Login

UK Sedentary Crisis Your Health & Wealth At Risk

UK Sedentary Crisis Your Health & Wealth At Risk 2026

As the UK grapples with a severe sedentary crisis, WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies of various kinds, explores how private medical insurance can protect your health and finances. This guide unpacks the risks of an inactive lifestyle and illuminates your path to a healthier, more secure future.

Shocking New Data Reveals Over Half of Working Britons Face a Sedentary Health Crisis, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Lost Productivity, and Eroding Financial Security – Is Your PMI Pathway & LCIIP Shield Your Active Defence Against a Stationary Future

The numbers are in, and they paint a stark picture. A silent crisis is unfolding in offices, living rooms, and commutes across the United Kingdom. We are sitting more than ever before, and this inactivity is costing us our health, our wealth, and our future. Recent analysis reveals a startling reality: over half of the UK's working population is now classified as sedentary, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond a sore back.

This national stillness is not just a health issue; it's a profound economic threat. The collective lifetime cost—factoring in NHS treatment for chronic diseases, lost productivity from sick days, and the long-term financial strain on individuals—is now estimated to exceed a staggering £4.1 million for every 100 individuals affected. It's a burden that chips away at personal savings, derails retirement plans, and puts immense pressure on our public health services.

In this new landscape, relying on chance is a gamble too great. It's time to ask a critical question: What is your defence? This article explores how modern financial and health tools, specifically Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Long-Term Care & Income Protection (LCIIP), can form a vital shield, empowering you to take control and build an active defence against a stationary future.

The Scale of the UK's Sedentary Crisis: A 2025 Snapshot

To understand the solution, we must first grasp the sheer scale of the problem. A "sedentary lifestyle" isn't just about avoiding the gym. The NHS defines it as spending prolonged periods sitting or lying down, with minimal energy expenditure. This includes time spent at a desk, driving, or watching television.

According to the latest 2025 data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the situation is alarming:

  • 58% of UK adults in full-time employment spend at least 7 hours a day sitting down.
  • The average office worker in London, Manchester, and Birmingham now spends 9.5 hours per day seated.
  • Physical inactivity is directly linked to 1 in 6 deaths in the UK, making it as dangerous as smoking.

This shift is driven by modern life. We've swapped factory floors for computer screens, walking for driving, and outdoor play for digital entertainment. Whilst technology has brought incredible conveniences, it has also engineered movement out of our daily routines.

The Alarming Health Toll: How Inactivity Silently Damages Your Body

The human body is designed to move. When we remain stationary for extended periods, a cascade of negative biological processes begins. It's not a sudden event, but a slow, creeping erosion of your physical and mental wellbeing.

Think of it like a car left to rust in a garage. Without regular use, its parts seize up, its engine weakens, and its performance plummets. Your body is no different.

Health ConditionLink to Sedentary Lifestyle
Type 2 DiabetesInactivity impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance.
Cardiovascular DiseaseProlonged sitting can lead to higher blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and fatty acid build-up in the arteries.
Certain CancersStrong links exist between inactivity and an increased risk of colon, breast, and endometrial cancers.
Musculoskeletal DisordersPoor posture and lack of movement contribute to chronic back pain, neck strain, and weakened bones (osteoporosis).
Mental Health IssuesA sedentary lifestyle is strongly correlated with higher rates of depression and anxiety.
ObesityReduced calorie burning and metabolic slowdown are direct consequences of a lack of physical activity.

A Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

It is vital to understand a fundamental principle of UK private medical insurance. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term, unexpected, and curable with treatment (like a hernia or a joint injury needing surgery).

It does not cover chronic conditions, which are long-term, often incurable diseases like type 2 diabetes, asthma, or hypertension that require ongoing management. Likewise, PMI will not cover any pre-existing conditions you had before your policy began.

However, a proactive PMI policy can help you stay healthy and potentially prevent some of these chronic conditions from developing in the first place, or help diagnose related acute issues swiftly.

Your Wealth at Risk: The Lifetime Financial Burden Explained

The health impact is deeply personal, but the financial consequences are just as severe and far-reaching. The multi-million-pound "burden" isn't an abstract government figure; it's a real cost that affects you, your family, and your financial future.

The Immediate Hit: Lost Income and Productivity

When your health suffers, so does your ability to work. According to the latest ONS figures, over 185 million working days were lost to sickness or injury in the last reporting year, with a significant portion attributable to musculoskeletal problems and stress—both heavily linked to sedentary work.

  • Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): This provides a minimal safety net, but it's often not enough to cover monthly outgoings like mortgages and bills.
  • Presenteeism: This is the hidden cost of working whilst unwell. Your productivity plummets, your work quality suffers, and you risk prolonging your illness.

The Long-Term Drain: Eroding Pensions and Savings

A serious health issue can have a devastating long-term financial impact. If you are forced to reduce your hours or leave work altogether due to a chronic condition, the effects multiply:

  1. Reduced Income: Your earning potential is immediately capped.
  2. Stagnant Pension Contributions: Your workplace pension contributions stop or shrink, drastically reducing your retirement pot.
  3. Depleted Savings: You may have to dip into your savings or investments to cover living costs, undoing years of careful financial planning.

A few years out of the workforce in your 30s or 40s could mean tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds less in your pension by the time you retire.

Your Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Fights Back

While you can't insure against a sedentary lifestyle itself, you can build a powerful defence against its consequences. A modern private medical insurance UK policy is much more than just a passport to a private hospital room; it's a comprehensive health and wellness toolkit.

As an experienced PMI broker, WeCovr helps clients navigate the market to find policies that actively support a healthier life.

Bypassing the Queue: The Power of Fast-Track Diagnosis and Treatment

One of the primary benefits of private health cover is speed. With NHS waiting lists for certain diagnostics and procedures stretching for months, or even years, time is critical. Aches and pains linked to inactivity, if left undiagnosed, can worsen.

PMI allows you to get a prompt diagnosis for an eligible acute condition. If you develop a painful back problem or a joint injury, you can see a specialist and get scans (like an MRI or CT scan) within days or weeks, not months. This swift action can prevent an acute issue from becoming a chronic, debilitating problem.

ServiceTypical NHS Waiting Time (2025 Estimates)Typical PMI Pathway
Specialist Consultation18-24 weeks1-2 weeks
MRI Scan6-10 weeks3-7 days
Knee/Hip Replacement40-52+ weeks4-6 weeks

Note: These are illustrative estimates for non-urgent, eligible conditions and can vary by region and specific case.

Beyond Treatment: The Rise of PMI Wellness Programmes

The best PMI providers have evolved. They understand that prevention is better than cure. Today’s policies are packed with features designed to keep you healthy and active.

Common PMI Wellness Benefits Include:

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Savings on memberships with major UK gym chains.
  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, so you can get advice without leaving home.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling and therapy sessions, crucial for tackling the anxiety and depression linked to inactivity.
  • Health Screenings: Subsidised checks for key health markers like cholesterol, blood pressure, and cancer risk.
  • Wearable Tech Integration: Earn rewards and lower your premiums by tracking your steps and activity levels with your smartwatch.
  • Nutrition and Diet Support: Access to expert advice and meal planning services.

At WeCovr, we go a step further. All our PMI and Life Insurance clients receive complimentary access to CalorieHero, our proprietary AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, helping you make informed choices about your diet every single day.

Building a Complete Shield: Understanding LCIIP

For total peace of mind, PMI should be seen as one part of a broader financial shield. This is where Long-Term Care and Income Protection (LCIIP) come in.

  • Income Protection (IP): This is your financial lifeline. If you're unable to work due to illness or injury (including conditions stemming from a sedentary life), an IP policy pays you a regular, tax-free portion of your salary until you can return to work or retire. It protects your ability to pay the bills and keep your life on track.
  • Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This policy pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific, serious illness listed in the policy (like certain cancers, heart attack, or stroke). This money can be used for anything—to adapt your home, pay off your mortgage, or cover private treatment costs.
  • Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI): This is a more specialised product designed to cover the costs of care in your old age if you are unable to look after yourself.

At WeCovr, we believe in a holistic approach. That's why clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through us are often eligible for discounts on other types of cover, helping you build a comprehensive and affordable safety net.

From Stationary to Energised: Your Practical Guide to an Active Life

Taking control starts with small, consistent changes. You don't need to run a marathon tomorrow. The goal is to weave movement back into the fabric of your day.

At Your Desk: Micro-Habits for the Working Day

HabitFrequencyBenefit
Stand UpEvery 30 minutesRe-engages leg muscles, improves posture.
Desk Stretches2-3 times a dayRelieves neck, shoulder, and back tension.
Walk and TalkFor phone callsEasily adds 10-20 minutes of walking to your day.
Take the StairsAlwaysA simple but effective cardiovascular boost.

Beyond the Office: Integrating Movement into Your Life

  1. Find an Activity You Enjoy: Whether it's dancing, hiking, swimming, or team sports, enjoyment is the key to consistency.
  2. Aim for 150 Minutes: The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. This could be 30 minutes, 5 days a week.
  3. Use Your Commute: Get off the bus or tube one stop early and walk the rest of the way. Cycle to work if it's safe and practical.
  4. Embrace "Exercise Snacking": Can't find a 30-minute block? Do three 10-minute bursts of activity throughout the day. A brisk walk at lunch, some gardening after work, and a quick online workout video all count.

Fuelling Your Body: Nutrition and Sleep

  • Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, and vegetables provides the energy for an active life. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks that lead to energy crashes. Use an app like CalorieHero to stay on track.
  • Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is when your body repairs muscle, consolidates memory, and regulates hormones crucial for metabolism and energy.

The UK private medical insurance market is complex. With dozens of providers, different levels of cover, and confusing jargon, choosing the right policy can be overwhelming.

This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr provides immense value.

  • Expertise: We live and breathe the market. We understand the fine print of every policy.
  • Impartial Advice: As an FCA-authorised broker, our duty is to you, the client, not the insurance company. We find the policy that best fits your needs and budget.
  • Market Access: We compare policies from a wide panel of the UK's leading insurers, saving you the time and hassle of getting individual quotes.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a fee.

WeCovr's high customer satisfaction ratings are a testament to our commitment to providing clear, helpful, and personalised guidance. We help you understand key choices like underwriting type (moratorium vs. full medical), outpatient limits, excess levels, and hospital lists.


Does private medical insurance cover conditions I already have?

Generally, no. Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover new, acute conditions that arise *after* your policy begins. It does not cover pre-existing conditions (illnesses you already had or sought advice for) or chronic conditions (long-term illnesses requiring ongoing management, like diabetes or asthma). This is a fundamental principle of how PMI works in the UK.

Is PMI worth it if the NHS is free?

This is a personal choice based on your priorities. Whilst the NHS provides excellent care, it faces significant pressures, leading to long waiting lists for diagnosis and non-urgent treatment. PMI offers choice, speed, and comfort. Key benefits include bypassing NHS queues for eligible acute conditions, access to private hospitals, and often, access to drugs or treatments not yet available on the NHS. Many modern policies also include valuable wellness and preventative benefits.

How much does private health cover cost in the UK?

The cost of private health cover varies significantly based on several factors: your age, your location, your medical history, and the level of cover you choose. A basic policy might start from £30-£40 per month for a young, healthy individual, while a comprehensive policy for an older person could be over £150 per month. An expert PMI broker can help you find the most suitable and cost-effective plan by comparing the market for you.

Can I get a discount on my PMI for being healthy and active?

Yes, increasingly so. Many of the best PMI providers in the UK now offer wellness-linked policies. These can provide upfront discounts or cashback rewards for engaging in healthy behaviours. This can include discounted gym memberships or even linking your policy to a fitness tracker, rewarding you for hitting daily step counts or activity goals. This is a great way for insurers to encourage preventative health and for you to lower your premiums.

The sedentary crisis is a challenge, but it is not an inevitability. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps—both in your lifestyle and your financial planning—you can protect your health and secure your future.

Ready to build your active defence?

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our expert advisors will help you compare private medical insurance from the UK's top providers, ensuring you get the right cover at the best price.


Related guides


Get A Free Quote

Why private medical insurance and how does it work?

What is Private Medical Insurance?

Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.

How does it work?

Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:

• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment

Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.

Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance

Just ask yourself:
👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
👉 Do you want faster access to diagnostic tests and scans?
👉 Would you like private hospital accommodation and better food?
👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?

Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.

Benefits offered by private medical insurance

Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:

Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.

Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.

Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.

Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.

Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.

Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.

Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.

Important Fact!

There is no need to wait until the renewal of your current policy.
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!

Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?

👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.

👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.

Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.

You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.

By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:

Our Group Is Proud To Have Issued 900,000+ Policies!

We've established collaboration agreements with leading insurance groups to create tailored coverage
Working with leading UK insurers
Allianz Logo
Ageas Logo
Covea Logo
AIG Logo
Zurich Logo
BUPA Logo
Aviva Logo
Axa Logo
Vitality Logo
Exeter Logo
WPA Logo
National Friendly Logo
General & Medical Logo
Legal & General Logo
ARAG Logo
Scottish Widows Logo
Metlife Logo
HSBC Logo
Guardian Logo
Royal London Logo
Cigna Logo
NIG Logo
CanadaLife Logo
TMHCC Logo

How It Works

1. Complete a brief form
Complete a brief form
2. Our experts analyse your information and find you best quotes
Experts discuss your quotes
3. Enjoy your protection!
Enjoy your protection

Any questions?

Life Insurance and Private Medical Insurance cover you for two different purposes, so you will need to assess your needs but may wish to consider holding the two policies. Private Medical Insurance covers you if you get sick or need treatment and want or need to go privately. Life Insurance covers you in the case of death, giving a payout to family/those left behind.

Health insurance covers conditions that develop after your policy starts. Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered, and insurers may exclude related issues. Some policies may cover symptoms of pre-existing conditions under specific circumstances. Always review your policy's exclusions. Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may be available if you currently hold a medical insurance policy or are transitioning from a company scheme. However, if you have never had medical insurance before or if your policy is not active at the moment, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. This limitation exists because health insurance is primarily intended to protect against unexpected health issues. To simplify, it's akin to getting into a car accident and then trying to obtain insurance coverage afterward to repair the vehicle — insurance companies typically do not cover such claims. Nevertheless, there is an option to gain coverage for pre-existing conditions after a two-year waiting period, subject to specific rules and conditions.

If you prefer to get straight into treatment in the private sector without the long waiting times with the NHS, or you just prefer the private sector anyway, without having to pay it all yourself, then you would need to have Private Medical Insurance to cover it. Sometimes treatments and drugs that are not covered by the NHS can be covered by Private Medical Insurance.

It's free to use WeCovr to find health insurance - we never charge you for quotes. Health or private medical insurance is an investment that can pay for itself the first time you might need medical treatment.

It depends on your personal choice and preferences. If you are prepared to limit yourself to NHS-covered treatments only and can or want to endure long waiting times to get into treatment, then yes, NHS might work for you. Your cover there is free. If you don't want to be exposed to long waiting times or if your treatment is not covered by the NHS, then you would benefit from Private Medical Insurance.

Private Medical Insurance is an important financial product that insurance companies take a lot of care and diligence so speaking to real human beings ensures that they understand your requirements fully so that you can get the right cover.

All of our partners are carefully vetted and authorised by the FCA, which means they are held to the highest standards that the FCA expects from them and treat all customers fairly!

Our revenue comes from commissions paid by the insurance providers when a policy is taken out through us. Essentially, when you choose to secure a policy from one of the providers we work with, they compensate us for facilitating the transaction. It's important to note that this commission does not impact the premium you pay. We remain committed to providing transparent and unbiased quotes to help you find the best insurance options tailored to your needs.

The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors, including your age, location, smoking status, and the type of policy you choose. Your health insurance policy is tailored to your needs, and the cost can vary based on the level of cover you require, such as the amount of excess and specific treatment allowances.

Private health insurance covers you for conditions that arise after your policy begins. You pay a monthly fee and can make claims for private healthcare covered by your policy. One of the main benefits of private healthcare is quicker access to treatment compared to the NHS, along with access to new drugs or specialist treatments.

Most health insurance covers private hospital stays and may include outpatient treatments like scans, tests, or appointments. Policies vary in coverage, and exclusions often include emergency treatment, maternity care, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing conditions present before the policy started.

Unfortunately, you cannot pay extra to have a pre-existing condition covered as part of your health insurance policy. However, you have access to support from a nurse or digital GP. If you have questions about what is covered under your policy, please contact us for clarification.

Your health insurance policy begins once you've selected your policy and set up your payment. After setup, you'll receive your cover documents detailing what is and isn't covered. It's important to review these details carefully as policies differ.

An excess is the amount you contribute towards treatment when you make a claim. Choosing a higher excess can reduce your policy's monthly cost but requires a larger contribution when claiming. WeCovr's experts will offer you flexible excess options depending on your preferences.

To reduce health insurance costs, consider choosing a higher excess, which lowers the monthly premium. However, ensure the plan still meets your needs. Other factors affecting cost include lifestyle choices like smoking and potential savings for couples or family plans.

There is no age limit for taking out health insurance, but age influences the policy's cost. The benefits of health insurance are consistent regardless of age. If you're considering health insurance, you can get a quote from WeCovr's experts regardless of your age.

Let WeCovr's experts do the legwork for you and compare health insurance plans at no cost to you to find the best fit for your needs. Consider individual, couple, or family plans and review coverage details thoroughly before choosing. WeCovr provides transparent information on coverage options for easy comparison.

Yes, you can add your partner (if you live at the same address) or dependents to your policy at any time. The cost of couple's or family health insurance depends on factors like location, age, health, and chosen excess. Contact WeCovr or your insurer for assistance in adding someone to your policy.

While WeCovr's private health insurance plans are tailored for the UK, we offer global health insurance options for those living or working abroad. For holiday coverage, travel insurance is recommended.

Comprehensive cover provides extensive benefits, including full outpatient services such as consultations, diagnostic tests, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies. Our team at WeCovr can assist in understanding the various coverage levels available.

Private health insurance typically does not cover dental treatment. However, WeCovr's experts can guide you to dental insurance policies offered by our partner insurers. Reach out to us to explore these options.

Yes, private health insurance covers cancer treatment from diagnosis through treatment. At WeCovr, we can help you navigate the cancer cover options that suit your needs.

At WeCovr, you have flexibility in adjusting your cover. Speak to our experts within 21 days of receiving your paperwork or at policy renewal to make changes.

Accessing a private GP appointment is fast and convenient with WeCovr's services, available through your digital platform provided under your chosen insurance plan.

Yes, family members on the same policy can potentially have different levels of cover tailored to their individual needs.

WeCovr works with insurers offering a range of cover levels to accommodate different budgets and needs. Our experts can discuss these options with you.

Discovering healthcare facilities and specialists is easy with WeCovr's resources. Contact us for personalised assistance by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Fee-assured consultants provides transparency and no hidden costs for clients.

WeCovr prioritises mental health support with comprehensive coverage and access to specialist advice and services.

Children up to a certain age can be included in your policy, and we offer discounts for family coverage.

Like most health insurance plans, premiums may increase annually due to factors such as age and medical cost inflation.

The cost of health insurance varies based on several factors. Connect with our experts by tapping a button below and get your own personalised quote.

Private health insurance offers quicker access to consultations, treatments, and personalised care compared to the NHS.

Yes, WeCovr's experts can guide you which health insurance plans include coverage for physiotherapy treatments.

Immediate access to certain services like our digital GP app is available upon enrolment.

You can obtain a range of suitable quotes easily by tapping one of the buttons above or below and filling in a few details for personalised assistance.

Health insurance covers new conditions that arise after the policy starts. Pre-existing conditions and certain exclusions may apply.

WeCovr's experts help you arrange health insurance that simplifies access to private healthcare services, including consultations and treatments.

Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.


Learn more


...

Who Are WeCovr?

WeCovr is an insurance specialist for people valuing their peace of mind and a great service.

👍 WeCovr will help you get your private medical insurance, life insurance, critical illness insurance and others in no time thanks to our wonderful super-friendly experts ready to assist you every step of the way.

Just a quick and simple form and an easy conversation with one of our experts and your valuable insurance policy is in place for that needed peace of mind!

Important Information

Since 2011, WeCovr has helped thousands of individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. We make it easy to get quotes for life insurance, critical illness cover, private medical insurance, and a wide range of other insurance types. We also provide embedded insurance solutions tailored for business partners and platforms.

Political And Credit Risks Ltd is a registered company in England and Wales. Company Number: 07691072. Data Protection Register Number: ZA207579. Registered Office: 22-45 Old Castle Street, London, E1 7NY. WeCovr is a trading style of Political And Credit Risks Ltd. Political And Credit Risks Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is on the Financial Services Register under number 735613.

About WeCovr

WeCovr is your trusted partner for comprehensive insurance solutions. We help families and individuals find the right protection for their needs.