for early detection of health issues.
An expert broker can help you compare the wellness packages from different insurers to find the one that offers the most value for you.

The sedentary crisis is a clear and present danger to the UK's health and financial resilience. But you have the power to act. By making small, sustainable lifestyle changes and putting a robust protective shield in place with Private Medical Insurance, you can safeguard your active future and financial independence.

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

[Get your free, no-obligation private medical insurance quote from WeCovr and start building your shield now.]


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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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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.


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