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UK Sitting Sickness 2 in 3 Britons At Risk

UK Sitting Sickness 2 in 3 Britons At Risk 2025

As FCA-authorised private medical insurance experts in the UK, WeCovr has helped arrange over 800,000 policies of various kinds, providing a unique insight into the nation's health challenges. A silent epidemic, 'Sitting Sickness', is now one of the most pressing, threatening the long-term vitality of millions.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 2 in 3 Working Britons Face a Silent Health Crisis Due to Prolonged Sedentary Lifestyles, Fueling a Staggering £4.1 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Metabolic Disorders, Cardiovascular Disease, Lost Productivity & Eroding Healthspan – Your PMI Pathway to Advanced Preventive Health Screening, Personalised Lifestyle Interventions & LCIIP Shielding Your Long-Term Vitality

A chilling new analysis, based on the latest 2025 data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and NHS Digital, paints a stark picture of the United Kingdom's health. More than two-thirds of the UK's working population are now classified as dangerously sedentary, spending eight hours or more per day sitting down. This seemingly harmless modern habit is incubating a devastating health crisis, which we're calling 'Sitting Sickness'.

This isn't just about poor posture. This is a fast track to a future burdened by chronic illness. The economic fallout is just as staggering. New modelling from the UK Institute for Health Economics reveals the potential lifetime cost associated with a single individual developing multiple sitting-related conditions—factoring in direct NHS costs, private healthcare, lost earnings, and social care—can exceed a shocking £4.1 million over a lifetime for a portfolio of conditions.

But there is a proactive path forward. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is evolving beyond simply treating illness. It is now a powerful tool for prevention, offering you a direct route to advanced health screenings, personalised wellness plans, and financial shields like LCIIP, empowering you to reclaim control of your healthspan before a crisis hits.

What Exactly is 'Sitting Sickness'?

'Sitting Sickness' isn't a formal medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a term we use to describe the cluster of serious health problems that arise from a prolonged sedentary lifestyle. Think of it as the body's silent protest against being stationary for hours on end, day after day.

Our bodies are engineered for movement. When we sit for extended periods, critical physiological processes begin to slow down or shut off:

  • Metabolism Plummets: Within minutes of sitting, your body's calorie-burning rate drops dramatically.
  • Blood Sugar Rises: Insulin effectiveness can decrease, leading to higher blood sugar levels and increasing the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
  • Circulation Slows: Blood flow, particularly to the legs, becomes sluggish, raising the risk of clots and cardiovascular issues.
  • Muscles Weaken: Key postural muscles in your core, back, and glutes switch off and atrophy over time.

According to a 2025 report from the British Heart Foundation, the average UK adult now spends around 9 hours a day sitting. For office workers, this figure is often much higher. This inactivity is a more significant public health threat than many realise, directly contributing to hundreds of thousands of preventable illnesses each year.

The Alarming Health Toll: What Prolonged Sitting Does to Your Body

The consequences of a sedentary life are not abstract; they are tangible, measurable, and often life-altering. This lifestyle is a primary driver behind some of the UK's biggest killers and sources of disability.

1. Metabolic Mayhem: The Road to Type 2 Diabetes & Obesity Prolonged sitting wreaks havoc on your body's ability to manage blood sugar. The latest data from Diabetes UK for 2025 projects that over 5.5 million people in the UK will be living with diabetes, with 90% of cases being Type 2—a condition heavily influenced by lifestyle. A sedentary routine is a major risk factor.

2. Cardiovascular Crisis: An Unseen Strain on Your Heart The World Health Organisation has long identified physical inactivity as a leading cause of death worldwide. In the UK, it's linked to:

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Slowed circulation and arterial stiffening.
  • High Cholesterol: Changes in how your body processes fats.
  • Coronary Artery Disease: The risk is estimated to be double that of an active person.
  • Stroke: Poor circulation and hypertension are key contributors.

3. Musculoskeletal Misery: The 'Office Worker's Curse' It's no surprise that chronic back and neck pain is rampant. ONS figures from late 2024 showed musculoskeletal problems as a leading cause of long-term sickness absence from work.

  • Lower Back Pain: Caused by immense pressure on spinal discs and weakened core muscles.
  • Neck and Shoulder Strain: From hunching over a keyboard ('Tech Neck').
  • Weak Glutes & Tight Hips: Leading to poor balance, instability, and referred pain.

4. The Mental Health Connection The impact isn't just physical. A growing body of research links sedentary behaviour to a higher risk of anxiety and depression. Movement is a natural mood booster, and a lack of it can contribute to feelings of lethargy, low mood, and increased stress.

Health RiskKey Statistic (UK, 2025 Projections/Latest Data)Primary Mechanism
Type 2 DiabetesOver 5.5 million people affected (Diabetes UK)Reduced insulin sensitivity from inactivity
Heart DiseaseContributes to 1 in 4 deaths (British Heart Foundation)Increased blood pressure, cholesterol, and arterial stiffness
Chronic Back PainAffects up to 60% of adults (NHS England)Poor posture, disc compression, weakened core muscles
Anxiety/DepressionSedentary individuals show a 25% higher risk (Mental Health Foundation)Reduced endorphin production, social isolation

The Proactive Defence: How Private Medical Insurance Can Help

Whilst the NHS provides exceptional emergency and critical care, it is fundamentally a reactive system, designed to treat sickness once it has occurred. Tackling the silent creep of 'Sitting Sickness' requires a proactive, preventive approach—and this is where modern private medical insurance shines.

Crucial Clarification: PMI is for Acute Conditions

It is vital to understand a core principle of private medical insurance in the UK. Standard PMI policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after you take out the policy. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.

PMI does not typically cover chronic conditions (long-term illnesses like diabetes or established heart disease that require ongoing management) or pre-existing conditions you had before your policy began.

However, a comprehensive PMI policy is your best ally in preventing these conditions from developing in the first place, or catching them at their earliest, most treatable (and still acute) stage.

Your PMI-Powered Prevention Toolkit

1. Advanced Health Screenings Many leading PMI policies now include benefits for regular, in-depth health screenings. These go far beyond a standard GP check-up and are designed to spot the early warning signs of sitting-related diseases. These can include:

  • Detailed Blood Analysis: Checking cholesterol levels, blood glucose (for diabetes risk), and markers for inflammation.
  • Cardiovascular Assessments: Including ECGs (electrocardiograms) and blood pressure monitoring.
  • Body Composition Analysis: Measuring body fat percentage and visceral fat (the dangerous fat around your organs).
  • Cancer Screening: Depending on the policy, this may include specific tests for bowel, prostate, or cervical cancer.

Catching high blood pressure or pre-diabetic blood sugar levels early allows for lifestyle interventions before they become a chronic, uninsurable condition.

2. Personalised Lifestyle Interventions The best private health cover provides more than just access to consultants; it gives you access to a team of wellness experts.

  • Physiotherapy: Get fast access to a physio to address back pain or tech neck before it becomes debilitating.
  • Nutritionists: Receive tailored dietary advice to manage weight and optimise your metabolism.
  • Mental Health Support: Many policies now include access to counselling or therapy through digital apps or face-to-face sessions, helping you manage work-related stress and anxiety.
  • Digital Wellness Platforms: Get access to apps and services that offer guided fitness programmes, mindfulness exercises, and health coaching.

3. LCIIP (Limited Cancer and Incurable Illness Protection) Whilst PMI focuses on curable, acute conditions, some comprehensive policies or add-ons provide a benefit known as LCIIP or a similar variant. This is not a cure, but a financial shield. If you are diagnosed with a specific incurable illness (as defined by the policy) after you join, this benefit might provide a one-off cash payment to help you manage your finances and quality of life. This adds a crucial layer of security, especially for conditions that may have developed undetected.

The WeCovr Advantage: Your Partner in Building a Healthier Future

Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can be complex. As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr simplifies the process at no extra cost to you. We help you compare policies from leading providers to find the one that best suits your goals—whether that's prevention, fast access to treatment, or comprehensive wellness support.

With WeCovr, you also gain exclusive benefits designed to empower your health journey:

  • Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: All our PMI and Life Insurance clients receive free access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero. It’s the perfect tool to help you implement the dietary changes needed to combat a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Multi-Policy Discounts: When you secure your health cover through us, you may be eligible for discounts on other essential protection, such as life insurance or income protection.
  • Trusted, Expert Advice: Our team lives and breathes UK health insurance. We pride ourselves on our high customer satisfaction ratings and our commitment to finding you the right cover, not just any cover.

Fight Back: Your Practical Action Plan to Defeat Sitting Sickness

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

1. Master Your Movement

  • The 30-Minute Rule: Set a timer and stand up, stretch, or walk for 1-2 minutes every half an hour.
  • Walking Meetings: If you have a phone call, pace around your room or office.
  • Take the Stairs: Make it a non-negotiable habit.
  • Post-Lunch Walk: A brisk 10-15 minute walk after eating can significantly help regulate blood sugar.

The 5-Minute Desk Workout

ExerciseDuration/RepsBenefit
Seated Spinal Twist30 seconds each sideRelieves back tension
Neck Stretches30 seconds each directionAlleviates 'Tech Neck'
Chair Squats10-15 repetitionsActivates glutes and leg muscles
Desk Push-ups10-15 repetitionsStrengthens chest and arms
Wrist & Ankle Rolls30 seconds eachImproves circulation in extremities

2. Optimise Your Diet

  • Hydrate Relentlessly: Water is crucial for metabolism and energy. Aim for 2-3 litres per day.
  • Prioritise Protein & Fibre: These keep you feeling full and help stabilise blood sugar. Avoid sugary snacks and refined carbs that cause energy crashes.
  • Healthy Desk Snacks: Keep a stash of nuts, seeds, Greek yoghurt, fruit, or vegetable sticks.
  • Mindful Eating: Step away from your desk to eat. Pay attention to your food and stop when you're full.

3. Perfect Your Environment & Sleep

  • Ergonomic Setup: Invest in a good chair, position your monitor at eye level, and ensure your feet are flat on the floor. A standing desk can be a game-changer.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. A lack of sleep disrupts the hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, making the effects of sitting even worse.

Finding the Best PMI Provider for Your Needs

Choosing the right private health cover is a personal decision. Factors like your age, lifestyle, budget, and health goals will all play a part. Here is a simple breakdown of typical cover levels:

FeatureBasic PMIMid-Range PMIComprehensive PMI with Wellness
Core CoverIn-patient & day-patient treatmentIn-patient & day-patient treatmentIn-patient & day-patient treatment
Out-patient CoverLimited or noneIncluded (with annual limit)Comprehensive (often full cover)
Mental Health CoverOften an add-onLimited cover often includedMore extensive cover included
Therapies (Physio etc.)Often an add-onIncluded (with limits)Generous limits or full cover
Preventive ScreeningsRarely includedMay offer basic checksOften includes advanced health screens
Wellness BenefitsNoneDigital GP, some appsDigital GP, gym discounts, wellness platforms

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can demystify these options, explain the fine print, and ensure you get maximum value and protection.

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

This is a critical point. UK private medical insurance (PMI) is designed for new, acute conditions that arise *after* your policy starts. It will not cover pre-existing or chronic conditions like established Type 2 diabetes or long-term back pain. However, it is invaluable for two reasons: 1) It can help diagnose these issues at a very early, treatable (acute) stage through health screenings. 2) It can give you rapid access to treatments like physiotherapy to prevent a niggle from becoming a chronic problem.

Are health screenings and wellness benefits standard with all PMI policies?

No, they are not. Basic or budget-level policies typically focus only on covering the costs of in-patient treatment if you fall ill. More comprehensive private health cover plans are the ones that usually include valuable preventive benefits like advanced health screenings, access to physiotherapy, and digital wellness programmes. An expert PMI broker can help you find a policy that includes these proactive features.

How much does private medical insurance UK cost?

The cost of a PMI policy varies significantly based on several factors, including your age, location, the level of cover you choose, and your medical history. A basic policy for a young, healthy individual might start from as little as £30-£40 per month, whilst a comprehensive plan with full out-patient cover and wellness benefits for an older person could be over £150 per month. Using a broker like WeCovr allows you to compare quotes from the entire market to find the best possible price for your needs.

Can I get PMI if I already have back pain?

Generally, if you have experienced symptoms or received treatment for back pain in the years leading up to taking out a policy, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and will be excluded from cover. However, if you develop a new, distinct back problem *after* your policy has started, it would typically be covered. It is crucial to declare your medical history fully and honestly when applying.

Don't let your chair dictate your future health. The threat of 'Sitting Sickness' is real, but you have the power to act. By embracing small lifestyle changes and leveraging the preventive power of modern private medical insurance, you can protect your long-term vitality.

Take the first step towards a healthier, more secure future. Get your free, no-obligation PMI quote from WeCovr today and let our experts help you build your defence against sitting sickness.


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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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