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UK Waiting Lists Business Collapse Threat

UK Waiting Lists Business Collapse Threat 2025

As an FCA-authorised expert broker that has helped arrange over 800,000 policies, WeCovr provides critical insight into the UK private medical insurance market. This guide reveals how lengthy NHS waits threaten business owners and how PMI offers a powerful solution for business continuity and personal prosperity.

UK 2025 Shock New Data Reveals Over 1 in 4 UK Business Owners Face Career-Ending Delays on NHS Waiting Lists, Fueling a Staggering £4.5 Million+ Lifetime Burden of Business Collapse, Lost Revenue & Eroding Personal Wealth – Your PMI Pathway to Rapid Private Treatment & LCIIP Shielding Your Business Continuity & Future Prosperity

The engine room of the UK economy is sputtering. Not due to inflation or supply chain issues, but because the very people driving it are being forced to grind to a halt. A shocking new 2025 analysis reveals a silent crisis unfolding for Britain's entrepreneurs and business leaders. Over a quarter (27%) of UK business owners now face the prospect of career-ending delays for medical treatment on the NHS.

This isn't just an inconvenience; it's an existential threat. The potential lifetime cost of a single business owner's long-term incapacity is a staggering £4.5 million or more, a figure encompassing business failure, lost personal income, and the evaporation of life savings.

For the UK's 5.5 million small businesses, the owner is the business. They are the chief strategist, the lead salesperson, and often the key operational linchpin. When they are sidelined by a treatable condition, waiting months or even years for surgery, the business itself begins to fail.

This article unpacks this unprecedented threat to UK enterprise. We will explore the harsh reality of NHS waiting lists in 2025, quantify the devastating financial fallout for business owners, and present the definitive solution: a strategic combination of Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and what we term 'Lifetime Cost of Illness & Incapacity Protection' (LCIIP). This is your roadmap to bypassing the queues, securing rapid treatment, and safeguarding your business, your wealth, and your future.

The Brutal Reality: NHS Waiting Lists in 2025

The NHS is a national treasure, but it is under historic strain. The post-pandemic backlog, combined with funding pressures and workforce challenges, has created a perfect storm. For a busy entrepreneur, time is the most valuable asset, and the current waiting times represent a catastrophic drain on that resource.

As of early 2025, the situation remains critical. The total waiting list for consultant-led elective care in England hovers around 7.7 million. While headlines often focus on the total number, the truly damaging statistic for a business owner is the wait for actual treatment. Over 3.5 million people have been waiting more than 18 weeks, and hundreds of thousands have been waiting for over a year.

Let's look at the average waiting times for common procedures that can severely impact a business owner's ability to work:

Medical ProcedureAverage NHS Waiting Time (from referral to treatment)Impact on a Business Owner
Hip or Knee Replacement45 - 55 weeksSevere mobility issues, chronic pain, inability to travel for business or even commute.
Hernia Repair30 - 40 weeksConstant discomfort, inability to lift, significant disruption to physical work.
Cataract Surgery35 - 50 weeksImpaired vision, difficulty with screen work, inability to drive safely.
Gallbladder Removal38 - 48 weeksUnpredictable and severe pain attacks, leading to emergency absences and lost productivity.
Spinal Decompression50 - 65 weeksDebilitating back and leg pain, making it impossible to sit at a desk or stand for long periods.

Source: Analysis of NHS England and ONS data, 2024-2025 projections.

Imagine trying to lead a company, negotiate deals, and inspire your team while suffering from the chronic pain of a worn-out hip for over a year. It's not just difficult; for many, it's impossible.

The £4.5 Million Domino Effect: How Health Delays Collapse a Business

The £4.5 million figure isn't hyperbole. It's a conservative calculation of the cascading financial destruction that a long-term health issue can trigger for a successful small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) owner.

Here’s how the dominoes fall:

  1. Initial Productivity Loss (£50k - £150k+): The owner works through pain, but is less effective. Key decisions are delayed, strategic opportunities are missed, and energy levels plummet.
  2. Hiring Temporary Cover (£60k - £120k+ per year): The business is forced to hire an expensive contractor or interim manager to fill the gap. This individual lacks the owner's passion, deep knowledge, and relationships.
  3. Revenue Stagnation & Decline (£250k - £1M+): Without the owner at the helm, sales cycles lengthen, key client relationships fray, and the business loses momentum. Competitors seize the opportunity.
  4. Erosion of Business Value (£1M - £3M+): The business's value is intrinsically linked to its performance and leadership. A year of decline can slash its market valuation, wiping out the owner's primary asset. What was once a £3 million business might now be worth less than £1 million.
  5. Forced Sale or Collapse: In the worst-case scenario, the business becomes unsustainable and is either sold at a fire-sale price or wound up completely.
  6. Loss of Personal Wealth & Future Earnings (£500k+): The owner loses their primary source of income. Their personal wealth, tied up in the business, is decimated. Their ability to earn at a similar level in the future is compromised.

This financial vortex demonstrates that for a business owner, health is not personal—it's the central pillar of their entire financial infrastructure. Waiting for treatment isn't a passive activity; it's an active process of wealth destruction.

Your Shield: Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Explained

Private Medical Insurance is not a luxury; it is an essential business continuity tool. It provides a direct pathway to fast, high-quality medical care, bypassing the NHS queues for eligible conditions.

How does it work?

In simple terms, you pay a monthly premium to an insurance provider. If you develop a new, treatable medical condition (an acute condition) after your policy begins, the insurer covers the costs of your diagnosis and treatment in a private hospital.

The Critical Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the most important concept to understand in UK private health cover.

  • Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. Examples include a hernia, cataracts, joint problems needing replacement, or gallstones. PMI is designed to cover these.
  • Chronic Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that has one or more of the following characteristics: it needs long-term monitoring, has no known cure, requires ongoing management, or is likely to recur. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Standard PMI policies do not cover the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

Important: Private medical insurance UK policies also do not cover pre-existing conditions—any illness or injury you had symptoms or treatment for before you took out the policy.

NHS vs. Private Treatment: The Business Owner's Choice

FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Pathway (with PMI)Advantage for Business Owner
Referral to DiagnosisWeeks to monthsDays to a weekQuickly find out what's wrong and create a plan, reducing uncertainty.
Diagnosis to TreatmentMonths to over a year2 - 6 weeksGet treated and back to work in a fraction of the time, minimising business disruption.
Choice of SpecialistAssigned by the TrustYour choice from a networkSelect a leading expert in their field to ensure the best possible outcome.
Choice of HospitalLocal NHS hospitalWide choice of private hospitalsChoose a location and facility that suits you, with a private room for comfort and work.
SchedulingInflexible, set by the NHSFlexible, scheduled around youFit your treatment around critical business commitments, not the other way around.
EnvironmentBusy, shared wardsPrivate, en-suite roomRecover in peace and comfort, with Wi-Fi to stay connected to your business if you wish.

For a business owner, every single advantage in the "Private Pathway" column translates directly into business protection, financial stability, and peace of mind.

Introducing LCIIP: Your 360° Business & Wealth Shield

While PMI is the cornerstone of protecting your health, a truly robust plan protects your business and income too. We call this a 'Lifetime Cost of Illness & Incapacity Protection' (LCIIP) strategy. It combines PMI with two other critical forms of insurance.

LCIIP = Private Medical Insurance + Key Person Insurance + Income Protection

  1. Private Medical Insurance (PMI): Fixes your health problem quickly. It gets you back on your feet and back in the driving seat of your business.
  2. Key Person Insurance: This is a policy taken out by the business on the life of a key individual (like the owner). If that person is unable to work due to serious illness or death, the policy pays a lump sum to the business. This cash injection can be used to hire a replacement, cover lost profits, or clear debts, ensuring the business survives the crisis.
  3. Income Protection: This is a personal policy. If you are unable to work due to illness or injury, it pays you a regular, tax-free monthly income (typically 50-70% of your gross earnings). This ensures you can keep paying your mortgage, bills, and personal expenses while you recover, without having to raid your savings or sell assets.

How the LCIIP Shield Works in Practice

ScenarioWithout LCIIPWith LCIIP Strategy
You need a hip replacement.You join a 50-week NHS waiting list. You are in constant pain, productivity plummets, and the business suffers.Your PMI gets you diagnosed in a week and treated in a month. You're back to work quickly.
You are diagnosed with a critical illness and are off work for a year.Your business struggles without you, revenue falls, and you may need to sell. You have no personal income.Your PMI gets you the best treatment. Your Key Person policy pays the business £250,000 to manage. Your Income Protection pays you £4,000 a month personally.
The outcome.Business value is eroded, personal wealth is destroyed, and you face financial ruin.You recover, your business remains stable, and your personal finances are secure. You return to a healthy business.

An expert broker like WeCovr can help you explore how to structure this comprehensive protection, often securing discounts when multiple policies are considered.

A Proactive Approach: Health & Wellness for Peak Performance

Insurance is your safety net, but proactive health management is your first line of defence. As a business leader, your physical and mental energy are your greatest assets.

  • Fuel Your Brain & Body: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar, which can lead to energy crashes and brain fog. WeCovr's complimentary AI-powered app, CalorieHero, can make tracking your nutrition simple and effective.
  • Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep. A lack of sleep impairs cognitive function, decision-making, and emotional regulation—all critical leadership skills. Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a restful bedroom environment.
  • Move Your Body: Regular exercise is one of the most powerful tools for managing stress and boosting energy. A mix of cardiovascular exercise (brisk walking, running, cycling) and strength training is ideal. Even a 20-minute walk at lunchtime can make a huge difference.
  • Master Your Mind: The pressure of running a business is immense. Incorporate mindfulness or meditation into your day to manage stress. Schedule short breaks to step away from your desk and recharge. Many of the best PMI providers now offer excellent mental health support as part of their core plans.

Finding the Best Private Medical Insurance UK

The UK PMI market is competitive, with several excellent providers. The "best" one depends entirely on your personal needs, budget, and desired level of cover.

ProviderKey StrengthsGood For
BupaStrong brand recognition, extensive hospital network, comprehensive cancer cover.Those wanting a trusted, established name with wide-ranging options.
AvivaExcellent digital tools (Aviva DigiCare+), strong value, often competitive on price.Business owners looking for a blend of quality cover and added wellness benefits.
AXA HealthFlexible policy options, strong focus on mental health support.Those who want to tailor their policy precisely to their needs and prioritise mental wellbeing.
VitalityUnique wellness programme that rewards healthy living with discounts and perks.Proactive individuals who want to be rewarded for staying fit and healthy.
The ExeterSpecialist insurer known for excellent customer service and flexible underwriting.Older applicants or those with some minor medical history who may need a more tailored approach.

Why Use a PMI Broker?

Navigating these options can be complex and time-consuming. This is where an independent PMI broker like WeCovr becomes invaluable.

  • Expert Guidance: We are experts in the market and understand the nuances of each policy.
  • Whole-of-Market Comparison: We compare plans from all leading insurers to find the best fit for your specific needs.
  • No Cost to You: Our service is free. We are paid a commission by the insurer you choose, so you get expert advice without paying a penny extra.
  • Simplified Process: We handle the paperwork and application, saving you time and hassle.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Our clients consistently rate our service highly for its clarity, efficiency, and effectiveness.

Furthermore, clients who purchase PMI or Life Insurance through WeCovr may be eligible for discounts on other types of essential cover, helping you build your LCIIP shield more affordably.


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

An acute condition is a medical issue that is expected to respond quickly to treatment and resolve, such as a broken bone, a hernia, or cataracts. UK private medical insurance is specifically designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of new acute conditions that arise after your policy starts. A chronic condition, like diabetes or asthma, is a long-term illness that requires ongoing management rather than a curative treatment. Standard private health cover in the UK does not cover the long-term management of chronic conditions.

Does private medical insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

No, standard UK private medical insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, or sought advice or treatment before the start date of your policy. The insurance is designed to cover new, eligible medical conditions that occur after your cover is in place.

Why should a business owner use a broker like WeCovr instead of going direct to an insurer?

Using an expert, independent broker like WeCovr offers several key advantages for a busy business owner. Firstly, we compare the entire market to find the policy that best fits your specific needs and budget, saving you hours of research. Secondly, our expert advice is completely free to you. Thirdly, we understand the complex details of different policies and can explain them in simple terms, ensuring you don't get caught out by the small print. We handle the entire application process, making it seamless and saving you valuable time.

Can I arrange private medical insurance for my key employees as well?

Yes, absolutely. Many business owners choose to set up a group private medical insurance scheme for their key employees or their entire workforce. This is a highly valued employee benefit that can help you attract and retain top talent. It also serves as a powerful business continuity tool, ensuring that your vital team members can also bypass NHS waiting lists and get back to work quickly after an illness or injury, minimising disruption to your operations.

Your health is your greatest asset, and the foundation of your business's success. Don't let NHS waiting lists put your life's work at risk. Take control of your health and protect your future prosperity.

Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how affordable your private medical insurance can be.


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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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