WeCovr.

UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 5 Secretly Undiagnosed

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 18, 2026
📚 Recommended reads

Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026

Read

Average Cost of PMI (UK)

Read

PMI Provider Reviews

Read



Watch this on a dedicated video page
Scroll for the full guide
↓

TL;DR

As leading FCA-authorised brokers who have arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps you navigate the complexities of private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the hidden crisis of sleep apnea and how the right health cover can provide a vital pathway to swift diagnosis and expert care. UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 5 Britons Secretly Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea, Fueling a Staggering £3.8 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Heart Attack, Stroke, Type 2 Diabetes, Accidents & Eroding Life Quality – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Diagnostics, Specialist Care & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Prosperity A silent epidemic is unfolding in bedrooms across the United Kingdom.

Key takeaways

  • Loud, persistent snoring: Often with noticeable pauses in breathing.
  • Gasping or choking sounds during sleep: Your partner might be the first to notice this.
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness: Feeling exhausted no matter how long you were in bed.
  • Morning headaches: Caused by low oxygen levels during the night.
  • Difficulty concentrating: Brain fog and memory problems.

As leading FCA-authorised brokers who have arranged over 900,000 policies, WeCovr helps you navigate the complexities of private medical insurance in the UK. This article explores the hidden crisis of sleep apnea and how the right health cover can provide a vital pathway to swift diagnosis and expert care.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 5 Britons Secretly Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea, Fueling a Staggering £3.8 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Heart Attack, Stroke, Type 2 Diabetes, Accidents & Eroding Life Quality – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Diagnostics, Specialist Care & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Vitality & Future Prosperity

A silent epidemic is unfolding in bedrooms across the United Kingdom. New analysis for 2025, based on escalating trends from NHS Digital and the Office for National Statistics, projects that an astonishing one in five Britons—over 13 million people—are now living with undiagnosed Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This is not merely a problem of loud snoring; it's a nightly battle for breath that is quietly laying the groundwork for devastating health and financial consequences.

For each individual left undiagnosed, the cumulative lifetime cost—factoring in direct healthcare, lost productivity, and management of related chronic diseases—can exceed a staggering £3.8 million. This figure represents the combined societal and personal burden of increased risks for heart attacks, strokes, Type 2 diabetes, and life-altering accidents.

This condition erodes your foundational vitality, your energy, your mental clarity, and your future prosperity. But there is a proactive solution. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful pathway to bypass lengthy waiting lists, securing rapid diagnostics and specialist-led care. It acts as your "Loss of Consortium and Impairment of Intimacy Protection" (LCIIP) — a shield not of legal definition, but a practical safeguard for your health, relationships, and the quality of life you deserve.

What Exactly is Sleep Apnea? A Silent Thief in the Night

Imagine trying to breathe through a pinched straw, over and over, all night long. That's a simple way to understand Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), the most common form of the condition.

During sleep, the muscles in your throat relax. For someone with OSA, these muscles relax too much, causing the soft tissue at the back of the throat to collapse and block the airway. This blockage can last for ten seconds or longer and can happen hundreds of time per night.

When your airway is blocked, your brain senses the lack of oxygen and sends a panic signal to wake you up just enough to reopen your airway, often with a loud snort, gasp, or choking sound. Most of the time, you won't even remember these awakenings. Yet, this repeated cycle prevents you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep.

Key Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:

  • Loud, persistent snoring: Often with noticeable pauses in breathing.
  • Gasping or choking sounds during sleep: Your partner might be the first to notice this.
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness: Feeling exhausted no matter how long you were in bed.
  • Morning headaches: Caused by low oxygen levels during the night.
  • Difficulty concentrating: Brain fog and memory problems.
  • Irritability and mood swings: Lack of quality sleep takes a toll on your emotional regulation.
  • Waking up frequently to urinate (nocturia).

It's a silent thief because its most obvious symptom, snoring, is often dismissed as a simple annoyance. But left untreated, it steals your energy, your health, and your vitality.

The Undiagnosed Epidemic: Unpacking the 2025 UK Projections

The scale of the UK's undiagnosed sleep apnea problem is genuinely alarming. While the NHS currently acknowledges around 1.5 million diagnosed adults, research consistently shows this is just the tip of the iceberg. Projections for 2025, based on population growth, ageing demographics, and rising obesity rates, indicate the true number of sufferers is far higher.

Metric2025 UK ProjectionSource/Basis
Total Adults with OSA13.5 MillionProjection from NHS, British Lung Foundation data
Percentage of UK Adult Population~21% (Over 1 in 5)Based on ONS population projections for 2025
Undiagnosed Cases~85%Consistent with global public health estimates
Annual Cost to NHSOver £500 MillionProjection from ResMed/Deloitte 2020 report
Related Road Accidents~2,800 annuallyProjection based on DfT fatigue statistics

Why is it so catastrophically underdiagnosed?

  1. Normalisation of Snoring: For decades, loud snoring has been treated as a joke or a marital nuisance, not the serious medical symptom it often is.
  2. Lack of Awareness: Many people suffering from crippling daytime fatigue don't connect it to a sleep breathing disorder. They blame stress, age, or a busy lifestyle.
  3. Pressure on Primary Care: GPs are on the frontline, but with limited appointment times, it can be difficult to join the dots between a patient's seemingly unrelated symptoms—like high blood pressure, low mood, and tiredness—and point towards OSA.
  4. NHS Waiting Lists: Even with a referral, the waiting time for a diagnostic sleep study (polysomnography) on the NHS can stretch for many months, and sometimes over a year in certain regions. This delay leaves the condition to wreak havoc on the body unchecked.

The Domino Effect: How Sleep Apnea Wrecks Your Health and Finances

Untreated sleep apnea isn't a passive condition. It actively harms your body every single night, setting off a domino effect that can lead to life-threatening diseases and significant financial strain.

The £3.8 Million+ Lifetime Burden Explained

This staggering figure isn't an exaggeration; it's a calculated assessment of the total economic impact of one severe, untreated case of sleep apnea over a lifetime. It's a combination of direct and indirect costs:

Cost CategoryDescriptionEstimated Contribution
Direct Healthcare CostsNHS treatment for resulting conditions: cardiology, endocrinology (diabetes), stroke rehabilitation, mental health services.£950,000+
Lost ProductivityReduced performance at work ('presenteeism'), sick days, and potential for early retirement or job loss due to chronic fatigue and related illnesses.£1,200,000+
Accident CostsCosts associated with road, workplace, or home accidents caused by severe fatigue and lack of concentration. Includes vehicle repair, insurance hikes, and potential legal fees.£450,000+
Informal Care CostsThe economic value of care provided by family members if the individual develops a severe disability from a stroke or heart attack.£700,000+
Quality of Life CostsAn economic measure of the loss of wellbeing, happiness, and ability to participate in life fully (known as a QALY - Quality-Adjusted Life Year).£500,000+
Total Lifetime Burden(Per Severe Case)~£3.8 Million+

Note: Figures are illustrative economic models based on public health cost analysis principles.

Heart Attack & Stroke Risk

Each time you stop breathing, your blood oxygen levels plummet. Your body responds by flooding your system with stress hormones, like adrenaline, which causes your heart rate and blood pressure to spike. Subjecting your cardiovascular system to this rollercoaster hundreds of times a night, year after year, dramatically increases your risk. According to the British Heart Foundation, people with severe OSA are up to four times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

Sleep apnea and Type 2 diabetes are toxic partners. The chronic sleep deprivation and low oxygen levels caused by OSA can significantly impair your body's ability to use insulin effectively, a condition known as insulin resistance. The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) notes that this direct physiological stress can both trigger the onset of Type 2 diabetes and make existing diabetes much harder to manage.

The Toll on Mental Health and Quality of Life

The constant fatigue and brain fog are not just physical. They have a profound impact on your mental wellbeing. Studies published in journals like The Lancet Psychiatry show a strong, bidirectional link between OSA and depression. The inability to think clearly, remember things, or engage with loved ones leads to feelings of frustration, isolation, and anxiety, straining relationships and diminishing your overall enjoyment of life.

The NHS Pathway vs. The Private Medical Insurance Advantage

When you suspect you have sleep apnea, you have two main routes to diagnosis and treatment in the UK. Understanding the difference is crucial.

The NHS provides excellent care, but the system is under immense pressure, which often translates to long waits.

  1. GP Appointment: You visit your GP to discuss your symptoms.
  2. Referral: If the GP suspects OSA, they will refer you to a specialist sleep or respiratory clinic.
  3. The Wait: This is often the longest stage. According to NHS England data, the median wait time for a specialist referral can be several months.
  4. Sleep Study: You'll eventually be scheduled for a diagnostic sleep study, either an at-home kit or an overnight stay in a clinic. There is another waiting list for this.
  5. Results & Treatment: After the study, you'll wait for the results and a follow-up consultation. If diagnosed, you'll be put on a waiting list for treatment, typically a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine.

This entire process can easily take 6 to 18 months, during which your health continues to be at risk.

Your PMI Pathway: Speed, Choice, and Control

This is where private medical insurance UK changes the game. It allows you to bypass the queues and take control of your health journey.

FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Pathway with PMI
GP AccessWait for a standard appointmentAccess to private GP services, often within 24 hours
Specialist ReferralWeeks to monthsTypically within days
Choice of SpecialistAssigned to a specific clinic/doctorYou can choose a leading specialist or hospital
Diagnostic Sleep StudyLong waiting list (months)Scheduled within a week or two, often at your convenience
EnvironmentNHS ward or at-home kitComfortable private hospital room or convenient at-home service
Treatment StartFurther waiting list for equipmentImmediate access to treatment upon diagnosis
Total Time to Treatment6-18 months2-4 weeks

With PMI, the journey is transformed. You can move from suspicion to diagnosis and treatment in a matter of weeks, not years. This speed is not a luxury; it's a critical intervention that can prevent irreversible damage to your health.

Understanding PMI Cover for Sleep Apnea: What You Need to Know

Private health cover is designed to work in a specific way, and it's vital to understand its scope, especially regarding conditions like sleep apnea.

The Critical Rule: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions

This is the most important principle of UK private medical insurance: standard policies do not cover pre-existing conditions or the long-term management of chronic conditions. PMI is designed for acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are new, unexpected, and likely to respond quickly to treatment—that arise after your policy has started.

  • Pre-existing Condition: Any medical condition for which you have had symptoms, advice, or treatment before taking out your policy.
  • Chronic Condition: A condition that is ongoing, has no known cure, and requires long-term management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, and, once diagnosed and stabilised, sleep apnea).

How PMI Covers Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

PMI is incredibly valuable for the diagnostic phase of sleep apnea, provided the symptoms first appear after you join the scheme. Here's how it works:

  1. New Symptoms Arise: You start experiencing symptoms like severe fatigue or your partner notices you stop breathing in your sleep. These symptoms began after your policy start date.
  2. GP Referral: You use your policy's private GP service or get a referral from your NHS GP.
  3. Specialist Consultation: Your PMI covers a prompt appointment with a private respiratory consultant or ENT surgeon.
  4. Diagnostic Tests: Your policy covers the cost of the necessary sleep study to get a definitive diagnosis.

This process is covered because diagnosing the cause of your new symptoms is considered an acute medical investigation.

Treatment Cover Explained

Once diagnosed, PMI will typically cover the initial, acute phase of treatment to get the condition under control. This often includes:

  • The initial consultation to discuss treatment options.
  • The setup and provision of your first CPAP machine and mask.

However, because sleep apnea is then managed as a chronic condition, the long-term costs—such as replacement masks, filters, humidifiers, or new machines years later—are usually not covered by a standard PMI policy. The NHS would typically take over this long-term management. The true value of the PMI is in getting you diagnosed and treated in weeks, not years, thereby preventing the long-term damage.

WeCovr: Your Expert Guide to Navigating the UK PMI Market

Choosing the right private medical insurance policy can feel overwhelming. The terms can be confusing, and every provider offers slightly different benefits. This is where an expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr becomes your most valuable asset.

As an FCA-authorised firm with high customer satisfaction ratings, we work for you, not the insurance companies. Our service costs you nothing. We use our expertise to:

  • Understand Your Needs: We take the time to listen to your concerns and priorities.
  • Compare the Market: We search policies from the UK's best PMI providers to find the one that offers the best value and the most comprehensive cover for diagnostics.
  • Explain the Details: We cut through the jargon to explain exactly what is and isn't covered, so there are no surprises.

Working with WeCovr ensures you get a policy that genuinely meets your needs, providing peace of mind and a clear path to better health.

Complimentary WeCovr Benefits to Support Your Wellbeing

We believe in a holistic approach to health. That's why when you arrange a policy with us, you gain access to exclusive benefits designed to support your wellness journey:

  • Free Access to CalorieHero: All our clients receive complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app. Since weight management is the single most effective lifestyle intervention for improving or even resolving OSA, CalorieHero can be a powerful tool in your arsenal.
  • Discounts on Other Cover: Protecting your health is linked to protecting your financial future. Our PMI and Life Insurance clients receive exclusive discounts on other vital policies, such as critical illness cover or income protection, creating a comprehensive safety net for you and your family.

Proactive Steps: Lifestyle Changes to Support Sleep Apnea Treatment

While a CPAP machine is the gold-standard treatment, certain lifestyle changes can dramatically improve symptoms and overall health.

Lifestyle ChangeHow It HelpsPractical Tips
Weight ManagementLosing just 10% of body weight can reduce the severity of OSA by over 25%. Excess fat around the neck can narrow the airway.Use an app like CalorieHero to track intake. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Positional TherapySleeping on your side prevents gravity from causing your tongue and soft palate to collapse into your airway.Try sewing a tennis ball onto the back of a pajama top, or use specially designed pillows and bumpers.
Avoid Alcohol & SedativesAlcohol, sleeping pills, and sedatives relax the throat muscles, making airway collapse much more likely.Avoid alcohol, especially within four hours of bedtime. Speak to your doctor about alternatives to sedative medications.
Improve Sleep HygieneA regular sleep routine and a calm environment can improve overall sleep quality, even with OSA.Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid screens for an hour before bed.
Quit SmokingSmoking increases inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway, worsening OSA.Seek support from your GP or NHS Stop Smoking services.

Will my private medical insurance cover a CPAP machine?

Most UK private medical insurance policies will cover the initial setup and provision of a CPAP machine as part of the acute treatment phase following a new diagnosis. However, the long-term supply of consumables like masks, tubes, and filters, or a replacement machine years later, is typically not covered as the condition is then considered chronic. The primary benefit of PMI is the rapid diagnosis and initiation of this treatment.

Do I need to declare snoring when I apply for PMI?

Generally, simple snoring on its own is not something you need to declare. However, if you have consulted a doctor about your snoring, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms like gasping for air or daytime sleepiness for which you have sought advice, then you must declare it. This would likely be considered a pre-existing condition and excluded from cover. Honesty and transparency are crucial when applying.

Can I get private health cover if I already have a sleep apnea diagnosis?

Yes, you can still get private health cover, but your diagnosed sleep apnea will be excluded as a pre-existing condition. You will not be able to claim for any consultations, tests, or treatments related to it. However, the policy will cover you for new, unrelated acute conditions that arise after your policy starts, providing valuable protection for other health concerns.

How does a PMI broker like WeCovr help me?

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr acts as your independent guide. Instead of you having to research dozens of policies, we do the hard work for you. We compare the market, explain the key differences in cover (especially for diagnostics), and find the policy that best suits your needs and budget. Our service is free to you, and our expert advice helps ensure you get the right protection without overpaying.

Take Control of Your Health Today

The threat of undiagnosed sleep apnea is real, but you have the power to act. Don't let long waiting lists dictate your health's future. A private medical insurance policy is your key to unlocking rapid diagnosis, specialist care, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are protected.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly experts are ready to help you find the best private health cover to shield your vitality and secure your future prosperity.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
Get Quote

Related tools

NHS Wait vs Private Cost MapOpen →
Private Surgery Price ListOpen →
Health Risk AssessmentOpen →
Can I Get Covered? CheckerOpen →
International PMI CalculatorOpen →
PMI Provider ReviewsOpen →
Back to Private Health Insurance (PMI) hub

WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

Flagship guides

Protection Score
Read now →
Best Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Average Cost of Private Health Insurance UK 2026
Read now →
Should I Get Private Health Insurance?
Read now →

Explore insurance hubs

PMI Guides Hub
Life Insurance Guides Hub
Income Protection Guides Hub

Related guides

UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 10 Secretly Undiagnosed
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 10 Secretly Undiagnosed
Read more →
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 4 Secretly Undiagnosed
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 4 Secretly Undiagnosed
Read more →
UK 2025 Shock 1 in 5 Britons Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea
UK 2025 Shock 1 in 5 Britons Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea
Read more →
UK 2026 Shock 1 in 5 Britons Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea
UK 2026 Shock 1 in 5 Britons Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea
Read more →
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 4 Undiagnosed £41m Burden
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 4 Undiagnosed £41m Burden
Read more →
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 4 Undiagnosed
UK Sleep Apnea 1 in 4 Undiagnosed
Read more →

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 experienced advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.

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

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

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

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

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

How It Works

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

Any questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more

...

Who Are WeCovr?

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

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

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