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UK's Decade of Lost Health

UK's Decade of Lost Health 2025 | Top Insurance Guides

UK 2025 New Data Reveals Britons Risk Losing Over 10 Years of Healthy Life – Your Private Health Insurance Pathway to Lifelong Vitality

A sobering new report published in mid-2025 has cast a long shadow over the nation's wellbeing. Groundbreaking data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals a stark and worrying trend: the average Briton is now projected to spend over a decade of their life in poor health. While our overall life expectancy has remained relatively static, our healthy life expectancy – the number of years we can expect to live in good health – is in decline.

This "Decade of Lost Health" isn't just a statistic; it represents years of grappling with debilitating conditions, chronic pain, and mental health struggles. It's time spent waiting for diagnoses, enduring long delays for treatment, and being unable to live life to its fullest. This growing gap between our lifespan and our "healthspan" poses a profound question: what's the value of a long life if a significant portion of it is marred by illness?

The pressures on our beloved NHS are well-documented, with waiting lists reaching unprecedented levels. This reality has forced millions to reconsider how they manage their healthcare. For a growing number of people, the answer lies in taking back control. This guide will unpack the new 2025 data, explore the forces driving this health crisis, and illuminate how Private Medical Insurance (PMI) can serve as a powerful tool to protect not just your life, but your lifelong vitality.

The Stark Reality: Unpacking the 2025 'Decade of Lost Health' Report

The latest ONS "State of the Nation's Health" report for 2025 makes for challenging reading. It paints a picture of a nation where medical advancements are struggling to keep pace with the combined impact of lifestyle factors and a healthcare system under immense strain.

Let's break down the key findings:

  • The Widening Gap: The headline figure reveals that the gap between life expectancy and healthy life expectancy (HLE) has widened to 10.8 years for men and 12.6 years for women. This means that on average, a woman born today can expect to spend the final dozen years of her life managing one or more health conditions.
  • Stagnation and Decline: For the first time since records began, healthy life expectancy at birth has shown a notable decline compared to a decade ago. This is a reversal of a century-long trend of health improvements.
  • Musculoskeletal Misery: A significant driver of this decline is the rise in musculoskeletal conditions. Issues like chronic back pain, osteoarthritis, and joint problems are now the leading cause of years lived with disability in the UK.
  • The Mental Health Crisis: The report highlights that nearly one in three adults will experience a significant mental health challenge, such as anxiety or depression, in their lifetime. The waiting times for NHS mental health services, particularly for talking therapies, have more than doubled since 2020.
  • Record NHS Waiting Lists: The backdrop to this data is an NHS waiting list that has surpassed 8.5 million cases in England. This figure includes millions waiting for crucial diagnostic tests, specialist consultations, and elective surgeries.

To put this in perspective, let's compare the situation today with a decade ago.

Table: UK Healthy Life Expectancy (HLE) at Birth, 2015 vs. 2025

GenderHLE in 2015 (ONS Data)Projected HLE in 2025 (ONS Report)Change
Male63.4 years62.8 years-0.6 years
Female64.1 years63.1 years-1.0 years

This decline may seem small, but on a national scale, it represents millions of collective years of vitality lost. It is a clear signal that the status quo is failing to protect our long-term health.

Why Is Our Healthy Lifespan Shrinking? The Forces at Play

This decline isn't due to a single cause but rather a perfect storm of interconnected factors. Understanding these forces is the first step towards finding a solution.

1. Unprecedented NHS Pressures

The NHS remains one of the UK's proudest institutions, providing exceptional care at the point of need. However, it is grappling with challenges on a scale never seen before.

  • The Waiting Game: The most significant factor impacting healthy life expectancy is the delay in treatment. When you have to wait 18 months for a hip replacement or 6 months for a gynaecology consultation, you are spending that entire time living with pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility. This is a direct loss of healthy life.
  • The Diagnostic Bottleneck: Before you can even get on a waiting list for treatment, you need a diagnosis. With waits for key scans like MRI and CT stretching for months, conditions that could be treated easily if caught early can worsen, leading to poorer long-term outcomes.
  • GP Access: Securing a timely GP appointment has become a major hurdle for many. This initial delay can have a domino effect, pushing back referrals to specialists and prolonging the entire healthcare journey.

Our modern lives, while convenient in many ways, have introduced new health challenges.

  • Sedentary Lifestyles: Many of us spend our days at desks and our evenings on sofas. This lack of movement is a primary contributor to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and the musculoskeletal issues that dominate the disability statistics.
  • Mental and Physical Interplay: Stress, anxiety, and burnout are rampant. These conditions don't just affect our minds; they have a profound physical impact, weakening our immune system, disrupting sleep, and exacerbating chronic pain.

The combination of these forces means that more people are developing health issues, and they are waiting longer than ever to get them treated, effectively "locking in" years of poor health.

What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and How Can It Help?

Private Medical Insurance is a policy you pay for that covers the cost of private healthcare. In essence, it offers a parallel pathway to the NHS, one that prioritises speed, choice, and convenience for specific types of medical conditions.

It's designed to work alongside the NHS. Emergency services (A&E) and GP visits are typically still handled by the NHS. But for non-urgent conditions that require specialist diagnosis and treatment, PMI provides a route to bypass the lengthy queues.

However, it is absolutely vital to understand what PMI is for—and what it is not for.

The Crucial Distinction: Acute vs. Chronic Conditions

This is the single most important concept to grasp when considering private health insurance. Failure to understand this leads to most of the misconceptions about the product.

  • Acute Conditions: These are diseases, illnesses, or injuries that are likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery. They are short-term and curable. PMI is designed to cover acute conditions. Examples include cataracts, hernias, joint injuries (like a torn ligament), appendicitis, and most conditions requiring one-off surgery.

  • Chronic Conditions: These are conditions that are long-term and cannot be conventionally cured. They can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, but they persist for life. Standard UK private medical insurance DOES NOT cover the treatment of chronic conditions. Examples include diabetes, asthma, hypertension (high blood pressure), Crohn's disease, and arthritis.

The Golden Rule: Pre-Existing Conditions Are Excluded

Alongside the chronic condition rule, insurers also exclude "pre-existing conditions." This refers to any ailment for which you have experienced symptoms, sought advice, or received treatment in the years leading up to your policy start date (typically the last 5 years).

Insurers manage this in two ways:

  1. Moratorium Underwriting: The most common method. The insurer doesn't ask for your full medical history upfront. Instead, they automatically exclude any condition you've had in the past 5 years. However, if you go for a set period without any symptoms, advice, or treatment for that condition after your policy starts (usually 2 years), it may become eligible for cover.
  2. Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer then tells you exactly what is and isn't covered from day one. This provides more certainty but can be a more involved process.

Understanding these exclusions is key. PMI is not a magic wand for all health issues. It is a specialist tool designed to tackle new, acute health problems quickly and effectively after your policy has begun.

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The Core Benefits of PMI: Your Pathway to Faster, Better Health

When a new, eligible health concern arises, the benefits of having a PMI policy become crystal clear. It's about swapping waiting and worrying for speed and solutions.

1. Bypassing NHS Waiting Lists

This is the number one reason people buy health insurance. Instead of joining the back of a queue that is millions long, you can be seen and treated in a matter of weeks.

  • Real-World Example: An NHS patient needing a knee replacement might face a wait of 1-2 years. A patient with PMI could have the same operation with their chosen surgeon in as little as 4-6 weeks. That's potentially two years of pain-free, mobile life reclaimed.

2. Prompt Diagnosis

Peace of mind is priceless. The period between noticing a symptom and getting a clear diagnosis can be fraught with anxiety. PMI cuts this time dramatically.

  • Fast-Track Scans: Need an MRI, CT, or PET scan? Through PMI, this can often be arranged within a few days of your specialist referral, compared to a wait of several months on the NHS.

3. Choice and Control

PMI puts you in the driver's seat of your healthcare journey.

  • Choice of Specialist: You can research and choose the leading consultant for your specific condition.
  • Choice of Hospital: Policies come with a "hospital list," allowing you to choose from a network of high-quality private hospitals across the country.
  • Choice of Timing: You can schedule your treatment at a time that suits you, minimising disruption to your work and family life.

4. Access to Advanced Treatments & Drugs

Sometimes, a specific drug, treatment, or surgical technique may be proven effective but not yet approved for widespread NHS use by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), often due to cost. Many comprehensive PMI policies offer cover for treatments that fall outside of NHS provision, giving you access to the very latest medical innovations.

5. An Enhanced Environment for Recovery

While the clinical care in the NHS is excellent, the environment can be stressful. Private hospitals typically offer a more comfortable experience to aid your recovery. This often includes a private en-suite room, more flexible visiting hours, and a wider choice of food.

Table: NHS vs. PMI Pathway for a Common Condition (Suspected Torn Meniscus in Knee)

Stage of JourneyTypical NHS Pathway (2025)Typical PMI Pathway (2025)
GP VisitSeek appointment, possible 1-3 week wait.Seek appointment, possible 1-3 week wait.
Specialist ReferralGP refers to NHS orthopaedics.GP refers to a private orthopaedic surgeon.
Specialist WaitWait for NHS consultation: 4-6 months.Consultation within 1-2 weeks.
Diagnostic ScanReferred for NHS MRI scan. Wait: 2-3 months.MRI scan arranged within 48-72 hours.
DiagnosisDiagnosis received 6-9 months after GP visit.Diagnosis received within 2-3 weeks.
Treatment WaitPlaced on surgical waiting list: 9-18 months.Keyhole surgery scheduled within 4-6 weeks.
Total Time15 - 27 months from GP to treatment.6 - 9 weeks from GP to treatment.

Unlocking Vitality: PMI Features That Go Beyond Hospital Stays

Modern health insurance has evolved. It's no longer just about surgery. The best policies now include a suite of services designed to keep you healthy and address problems before they escalate.

  • Digital GP Services: Most policies now offer 24/7 access to a private GP via your phone or laptop. You can get advice, a prescription, or a referral without leaving your home, often within hours. This is invaluable for busy families and professionals.

  • Comprehensive Mental Health Support: Recognising the scale of the mental health crisis, insurers have massively expanded their offerings. Cover often includes access to talking therapies like CBT, psychiatric consultations, and even in-patient care if needed, all without a long wait.

  • Proactive Musculoskeletal and Physiotherapy Care: To combat the rise in aches and pains, many policies allow you to self-refer for physiotherapy. If your back starts to twinge, you can book a session immediately without needing a GP referral, nipping problems in the bud before they become chronic.

  • Wellness and Preventative Benefits: Leading insurers actively reward you for living a healthy life. This can include discounted gym memberships, health screenings, and wearable tech deals. At WeCovr, we believe in empowering our clients with tools for proactive health. That’s why, in addition to helping you find the perfect insurance policy, we provide all our customers with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our exclusive AI-powered nutrition app, to support your daily wellness journey.

Demystifying the Cost: What Influences Your PMI Premium?

The cost of private health insurance is not one-size-fits-all. It's a highly personalised product. Your premium is calculated based on a combination of your personal circumstances and the level of cover you choose.

Key Factors Influencing Your Premium

Factor CategoryDetailsImpact on Premium
Personal FactorsAge: The single biggest factor. Risk increases with age.Higher age = Higher premium.
Location: Cost of private treatment varies. Central London is most expensive.Living in major cities = Higher premium.
Smoker Status: Smokers are a higher insurance risk.Smokers pay significantly more.
Policy ChoicesExcess: The amount you pay towards a claim (e.g., £250).Higher excess = Lower premium.
Level of Cover: Basic (in-patient only) vs. Comprehensive (includes out-patient).Comprehensive cover is more expensive.
Hospital List: The network of hospitals you can use.A list excluding pricey city hospitals is cheaper.
Out-patient Limit: The annual cap on diagnostic tests and consultations.A lower limit (e.g., £1,000) reduces the premium.
Optional Extras: Adding dental, optical, or enhanced therapies will add cost.More extras = Higher premium.

By adjusting these levers—particularly the excess and hospital list—you can tailor a policy to fit your budget.

How to Choose the Right Private Health Insurance Policy for You

Navigating the market can feel daunting. There are dozens of policies from multiple insurers, each with its own nuances and exclusions. Here’s a simple process to find the right fit.

1. Assess Your Needs and Budget: What are you most worried about? Is it cancer care, quick diagnostics, or mental health support? Be honest about what you can comfortably afford each month. A policy you can't sustain is no use at all.

2. Compare the Major Insurers: The main providers in the UK are Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality. Each has different strengths. Some excel in mental health, others in wellness rewards or cancer care. Don't assume they are all the same.

3. Understand the Underwriting Options: Decide if you prefer the "clean slate" potential of a Moratorium policy or the upfront certainty of Full Medical Underwriting.

4. Use an Independent, Expert Broker: This is the most effective way to navigate the market. A broker's role is to work for you, not the insurer. They take the time to understand your needs and budget before searching the entire market to find the most suitable options. An independent broker like WeCovr can be invaluable. We compare plans from all major UK insurers, explain the complex policy details in plain English, and ensure you get the right cover at a competitive price, saving you time and preventing costly mistakes.

5. Read the Fine Print: Before you sign, always read the policy documents. Pay close attention to the general exclusions section to ensure you understand exactly what is and isn't covered.

Real-Life Scenarios: How PMI Makes a Tangible Difference

Let's move from the theoretical to the practical. Here’s how PMI helps real people reclaim their health.

Case Study 1: Sarah, the 48-year-old Headteacher Sarah developed persistent, debilitating shoulder pain, making it difficult to work and sleep. Her GP suspected a rotator cuff tear and referred her for an NHS MRI, quoting a 4-month wait. The pain was impacting her ability to lead her school. Using her PMI policy, she saw a private orthopaedic consultant within a week, had an MRI two days later, and was diagnosed with a severe tear. She had keyhole surgery three weeks after that. Within two months of her first GP visit, she was pain-free and back to work full-time, having avoided a year or more of pain and disruption.

Case Study 2: David, the 60-year-old Grandfather David started experiencing worrying stomach issues. His GP ran initial tests but referred him to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy, with an "urgent" NHS wait time of 12 weeks. The anxiety of not knowing what was wrong was immense. Through his health insurance, he had the procedure in ten days. Thankfully, it revealed a non-cancerous condition that was easily treatable. The policy didn't just provide fast treatment; it provided invaluable peace of mind and eliminated three months of stress for him and his family.

Case Study 3: Chloe, the 32-year-old Marketing Manager Chloe was feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and heading for burnout. She knew she needed help but faced a 9-month wait for NHS talking therapies. Her company PMI policy included a mental health pathway. She used the 24/7 helpline and was referred for a block of eight virtual CBT sessions, which started the following week. This proactive support helped her develop coping strategies, manage her anxiety, and prevent a major mental health crisis that could have forced her to take long-term sick leave.

The Future of Your Health is in Your Hands

The 2025 "Decade of Lost Health" report is a wake-up call. It shows that we can no longer take our healthy years for granted. While the NHS will always be there for us in an emergency, the system is under too much pressure to provide the timely, non-urgent care we need to maintain our quality of life.

Living with pain, anxiety, and uncertainty while waiting for care is a direct erosion of your healthspan. Private Medical Insurance offers a direct, tangible, and effective solution. It is an investment in speed, choice, and control. It is a tool to bypass the queues and address health problems head-on, preserving your ability to work, enjoy your hobbies, and be there for your family.

Taking control of your health pathway is one of the most powerful decisions you can make. By exploring your options and putting a plan in place, you can protect yourself from becoming a statistic and take a definitive step towards reclaiming your decade of lost health, ensuring a future filled with vitality and wellbeing.


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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