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UK Sitting Disease £4M Health Burden

UK Sitting Disease £4M Health Burden 2026

As FCA-authorised UK insurance experts who have helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr is committed to providing clarity on emerging health risks. This article explores the growing threat of sedentary lifestyles and how proactive tools like private medical insurance can help safeguard your future health and financial well-being.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Working Britons Face a Silent Health Epidemic From Prolonged Sedentary Lifestyles, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Lost Productivity, and Premature Ageing – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health Optimisation & LCIIP Shielding Your Future Well-being & Financial Resilience

The way we work has changed forever. The rise of desk-based jobs and remote working has ushered in an era of unprecedented convenience, but it has also unleashed a silent health crisis. New analysis for 2025 reveals a stark reality: more than two-thirds of the UK's working population are now at significant risk from "Sitting Disease," a modern epidemic fuelled by prolonged inactivity.

This isn't just about feeling a bit stiff. The cumulative impact of a sedentary life is creating a projected lifetime burden of over £4.1 million per individual affected by severe chronic illness. This staggering figure combines the costs of lost earnings, private healthcare and modifications, long-term care needs, and diminished economic productivity. It's a ticking clock, not just for our national health, but for your personal well-being and financial security.

But there is a pathway to mitigate this risk. By understanding the threat, taking proactive steps, and utilising powerful tools like Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and Life & Critical Illness Cover (LCIIP), you can build a robust shield around your health and finances.

The £4.1 Million Elephant in the Room: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost

The headline figure of £4.1 million+ may seem shocking, but it becomes chillingly plausible when you break it down. This is not an upfront cost but a projected lifetime burden for an individual whose sedentary lifestyle leads to multiple, severe chronic conditions.

Here’s how the costs accumulate over a lifetime:

  • Lost Earnings & Reduced Pension Contributions: A serious chronic illness, like severe cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes with complications, can force early retirement or a significant reduction in working hours. ONS data consistently shows that individuals with long-term health conditions have lower rates of economic activity. Over 20-30 years, this can equate to over £1.5 million in lost pre-tax income and pension growth for a higher-rate taxpayer.
  • Private Healthcare & Social Care Costs: While the NHS is our bedrock, it is under immense pressure. Those who can, often turn to the private sector for supplementary care, adaptations, and long-term support. The costs for mobility aids, home modifications, private nursing, and specialised therapies can easily exceed £50,000 - £100,000 per year in later life. Over a decade or more, this can surpass £1 million.
  • Lost Productivity (Presenteeism): Even before a diagnosis, chronic pain and low energy from a sedentary life lead to 'presenteeism'—being at work but not fully functional. Studies suggest this can sap up to 30% of an individual's productivity, a hidden but substantial economic drain.
  • Premature Ageing Costs: Inactivity accelerates biological ageing. This means needing support services, experiencing age-related conditions, and facing a reduced quality of life earlier than your peers, bringing forward significant costs associated with older age.

This £4.1 million figure is a stark warning. It represents the ultimate financial consequence of a health crisis that begins silently, at our desks, every single day.

What is 'Sitting Disease'? A Closer Look at This Modern Epidemic

"Sitting Disease" isn't a formal medical diagnosis. It's a powerful term used by health experts to describe the cluster of health problems that arise from a highly sedentary lifestyle.

Think of your body as being designed for movement. When you sit for prolonged periods, critical physiological processes begin to shut down:

  • Metabolic Slowdown: Within minutes of sitting, your body's calorie-burning rate plummets. The production of enzymes that help break down fat drops dramatically.
  • Poor Circulation: Blood flow slows, allowing fatty acids to more easily clog arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Muscle Degeneration: Unused muscles in your core, glutes, and legs begin to weaken and atrophy. This leads to poor posture, back pain, and an increased risk of injury.
  • Insulin Resistance: Your cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. According to NHS data, this is a primary driver of Type 2 diabetes, a condition affecting millions in the UK.

A 2024 report highlighted that the average UK adult now spends around 9 hours per day sitting down. For office workers, this can be even higher. This prolonged inactivity is a direct contributor to some of the UK's biggest health challenges.

Health Risk Associated with Sedentary LifestyleUK Statistic (2024/2025 Projections)
Cardiovascular DiseaseA leading cause of death in the UK, responsible for 1 in 4 deaths.
Type 2 DiabetesOver 4.3 million people are living with a diagnosis of diabetes in the UK.
Musculoskeletal DisordersAccounted for 23.3 million lost working days in the UK in 2023.
Certain Cancers (Bowel, Breast, Lung)Physical inactivity is a known risk factor for several common cancers.
Mental Health ConditionsSedentary behaviour is strongly linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.

Sources: NHS Digital, ONS, Cancer Research UK.

The Critical Distinction: How Private Medical Insurance Tackles the Acute Problem

This is the most important concept to understand when considering health insurance. Standard UK Private Medical Insurance is designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out a policy.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a slipped disc, joint pain needing investigation, or appendicitis.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, is likely to recur, or requires ongoing management. Examples include diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and established arthritis.

Crucially, PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or conditions that become chronic.

So, how does this help with Sitting Disease? PMI is your proactive tool for the early stages.

Imagine this scenario:

  1. The Problem: You develop persistent lower back pain after years of desk work. It's affecting your sleep and concentration.
  2. The NHS Route: You see your GP. You may face a lengthy wait for a physiotherapy referral or an MRI scan to diagnose the issue. During this time, the problem could worsen.
  3. The PMI Pathway: With private medical insurance UK, you can get a swift GP referral to a private specialist. You could have a diagnostic scan and be starting a course of private physiotherapy within days or weeks, not months.

By addressing the acute problem (the new back pain) quickly, you prevent it from escalating into a debilitating chronic issue that could force you out of work. PMI provides rapid access to diagnostics, specialist consultations, and therapies like physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care.

The Wellness Revolution: How PMI Providers Help You Stay Healthy

The best PMI providers have evolved beyond just paying for treatment. They are now your partners in health, offering a suite of wellness benefits designed to combat the effects of a sedentary lifestyle before they become a problem.

These benefits can include:

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Major insurers partner with leading gym chains, making it more affordable to get active.
  • Digital GP Services: 24/7 access to a GP via phone or video call, so you can discuss health niggles early.
  • Mental Health Support: Access to counselling and therapy services, crucial for tackling the anxiety and depression linked to inactivity.
  • Health Screenings: Subsidised or included health checks to catch early warning signs of conditions like high cholesterol or blood pressure.
  • Wearable Tech Integration: Get rewarded with cinema tickets or coffee for hitting your step count, tracked via your smartwatch.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you navigate these options to find a policy that not only provides cover but actively supports your well-being.

Shielding Your Finances: Where Life & Critical Illness Cover Steps In

What happens if, despite your best efforts, you are diagnosed with a serious chronic condition? This is where your financial shield comes into play. While PMI handles the acute treatment, Life and Critical Illness Cover protects your finances.

  • Critical Illness Cover (CIC): This pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with one of a specific list of serious conditions, such as a heart attack, stroke, or certain types of cancer. This money is yours to use as you see fit—to pay off your mortgage, cover lost income, or pay for private care not covered by PMI.
  • Income Protection Insurance (IPI): This provides a regular, tax-free replacement income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It acts as your personal sick pay, ensuring your essential bills are covered while you focus on recovery.

By combining PMI with LCIIP, you create a comprehensive defence system: PMI to keep you healthy and address problems quickly, and LCIIP to protect your financial world if the worst happens.

Your Action Plan: 7 Practical Steps to Defeat Sitting Disease Today

You don't need to quit your job or run a marathon tomorrow. Small, consistent changes can make a monumental difference.

  1. Embrace 'Movement Snacks': Set a timer to get up and move for 2-3 minutes every half hour. Walk around, do some stretches, or simply stand up.
  2. Optimise Your Workspace: Invest in an ergonomic chair and consider a standing desk. Position your monitor at eye level to protect your neck and posture.
  3. The 20-20-20 Rule: To combat digital eye strain, every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  4. Prioritise a 'Movement Commute': If you work from home, use the time you would have spent commuting to go for a brisk walk. If you travel to an office, get off the bus a stop early or park further away.
  5. Hydrate Intelligently: Keep a water bottle on your desk. Regular hydration is key for energy, and the frequent trips to the kitchen or water cooler add extra steps.
  6. Schedule Your Activity: Block out time in your diary for exercise, just as you would for a meeting. Aim for the NHS-recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week.
  7. Fuel Your Body, Don't Just Feed It: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, and vegetables provides the energy needed for an active lifestyle. To help with this, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, for all our life and health insurance clients.

How WeCovr Empowers Your Health and Financial Journey

Navigating the world of insurance can be complex. As an independent and FCA-authorised broker, WeCovr acts as your expert guide, simplifying the process at no cost to you.

  • Expert, Unbiased Advice: We are not tied to any single insurer. Our goal is to find the best PMI provider and policy for your unique needs and budget.
  • Market-Wide Comparison: We compare dozens of policies from across the UK market, saving you the time and hassle of doing it yourself.
  • Value-Added Benefits: When you arrange a policy through us, you gain complimentary access to our CalorieHero app to support your nutrition goals. Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance often receive exclusive discounts on other types of cover, like home or travel insurance.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our focus on clear, human-centric advice has earned us consistently high ratings on major customer review platforms. We're here to build a long-term relationship based on trust.

Choosing the right private health cover is one of the most important decisions you can make for your future. Let us help you get it right.

Comparing UK Private Health Cover Plan Tiers

PMI policies are not one-size-fits-all. They typically come in tiers, allowing you to balance cost with the level of cover. Here is a simplified overview:

FeatureBasic PlanMid-Range PlanComprehensive Plan
Core CoverIn-patient & day-patient treatment includedIn-patient & day-patient treatment includedIn-patient & day-patient treatment included
Out-patient CoverNot included or very limited (e.g., post-op only)Included, often with a financial limit (e.g., £1,000)Full cover for out-patient diagnostics & specialist fees
TherapiesNot usually includedOften included (e.g., physiotherapy)Extensive cover for therapies, including osteopathy, etc.
Mental HealthLimited or no coverOften included as an option or with limitsComprehensive mental health cover, including psychiatric care
Wellness BenefitsBasic access to digital GPGym discounts, health rewards programmesFull suite of wellness benefits, including health screenings
Best ForHealthy individuals wanting a backstop for major surgeryThose wanting a balance of cover and affordabilityIndividuals seeking the highest level of reassurance and proactive health support

An expert adviser at WeCovr can walk you through these options, explaining the nuances and helping you tailor a plan that fits perfectly.

The threat of Sitting Disease is real, but it is not inevitable. By understanding the risks, taking proactive control of your health, and implementing a smart insurance strategy, you can protect not just your physical well-being, but your financial resilience for decades to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will private medical insurance cover conditions like back pain from sitting at a desk all day?

Generally, yes, provided the back pain is a new, acute condition that has started after your policy began. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is excellent for providing fast access to diagnostics like MRI scans and treatments such as physiotherapy to resolve the issue. However, if the back pain was a pre-existing problem or becomes a long-term chronic condition, it would likely be excluded from future cover.

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

An acute condition is a health issue that is expected to respond quickly to treatment and from which you are expected to make a full recovery. Examples include infections, broken bones, or a hernia. A chronic condition is one that requires long-term management and has no known cure, such as diabetes, hypertension, or asthma. Standard UK PMI is designed to cover acute conditions, while chronic conditions are not covered.

Can I get private health cover if I already have a condition caused by a sedentary lifestyle?

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but the existing condition and any related issues will be excluded from your policy as a pre-existing condition. The two main types of underwriting, 'moratorium' and 'full medical underwriting', will determine how this is handled. A broker can explain which is best for your situation. The policy would still cover you for any new, unrelated acute conditions that arise in the future.

Are the wellness benefits like gym discounts and health apps genuinely useful?

Yes, they can be extremely useful and provide significant value. For many people, these benefits are the most used part of their policy. They act as a powerful incentive to adopt a healthier lifestyle, which can prevent serious health issues from developing in the first place. Using a gym discount or a rewards app can often save you more money over a year than a portion of your policy's cost, making it a very tangible benefit.

Ready to build your shield against the risks of a sedentary lifestyle?

Take the first step towards proactive health and financial protection. Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and let our expert team find the perfect private medical insurance plan for you.

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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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