UK Sleep Apnoea 1 in 4 Undiagnosed, £3.5M Burden

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 14, 2026
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TL;DR

With extensive experience helping UK residents navigate their health choices, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange cover for over 750,000 individuals and families, we offer clarity and support, ensuring you find the right protection for your health and wellbeing. UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Secretly Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnoea, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Cardiovascular Disease, Stroke, Diabetes, Accidents, & Eroding Quality of Life – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Sleep Diagnostics, Personalised Treatment & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Health & Future Productivity A silent epidemic is unfolding in bedrooms across Britain.

Key takeaways

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): The sudden drops in blood oxygen levels during apnoeas trigger a stress response, increasing blood pressure and straining the cardiovascular system.
  • Heart Disease & Stroke: OSA is a major independent risk factor for heart attacks, atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat), and strokes.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The condition is strongly linked to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to control blood sugar levels.
  • Road and Workplace Accidents: Severe daytime sleepiness drastically impairs concentration and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents while driving or operating machinery.
  • Mental Health Issues: The chronic fatigue and poor sleep quality can lead to depression, anxiety, and irritability.

With extensive experience helping UK residents navigate their health choices, WeCovr provides expert guidance on private medical insurance. As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange cover for over 750,000 individuals and families, we offer clarity and support, ensuring you find the right protection for your health and wellbeing.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 Britons Secretly Battle Undiagnosed Sleep Apnoea, Fueling a Staggering £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Cardiovascular Disease, Stroke, Diabetes, Accidents, & Eroding Quality of Life – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Sleep Diagnostics, Personalised Treatment & LCIIP Shielding Your Foundational Health & Future Productivity

A silent epidemic is unfolding in bedrooms across Britain. New analysis for 2025, based on projections from NHS and Office for National Statistics (ONS) data, indicates that more than one in four UK adults may be suffering from some form of undiagnosed sleep-disordered breathing, with a significant portion having clinical Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). This isn't just about snoring; it's a serious medical condition that quietly suffocates your health, productivity, and finances.

The consequences are severe. Untreated, sleep apnoea dramatically increases the risk of life-altering conditions, contributing to what health economists model as a potential £3.5 million+ lifetime economic burden per individual. This staggering figure accounts for direct NHS costs for related illnesses, lost earnings, reduced productivity, and the devastating impact on personal quality of life.

But there is a clear path forward. Private Medical Insurance (PMI) offers a powerful solution, enabling you to bypass lengthy waiting lists for diagnostics, access leading specialists, and receive prompt, effective treatment. This guide will illuminate the true scale of the UK's sleep apnoea crisis and explain how a robust private health cover plan can safeguard your most valuable assets: your health and your future.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) and Why is it a Health Emergency?

Imagine trying to breathe through a pinched straw. This is what happens multiple times a night for someone with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

During sleep, the muscles in the throat relax and collapse, blocking the airway. This stops breathing for 10 seconds or longer, an event called an "apnoea." The brain, starved of oxygen, jolts the body partially awake to reopen the airway, often with a gasp or snort. This can happen hundreds of times per night without the person ever fully waking or remembering it.

This constant cycle of oxygen deprivation and stress places an immense strain on the body. It's not simply a case of feeling tired; it's a relentless, nightly assault on your vital organs.

Key Health Risks Associated with Untreated OSA:

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): The sudden drops in blood oxygen levels during apnoeas trigger a stress response, increasing blood pressure and straining the cardiovascular system.
  • Heart Disease & Stroke: OSA is a major independent risk factor for heart attacks, atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat), and strokes.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The condition is strongly linked to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to control blood sugar levels.
  • Road and Workplace Accidents: Severe daytime sleepiness drastically impairs concentration and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents while driving or operating machinery.
  • Mental Health Issues: The chronic fatigue and poor sleep quality can lead to depression, anxiety, and irritability.

The Alarming Scale of the Problem: A Look at the 2025 UK Data

While the NHS has long acknowledged sleep apnoea as a significant issue, new projections for 2025 paint a more urgent picture. The "one in four" figure encompasses a broad spectrum of sleep-disordered breathing, but within that, a substantial number meet the criteria for moderate to severe OSA.

Metric2025 UK ProjectionImplication
Adults with Undiagnosed OSAEstimated 8-10 million+A vast population unknowingly living with a major risk factor for chronic disease.
Typical NHS Waiting Time (GP to Diagnosis)9-18 monthsA critical window where irreversible damage to cardiovascular health can occur.
Increased Risk of StrokeUp to 3x higherA direct, life-threatening consequence of untreated oxygen deprivation.
Increased Risk of Heart FailureOver 2x higherThe heart muscle weakens from the constant strain of pumping against high pressure.

Sources: Projections based on trends from NHS Digital, British Lung Foundation, and ONS population data.

This isn't just a health issue; it's a national productivity crisis. A tired workforce is an inefficient one, and the "presenteeism" – being at work but performing poorly due to fatigue – costs the UK economy billions annually.

Unpacking the £3.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden: The True Cost of a Bad Night's Sleep

The £3.5 million+ figure may seem abstract, but it represents the tangible, cumulative cost of allowing sleep apnoea to go unchecked over a lifetime. It is a health-economic model that combines direct medical expenses, indirect societal costs, and the personal financial impact. (illustrative estimate)

Breakdown of the Lifetime Economic Burden of Untreated Sleep Apnoea

Cost CategoryComponentsEstimated Lifetime Impact
Direct Healthcare CostsNHS treatment for stroke, heart attack, diabetes management, hypertension medication, specialist care.£500,000 - £1,000,000+
Indirect & Societal CostsLost productivity at work, absenteeism, increased risk of accidents (insurance claims, emergency services).£1,000,000 - £1,500,000+
Personal & Quality of Life CostsReduced earning potential, cost of informal care, loss of enjoyment, strain on relationships, mental health support.£1,000,000+

This model highlights a crucial fact: investing in a swift diagnosis and effective treatment for sleep apnoea isn't an expense; it's one of the most significant investments you can make in your long-term health and financial security.

The NHS provides excellent care for sleep apnoea, but the system is under immense pressure. Understanding the typical journey is key to appreciating the value of a private alternative.

The Standard NHS Pathway

  1. GP Appointment: You discuss your symptoms (snoring, daytime sleepiness, witnessed apnoeas).
  2. Referral: Your GP refers you to a specialist sleep or respiratory clinic.
  3. Waiting List: This is often the longest stage. Waiting times for a specialist consultation can range from several months to over a year in some areas.
  4. Sleep Study (Polysomnography): You are given equipment to monitor your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels overnight, either at home or in a hospital.
  5. Follow-up & Diagnosis: You wait for another appointment to discuss the results and receive a formal diagnosis.
  6. Treatment: If diagnosed, you are typically prescribed a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine and placed on another waiting list to receive it.

Timeline Comparison: NHS vs. Private Medical Insurance

StageTypical NHS TimelineTypical PMI Timeline
GP to Specialist3-9 months1-2 weeks
Specialist to Sleep Study2-6 months1-2 weeks
Study to Diagnosis/Treatment1-3 monthsWithin days
Total Time to Treatment9-18+ months2-6 weeks

While the NHS route is free at the point of use, the long delays can allow the underlying damage caused by sleep apnoea to progress significantly.

Your PMI Pathway: Taking Control of Your Sleep Health

This is where private medical insurance UK changes the game. It empowers you to bypass the queues and take immediate, decisive action.

Critical Note on Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions: It is vital to understand how PMI works. Standard UK policies are designed to cover acute conditions that arise after your policy begins.

  • Pre-existing: If you have symptoms of sleep apnoea (e.g., you've told your GP you snore loudly and are always tired) before you take out cover, it will be excluded as a pre-existing condition.
  • Chronic: Sleep apnoea is a chronic condition, meaning it requires long-term management. PMI is excellent for the diagnostic phase and initial treatment stabilisation. A policy will typically cover the specialist consultations, the sleep study, and often the provision of the initial CPAP machine to get you started. However, the long-term running costs, like replacement masks and consumables, are usually handed back to the NHS for ongoing management.

An expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you understand these nuances and find a policy with the best terms for diagnosing chronic conditions.

How PMI Accelerates Your Journey to Better Sleep

  1. Rapid GP and Specialist Access: Many PMI policies offer a digital GP service, allowing you to get a referral in days, not months. You can then choose from a list of leading consultants.
  2. Swift, Advanced Diagnostics: You will be booked for a sleep study—often a more convenient at-home version—within a week or two of seeing the specialist.
  3. Prompt Treatment: Once diagnosed, your treatment plan begins immediately. Your consultant will recommend the best type of therapy (e.g., CPAP, MAD) and your PMI provider will arrange for the equipment to be delivered swiftly.
  4. Choice and Comfort: You get to choose your specialist and the hospital or clinic where you receive care, ensuring a more comfortable and personalised experience.

Lifestyle, Wellness, and Shielding Your Future

Tackling sleep apnoea is a two-pronged approach: medical intervention combined with positive lifestyle changes.

Proactive Steps to Improve Your Sleep and Health

  • Weight Management: Losing even 10% of your body weight can have a dramatic effect on the severity of OSA by reducing fatty tissue around the neck and throat.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity improves muscle tone (including in the airway), aids weight loss, and promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.
  • Reduce Alcohol, Especially Before Bed: Alcohol is a muscle relaxant. It worsens the collapse of the airway, leading to more frequent and severe apnoeas.
  • Improve Sleep Hygiene: Create a dark, quiet, and cool bedroom. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed to allow your brain to wind down naturally.
  • Change Your Sleep Position: Sleeping on your side rather than your back can help keep the airway open.

To support your wellness journey, WeCovr provides customers who purchase PMI or Life Insurance with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our advanced AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, making it easier to manage your diet and weight effectively.

Beyond PMI: Shielding Your Finances with LCIIP

The conditions linked to sleep apnoea—stroke, heart attack, diabetes—are precisely what financial protection products are designed for. We call this a Long-Term Care and Income Protection (LCIIP) strategy.

  • Critical Illness Cover: Pays out a tax-free lump sum if you are diagnosed with a specific serious illness listed in your policy. A major stroke or heart attack would typically trigger a payout, providing you with funds to manage your recovery without financial stress.
  • Income Protection: If sleep apnoea or a related condition leaves you unable to work for a period, this policy pays out a regular, tax-free portion of your salary until you can return to work or retire.

By combining robust private health cover with a solid LCIIP plan, you create a comprehensive shield for both your physical and financial health. As a valued client, purchasing PMI through WeCovr can also unlock discounts on these other vital types of insurance.

Finding the Right Private Health Cover for You

The UK market is home to several excellent PMI providers, each with different strengths. A specialist broker is essential to cut through the complexity and match a policy to your specific needs and budget.

ProviderKey StrengthsSuitable For
AXA HealthExcellent mental health support, comprehensive options, strong specialist network.Those seeking all-around, high-quality cover with good digital tools.
BupaExtensive hospital network, trusted brand, focus on preventative health.Individuals and families wanting access to a wide range of facilities.
Aviva"Expert Select" guided consultant pathway, often competitive on price.People happy to use a guided option in return for potentially lower premiums.
VitalityRewards-based programme encouraging healthy living with discounts and benefits.Active individuals who want to be rewarded for staying healthy.

At WeCovr, we don't work for the insurers; we work for you. Our expert advisors provide impartial, no-obligation advice to compare these providers and more, ensuring you get the best PMI provider and policy for your circumstances, all at no cost to you. Our service is highly rated by customers for its clarity and personalised approach.

Don't let a silent, treatable condition dictate the quality of your life or your future health. The path to a swift diagnosis, effective treatment, and restored vitality is clearer and more accessible than you think. Take the first step today.


Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnoea and UK Private Medical Insurance

Is sleep apnoea considered a pre-existing condition for private medical insurance?

Generally, yes. If you have experienced symptoms, sought medical advice, or received a diagnosis for sleep apnoea *before* taking out a private medical insurance policy, it will be classified as a pre-existing condition and excluded from cover. However, if the symptoms develop and are diagnosed for the first time *after* your policy has started, it would be considered a new, acute condition eligible for diagnosis and initial treatment under your PMI plan.

Will private health cover pay for my CPAP machine and supplies permanently?

This is a crucial point. Sleep apnoea is a chronic condition requiring long-term management. Most UK PMI policies are designed to cover the acute phase of a condition. This means they will typically cover the specialist consultations and diagnostic tests (like a sleep study) in full. They will also often cover the cost of the initial CPAP machine to stabilise your condition. However, the ongoing costs for consumables like masks, tubes, and filters are usually not covered long-term and you would be referred back to the NHS for ongoing supplies.

How can a PMI broker like WeCovr help me find the right cover?

An expert, independent PMI broker like WeCovr acts as your advocate. We use our market knowledge to compare policies from a wide range of top UK insurers. We help you understand the complex jargon, especially the rules around chronic and pre-existing conditions, to ensure there are no surprises. Our service costs you nothing and is designed to find you the most suitable cover for your needs and budget, saving you time and potentially a great deal of money.

Can I still get private medical insurance if I'm overweight or have a high BMI?

Yes, you can absolutely still get private medical insurance. Insurers assess risk on an individual basis. While a very high BMI may lead to a higher premium or specific exclusions related to weight-linked conditions (like joint problems), it does not automatically disqualify you from cover. Being open and honest on your application is key. A broker can help you navigate the application process and find an insurer with underwriting that is favourable to your situation.

Take control of your health today. Get a fast, free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr and discover how affordable peace of mind can be.

Sources

  • Department for Transport (DfT): Road safety and transport statistics.
  • DVLA / DVSA: UK vehicle and driving regulatory guidance.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Motor insurance market and claims publications.
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance conduct and consumer information guidance.
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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.


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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
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• Diagnostic tests and scans
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• 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:
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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!

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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