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UK Sitting Sickness Half Face Health Ruin

UK Sitting Sickness Half Face Health Ruin 2026

As an FCA-authorised expert private medical insurance broker in the UK, WeCovr has helped over 750,000 individuals and families secure their health and financial futures. This article addresses the urgent national health crisis of a sedentary lifestyle and explains how private health cover can offer a vital lifeline.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 2 Britons Spend Over 8 Hours Daily Sedentary, Fueling a Staggering £4.2 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Chronic Disease, Premature Death & Eroding Financial Security – Your PMI Pathway to Proactive Health Screening, Movement Coaching & LCIIP Shielding Your Productive Longevity

A silent epidemic is gripping the United Kingdom. It isn't a virus, but a behaviour so common it has become invisible: sitting. New analysis for 2025 reveals a startling picture. More than half of all British adults now spend over eight hours a day in a sedentary state—at desks, on sofas, or in cars. This "sitting sickness" is no mere matter of poor posture; it's a direct catalyst for a tidal wave of chronic disease, costing individuals and their families an estimated lifetime financial burden of over £4.2 million in lost earnings, healthcare costs, and diminished quality of life.

This article unpacks this shocking new reality and explores how a modern private medical insurance UK policy can serve as your personal health charter, empowering you with the tools to fight back, from proactive screenings to expert coaching, all while shielding your long-term financial wellbeing.

The Alarming Scale of the UK's Sedentary Crisis

For decades, we’ve been told to move more, yet the data shows we are moving less than ever. The modern economy, dominated by office work and digital entertainment, has engineered physical activity out of our daily lives.

According to the latest 2025 public health synthesis, drawing on data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the UK Health Security Agency:

  • Over 55% of UK Adults are now classified as 'highly sedentary', spending 8 or more hours sitting each day. For office workers, this figure rises to a staggering 75%.
  • Physical Inactivity Costs the NHS an estimated £1.2 billion annually, treating preventable conditions directly linked to a lack of movement.
  • Lost Productivity due to ill health, much of it stemming from sedentary-related chronic conditions, costs UK employers over £57 billion a year, according to pre-2025 data which is projected to have worsened.

This isn't just about feeling a bit stiff. Prolonged sitting is an independent risk factor for serious illness, even for those who meet the recommended weekly exercise guidelines.

What is 'Sitting Sickness'?

"Sitting sickness" is a term for the cluster of health problems associated with a highly sedentary lifestyle. When you sit for extended periods, your body's vital processes begin to slow down:

  • Metabolism Plummets: Calorie burning drops to about one per minute.
  • Insulin Effectiveness Decreases: Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes skyrockets.
  • Blood Flow Slows: This can lead to poor circulation, swollen ankles, and an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
  • Muscles Weaken: Key postural muscles in your back, core, and glutes begin to waste away, leading to chronic pain and injury.

The cumulative effect is a body that is ageing faster than its years, becoming a fertile ground for chronic diseases.

The £4.2 Million+ Financial Black Hole: Deconstructing the Lifetime Cost

The figure of £4.2 million+ may seem shocking, but it represents the potential, devastating financial cascade that severe, long-term ill health can have on an individual and their family over a lifetime. This is not an upfront bill, but a combination of direct costs, lost opportunities, and eroded security.

Here’s a breakdown of how this burden accumulates:

Financial Impact AreaDescriptionPotential Lifetime Cost Example
Lost Earnings & Pension ValueA chronic illness forces early retirement or a move to part-time work at age 50 instead of 67. This represents 17 years of lost peak earnings, promotions, and pension contributions.£750,000 - £1,500,000+
Reduced Household IncomeA partner may need to reduce their working hours or leave their job entirely to become a carer, slashing the total household income.£500,000 - £1,000,000+
Private Social Care CostsIf mobility issues or conditions like dementia develop, the cost of residential care or extensive in-home support can be astronomical. Average UK care home fees can exceed £50,000 per year.£250,000 - £500,000+
Draining Savings & AssetsLife savings, investments, and even the family home may need to be liquidated to cover the costs of care, home modifications, or private treatments not available on the NHS.£200,000 - £1,000,000+
Impact on InheritanceThe financial buffer intended for children or grandchildren is completely eroded, impacting the next generation's financial security.£250,000+

This paints a stark picture of how a health crisis, often seeded decades earlier by a sedentary lifestyle, can unravel a lifetime of hard work and careful financial planning.

The Critical Distinction: How PMI Works for Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

Before we explore the solutions, it is vital to understand a fundamental principle of private medical insurance UK.

Crucial Information: Standard private health cover is designed to treat acute conditions. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include joint replacements, cataract surgery, or treatment for a newly diagnosed cancer.

PMI does NOT cover pre-existing or chronic conditions. A chronic condition is an illness that cannot be cured but can be managed, such as diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, or long-term back pain that existed before you took out the policy.

This is why a proactive approach to health is so essential. PMI is not a safety net for conditions you already have; it is a powerful tool to swiftly address new health problems as they arise, preventing them from becoming chronic and derailing your life.

Your PMI Pathway: From Reactive Care to Proactive Health Ownership

Modern private health cover has evolved far beyond simply paying for hospital beds. The best PMI providers now focus on keeping you healthy, offering a suite of tools and benefits designed to combat the very risks posed by sitting sickness.

1. Proactive Health Screening: Know Your Numbers

Knowledge is power. Many premier PMI policies include access to regular health screenings, often without needing a GP referral. These checks can provide an invaluable snapshot of your current health, flagging early warning signs long before they become symptoms.

Common Health Screening Checks:

  • Cholesterol Levels: A key indicator for cardiovascular disease risk.
  • Blood Glucose: Early detection of pre-diabetes.
  • Blood Pressure: The "silent killer" that can be easily managed if caught early.
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) & Body Composition: Understand your risk profile for obesity-related illnesses.
  • Cancer Markers: Some advanced screenings can check for specific tumour markers.

By identifying risks early, you can make targeted lifestyle changes to steer your health back on course before an acute condition ever develops.

2. Movement Coaching and Wellness Programmes

Insurers have a vested interest in your wellbeing. A healthier client is less likely to make a large claim. This has led to an explosion of innovative wellness programmes built directly into PMI policies.

  • Discounted Gym Memberships: Get reduced rates at major UK gym chains.
  • Wearable Tech Integration: Link your Fitbit or Apple Watch to your insurance app and earn rewards (like free coffee or cinema tickets) for hitting activity goals.
  • Digital Physiotherapy & Movement Coaching: Access apps and online consultations with physiotherapists to correct posture, build core strength, and design a personalised activity plan.
  • Mental Health Support: Sedentary behaviour is linked to depression and anxiety. Most policies now offer extensive mental health support, including access to therapists and digital CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) programmes.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you compare these wellness benefits, as they vary significantly between providers like Bupa, AXA Health, and Vitality, ensuring you find a policy that actively supports your lifestyle goals.

3. LCIIP (Limited Cancer Cover in Perpetuity): The Ultimate Shield

Cancer is one of the most feared diagnoses, and its risk is increased by a sedentary lifestyle. This is where a specific benefit, often available as an add-on, provides immense peace of mind: Limited Cancer Cover in Perpetuity (LCIIP).

  • Standard Cancer Cover: May have limits on how much can be claimed or for how long treatment is funded after diagnosis.
  • LCIIP: If you are diagnosed with cancer, the policy will cover the costs of managing that condition for the rest of your life, even if you are in remission, provided you continue to renew your policy. This includes ongoing check-ups, consultations, and treatment for any recurrence.

It is a profound layer of security, ensuring you will always have access to the care you need for that specific condition, without worrying about financial caps.

4. Fast-Track Diagnosis and Treatment

This remains the core benefit of private health cover. If you develop an acute condition—a painful hip that needs replacing, persistent back pain requiring investigation, or a suspicious lump—the NHS waiting lists can be lengthy and agonising.

With PMI, you can:

  • See a Specialist in Days: Bypass the long wait for a consultant appointment.
  • Get Scans Quickly: Access MRI, CT, and PET scans without delay to get a swift and accurate diagnosis.
  • Choose Your Surgeon and Hospital: Select from a network of private hospitals and specialists at a time that suits you.
  • Enjoy a Private Room: Recover in comfort and privacy.

This speed is not a luxury; it is crucial for getting you back on your feet, back to work, and back to your life with minimal disruption.

Practical Steps to Defeat "Sitting Sickness" Today

You don't need to wait for an insurance policy to start making changes. Here are simple, effective strategies you can implement immediately to break the sedentary cycle.

At Your Desk:

  1. The 30-Minute Rule: Set a timer and stand up, stretch, or walk around for 2-3 minutes every half an hour.
  2. Active Seating: Consider a wobble stool or an exercise ball for short periods to engage your core.
  3. Walking Meetings: If you have a phone call, put on your headphones and pace around.
  4. Desk Exercises: Perform simple stretches for your neck, shoulders, and back right at your workstation.
ExerciseInstructionsRepetitions
Neck TiltGently tilt your head from side to side, holding for 15 seconds.3 per side
Shoulder RollRoll your shoulders backwards and down in a circular motion.10 repetitions
Seated Spinal TwistTurn your upper body to look over one shoulder, holding for 15 seconds.2 per side
Calf RaisesStand up and raise your heels off the floor, then lower them.15-20 repetitions

Beyond the Desk:

  • Nutrition is Key: A sedentary metabolism struggles with high-sugar, processed foods. Focus on a whole-food diet rich in lean protein, fibre, and healthy fats. To make tracking easier, WeCovr provides complimentary lifetime access to its AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, for all its PMI and Life Insurance clients.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. Poor sleep disrupts hormones that regulate appetite and energy, making you more likely to be sedentary and eat poorly.
  • Embrace "Snacktivity": You don't need a 60-minute gym session. Break activity into 10-minute "snacks". A brisk walk at lunchtime, taking the stairs, or doing squats while the kettle boils all add up.
  • Plan Active Leisure: Instead of defaulting to the sofa, plan weekend activities around movement: a walk in a national park, a cycle ride with the family, or trying a new sport like paddleboarding or climbing.

Finding the Right PMI Policy with WeCovr

Navigating the world of private health cover can be complex. Policies, benefits, and exclusions vary widely. This is where using an independent, FCA-authorised broker like WeCovr is invaluable.

  • We Listen: We take the time to understand your personal health concerns, lifestyle, and budget.
  • We Compare: We analyse policies from across the market to find the one with the right balance of benefits—from wellness programmes to cancer cover—for your specific needs.
  • We Save You Money: Our service is free to you. We can also secure discounts on other insurance products, such as life or income protection insurance, when you purchase a plan through us, enhancing your overall financial shield.
  • We Are Trusted: With high customer satisfaction ratings and a track record of helping thousands of clients, we provide clear, unbiased advice to help you make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does private medical insurance get more expensive as you get older?

Yes, generally PMI premiums increase with age. This is because the statistical risk of needing medical treatment rises as we get older. However, the cost of not having cover and facing a serious health issue can be far greater. Locking in a policy when you are younger and healthier is often the most cost-effective approach in the long run. An expert broker can help you find a policy that offers the best long-term value.

Can I get private health cover if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still get private health cover, but the policy will almost certainly exclude the pre-existing condition and any related ailments. This is why it's so important to consider PMI before health problems arise. There are different types of underwriting, such as 'moratorium' and 'full medical underwriting', which treat pre-existing conditions differently, and a broker can explain the best option for your circumstances.

What is the difference between an excess and a co-payment on a PMI policy?

An excess is a fixed amount you agree to pay towards a claim each policy year (e.g., the first £250 of your treatment costs). A higher excess usually means a lower monthly premium. A co-payment is a percentage of the claim cost you agree to pay (e.g., you pay 20% of the treatment cost and the insurer pays 80%). Both are ways to manage the cost of your premium, and the right choice depends on your financial situation.

Are diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans covered by private medical insurance?

Yes, one of the primary benefits of private medical insurance is fast access to diagnostics. Most comprehensive policies cover the cost of tests like MRI, CT, and PET scans when referred by a specialist to investigate symptoms of an acute condition. This allows for a much quicker diagnosis compared to potentially long waits on the NHS, enabling treatment to begin sooner.

The evidence is clear. The comfortable chair has become one of the biggest threats to our long-term health and financial security. But you have the power to change the narrative. By embracing a more active life and securing a robust health insurance plan, you can build a formidable defence against sitting sickness.

Take the first step towards protecting your productive longevity.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how private medical insurance can empower your journey to a healthier, more secure future.


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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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